Identification

          The first step in understanding any problem is to correctly identify it, and all of the factors involved. This is especially true when dealing with wildland ecosystems. The ability to correctly identify the weeds within an area, governs the success of our weed management practices.

          Weeds have key features that allow us to distinguish one from another. These include the shape and color of the flowers, plant size, leaf shape, and root type. The following pages describe the key features for 10 noxious weeds common in the West.