Merritt joining TNRD invasive plant program

Through a unanimous vote, the City of Merritt has opted to join the Thompson Nicola Regional District’s invasive plant program for 2022.

The initial cost for the City of Merritt to join the program would be $20,000 in 2022. Future costs would be a maximum annual contribution percentage of 4.5% in relation to the total Invasive Plant Service program budget.

“This is a program that we don’t have internal dedicated expertise, and it’s sorely needed. The TNRD has the expertise and availability and they’ll grow the program as needed,” said Mayor Linda Brown.

“We need the knowledge, why on earth would we reinvent the wheel when it’s available to us,” added Councillor Kurt Christopherson.

The program includes:

• Long-term invasive plant management programs within municipal boundaries.
• Financial assistance for residents managing invasive plants on private properties.
• Support for municipal staff managing invasive plants on public land.
• Enhanced coordinated effort to control invasive plants throughout the region.
• Increased education, outreach and awareness within the municipality.