Iowa Right-of-Way Herbicide Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Prep Resource

Plants designated under state and/or federal law that must be controlled or eradicated are referred to as noxious weeds. This classification is made because these plants are considered harmful to agricultural crops, native plants, livestock, and natural ecosystems. The goal of identifying noxious weeds is to protect the environment and agriculture from species that can negatively impact biodiversity and economic stability. Various regulations exist that empower local, state, and federal agencies to manage these species to prevent their spread and reduce their detrimental effects.

In contrast, native grasses are indigenous plants that are generally beneficial and do not require management. Endangered species refer to plants or animals at risk of extinction and are protected rather than controlled. Invasive species may share some characteristics with noxious weeds, as they often outcompete native species, but not all invasive species are categorized as noxious weeds under law. Thus, the specific term for plants that must be eradicated or controlled, according to legal frameworks, is noxious weeds.