Thursday, April 19, 2007


NOXIOUS WEEDS: Noxious weeds have become a problem in much of the western United States and La Plata County is no exception.

Noxious weeds differ from other plants because they are not native to the area in which they are found. They ofter go unimpeded by natural predators and enemies such as insects and disease. Generally aggressive and competitive, they often overtake native species by stealing moisture, sunlight and nutrients - effectively eliminating them. Noxious weed that are found in wetland areas block water access from animals that live there, along with their natural predators. This disrupts the entire ecosystem.

The Colorado Noxious Weed Act, created in 19990, assists county and city governments in implementing management programs to deter these plants from infesting weed free zones. They also help educate the public on the negative environmental impacts of noxious weeds and how to avoid spreading them. Simple precautions such as wiping your feet before entering Open Space Parks and staying on designated trails have proven effective.

Colorado has a diverse plant population and it is sometimes hard to differentiate between native and invasive species. Through education, research, and proper precautions, we can fight the spread of noxious weeds. It is now mandatory for property owners to regulate and control noxious weeds on their land.

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