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Weeds and WeedMapper

​​​​​​​Oregon is a US leader in implementing biocontrol as part of its integrated pest management approach to managing noxious weeds. The Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) Noxious Weed Program has adopted the International Code of Best Practices for biological control of weeds. Only safe, effective, and approved natural enemies will be used for biocontrol.

What are biocontrol agents?

ODA works with USDA and other scientists who visit the original location of the weed to find natural enemies that can be tested as candidates for introduction as biocontrol agents in the US.

Before release in Oregon, agents are rigorously tested to ensure they are the following:

  • Safe and will not become pests of crops and native plants
  • Clean from disease and parasites

How do they work?

Oregon noxious weed biocontrol agents

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Resources

Biological control of noxious weeds in Oregon

A guide to common biological control agents found in Oregon. Biological control agent guide

Biological control release form

Biological control agent release form

Contact

Joel Price
Biological Control Entomologist
Noxious Weed Control
635 Capitol St NE
Salem, OR 97301
Phone: 503-385-6517