Description
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is providing a notice of intent to award a single-source financial assistance award to Shenandoah National Park Trust (SNPT) for an invasive species removal pilot project. The project aims to protect areas in the watershed from the spread of a noxious weed, improving habitat for wildlife and recreation. The project will contribute to the NRDAR goal of "making the public whole" by restoring resources impacted by mercury. The project includes partnerships with local, state, and federal organizations, as well as non-profit organizations.
• The project will focus on removing wavyleaf grass at seven key locations in the Shenandoah National Park and the Town of Elkton, VA.
• The project will use manual and chemical removal methods, treating sites for four years, and training site owners to continue work if necessary.
• Annual surveys will ensure that treatment is effective.
• The project will result in improvements to habitat that will ultimately benefit recreational fishing and hiking experiences within Shenandoah National Park and the Town of Elkton.
• The project is a collaborative effort with the Service, Virginia's Office of the Governor, and natural resource agencies, and local or regional community groups.