smith river habitat project

 

WHAT IS THE PROBLEM WITH INVASIVE PLANTS?

Most problematic invasive plants — or weeds — found in North America were transported here from other continents. When invasive plants like Canada Thistle (which is native to Europe) become established, they often spread to dominate the native vegetation. By altering plant communities, invasive plants can lead to changes in:

 

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what we do

Educate and raise awareness among floaters, landowners, outfitters, policy makers and the general public about invasive plant issues - About Us

 

Promote and share invasive plant research, management and assessment efforts - About the Smith

 

Collaborate with Smith River users, private landowners and public land managers to develop invasive plant management strategies that are integrated, cooperative, cost-effective and sustainable - Weed Maps

You can help!

Clean your clothing, gear and boats before and after your river trip to avoid transporting seeds to and from the river. FLOAT ROUTE

 

Learn to recognize the invasive plants you might find during your visit to the Smith River. PLANT GUIDE

 

Avoid passing through infestations where you might pick up seeds on your clothing.

 

Learn more about invasive plant issues on the Smith River and in other areas. Spread the word by sharing your new knowledge with others. WHITE PAPERS

 

Let your legislators know that you are concerned about invasive plants.
Support invasive plant management, research & assessment efforts. LINKS

 

Your financial support is vital and appreciated more than we can express.
YOUR DONATION KILLS WEEDS - HELP RESTORE THE SMITH RIVER CORRIDOR

You can help!

We received the 2009 Weed Fighters United Award from the Montana Weed Control Association (mtweed.org). The award was granted to a group who cooperates well with other departments, agencies and people; has instituted an aggressive attack on weeds; and uses unique and innovative approaches to weed control. We are very proud of this recognition and appreciate your part in the effort.

Contact Us • (406) 431-7638 • P.O. Box 354 Helena, MT 59624
smith river
Looks like a pretty picture, right? Until you realize all the bright green is Leafy Spurge
that is choking out the native forage and diminishing the natural habitat.

About the Smith River Habitat Project

Invasion by non-native plants is changing the face of the Smith River — affecting the environment and the people who live, work and play in the Smith River corridor.

The Smith River Habitat Project (SRHP) was formed in 2003 to protect the Smith River's diverse agricultural, recreational, cultural and natural resources from the threat of invasive plants. SRHP works to improve wildlife habitat and rangeland productivity by addressing invasive plant issues. We are guided by a volunteer board of directors which represent a cross-section of the communities that care for and use the Smith River.

SRHP is a private, nonprofit organization that operates on charitable donations, special grants and the help of volunteers. Your 100% tax deductible contribution will help us to improve and protect the Smith River's unique resources and opportunities.

About the Smith River

smithThe Smith River provides one of the most unique river floating experiences available in Montana. Spectacular limestone cliffs provide a dramatic backdrop for a river corridor rich with resources we all find valuable; wildlife habitat, riparian plant communities, primitive cultural sites, breathtaking scenery, and significant recreational and agricultural resources in a vital ecosystem. One trip down the Smith leaves an impression not soon forgotten.

Depending on the time of year you visit the Smith, you may notice that the landscape is blanketed with a pale yellow-green plant - LEAFY SPURGE. This invasive plant poses a dangerous threat to riparian ecosystems and the natural, cultural, agricultural and recreational resources we cherish on the Smith River.

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