YELLOW STAR THISTLE

Covering majestic ridges and rolling hillsides in Eastern Oregon, you might think this plant is as much a part of the rural landscape as cowboys and cattle. But don't be fooled. Yellow Star Thistle is toxic to cattle and useless to wildlife, can blister human skin, and it's taking over ranches. It's just one of many invasive weeds that with every acre it consumes we risk losing forever the rural ranches and native grasslands that define Eastern Oregon.

• Inspect and remove mud from boots, gear, and vehicle. Invasive seeds can hitch a ride on your gear, boots, and vehicle so scrape and spray off any caked-on soil.
• Use weed-free hay and local firewood. Avoid carrying invasive seeds into your favorite natural areas by bringing weed-free hay and buying firewood within a 50-mile radius of your campsite.
• Recognize and report invasives. If you see a plant that looks out of place, report it (1-866-INVADER or at oregoninvasiveshotline.org)
• For more information:
  Statesman Journal (go to invasive species page): www.statesmanjournal.com/
  The Nature Conservancy: www.nature.org/initiatives/invasivespecies/
  USDA Forest Service: http://www.fs.fed.us/invasivespecies/