Noxious Weeds

Noxious weeds are harmful plants that threaten personal safety, disrupt ecosystems, and negatively impact agriculture. In Ontario, 25 weeds are designated as noxious under the Weed Control Act, meaning property owners are legally required to manage and control them.

A noxious weed is a plant harmful to living things or injurious to health. These weeds can overtake native vegetation, reduce crop yields, and pose risks to humans and animals.

Noxious weeds spread quickly, outcompeting native plants and depleting soil nutrients. They harm biodiversity and reduce the productivity of agricultural lands. Some, like Giant Hogweed and Poison Ivy, pose serious health risks to humans.

Common Noxious Weeds in Ontario

Here are some of the 25 noxious weeds identified in Ontario:

Dog-Strangling Vine
Canada Thistle
Giant Hogweed
Wild Chervil
Poison Ivy
Ragweed
Leafy Spurge

For a full list, visit the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs.

What We Do

The Township takes a proactive approach to managing noxious weeds, including:

Mapping and Monitoring: Tracking Wild Chervil and other infestations.
Mowing and Removal: Regular maintenance of infested areas on municipal properties.
Collaboration: Working with authorities and researchers to address weed problems effectively.

What You Can Do

As a property owner, you are responsible for controlling noxious weeds on your land. Failure to comply with the Weed Control Act can result in fines.

Tips for Managing Noxious Weeds

Act Early: Prevent weeds from flowering and producing seeds.
Mow Regularly: Frequent mowing depletes seed reserves.
Remove Roots: Dig out plants like Wild Chervil to prevent regrowth.

Wild Chervil

Wild Chervil is an aggressive invasive weed that will smother out other vegetation and dramatically affect crop yields. It is a Biennial plant that will start to grow and flower in May and by early June can already be producing seed.

Since Wild Chervil relies on seed to reproduce, weekly mowing is necessary to keep the plant from flowering. These plants are not toxic to touch and it is recommended to pull or dig out the tap roots if possible. If the plants have matured and are coming out in flower the plant is ready to go to seed, cut them as low to the ground as possible and place them in a clear plastic garbage bag so that the seeds won’t spread and leave it in the sun. Once the plants have dried up and died they can be incinerated.

Giant Hogweed

Giant Hogweed is a toxic plant that can grow up to 6 metres (20 feet) tall. Its sap poses severe health risks.

How to Identify Giant Hogweed

Stems: Hollow with dark reddish-purple splotches and coarse white hairs.
Leaves: Up to 1.5 metres (5 feet) wide, with hairs underneath.
Flowers: Large white flower heads in summer.
Height: Can reach 4.5 to 6 metres (15 to 20 feet).

Health Risks of Giant Hogweed

Skin Contact: Sap causes painful blisters, burns, and long-lasting scars when exposed to sunlight.
Eye Contact: Sap can lead to temporary or permanent blindness.

What to Do If You’re Exposed

Wash the affected area with soap and water immediately.
Avoid sunlight for at least 48 hours.
Seek medical attention if necessary.

How to Remove Giant Hogweed

Hire Professionals: Safe removal is best handled by experts.
DIY Removal: Wear full protective clothing, including gloves, goggles, and a raincoat. Remove flower heads, sever roots below the soil, and double-bag all plant material for disposal.

How You Can Help

Stay Informed: Learn to identify common noxious weeds.
Report Sightings: Notify the Township or the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture if you find noxious weeds in public spaces.
Be Proactive: Regular maintenance and early intervention are the best ways to control weeds.