Leafy spurge: perennial problem

By Tim D'Amato
Larimer County
Department of Natural Resources

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Leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula) is the worst noxious weed problem in Larimer County. This perennial invader has taken over many acres along the Poudre River, in Rist Canyon, and in pastures around LaPorte and north of Fort Collins.

First reported in Larimer County in a pasture near LaPorte in the early 1960s, this weed was not considered a problem, but now has spread to thousands of acres.

Leafy spurge infests more than five million acres in the United States and Canada, reducing rangeland productivity, native plant diversity, wildlife habitat and land values. How do we control this invasive species? Residents need to identify noxious weed species and realize how costly they can be. One person's weed problem becomes their neighbor's weed problem and threatens natural areas. The best approach is to properly manage pastures. Disturbances, particularly excessive grazing, reduce competitive ability of grasses and open the door for weed invasion.

With cooperative efforts from private landowners, public land managers and ditch companies, we can start to control leafy spurge and prevent further spread.

For information on noxious weed management contact the Larimer County Weed District at 498-5768.