Public involvement is vital to any noxious weed control program. Due to their overwhelming prevalence and geographic reach, it would be impossible for Ada County Weed Control to effectively manage noxious weeds in the county without public assistance on early identification of new weed colonization, continuous treatments on private property, and knowing how to prevent the spread of noxious weeds.
Most people categorize weeds differently. If you are unsure of the type of weed or weeds sprouting in your yard or on your property, simply break off a portion of the weed, along with the root system and bring it to our office. One of our certified weed experts can help identify it and provide advice on the best methods to control it.
Some noxious weeds can be difficult to accurately identify, and the correct control method will depend on accurate plant identification. When in doubt, call Ada County Weed Control to speak with one of our experienced staff members at (208)577-4646, or visit us at 975 E. Pine Ave., in Meridian, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM.
The following guidelines can help eradicate, contain and control invasive species and noxious weeds:
- Educate yourself; learn how to identify noxious weeds.
- Report any sightings to your local weed control district.
- Do not transport flowering plants you can’t identify.
- Manage infestations on your property.
- Pull isolated noxious weeds without flowers or seeds and leave to dry where you found them.
- Pull noxious weeds with flowers or seeds and place in a plastic bag or container for disposal.
- Seek guidance from experts and develop a management plan.
- Getting expert advice when using herbicides is highly important. Pesticide advises and prescriptions should only be provided by qualified pesticide advisors. Always follow the usage outlined by the label.
Additional Resources:
There are many national, state, and local programs working to control noxious weeds. To learn more about invasive species and noxious weeds, and for additional resources and tips on how to control or prevent their spread, use the websites listed below.
- Idaho State Department of Agriculture Noxious Weeds Overview : An extensive overview and guide to the Noxious Weeds in Idaho.
- Idaho Administrative code: A review of the rules identifying noxious weeds and controls in Idaho.
- Idaho Weed Awareness Campaign: A campaign aimed at raising public awareness of the economic and environmental impacts of invasive weeds in Idaho.
- Pacific Northwest Weed Management Handbook: A guide to controlling methods for weeds found in Pacific Northwest states (including Idaho), along with a pesticide safety overview.
- Idaho Association of Weed Control Superintendents (IAWCS): A network of professional people consisting of Idaho’s County Weed Superintendents. The IAWCS is divided into six (6) regions statewide.
- Play Clean Go: A partnership with the Forest Service and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources providing engaging information on invasive species and how to prevent them from spreading.
- Stop Aquatics Hitchhikers: A national campaign aimed at preventing the threats of aquatic invasive species by following Clean—Drain—Dry principals.
- Don’t Move Firewood.org: A helpful guide on how to avoid moving invasive species via fireweed.
- Occupational Pesticide Safety and Health: An overview of the risks associated with pesticide exposure.
- Invasive Species of Idaho: The Idaho State Department of Agriculture home portal for all information regarding invasive species in the state.
- University of Idaho Integrated Pest Management: Educational information and resources for the pest management needs of Idaho.
- Idaho Noxious Weed Free Forage and Straw (NWFF&S) Certification Program: Information about Weed Free Forage and straw inspection.