Title
Agriculture Department recommending the Board authorize the Agricultural Commissioner and the Chair to sign Memorandum of Understanding 080-M1710 with El Dorado County Invasive Weed Management Group to support the activities focusing on exclusion, detection, eradication and suppression of invasive weeds, for the term of July 19, 2016 to July 19, 2021.
FUNDING: N/A
Body
DEPARTMENT RECOMMENDATION
The purpose of this MOU is to continue the El Dorado County Invasive Weed Management Group (EDCIWMG) and define the terms and conditions under which the EDCIWMG cooperates and coordinates activities necessary to prevent the introduction, establishment, and spread of harmful non-native weeds in El Dorado County. These activities shall focus upon the exclusion, detection, eradication, and suppression of priority invasive weeds by using an integrated pest management approach. This MOU extends the current MOU and would be in effect for five (5) years from the date of execution. The signatories and organizations will cooperate in developing coordinated work plans and seek various funding sources to support the activities of the EDCIWMG. In addition, public education on weed identification, prevention, and control will be a primary component of the EDCIWMG.
DISCUSSION / BACKGROUND
In 1999, the El Dorado County Invasive Weed Management Group was established to provide a coordinated effort to control and eradicate invasive weed populations on the West Slope of El Dorado County. Invasive weed infestations reduce the biological, recreational and economic value of agricultural, private and public lands and have a negative impact upon the environment by suppressing native plant species and reducing wildlife habitat and biological diversity. A coordinated approach, by multiple agencies to identify sites, develop responses and educate the public will result in a more effective effort to reduce or eliminate invasive weed infestations.
ALTERNATIVES
N/A
OTHER DEPARTMENT / AGENCY INVOLVEMENT
County Counsel and Risk Management have approved the MOU
CAO RECOMMENDATION
Chief Administrative Office concurs with staff's recommendations.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
No impact to net county cost. This is a non-financial agreement.
CLERK OF THE BOARD FOLLOW UP ACTIONS
1) Clerk to obtain the Board Chair's signature on one (1) original of the MOU, and
2) Clerk to forward the executed resolution to the Agriculture Department for transmittal with an additional copy signed by the Agricultural commissioner.
CONTACT
Myrna Tow X6647