Cogongrass Treatment Cost-Share Program

A Cogongrass Treatment Cost-Share Program was offered to eligible non-industrial private landowners by the Florida Forest Service (FFS) through temporary grants from the USDA Forest Service from 2008-2012. The primary objective of this program was to reduce the spread of cogongrass to new areas by helping private landowners control or eradicate existing infestations. Cogongrass (Imperata cylindrica L.) is a non-native, invasive grass which is established in Florida and several other southeastern states. In addition to being regulated as a state and federal noxious weed, cogongrass is a pest plant in 73 countries, and has been recognized as one of the “Top 10 Worst Weeds in the World.” Cogongrass infestations negatively affect tree regeneration, growth, and survival, as well as wildlife habitat, native plant diversity, forage quality, and property values. They also increase the risk of wildfires, and alter fire behavior.

Program Information

This program offered cost-share reimbursement for herbicide treatment of cogongrass infestations. Approved applicants are required to treat the infestations for two consecutive years. The program reimbursed 75% of the cost of treating cogongrass infestations over two consecutive years, up to a maximum of $100 per acre per year (or $100 per year for treatment of less than an acre), or $200 per acre over the two-year contract period.

With available funds, first priority was given to the fourteen counties bordering Alabama and Georgia: Baker, Columbia, Escambia, Gadsden, Hamilton, Holmes, Jackson, Jefferson, Leon, Madison, Nassau, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, and Walton. Higher priority was given to applications to treat 5 acres or less of infested area.

Contacts

For more information on the Cogongrass Treatment Cost-Share Program, please contact:

• Your Florida Forest Service County Forester Office
  
  OR
• Jeff Eickwort, Forest Biologist
  Telephone: 352/ 395-4689
  Email: Jeffrey.Eickwort@freshfromflorida.com

Back to Cogongrass HOME