WeedBan


Noxious weeds can wreak havoc on an ecosystem.  These invaders displace native vegetation, threatening wildlife habitat, valuable natural resources, and recreation areas.  Noxious weed infestations also cost Coloradans millions of dollars each year from harvest losses, damage to livestock, and lost productivity.

Weeds are considered noxious if they:

  • Aggressively invade native plant communities or crops
  • Can poison livestock
  • Can carry damaging insects, disease, or parasites
  • Are detrimental to the environment

The best way to control noxious weeds is to prevent their establishment by supporting healthy native plant communities and maintaining pastures.  Weeds are particularly adept at invading areas with bare soil, such as burn scars and over-grazed pastures.  Noxious weeds are fierce competitors once they are established, but can be controlled if the proper measures are taken.

CUSP’s noxious weed program focuses on preventing the establishment of noxious weeds and controlling those that are already present in the Upper South Platte Watershed.  We monitor and inventory hundreds of acres for weeds each year.  With help from many generous volunteers, we also treat noxious weeds in critical areas throughout the watershed.  If you are interested in learning how to control noxious weeds, sign up to volunteer with us on a noxious weed control project.

Controlling noxious weeds on your property is mandated by Colorado law.  Take a look at the tables below to learn how you can control some of central Colorado’s most common noxious weeds.

Contact CUSP if you have questions or need more information.  The Colorado State website also has more in-depth information about noxious weeds and resources for managing infestations.

WEEDS OF CONCERN:

Orange Hawkweed
   OxEye Daisy
   Scentless Chamomile
   Dalmation Toadflax
   Yellow Toadflax
   Black Henbane
   Diffuse Knapweed
   Spotted Knapweed
   Myrtle Spurge
   Leafy Spurge
Musk Thistle
Canada Thistle