Invasive weeds are a major problem in California. They threaten ecosystem diversity, wildlife habitat, block river drainages, fuel wildfires, as well as hamper human recreation and agricultural endeavors. Invasive exotic weeds rank second only to development in destroying native plant and animal habitat.
County agricultural offices play an important role in preventing the introduction and establishment of new invasive weed species. Each county inspects seed and plant shipments that arrive in our respective counties to try and intercept and exclude exotic weeds.
Purple Thistle
What is a Noxious Weed?
A noxious weed is any species of plant that is, aggressive, intrusive, detrimental, or destructive to agriculture, parklands, forests, or native species environments. Noxious weeds are very competitive and difficult to control or eradicate.
Yellow Star Thistle