Invasive Weeds Awareness Week
Effective Date: Sunday, June 24th, 2012
WHEREAS, agriculture, fishing, hunting, recreation, and tourism are integral parts of our economy and unique Alaskan ways of life. The introduction and spread of invasive and noxious weeds threatens our economy and environment by impacting the health of our valued natural resources; and
WHEREAS, invasive weeds are known to heavily colonize habitats with an adverse effect on their adapted environment. In Alaska, invasive weeds such as white sweetclover, Canada thistle, perennial sowthistle, and orange hawkweed are presently impacting agriculture and wildlands; and
WHEREAS, these plant “invaders” spread aggressively, infesting agricultural fields, clogging waterways, degrading salmon spawning habitats, and displacing native plants – reducing forage and shelter that wildlife depends on; and
WHEREAS, the Department of Natural Resources manages noxious weeds, invasive plants, and agricultural pests to maintain uninterrupted productivity of natural and agricultural resources; and
WHEREAS, Alaska is in a unique position to avoid the enormous costs of widespread invasive plants, now impacting all 48 contiguous states and Hawaii. In recognition of this opportunity, State, federal, local, private, non-profit organizations, and the public are working together to increase public awareness, promote invasive weed prevention and management, and help keep our communities and environment free of invasive weeds.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Sean Parnell, Governor of the State of Alaska, do hereby proclaim June 24-30, 2012 as:
Invasive Weeds Awareness Week
in Alaska, and encourage Alaskans to learn more about preventing the spread of invasive weeds in our great state.
Dated: June 12, 2012
