Cook County forms Invasives Team”

A countywide effort to combat invasive species has been formed.

Shae Kosmalski, the county’s agricultural inspector, told the county board July 14 that the “Cook County Invasives Team” (CCIT) includes representatives from the Cook County Highway Department and Cook County Extension; Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Band of Chippewa; National Park Service (Grand Portage National Monument); the Nature Conservancy, Minnesota Chapter; US Forest Service, Superior National Forest; Minnesota Department of Natural Resources; Minnesota Department of Transportation; Cook County Soil and Water Conservation District; and the Sugarloaf North Shore Stewardship Association.

Kosmalski said the purpose of the CCIT is “to encourage and formalize the cooperative relationship necessary for effective management, coordination and implementation of invasive terrestrial, aquatic and plant species programs among interested parties.”

Kosmalski said the CCIT will work to enhance invasive management programs in the region by encouraging sharing of resources, information, expertise and effort on both public and private lands and waters.

Organizations such as the CCIT can also apply for funding for invasives management. Numerous groups will be receiving invitations to participate as cooperators. Any group interested in participating is asked to contact Kosmalski at (218) 387-3014.