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NDA adds knotweed to noxious weed listNebraska Nebraska Department of Agriculture Director Greg Ibach announced the statewide designation of Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica) and giant knotweed (Fallopia sachalinenis), including any cultivars and hybrids as noxious weeds in Nebraska. "In order for us to continue being good stewards of the land, we need to work to protect our natural resources from non-native plants that have no value and have the potential to cause damage to our ecosystem if left unchecked," Ibach said. "This designation in necessary to help county weed control officials work with landowners to address areas of infestation and to prevent the further spread of this invasive species." Ibach has the authority to designate weeds as noxious under the Noxious Weed Control Act. According to Mitch Coffin, NDA noxious weed program manager, Japanese and giant knotweed can threaten both open and riparian areas. Plants may spread rapidly and from dense monocultures. In riparian habitats, the weeds can increase the risk of flooding and river bank erosion. Prolific rhizome and shoot growth can also damage foundations, walls, pavement, drainage works, and flood prevention structures. Other officially designated noxious weeds in Nebraska include: Saltcedar, Canada thistle, leafy spurge, musk thistle, plumeless thistle, purple loosestrife, spotted and diffuse knapweeds, and phragmites. Those with questions about the Japanese and giant knotweed designations are encouraged to contact their county weed control superintendent. Questions also may be directed to Mitch Coffin at 402-471-6844.
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