With summer on the way, many Kansas Citians are heading out to work the earth in yards, farms and community gardens around the metro. But as they contribute to the region’s strong agricultural tradition, some residents may find aggressive plants threatening to overtake the natural biodiversity of the local ecosystem. These plants, called “noxious weeds,” are at the center of an ongoing battle to maintain ecosystems in the Midwest. And local officials advise killing these plants on sight. “Noxious weeds are one of the greatest threats to the Kansas environment,” writes the Kansas Department of Agriculture. “They displace native plant species, interfere with the production of agricultural crops, increase erosion, destroy wildlife habitat and decrease property values.” Missouri and Kansas list a total of 19 plants that residents are advised to uproot. Here’s how to spot them, and what state laws say about preventing their spread. The Kansas and Missouri departments of agriculture maintain lists of noxious weeds that can spread aggressively and harm local ecosystems. Four are commonly found in the Kansas City area, according to Johnson County’s public works department.
Source: KC Star Local News
