Pest Management

As a good environmental steward, the District operates a pest control program primarily to control noxious weeds through herbicide applications. The program also addresses insect and animal pest management.  The program scope includes activities conducted by Corps personnel, contractors and outgrantees on Corps lands in areas that may affect threatened or endangered species, including fish, and legally protected migratory birds and eagles. Pesticide and herbicide applications may occur in areas containing threatened or endangered species, including fish, as well as in areas containing both migratory birds and eagles, so the District considers environmental impacts of this program.

The use of pesticides in areas outgranted by the Corps of Engineers to lessees is governed by lease conditions and is subject to applicable federal laws. The Corps controls pesticide use on Corps lands, and federal requirements supersede state requirements to control noxious weeds. The Corps is required to comply with the federal Endangered Species Act (ESA).

Noxious and nuisance weeds hinder operations at Corps parks and projects and lower the value of wildlife mitigation lands. Vertebrate pests sometimes burrow into levees and other structures, compromising the integrity of the structures and raising safety concerns. Arthropods such as wasps and spiders are a health and safety issue for Corps employees and users of Corps lands and facilities. These pests can cause significant economic damage to lands, waters and facilities.

 

The following map depicts the district pest manager's area of responsibility and provides contact information. Use this for Real Estate (Outgrants, etc.) and Construction pest management.