Knapweed problem needs addressed along with vermiculite

To the Editor:

The community of Libby seems to be doing a lot of stuff in an attempt to improve the valley economically, aesthetically and generally make it a better place to live and work.

Of course, we're getting rid of the vermiculite, but beyond that there are several other programs in the works. We've all heard about the debates on the renovation of the old high school and the refurbishing of the downtown business district. I have opinions on these issues but for now, I'll keep them to myself.

In the past year and one half, I've been approached and invited to participate in a program designed to reduce fuel supplies for forest fires around my home and property resulting in a safer home for me and my family. Although this is a good program, I don't think it's something I can't handle on my own.

Another program we're all familiar with is the wood stove change out program. This is another fine program, and I think, for the most part, well received.

I think the thing that we, as a community, are ignoring or at least overlooking, is the noxious weed problem. Specifically knapweed. It's ugly, it's everywhere and it takes over and ruins lawns, pastures and range land for stock and game alike.

I'm not suggesting that we can rid the entire county of this menace, but in order to achieve an acceptable amount of success, we have to attack the problem as simultaneously as possible, and with a vengeance.

The problem here is that many people will not have the equipment, knowledge or resources to wage their own war on this vegetative monster. Therefore I think that a program similar to the wildfire fuel reduction program is not only feasible, it's absolutely necessary. No matter the results, we must do something, and soon.

I don't know for sure about this next part, but I've been told that the weed was introduced to our area in the later part of last century by the U.S. Forest Service to combat erosion. If so, I hope they were successful because the side effects sure have been a pain in the neck.

If the Forest Service does share in the responsibility for the weed's presence, maybe we can get them to share in the cost and work involved in the clean up and reclamation of our land.

Bob Creighton