Invasive species are those that have been introduced to an area from other parts of the world; they have an adverse affect on the habitats they invade economically and/or ecologically. “Invasive” is not a legally defined classification. In comparison, noxious weed is a legally defined term in Washington State. All noxious weeds are invasive species, but not all invasive plant species are categorized as noxious weeds. Noxious weeds are non-native, aggressive and invasive, but have the potential to be eradicated or controlled within Washington.
The Washington State Noxious Weed Control Board determines which plants are placed on the Washington State Noxious Weed List (WAC 16-750). The Board adopts a State Noxious Weed List each year, categorizing weeds into three major classes: A, B, and C, according to the threat they pose to the state or a region of the state. Definitions of these classes can be found on the Washington State Noxious Weed Control Board website.
The Whatcom County Noxious Weed Control Board then holds a public hearing to adopt the county list. The Whatcom County noxious weed list is made up of all Class A weeds, Class B-designates, and any selections by the County Board from the Class B or Class C weed list. Any Class A or Class B-designates on the Washington State List are mandatory for adoption and control at the county level.
The City of Bellingham works toward controlling invasive species using a variety of methods in an integrated pest management program. Salmon-friendly invasive species control methods include:
- Mechanical (“by hand”) tillage, using plows, disks, or cultivators. Not to be done when plants are flowering or with Japanese Knotweed.
- Mowing, hoeing, hand digging and pulling.
- Mulch, plastic sheeting, and other physical barriers.
- Natural predators, use of shade, water logging, and vegetative competition.
Weed Management
Weeds on Public Property: If you are concerned about a weed in a public park, open space or streetscape, please contact askpw@cob.org with the location and your concern, or report using SeeClickFix. If you have a photograph it will help us with weed identification and weed management options.
Weeds on Private Property: If you are concerned about a weed on private property, we encourage you to visit the Whatcom County Noxious Weed Program or 360-778-6234 for information on weed identification and management. They maintain the current local Whatcom County noxious weed list and have fact sheets and management guidance for many species. Find additional information on the City’s Manage Weeds Naturally and Backyard Habitat pages.
