Fighting Back Against Downy Brome: A Growing Threat to Newell’s Lands
Downy Brome (Bromus tectorum), an aggressive invasive weed, is becoming an increasing problem in the County of Newell. Spreading quickly and outcompeting native grasses, this weed not only threatens our agricultural productivity but also increases the risk of wildfires across our region.
Landowners, producers, and land managers must act now to control its spread before it becomes unmanageable. While Downy Brome has been regulated locally since 1994 and designated as a noxious weed across Alberta since 2010, recent population surges are putting our rangelands, crops, and pastures at risk.
How Downy Brome Takes Over
Downy Brome is a winter annual, meaning it germinates in the fall, overwinters, and then grows rapidly in the early spring—well ahead of most native plants and crops. By late June, it dries out completely, becoming a highly flammable fuel source for wildfires.
Because of its rapid seed production and ability to establish dense stands, once Downy Brome invades an area, it can be extremely difficult to remove. Seeds can survive in the soil for several years, and even small infestations can spread quickly if not addressed.
Where is It Coming From?
The resurgence of Downy Brome in our county has been driven by several factors, including:
- Cultivation and mowing equipment transporting seeds between fields
- Haying operations that move contaminated forage
- Soil transfer carrying dormant seeds to new locations
If equipment, vehicles, or even boots are not properly cleaned after passing through an infested area, Downy Brome can spread rapidly to new locations.
What Can You Do?
Controlling Downy Brome requires early action and ongoing maintenance. Here’s how you can help stop the spread:
✔ Monitor Your Land: Check fields, pastures, and roadsides for Downy Brome. Early detection is key.
✔ Clean Your Equipment: Before moving between fields, remove dirt and plant material from machinery, vehicles, and boots.
✔ Use Mechanical Control: If feasible, mow Downy Brome before it reaches seed maturity to prevent further spread.
✔ Apply Herbicides Strategically: Non-selective herbicides can help if applied at the right time (late fall or early spring).
✔ Encourage Competitive Growth: Establishing perennial grasses can help reduce Downy Brome populations by taking up space and resources.
County Support & Resources
The County’s Agricultural Service Board is committed to helping landowners manage Downy Brome infestations. Our trained staff can assist with weed identification, control strategies, and best management practices.
For more information, contact the County of Newell at 403-362-3266.
Together, we can protect our land from this invasive threat—but we need everyone’s participation. By taking proactive steps now, we can limit the spread of Downy Brome and safeguard our agricultural and natural landscapes for the future.
Download our Downy Brome one-pager here > Prevent the Spread: Your Guide to Managing Downy Brome in the County of Newell