A helicopter will be used for the aerial herbicide treatment of exotic plants in Theodore Roosevelt National Park September 20-24. This spray operation is to fight infestations of leafy spurge and Canada thistle. Areas to be treated are high visitor use corridors in the park’s backcountry where travel can spread seed to other locations. Selected sites to be sprayed are within both the North and South Units.
The project will first take place in the South Unit starting Tuesday, September 20 and weather permitting, will take 3-4 days. Spraying in the North Unit will take one day and is scheduled for the 24th. Treated locations will be temporarily closed to horseback riding, hiking and camping for 12 hours after application of the herbicide.
Sites to be sprayed in the South Unit include the Maah Daah Hey Trail, Petrified Forest area, the South Unit’s North and East boundary plus the Jones Creek, Burning Coal Vein, Upper Paddock Creek and Painted Canyon trails. General locations in the North Unit are Corral Creek, Long X Trail and Stevens Plateau.
The public planning to use the backcountry during this period should inquire at the visitor centers about trail use and current spray schedule. Maps of exact spray locations will also be available for viewing. For additional information contact the park at 701-623-4466. The North Unit Visitor Center number is 701-842-2333.
