Noxious weeds: Parrotfeather discovered in Ronald Bog

Parrotfeather found in Ronald Bog

According to the King County noxious weed site, parrotfeather has been discovered in Ronald Bog.

Milfoil’s more attractive cousin, known as parrotfeather, is a very difficult to control, aquatic, noxious weed.

So far, it has only been found in a small number of mostly private ponds in King County.

The recent discovery of the plant in Shoreline's Ronald Bog is very alarming indeed. Fortunately it was discovered fairly early and should be manageable at this point.

Once parrotfeather is established in a lake or slow-moving waterway, it can be almost impossible to eradicate. Even small populations are very persistent and can usually only be eradicated with an herbicide.

In addition, given the need to use a product approved for use in water and to obtain a permit from the Department of Ecology, control can be expensive and requires professional contractors or agency staff with the appropriate license and experience.

This is definitely a plant to find early and eradicate quickly!