Township wants Giant Hogweed added to list of noxious weeds
By Liz Dadson
 

Huron-Kinloss Council

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Huron-Kinloss council is calling on municipalities across Ontario for support in having Giant Hogweed added to the list of noxious weeds so it can be destroyed.

At the meeting Monday night (July 20), council approved a resolution to have the province designate the plant under the Weed Control Act, meaning immediate action can be taken by the weed inspector to eradicate Giant Hogweed. The plant can cause serious health problems for people who come into contact with it, and it has been implicated as a cause of severe dermatitis in a few susceptible individuals.

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21/07/2009 10:27 PM

Giant Hogweed has been found in numerous agricultural and residential locations throughout the township, particularly along the railway tracks, at the public school, and near the Pine River Boat Club, said clerk Sonya Watson. She added that weed inspectors across Ontario have been trying for some time to have the plant added to their list of noxious weeds.

The plant is not a danger to crops or animals so poses no problem for the agricultural industry, she said.

Council approved the resolution and will have it circulated to all municipalities in Ontario, the minister of agriculture, food and rural affairs, the Association of Municipalities of Ontario, the Huron-Bruce MP and MPP, and Bruce County Council, for their support.