What are noxious weeds? State law RCW 17.10 defines a noxious weed as “a plant that when established is highly destructive, competitive or difficult to control by cultural or chemical practices.” Noxious weeds reduce crop yields, diminish land values, displace desirable native vegetation destroying habitat, choke waterways and interfere with recreational and sporting activities. Some are poisonous to livestock and humans.

Why does Grant County have a noxious weed control board? Grant County has a long history of recognizing the need to control noxious weeds:

1929 – RCW 17.04 providing for noxious weed control districts which governs the Quincy and George areas.

1959 – RCW 17.06 providing for intercounty weed control districts which governs the Royal Slope and Warden areas.

1969 – RCW 17.10 providing for noxious weed control boards which governs the remainder of Grant County.

It is this 1969 law which mandated that all counties have a program to address noxious weeds. The Noxious Weed Control Board of Grant County (NWCBGC) was established in 1980 by the Grant County Commissioners.

What is the noxious weed control program? The NWCBGC focuses on public awareness and education on noxious weeds, technical assistance, infestation control through cooperative voluntary compliance and prevention. Preventing the spread of noxious weeds is less costly and more efficient than eradication.

More about noxious weeds next week.

The Noxious Weed Control Board of Grant County can be reached at (509) 754-2011, Ext. 4710 or www.grantcountyweedboard.org.