Scotch Thistle & Canada Thistle a Significant Concern in Ada County
Posted on 07-09-2012
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 9, 2012 |
Contact: Jessica Donald
Communications Specialist
208-287-6998
|
Scotch Thistle & Canada Thistle a Significant Concern in Ada County
(Boise, ID) – Ada County Weed, Pest and Mosquito Abatement is asking the public to be on the lookout for Scotch Thistle and Canada Thistle while out and about this summer. These are two of the most common and abundant species of noxious weeds in Ada County, and controlling them is critical to the preservation of a healthy environment.
However, keeping track of infestations of noxious weeds is an extremely difficult task without help from the public. With help from residents, we can contain these highly invasive and destructive noxious weeds to specific areas, and manage the threat of them spreading. Scotch Thistle and Canada Thistle are likely familiar looking weeds to many people given how widespread they are in Ada County, but they often go unnoticed. If left untreated, these weeds can cause a significant amount of devastation.
Why Should You Care?
- An entire colony of thistle can destroy a park, campsite, pasture, crop, or roadside
- Infestations directly result in significant economic losses for farmers and ranchers
- These weeds spread rapidly, and are difficult to eradicate because they’re drought resistant
- These thistle species create dense colonies that prohibit foraging by livestock
- They choke out other native vegetation, eliminating foraging by wild animal species such as deer and elk
- Tall plants and spiny leaves create an impenetrable barrier to humans and animals
- They create “fuel” for devastating wildland fires
Residents are asked to pay special attention to the plant life when out recreating this summer, and to report the location of any Scotch or Canada Thistle that is noticed, to Ada County Weed, Pest and Mosquito Abatement at 208-577-4646. Once alerted to any problem areas, Weed Control officials will quickly respond to help eliminate potential invasions of these destructive weeds.
