Title
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE APPLICATION OF A MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE GRANT OF $5,000 FOR INVASIVE SPECIES MANAGEMENT OF JAPANESE KNOTWEED.
Body
CITY PROPOSAL:
WHERE AS, the proper city officials are hereby authorized to apply to the Minnesota Department Agriculture, Noxious Weed grant in the amount of $5,000 for invasive species treatments of Japanese Knotweed. If awarded, Funds to be deposited to 205-130-1220-5441-CM205-NATRES-MISC (Parks Fund, Community Resources, Parks Capital, Natural Resources, Miscellaneous).
WHERE AS, the City has received the same grant award in previous years, and will be continuing treatment at a minimum of 30 different site locations identified with Japanese Knotweed across Duluth.
Statement of Purpose
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE: This resolution authorizes the application of a Minnesota Department of Agriculture, Noxious Weed grant, for continuing treatment of at least 30 different sites across the city infested with Japanese Knotweed. This invasive species forms dense thickets that suppress native vegetation. Knotweed can pose a significant threat to riparian areas, such as disturbed streamsides, lakeshores and other low-lying areas. It can survive severe floods and rapidly colonize scoured shores. Knotweed creates bare ground under itself, which can lead to faster erosion and make stream banks more vulnerable to flood damage. Knotweed can grow through building foundations and sidewalks, leading to structural damage.