Noxious Weeds
Noxious weeds are plants not native to Washington. Noxious weed species
and the processes for regulation and control are defined in RCW
17.10. All state agencies are required to control noxious weeds on
lands they own.
Noxious weed control is important because new invaders often appear first
along highway corridors. Management of the right of way, because of its
linear nature, can impact an enormous number of neighbors. WSDOT is a
responsible steward of state owned land. It supports commerce and the
economic viability of the agricultural community. The agency also values
environmental preservation. To meet responsibilities it is necessary that
noxious weeds be controlled. State law requires the control of certain
weed species within highway rights of way. Activities required for control
have to be given priority over all other vegetation management activities
except those that directly and immediately affect the safety of the public.
Sometimes maintenance resources do not allow for full control of all
noxious weed infestations within a given year. In these situations the
area maintenance superintendent
and the local county weed board will need to negotiate a multi-year strategy
for regaining control.
Washington
State Department of Agriculture Noxious Weed Control Board
If you have comments or questions, contact Ray Willard at (360) 705-7865,
or email willarr@wsdot.wa.gov.
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