This summer, Rocky View County is going head-to-head in a battle against pests and invasive weed species.
"Weed inspectors will be throughout the County this summer inspecting private, public, and municipal property to help stop the spread of regulated weeds listed as noxious and prohibited noxious under Alberta’s Weed Control Act."
These weeds can create significant economic, ecological and environmental problems by crowding out native plants, lowering biodiversity, harming soil and water quality, and disrupting agricultural production.
"Prohibited noxious weeds, such as nodding thistle and bighead knapweed, must be destroyed in their entirety to prevent establishment."
"Controlling these species helps protect native ecosystems, maintain the health of rangelands and croplands, and reduce the long-term costs of invasive species management."
According to RVC, it is the landowner’s responsibility to manage and control the spread of noxious and prohibited species.
"While the weed inspectors work with the Weed Control Act, the crop inspector works under the Pest Control Act. The Pest Control Act manages the animals, birds, insects and diseases that threaten the crops and livelihoods of our producers."
Throughout the season, the crop inspector conducts surveys for several issues, including clubroot and Dutch elm disease.
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