Nellis Air Force Base
Davey Resource Group, Inc. tackles various obstacles to provide Nellis Air Force Base treatment for an invasive plant within a short timeframe.
The Challenge
Nellis Air Force Base (NAFB), located just outside of Las Vegas in Nevada, is home to malta star-thistle, a highly prolific, seed-bearing invasive weed, that grows rapidly and outcompetes native plant species on base. Davey Resource Group, Inc. (DRG) partnered with the Center for Environmental Management Military Lands (CEMML) at Colorado State University to combat malta star-thistle on the base through herbicide treatments.
The Solution
Close coordination with the CEMML staff in Las Vegas as well as the NAFB Natural Resources and Pest Management Program staff was necessary to complete the project. Military base access is restricted and vetting to receive a base contractor pass for each individual was required. Vehicle inspections by installation gate guards are also required at time of entry and re-entry. In order to mitigate this time loss and navigate the restriction of not being able to mix herbicide on base, an excess was mixed before the project was underway to limit additional delays.
The project area was treated with a post-emergent application, which is only effective when applied before the plant produces seeds. This time constraint, along with unforeseen weather causing multiple delays, required careful preparation on DRG’s part. The DRG herbicide crew brought vital efficiency to the task, preparing for these circumstances and more to complete the project on schedule.
The Results
The first round of herbicide treatment has been completed quickly and efficiently. The client is happy with DRG’s professional, efficient, and communicative service, and says they feel valued as a client.