04/06/2026
Aerial herbicide treatments will be taking place on Charles M. Russell NWR beginning this week. These treatments are an ongoing effort to improve habitat and reduce fuel loads caused by invasive annual grasses.
Invasive annual grasses pose a serious threat to the landscapes and ranching communities of central Montana, including the Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge. Their rapid expansion increases wildfire risks and degrades the native rangelands. To combat these issues, local land managers are using aerial applications of Indaziflam herbicide as a targeted solution to control the spread of these invasive grasses.
Indaziflam helps prevent the growth of invasive annual grasses, thereby reducing fuel loads that could contribute to dangerous wildfires in and around the Charles M. Russell NWR and across central Montana. By controlling these grasses, agencies can create safer conditions for residents and visitors, while also protecting vital habitat for native wildlife and plant species. This approach not only supports fire prevention efforts but also encourages the recovery and improvement of habitats that have been negatively impacted by invasive species.
Ongoing aerial Indaziflam applications are part of a larger strategy to maintain the health of central Montana’s landscapes and to reduce wildfire risks across the region. Community members are encouraged to support and learn more about these initiatives, which are essential for preserving local biodiversity and ensuring a safer environment for all. For further details about invasive annual grass treatments and habitat improvement projects in the area, please contact your local land management office or the Charles M. Russell NWR at 406-538-8706 or email at [email protected].
