Noxious weeds can be annuals, completing their life cycle in one growing season, or perennials, having a life cycle spanning more than one growing season. Most noxious weeds were originally from other countries. Many arrived in shipments of desirable seeds, in the ballast of sailing ships, or were introduced intentionally as garden plants. Noxious weeds thrive in disturbed areas like roadsides, building sites, maintenance areas, irrigation ditches, dirt parking areas, trails, and campgrounds. Once noxious weeds gain a foothold, they can increase water and wind erosion, alter nutrient cycling, destroy wildlife habitat, reduce the usefulness of recreation areas, and decrease agricultural productivity.
Noxious weeds can have a direct impact on land value.
Land infested with noxious weeds often have restricted uses. For example, pasture infested with yellow starthistle can not be used for horses. If you own land infested by noxious weeds, you are responsible for controlling the weeds on your property. This loss in productivity affects the cost of food you purchase in the grocery store. This cost is often passed on to you, the taxpayer.