City: Residents Need to Help Control the Spread of Invasive Weeds

TWIN FALLS, Idaho (KLIX) – You could be digging into your wallet if you refuse to dig up the invasive weeds on your property, according to information from the city of Twin Falls.

“Invasive weeds are not only an eyesore and a burden to neighbors, but they also threaten the health and safety of the community,” Code Enforcement Officer Sean Standley said in a prepared statement. “Most weeds will choke out native and even non-native landscaping, and some are toxic to people and pets.”

Noxious weeds spread quickly in spring and summer, reseeding across neighborhoods if not controlled. According to city code, homeowners and tenants of private property are responsible for the removal of noxious weeds on their land, helping to curb their spread, which include dandelions, puncture vine and thistle.

According to the city, you can help control the spread of invasive weeds by doing the following:

• Remove all weeds, including the roots, and dispose of them in garbage bags on trash pick-up days.
• Mow lawns and fields regularly through early fall, as noxious weeds can grow in tall grass.
• Use an herbicide to kill and prevent the growth of noxious weeds. (Several organic herbicides are on the market that are both safe and effective.)
• Remove weeds in cracks or seams in sidewalks, curbing and alleyways.
• Frequently monitor rental properties that you manage. (One of the more common complaints about weeds are from residents reporting unattended rental properties.)

Property owners with weeds usually are quick to address the problem once it’s brought to their attention, Standley said. But if they refuse to take care of weeds after being warned, they could be fined. The first violation is $100, but heavier fines will be imposed if the owner continues to neglect the problem.

“Most of the people we speak with are simply unaware that they have an issue with invasive weeds until a neighbor or other resident reports it to us,” he said.

For questions and additional information, contact Standley at sstandley@tfid.org or 735-7278.