Kansas Updates State Noxious Weed Rules

By Scout Nelson

The Kansas Department of Agriculture will implement updates to the state’s Noxious Weed List beginning in May 2026. The revisions follow a detailed review process led by the Kansas Noxious Weed Advisory Committee and are intended to improve weed management efforts across the state. The changes will affect landowners, county governments, and others responsible for maintaining agricultural and nonagricultural land.

The updated list includes several changes to weed classifications and management requirements. Pignut has been removed from the state list, while several new species have been added under different categories. Spotted knapweed and diffuse knapweed are now listed as Category A noxious weeds. Common teasel and cutleaf teasel have been added as Category B weeds, and Amur honeysuckle has been classified as a Category C noxious weed.

Kansas uses a three-category system to classify invasive weeds based on their spread and threat level. Category A weeds are not widely established and are targeted for eradication before they spread further. Category B weeds are already present in some areas and require active control to limit expansion. Category C weeds are more established and are managed to reduce long-term impact on agricultural land and natural resources.

The Kansas Department of Agriculture works closely with county weed directors to support local weed management efforts. County officials may also identify additional county option weeds depending on local concerns. Landowners are encouraged to contact their local weed department to learn whether additional species are regulated in their county.

Under Kansas law, individuals responsible for land management must control designated noxious weeds using approved methods. Newly listed species may require additional herbicide applications or other control practices. However, officials say proper weed management can improve crop and forage production, protect property values, and reduce future weed control costs. Newly added weeds may also qualify for reduced-cost herbicides through county weed departments.

Additional information about the Kansas Noxious Weed Control Program and updated weed classifications is available through the Kansas Department of Agriculture Noxious Weed Program. Landowners can also find local county weed director information through the County Weed Directors Association of Kansas website.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoomtravels