Under Alberta’s Weed Control Act, all landowners are responsible for preventing the spread of harmful weeds that can impact both the environment and public and private property. The MD of Taber collaborates with residents to address weed control concerns. Since weeds don't respect property boundaries, we encourage everyone in our community to join forces in managing and controlling their spread. For more information, please view the MD of Taber's Prohibited Noxious Weed Control Policy.
Related links
- Provincially Regulated Weeds
- Leafy Spurge Management
- Invasive Plants - Alberta Invasive Species Council
- Invasive Plant Identification Guide (PDF)
| Questions? |
|---|
| Call 403-223-8735 Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 4:30 pm |
Annual Weed Control Program
The MD of Taber conducts an annual program to manage weeds along municipal roads, parks, and open spaces, aiming to control noxious weeds, maintain safe and healthy turf, and protect trees and shrubs. Herbicide applications are used as the primary control method. Learn more about Alberta’s provincially regulated weeds and the Alberta Weed Control Act.
Safety Precautions
All herbicides used are approved by Health Canada and the Government of Alberta, and will be applied under the supervision of provincially licensed professionals.
Treatment Timing
Herbicides will be applied during daytime or early morning hours when winds are typically light. Timing of applications will depend on weather conditions to ensure safe and effective treatment.
Treatment Schedule
The municipality is divided into three zones for targeted weed control. Each zone receives a unique herbicide application at different intervals throughout the growing season. This rotation helps prevent herbicide resistance and improves weed control and management within each zone.
Treatment Priorities
- Roadside spraying for weed and grass control on less-travelled roads
- Twice-yearly weed control on newly constructed or rebuilt roads
- Weed control along watercourses and public lands, in coordination with SRD
- Bio-control for weeds on sensitive lands
- Weed control within hamlets, parks, cemeteries, and landfills as needed
- Contracted weed control along CPR lines within the municipality
- Contracted weed control along highways by Volker Stevin
Enforcing the Weed Control Act
It is the Municipal District of Taber's responsibility to enforce the Weed Control Act in an effort to limit the spread of noxious weeds.
- Inspection Process
When a Prohibited Noxious or Noxious weed infestation is found or reported, the Manager of Agricultural Services or the Assistant Agricultural Fieldman will conduct an inspection to determine the extent of the affected area. This inspection helps us understand the level of control needed to protect surrounding lands. - Issuing a Weed Notice
If treatment is required, a weed notice will be issued to the landowner, and a copy provided to the occupant if applicable, to guide appropriate action in line with the Weed Control Act. In cases where control is necessary, notification may also be shared with relevant members of the Agricultural Service Board to support the treatment process. - Managing Weeds in Non-Crop Areas
For non-crop areas where Prohibited Noxious or Noxious weeds are present, the Manager of Agricultural Services will select the most effective approach for removing plants and plant material, ensuring the environment remains balanced and safe. - Control Options in Crop Areas
In crop areas, landowners or occupants have options to manage the infestation effectively. Mechanical control or targeted herbicide application may be used, with guidance from the weed inspector as needed. Any remaining plant material will be disposed of safely, as directed by the Manager of Agricultural Services. - Extensive Control Measures
If more extensive control is necessary, or if standard methods aren’t feasible, the Manager may recommend broader treatment options to ensure the area is completely cleared of invasive plants. This could involve using a selective herbicide or approved mechanical methods to remove vegetation and protect nearby lands. - Importance of Timely Treatment
Timely treatment is crucial to preventing the spread of invasive weeds and protecting agricultural productivity. Prohibited Noxious and Noxious weed control services are provided at ASB Rental Equipment Rates. For smaller infestations, the first 30 minutes of service may be offered at no charge, as determined by the Manager of Agricultural Services. - Supporting Our Agricultural and Environmental Health
With these practices, we aim to help landowners effectively manage and prevent the spread of invasive weeds, supporting both agricultural success and environmental health in our community.
We greatly appreciate and encourage residents to help by maintaining their properties, reporting any weeds spotted on public lands, and sharing their knowledge with friends and neighbours.
The MD of Taber is also committed to keeping our public spaces clear of invasive plants. Through our Rural Roadside Vegetation Control Program, we actively manage weeds on public land, ditches, and right-of-ways to preserve our community’s natural beauty and health.
Noxious Weeds
The following plants, including their seeds, are designated as noxious weeds due to their rapid spread and potential to cause severe crop losses and economic hardship.
This designation supports a containment strategy for managing invasive plants. Local authorities may implement control programs for these weeds if they are likely to have significant ecological or economic impacts on municipal lands.
These plants are widely distributed throughout Alberta.
See all Noxious weed factsheets.
Prohibited Noxious Weeds
The following plants, including their seeds, are classified as prohibited noxious weeds. These plants pose a significant threat due to their rapid spread and aggressive competitiveness. This designation supports an "Early Detection, Rapid Response" approach to managing invasive species.
Plants in this category are either not yet present in Alberta or are limited to a few locations where eradication may still be achievable.
See all Prohibited noxious weed factsheets.
