WHEREAS the revised proposal to amend The Noxious Weed Act, 1984 has moved several perennial weeds including dandelion, perennial sow thistle, blue lettuce and Canada thistle from the noxious category to the nuisance category; and 

WHEREAS the mode of dispersal and transport can contribute to their proliferation over large areas; and 

WHEREAS control of established plants within a common cropping situation is difficult or unlikely; 

BE IT RESOLVED that SARM strongly recommend that these perennial species be left in the noxious category.

Response from Honourable Bob Bjornerud, Minister of Agriculture:

The Ministry of Agriculture is aware that a major revision of The Noxious Weeds Act as well as The Noxious Weeds Designation Regulations and The Noxious Weeds Regulations is necessary. Consultations are being conducted to seek the input from a wide range of industry stakeholders regarding the proposed changes and how these changes are expected to address past concerns.  

I appreciate all stakeholder comments regarding proposed changes to The Noxious Weeds Act. These resolutions will be taken into consideration when revising the Act.