POINT PLEASANT — To assist farmers with the spreading of invasive species, the West Virginia Conservation Agency and the Western Conservation District is now offering an Invasive Species Program that provides financial assistance to farmers and landowners interested in controlling Multiflora Rose and/or Autumn Olive.

The West Virginia Association of Conservation Districts is working with the following agencies to provide for the Invasive Species Program: USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, USDA Farm Service Agency, WV University Cooperative Extension Service and the WV Conservation Agency.

The new program cost shares 50 percent for the purchase price of herbicides and other related products for brush management. Labor and equipment use or rental will be based on a 50/50 rate of $25 per hour. The cost share rate paid to the cooperator will be $12.50 per hour. Commercial cost share is authorized at 50 percent of the commercial application invoice.

Private applicators license is only needed when using restrictive chemicals. Applications for Invasive Species must be received by June 1, 2010. You must be a cooperator of the District and be actively involved in grazing to qualify.

For more information or to sign up for the program in the counties of Mason, Jackson and Putnam contact the Western Conservation District at 304-675-3054.