Idaho and Noxious Weeds

Idaho has 36 different species of weeds that are designated noxious by state law as well as an ongoing list of species that are of concern or proposed for addition to the present 36. Proper identification and handling can aid in squelching the spread of these weeds and the damage they do to Idaho lands. The culprits who have made the list thus far are Black Henbane, Buffalo bur, Canada Thistle, Common Curpina, Dalmatian Toadflax, Diffuse Knapweed, Dyer’s Woad, Eurasian Water milfoil, Field Bindweed, Hoary Cress, Johnson grass, Jointed Goat grass, Leafy Spurge, Matgrass, Meadow Hawkweed, Meadow Knapweed, Milium, Musk Thistle, Orange Hawkweed, Perennial Pepperweed, Perennial Sowthistle, Poison Hemlock, Puncturevine, Purple Loosestrife, Rush Skeletonweed, Russian Knapweed, Scotch Broom, Scotch Thistle, Silverleaf Nightshade, Skeletonleaf Bursage, Spotted Knapweed, Syrian Beancaper, Tansy Ragwort, Toothed Spurge, Yellow Starthistle, and Yellow Toadflax. The current list of concerns includes Blueweed, Houndstongue, Japanese Knotweed, Mediterranean Sage, Oxeye Daisy, Saltcedar, Sulfur Cinqufoil , and White Bryony.

The spread of noxious weeds has an adverse effect on the economy, ecology and agriculture of Idaho. It has been estimate that 14 percent of Idaho's lands - approximately 12,000 square miles - have been taken over by noxious weeds, causing more than $300 million in direct damages to the state's economy, agriculture and wildlife lands. What can you do to help? Weeds are often spread by unknowing carriers. They can attach to clothing or fur and be carried from one place to another by vehicles and trailers. First of all check your clothing and your animal’s fur for seeds when leaving an area. Be sure to rinse off trailers and ATV’s between uses. (It also helps to stay on the road and avoid picking up the “tag alongs” to begin with.) If you use livestock, make sure your pack animals are on a certified weed free feed diet before and during their time in the wilderness. Last of all be sure to report weed infestations to the local county noxious weed department. By following these simple guidelines you can help prevent serious infestations and improve the quality of life for fellow Idahoans.

Spreading Awareness at the Nez Perce County Fair