Weeds are plants growing in places where they are not wanted. Invasive weeds are non-native plants that can cause harm to the natural environment, humans and animals. The Oregon Department of Agriculture estimates that Oregon spends $81 million annually on the control of invasives species. Weed management is an on-going activity. Weeds that appear to be suppressed may re-emerge. Reducing soil disturbance along with regular monitoring and weed removal are the keys to weed control. 

Pathways and Prevention Weeds are often introduced by human activities. Some weeds (like Himalayan blackberry) are brought in for agricultural purposes, others (like reed canarygrass) may be imported for erosion control, and many (like butterfly bush) have been introduced through the nursery trade. Once present, weeds can be spread by people, birds, wildlife, wind, water, machinery and other means. 

Follow these practices to help limit the spread of invasive weeds on your property and throughout the county: 

• Play, clean, go.After working with or walking through weeds, remove any plant parts from your apparel and gear before moving to another area.
• Grow native.Use only native or non-invasive species when planting new vegetation.
• Right plant for the right place.Carefully choose pond plants to avoid accidentally introducing weedy aquatic species.
• Don’t let it loose.Never dump aquarium contents down any drain. Seal in a bag and put in the trash.
• Buy it where you burn it.Buy fire wood locally. Weeds and pests can be transported in wood.
• Clean, drain, and dry.Clean boats of all vegetation and aquatic life after each use.