Political Quotes

“I rise today to recognize a significant anniversary for the Wyoming Weed and Pest Council. When they meet in a few short weeks, the council will celebrate 75 years of service to Wyoming ecosystems and communities. While the council is partially funded by the State of Wyoming, the council's success lies in dedication of staff, volunteers, seasonal employees, and partners who dedicate themselves to eradicating invasive species and noxious weeds. Invasive species threaten the delicate balance in nearly every ecosystem. Around the world, invasive species cause billions of dollars in damage to the environment and to economies each year. They threaten watersheds, forests, and grasslands. They crowd out important native species, increase the risk of catastrophic wildfires, introduce disease, and fundamentally undermine the natural cycle of life. Dedicated experts work each day to stem the tide of new introductions. Each of the 23 counties in Wyoming has a Weed and Pest District, run by staff and an elected board. The districts set policy, monitor existing infestations, work with the public to develop a comprehensive list of risks, and act quickly when new species are detected. Often, Weed and Pest supervisors wear many hats; depending on the hour, they are grant writers, weed sprayers, staff managers, and policy experts.…”