Noxious weeds are a growing concern that will be highlighted as several national, regional, local and state groups gather in Washington, D.C. to draw attention to the dramatic and costly problems created by invasive weeds during National Invasive Weeds Awareness Week 2001 (NIWAW II). NIWAW II will take place Feb. 26 – March 2.

Any time people or their animals work or play in areas infested by noxious weeds, there is a chance they will move the infestation to a new area. Whether weed seeds are spread by trucks and farm vehicles, animals or by people admiring “the pretty flowers,” when noxious weeds spread, they displace native plant species that provide food and habitat for wildlife, people and livestock.

They can also reduce the land’s natural and agricultural productivity, increase maintenance costs and reduce the usefulness of recreation areas.

County weed boards play a tremendous role in the fight against invasive species. However, winning the war on weeds will require a national strategy for invasive plant management that promotes cooperation and pooled resources among private landowners, local, county, state and federal agencies. Key to developing this strategy is awareness, and NIWAW II will present those efforts which will allow wildlife habitat, rangelands and farmlands to thrive.

(For more information, contact Cynthia Moses-Nedd at NACo: (202) 942-4257.)