2023 River Weed Rodeo - 20th Anniversary
Flathead Rivers Alliance was thrilled to get River Weed Rodeo volunteers back in rafts for 2023, after a 2022 late peak flow that prevented volunteers from floating during one-day event. As always Brenda Guzman, the mastermind, behind the River Weed Rodeo on the Middle Fork of the Flathead River since 2003 coordinated 165+ volunteers, a record number of volunteers, for the event. When we asked Brenda what coordinating the River Weed Rodeo for 20 years means to her she said, “Rivers have been such an important part of my life. I’m so grateful for all the amazing people and experiences I’ve had thanks to my time on the water. I know how important it is for me to do what I can to mitigate the negative impacts people have on this phenomenal place, and the positive energy generated from our outstanding river community has inspired me to keep working on this project for all these years.”
The Weed Rodeo is a noxious weed pulling event that includes private volunteers combined with commercial rafting outfitters, government organizations, non-profits and local businesses to hand pull weeds along our beautiful river corridor. Huge thanks to Brenda, the volunteers, partners, sponsors and Wild River Adventures for hosting post event celebration during the June 23rd event!
Background: Groups have a full day of rafting with one of the four commercial raft companies or join the group as private boaters. Along the way the groups stop and listen to a short educational talk on noxious weeds led by a local weed expert. All participants bring leather gloves for hand pulling weeds. The Middle Fork of the Flathead is a beautiful free flowing river that is protected by the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. The native plants and animals on the river corridor appreciate your help. Email riverweedrodeo@gmail.com to sign up or visit River Weed Rodeo website for more information. Read about 2021 HERE and 2022 HERE.
