Earth Day is April 22, so dig in to control noxious invasive weeds this weekend or all month with events and trainings. Earth Day is a great reminder for us to remove noxious invasive weeds in our gardens and natural areas and restore our native plant and wildlife habitat. Learn how to remove noxious weeds at local events or by training to be a citizen scientist invasive species volunteer. Or tackle them on your own (with optional help from your noxious weed control board or district).

“You can celebrate Earth Day by spending a little time getting rid of your noxious weeds,” says Alison Halpern, executive secretary of the Washington State Noxious Weed Control Board. “Replace those invasive plants in your yard with native or non-invasive ornamental plants that provide food and shelter for birds, bees, butterflies, and other critters. You get to enjoy time outside, get some exercise, and feel great about helping to make your world a better place, one plant at a time.”

Noxious weeds are non-native plants that become highly destructive, or difficult to control by cultural, mechanical, or chemical methods. They reduce crop yields, destroy native plant and animal habitat, damage recreational opportunities, clog waterways, lower land values, and some can poison people and livestock.

The Washington State Noxious Weed Control Board is distributing pollinator-friendly Bee-U-tify seed packets, which contain a blend of annual and perennial native and nonnative but non-invasive plants that are great for yards and gardens.  You can do a good deed by removing the weeds, planting these seeds, and then feeding the bees. To receive a free seed packet (while supplies last) and a brochure about bee-friendly noxious weed control, email us at noxiousweeds@agr.wa.gov or contact your county weed board.