Douglas County Weed Management

Welcome to the Douglas County Weed Management Website.

PLEASE NOTE:

The Pacific Northwest Weed Management Handbook, "Control of Problem Weeds" page has been updated!  This website give information regarding specific weeds that may be troublesome to control. Herbicides and/or rates listed cannot necessarily be used on cropland. Rates of application and restrictions vary depending on crop or site. Do not apply to a crop or site not listed on the label.

Control of Problem Weeds

In October 2004, Douglas County Commissioners activated the Douglas County Weed Management Task Force and appointed nine individuals who geographically represent Douglas County agriculture and urban areas. Margaret Viebrock, WSU Extension, was appointed to facilitate this committee and help to develop weed management strategies.

Ex-officio members of this Task Force include representatives from Douglas County Transportation and Land Services, Foster Creek Conservation District, Douglas County Commissioners and WSU Extension.

Task Force Directives (defined by the Douglas County Commissioners)

  • Develop a communication system with all entities that have weed control programs.
  • Gain a better understanding of weed control methods used by other other entities.
  • Design a system to coordinate weed control efforts.
  • Continue the process of developing an informed educational approach to weed management in Douglas County.
  • Engage landowners and agencies in a cooperative weed management program.

 

Since the appointment of the Douglas County Weed Management Task Force, the committee has taken a proactive approach to learn about various weed management programs. Members have met with agency people, integrated weed management program managers, state weed board representatives, county noxious weed control managers and other groups who manage weeds. The best parts of these programs have been integrated into the local plan of work. Members have also spent time in Olympia with state legislative groups explaining how the program has been successful in Douglas County.

WEED OF THE MONTH

Poison Hemlock

Poison Hemlock Stem - Photo by Rich Old www.xidservices.com Poison Hemlock Plant - Photo by Rich Old www.xidservices.com

Poison Hemlock Facts

  • Douglas County Class B weed.
  • Native to Europe, Asia and Northern Africa
  • Flowers: white, small and occur in 4 to 8 inch umbrella shaped clusters.
  • Stems are hollow like bamboo and are covered with purple blotches
  • Bushy, branched perennial, usually 1 to 3 feet tall.
  • Poison hemlock prefers rich, moist soil, but is highly adaptable to other conditions.
  • Poison hemlock reproduces by seed.
  • Other names: carrot-fern, fool's-parsley, spotted hemlock

Control Methods:

General Description: Poison Hemlock can quickly infest large areas of pasture as well as open waste places.

Caution: The entire plant is toxic to animals and humans, containing the poisonous alkaloid coniine and other alkaloids. Therefore, always wear gloves and protective clothing if handling poison hemlock. 

Mechanical Control: Digging up small infestations and removing the entire taproot is effective. Mowing is ineffective as plants will re-sprout, sending up new stalks in the same season mowing occurs.

Herbicide Control: Please refer to the PNW Weed Management Handbook, or contact your county noxious weed coordinator or WSU Extension office for additional chemical options.