Humboldt Watershed Cooperative Weed Management Area

The Humboldt Watershed Cooperative Weed Management Area (HWCWMA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the management and control of noxious and invasive weeds within the Humboldt River Watershed area in Nevada. The organization operates with a small team and relies on grant funding and assistance agreements to achieve its goals.

Mission and Activities

HWCWMA's primary mission involves providing technical assistance to land managers, owners, and local weed control groups. This includes facilitating funding opportunities, coordinating with agencies, and promoting communication and cooperation among stakeholders. The organization uses its resources to hire licensed herbicide contractors to treat noxious weeds, which pose a significant threat to Nevada's ecosystems.

Key activities of HWCWMA include:

• Education: Organizing events such as Early Weed Extravaganzas to educate landowners about the harmful effects of noxious weeds on the environment.
• Prevention and Control: Collaborating with partners to identify and implement methods to prevent the spread of invasive species.
• Cooperative Projects: Funding and coordinating projects for weed control, seeding, and environmental restoration.

Structure and Membership

HWCWMA is a collaborative effort involving private landowners, ranchers, and state and federal agency personnel. The group encourages participation from anyone with an interest in protecting the Humboldt Basin, focusing on the sustainability of agriculture, wildlife habitat, and water quality.

Financial Operations

As a nonprofit, HWCWMA has a high program expense ratio, indicating that nearly all its funds are directed towards its core mission of managing invasive weeds. The organization relies on grants and partnerships to support its activities.

Impact and Evaluation

HWCWMA has received a three-star rating from Charity Navigator, reflecting its strong financial accountability but suggesting areas for improvement in governance policies. Despite these challenges, the organization continues to positively impact environmental conservation within the Humboldt Watershed.