Weed Inspectors
A weed inspector is provincially appointed inspector assigned to a specific geographical area of Strathcona County. It is their duty to:
- inspect all public and private lands for noxious and restricted weeds, including industrial lots and farm land
- respond to and follow up on complaints
- issue weed notices in accordance with the Weed Control Act.
A weed notice is a legal document notifying a property owner that weed problems on his or her property must be corrected, or the County will undertake this work at the landowner's expense.
It is the responsibility of Strathcona County to enforce the Weed Control Act in an effort to limit the spread of noxious weeds. It is important to manage these plants as they are not native to North America and can be toxic to pets, livestock and wildlife.
Plants are categorized as "noxious" because they are invasive in nature with prolific reproductive capabilities. This means that they compete with desirable plants such as native ecosystems and crops by pushing them out physically or chemically by releasing toxins in the soil. This alters habitat for wildlife and displaces birds, animals, insects and soil micro organisms.
Noxious weeds thrive in disturbed soils such as roadsides, industrial yards, watercourse boundaries and overgrazed pastures. Healthy and vigorous crops, lawns and grass covered areas are the best ways to prevent initial establishment of noxious weeds.
What all residents can do to help:
- Familiarize yourself with the plants on the noxious weed list
Ensure you do not allow noxious and prohibited noxious weeds to grow on your property. - Prevent the spread of weed seeds by limiting the movement of contaminated hay, wood chips, gravel, manure and soil. One of the most common methods of moving weed seed is contaminated mud that gets tracked on your vehicle.
- Do not plant wild flower seed mixes - these are most often contaminated with noxious weeds.
You can contact the County to report a weed concern or for advice on how to remedy a weed problem. Be assured that the County has measures in place for managing noxious weeds on public lands. Controlling noxious weeds is a big job and we all have a role in maintaining and enhancing the beauty and biodiversity of Strathcona County.
Further information:
Transportation and Agriculture Services
780-417-7100
transportationandagriculture@strathcona.ca
Last updated: Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Page ID: 3495