purple loosestrife beetle are expected to feed on and eventually kill the mile-a-minute and purple loosestrife weeds from which they get their names. Scientists say the weeds often crowd out and kill other plant species that support water filtration. "Weeds in gardens are a nuisance," SHA Administrator Melinda B. Peters said in a statement. "Weeds like the purple loosestrife in wetlands are destructive and can impact water quality." State officials said they will monitor the bugs' progress in coming months. The agency already uses goats and sheep to manage vegetation in an area of Carroll County that is home to the threatened bog turtle.