Scotch Broom Challenge.  The Fire Safe Council of Nevada County has tools to lend which make it easier for people to remove Scotch Broom. Scotch Broom should be removed because it is a highly flammable non-native plant and it also displaces native and beneficial vegetation. A photo ID and deposit check are required to borrow the tools.

Scotch broom (Cytisus scoparius) is a highly aggressive, non-native, invasive weed species. It was introduced to the United States as an ornamental and as packing material for cases of whiskey and beer from the British Isles, central and southern Europe. It is now considered a pest plant by many eastern and western states.

Why this plant is considered a pest...

• Scotch broom is highly flammable
• Displaces native and beneficial vegetation
• Costly in areas where forest production is impeded by its growth
• Forms dense stands which impede movement of wildlife, livestock, and degrades wildlife habitat
• Plants in excess quantity can be toxic to humans, horses, and livestock
• Scotch broom usually reproduces by seed, and rarely reproduce vegetatively
• Seeds can live in the seedbank for over 80 years!
• One shrub can produce thousands of seeds (up to 15,000) after two years of growth
• Seeds can be transported over long distances by animals, humans, water, and vehicles
• Scotch broom can tolerate a wide range of environmental and soil conditions

Web pages

• Home - https://www.areyoufiresafe.com/
• Scotch broom info - https://www.areyoufiresafe.com/programs/scotch-broom-challenge
• Contact - https://www.areyoufiresafe.com/contact-us