Be in the know, Summit County: which weeds have to go?

COALVILLE, Utah — An unpredictable weed season is about to hit Utah due to our unusually long winter and extra water. Summit County’s Master Gardener, Dave Bingham says some blooms will be late while some will sprout early.

Some of the noxious weeds can be poisonous or toxic to livestock, and Bingham is asking landowners, farmers, and gardeners to help eliminate these. To help in the effort, the county loans out equipment for free.

Weeds considered noxious by Summit County officials include Jointed Goatgrass, Common St. Johns Wort, Leafy Spurge, and many others.

The Bureau of Land Management defines a noxious weed as one that, according to local officials, can endanger public health or property. A noxious weed is also one that grows “out of place” (is not native) and competes with native plants or animals for resources.

Residents can choose from, backpack sprayers, four-wheeler sprayers, slide-in truck sprayers, and tractor sprayers. The equipment is available for two-week loans through the Summit County Public Works Office located at 1735 South Hoytsville Road in Coalville. 

Identifying dangerous weeds

Not sure if the weeds in your yard are noxious? The county’s website identifies the weeds by name and with a photo. Early identification and eradication helps stop the weeds from spreading. 

Salt Lake County also has a list of weeds and resources to deal with noxious weeds.