Waterloo Region searching for hogweed
Posted Jul 13, 2010 01:41:16 PM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
The region of Waterloo is trying to fight a weed that could cause blindness.
Giant hogweed grows 10-15 feet tall and is loaded with white flowers.
It is nice to look at but regional spokesperson Marty Sawdon says it is a threat to agriculture and horticulture and is also a health risk.
Sap from the weed can burn the skin and cause blindess.
Sawdon says the weed orginally came from Asia and appeared here several years ago.
In 2008, it was designated as a local noxious weed by regional council.
Council recently asked staff to conduct land and water searches and help property owners with questions and concerns.
The weed grows best in low damp areas like rivers, creeks and streams. Seeds are then spread through the waterways. They can lay dormant for years.
Calls about the poisonous plant can be made to the region at 519-575-4016.
