Weeds and Invasive Plants

A weed is any plant growing where it is not wanted. As a forest landowner, you will ultimately decide what is or is not a weed on your property. However, invasive and noxious weeds are those that can significantly impact the vegetation structure and ecosystem function of your forest. Invasive weeds can displace desired native plants, lead to loss of wildlife habitat, and increase your wildfire risk.

Below are resources to assist you with weed identification, weed prevention, and management. 

Weed ID

Click to View the Resources Below

Montana Natural Heritage Logo with sandpiper

Montana Natural Heritage Program (MNHP) has a statewide noxious weeds field guide in which you can view photos, characteristics, and current range in Montana. 

Visit MNHP's Noxious Weeds Field Guide

montana weed control association logo with illustration of crossed out weed

Montana Weed Control Association (MWCA) has an online weed ID field guide to assist with identifying Montana's 35 listed noxious weeds. 

View MWCA's Weed ID Field Guide

Weed Prevention and Management

Additional Resources

image of montana's counties on map

Your local weed district can assist with weed ID and provide recommendations to manage weeds on your land. The Montana Weed Control Association hosts weed district contact information. 

Contact Your Local Weed District

Montana weed control association logo weed illustration of weed crossed out

Montana Weed Control Association has a variety of educational resources, including videos on specific invasive plants and a How To Guide on getting started with management.

Visit the Montana Weed Control Association 

 

montana department of ag logo with illustration of blue sky above and ag field below

Montana Department of Agriculture's Noxious Weed Programs offer resources and assistance with the management of state and county-listed noxious weeds, including news releases of noxious weeds reported across the state. 

View the State's Noxious Weed Programs

MSU extension logo blue and yellow

Montana State University Extension has extensive resources on weed ID, noxious weed prevention, and management. 

View MSU Extension Weed Publications