Based in Pasco, Washington, the Weed Board's staff members educate Franklin County property owners on the identification and impacts of state-listed noxious weeds and control methods for those species.
The staff also locates noxious weed infestations that are not being effectively controlled by conducting annual surveys and follow-up checks on known noxious weed locations. Staff members meet with landowners and property managers to review weed locations and, if requested, to discuss site-specific noxious weed control plans.
The crew sprays county roadsides and certain high-priority weed infestations around the county, and is contracted to spray for various land management agencies. The team utilizes an integrated weed management approach applying chemical, mechanical, biological and cultural weed control methods, each as appropriate.
The staff stays active in the community attending local events such as the Farm Fair, Benton-Franklin County Fair and Regional Home & Garden Show. Look for the Weed Board's booth and video display at events where staff will be on hand to provide noxious weed information and educational materials.
Crew removing Ravenna grass
Todd Harris is an irrigated crop farmer from Pasco. He began working for FCNWCB in 2003 as a field inspector and became program coordinator in 2016. His hobbies/interests include farming, gardening, his grandkids, fishing and "killing weeds noxious and otherwise any way we can."
Betsy Crysel is an office manager who participates in fieldwork as much as possible. She is also the education coordinator. In her spare time, she likes to hike local trails, garden with native plants and spend time with family.
Sabrina was born and raised in the Tri-Cities. She is currently working on her bachelor's degree in wildlife biology at Columbia Basin College. Sabrina joined the crew in April of 2022 as a field inspector. Since coming on board Sabrina acquired a CDL and enjoys driving the big spray trucks used in our roadside applications. Her hobbies include painting, gardening, and reading Stephen King novels.
Luis Esquivel was raised in Royal City, Wash., and graduated from the University of Washington. He joined FCNWCB as a field inspector and GIS specialist in 2016 but has since been promoted to lead inspector. He enjoys fishing and playing the guitar.
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