Noxious weeds cause soil erosion, reduce wildlife habitats, steal water, nutrients, and light from native plants, and can be toxic to humans and animals.

Controlling these weeds is very challenging. There are no natural predators here to stop their spread, and their seeds can stay viable for many years. These weeds have extensive root systems that can regrow even after the tops are removed. That’s why it’s crucial for all property owners to prioritize controlling noxious weeds.

Common Noxious Weeds in the City of Bend

How Do I Control Noxious Weeds?

For small infestations, we find that using herbicides and pulling noxious weeds are the most effective methods of control. Herbicides help manage new growth and prevent the spread of these weeds. Since each herbicide is specific to the plant it targets, you’ll need a certified commercial pesticide operator to treat invasive species. The best time to spray is in the spring when new plants start to grow. When pulling weeds, remember to wear gloves, place the weeds in a plastic bag, and dispose of them at the Deschutes County Landfill. Don’t put them in your compost! Be aware that using herbicides and pulling weeds requires yearly follow-up. It often takes three or more years to completely eradicate noxious weeds using these techniques.

There are other ways to control noxious weeds, such as biological controls. This involves using insects that attack the root systems of invasive weeds. While this method can take several years to eradicate a medium to large infestation, it can be an alternative to herbicides.

Goat and sheep grazing is another effective tool for controlling larger-scale noxious weed infestations.

Always remember to keep your pets and other animals away from weeds and brush and remove any seeds that get stuck in their fur.

Create an Integrated Weed Management Plan

Integrated Weed Management uses several different practices to tackle noxious weeds. This approach combines chemical, mechanical, and biological methods to suppress weeds. This process can take several years, so persistence and patience are key! Herbicides are a powerful tool in your arsenal. They come in two types: selective, which target specific plants, and non-selective, which kill all plants they touch. The best times to spray are early and late spring, fall, and summer.

Mechanical control is also effective. For larger properties, you might need to use both mechanical and chemical methods. For smaller infestations, hand tools can do the job. Remember, there’s no single best practice for eradicating noxious weeds. Integrated Weed Management plans incorporate various methods as needed.

Our Code Enforcement team understands that eradicating noxious weeds takes time. If you’ve received a notice of violation, you’ll need to submit an Integrated Weed Management plan outlining the steps you’ll take to remove the weeds. We’ll monitor your progress each year until the weeds are gone.

How to File a Noxious Weeds Complaint

1Step: Prepare Your Details and Supporting Items

Before submitting your complaint, please gather the following information:

• Details of the Complaint: Describe the nature of the complaint and the alleged violation.
• Description of the Area: Provide a description of the area to help the inspector easily find the violations (e.g., front sidewalk).
• Location: Include the address of the violation.
• Supporting Items: Attach any supporting items with descriptions, such as photos or videos.

2Step: Submit Your Noxious Weeds Complaint

• In the Online Permit Center Portal, start by selecting the Complaint Type
• Complete the rest of the form and submit the complaint

Helpful Resources and Links

Best Management Practice Guides

• Canada Thistle
• Cheatgrass
• Dalmatian Toadflax
• Orange Hawkweed
• Puncturevine
• Russian Thistle
• Spotted Knapweed

Helpful Links

• Deschutes County’s weed list, which the City of Bend uses for enforcement.
• Best practices for Noxious Weeds video.
• Deschutes County Noxious Weed Control, including info on the Financial Assistance Program.
• Minnesota Department of Agriculture website for control methods for Spotted Knapweed.
• PBS Nature Program on Spotted Knapweed (starts at 28:05, ends at 35:50).
• Orange Hawkweed in Bend and Deschutes County video.
• Reducing noxious weeds and flammable vegetation in Idaho video.