Crossposted from the Noxious Weeds Blog

What does it mean to be a noxious weed?

“Noxious weed” is a legal designation. To become a noxious weed a plant must first meet four criteria.

1. Introduced to Washington state (non-native)
2. Spread beyond where they are planted
3. Create harm where introduced*
4. Difficult to control

*This harm can be agricultural, such as reducing crop output, ecological, such as out competing our native plants, or physical, such as toxic to humans or livestock. They can impact wildlife, human health, land value, recreation, and natural resources.

Anyone can nominate a species, but only the Washington State Noxious Weed Control Board defines which plants are noxious. They also determine where weeds are required for control based on how widespread they are and their impact. County Boards have the power to select species and areas to set priorities beyond what the law requires but must request a change in a weed’s designation from the state board to reduce control requirements. Read more.

Crossposted from King County Local

King County has completed the first major update in two decades of its regulations for developing land near wetlands, streams, and other critical areas.

Developed through three years of research, planning, and public discussion, the updated King County Critical Area Ordinance is a set of land use regulations intended to safeguard environmentally critical areas, communities, and infrastructure.

The Metropolitan King County Council adopted the final ordinance on Dec. 2. Please continue reading for more information on when the ordinance becomes effective, frequently asked questions, next steps, and updated permitting guidance. Read more.