Idaho hears lively debate on noxious-weed petitions; Turkish thistle moved to control list

The committee approved a set of changes to Idaho's invasive species and noxious-weed listing (docket 0206092402) after negotiated rule-making and public comment. Andrea Thompson, administrator for the Plant Industries Division, summarized two listing petitions—Palmer amaranth and myrtle spurge—that generated substantial stakeholder engagement but did not reach consensus in rule-making meetings.

Thompson said the public meetings on July 10 and July 29 were well attended by petitioners, weed-control districts, county commissioners, seed-industry representatives and members of the public. The petitioners urged listing while other stakeholders raised concerns; the agency did not propose listing the two species in the draft rule before the committee because no consensus emerged.

The department proposed and the committee approved a reclassification of Turkish thistle from the early-detection rapid-response (EDRR) list to the controlled category after agency surveys indicated the species is more widespread than previously believed. Reclassification to control, Thompson said, recognizes that eradication within a single season is unlikely and provides more time and management options.

A motion to approve the docket was made and adopted by voice vote. Committee members later discussed broader concerns about noxious-weed control capacity at the county level and funding constraints; the Idaho Department of Agriculture director said the department continues to provide grant funds and support to county weed programs but acknowledged counties can be under-resourced.