PINEDALE, Wyo. — Aerial operations to control and eradicate cheatgrass infestations in the Pinedale area of the Bridger-Teton National Forest (BTNF) could begin as early as August 15, the agency recently announced.

According to the press release, the treatments will be sprayed via helicopter on about 3,900 acres, with 3,000 of those acres being around New Fork Lake and Willow Lake. Other treatment areas include the ridges near Fremont Lake, Boulder Lake and Burnt Lake.

According to BTNF, previously treated areas are showing about 15% cheatgrass, “which points to the success of previous operations.” The previously treated areas will be sprayed again, along with the newly discovered patches. Treatments are done in cooperation with Sublette County Weed and Pest District.

Cheatgrass treatments in Star Valley are scheduled to begin as early as today, Aug. 7 and treatments in the Jackson Hole region began Friday, Aug. 4, starting on the National Elk Refuge. All operations are weather dependent.

Cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum) is an invasive grass that outcompetes native forbs and grasses for water and nutrients.

Lindsay is a contributing reporter covering a little bit of everything; with an interest in local policies and politics, the environment and amplifying community voices. She's curious about uncovering the "whys" of our region and aims to inform the community about the issues that matter. In her free time, you can find her snowboarding, cooking or planning the next surf trip.