Noxious Weeds And Invasive Plants

In recent years, well established and expanding populations of highly invasive plants have been documented in Alaska. These species pose a serious threat to Alaska's agriculture, tourism, wildlife, fisheries, land values, and subsistence resources. Alaska is in a unique position to avoid the scope of problems now impacting all 48 contiguous states and Hawaii.

Many of the invasive plants in Alaska are not yet widespread and can be controlled relatively quickly and more cheaply by taking action now. Alaska needs an updated state noxious weed list, updated state regulations, and a designated state agency with the resources to adequately address this emerging issue. A need exists to build upon the strength of existing programs, to improve areas that are weaker, and integrate efforts into an efficient unified state response to the threat.

Private, local, state, and federal organizations and citizens' groups are working together to raise awareness about invasive plants and keep our communities invasive weeds-free. Representatives of public and private organizations with an interest in controlling and preventing the spread of noxious weeds and invasive plant continue to need a mechanism for cooperation, collaboration, and development of statewide plans of action to meet this threat.

HB 330 will allow the Commissioner of Natural Resources to employ or appoint a state coordinator for noxious weed, invasive plant, and agricultural pest management and education. This coordinator will work through the Division of Agriculture state departments, agency and institutions. This person will bring together the afore mentioned entities with the University of Alaska Cooperative Extension Service and the Alaska Association of Conservation Districts. Through this coordination the State of Alaska will develop a strategic plan. More importantly, a start toward limiting economic loss and adverse effects to the state's agricultural, natural, and human resources because of the presence and spread of noxious weeds, invasive terrestrial and aquatic plants in the state.