Mr. Stevenson,

Thank you very much for your report! There are indeed several populations of yellow flag iris at the Gheren Island complex. The City of Salem is aware, and has actually been working on hand removal of the infestations for a couple years now. It is tedious work for them as policies and laws prohibit any chemical use on the Island, and hand control of yellow flag is difficult.
Please continue to keep your eyes open in that area. Another species we are very interested in locating and controlling is purple loosestrife. There are several small populations upstream of the Island, and there is concern that they might spread.
Thank you for your interest and caring enough to report. I sincerely hope you continue! Having extra eyes on the ground makes all the difference.

With gratitude,

Tanya Beard
Environmental Specialist-Botanist
Marion County Weed Control District

Tanya Beard
May 18, 2012, 8:34 a.m.