NOXIOUS WEEDS
Noxious weeds are aggressive, non-native plants that pose a serious threat to our natural landscapes and agricultural areas. They outcompete native vegetation, contribute to soil erosion, and increase the risk of wildfires. Colorado State and County laws require treatment and mitigation of noxious weeds, but to really tackle this issue, it takes the efforts of both residents and professionals.
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The Elk Springs Noxious Weed working group is a resident-driven initiative focused on to reducing weeds, mapping their spread with local agencies, coordinating treatment, educating neighbors, and administering the Garfield County cost sharing program on behalf of Elk Springs.
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PREVENT NOXIOUS WEEDS
Stopping new invasive species from taking over is key. Weeds prefer disturbed soils and eroded areas. Seeds are easily spread on shoes, car tires, landscaping soils and materials, and by wind and animals.
It is important to learn to identify weeds that grow here. Then, revegetating barren areas, seeding, and supporting native plants that outcompete weeds is an excellent long term solution.
Our neighborhood is in a pinyon-juniper and sage grassland ecosystem. This unique habitat can be challenging - most plants grow very slowly because we are water limited. This is why preventing weeds before they get a foothold is important.
ERADICATE WEEDS
Once established, noxious weeds are hard to get rid of. Each species has different eradication tactics - most of the time, you have to get the roots out.
There are many things homeowners can do themselves. High priority weed species like cheatgrass can be pulled by hand before seeds set, which happens twice a year. Other species need to be sprayed and physically removed (e.g. non-native thistles).
Residents can 'adopt a patch' on their property and/or HOA property. Learn the native plants and the weeds and work on pulling them. It makes a difference - you might see one of us out there weeding - feel free to join in!
TREAT NOXIOUS WEEDS
Some areas in our neighborhood have been dominated by weeds for a long time and are source areas for new invasions. These areas are treated directly to kill and stop weeds from spreading.
For larger infestations, more aggressive treatment is crucial to make a dent in stubborn weeds. Garfield County supports our efforts (and those of homeowners if desired) by cost sharing treatment.
Our team coordinates this program with local treatment experts, the Conservation District and the vegetation management team at Garfield County.
ELK SPRING NOXIOUS WEED WORKING GROUP NEWSLETTERS
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Please contact the HOA if you are interested in joining our group
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RESOURCES FOR ALL YOUR FAQs
LEARN TO ID NOXIOUS WEEDS
PDF Garfield County 2025 Pocket Guide
Garfield County noxious weed list
Species descriptions from Pitkin County
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NOXIOUS WEEDS 101
GarCo weeds 101 & frequently asked questions
JeffCo noxious weed management overview
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CONTROLLING WEEDS
see also: Species descriptions from Pitkin County
DEEP DIVE: CHEATGRASS
CSU Extension cheatgrass and wildlife
Homeowners guide to cheatgrass
Handbook for cheatgrass management (agriculture focused)
NATIVE PLANTS
CO guidelines on plants to avoid
USDA Advice on native landscaping
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WHERE TO BUY NATIVE SEEDS?
Western Native Seed - pinyon juniper