Reporting resources
Once you have located, and documented a suspected Federal Noxious Weed how do you report it. Fortunately in Alaska there are a variety of options. You can report weeds sited by phone, internet web form, or with a mobile application. Below are directions for each:
Mobile application: Alaska Weeds ID is a mobile app available for IOS and Android devices for free. This mobile application has features including an identification key for many of Alaska’s invasive weeds and species of concern that aren’t yet in Alaska. In addition to identification information, a report form is present. The reporting form will geo-reference your location even when you are out of cell phone service. Pictures are encouraged when using the app for reporting invasive weed locations. Reports are stored in your queue until you choose to upload them. Reports are sent to UAF IPM team who forwards appropriate information on to land managers and/or databases.
Online: There are several ways to submit information online for someone to identify a suspected noxious weed. Here are a few of the options that reach people with responsibilities statewide.
- UAF Pest Identification Web Portal: This site accepts images and queries about plants, insects, and diseases. Reports may be submitted here as alerts to potential problematic species, or as simple queries of what is this, and if it is a pest or weed how do I manage it. Reports can accept images, however do not have a georeferencing system so be ready to describe the infested area adequately. Reports sent to this site go to the Integrated Pest Management
https://www.uaf.edu/ces/ipm/cmp/sample-submission/ - Alaska Department of Fish and Game: This site accepts reports for most taxa of invasive species and they are sent to the Invasive Species Coordinator with ADF&G. For taxa such as plants the site directs you where to go.
Phone: Dial 1-877-invasiv (the “e” is deliberately left off). This number takes you directly to the Invasive Species Program Coordinator with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game who will get the information to the appropriate local contact. Alternatively you can contact the Alaska Division of Agriculture, Invasive Plants Program Coordinator (907-745-4469), or the University of Alaska Fairbanks, Cooperative Extension Service (1-877-520-5211). Use the UAF CES 1-877 number to determine where to mail or drop off fresh specimens as they can direct you to the nearest office.