SW Area Meeting February 10, 2026

The Lewis and Clark County Southwest Area Meeting held on February 10, 2026, focused primarily on planning and updates related to training events, membership growth, and coordination among county weed management programs. Key procurement-related discussions included the organization of a drones for weed management seminar with secured sponsorships covering costs such as lunch and venue, and deliberations on whether to charge registration fees to encourage commitment while keeping the event accessible. The group also discussed the use and maintenance of an education trailer, including scheduling and minor expenses. Fundraising was deemed unnecessary at this time due to sufficient resources, with some emphasis on supporting the Montana Weed Control Association (MWCA) through raffle ticket sales. Additionally, there was mention of potential grant work and equipment procurement, such as a new spray truck for weed control. Policy updates and legislative engagement were also discussed, particularly regarding funding and compliance issues related to the state weed law. The meeting included coordinator reports highlighting mapping projects, training efforts, and environmental compliance challenges. Overall, the meeting emphasized collaborative training efforts, resource management, and legislative advocacy to support weed control initiatives in the region.