Giant Hogweed Found In Clark County Prompts Statewide Warning

CLARK COUNTY, WA — Giant Hogweed, a toxic and highly noxious plant, was recently found in the Salmon Creek area of Clark County, prompting a warning and reminder for all hikers not to touch the dangerous weed should they run across it during their wilderness travels.

Clark County Public Works on Thursday said the Vegetation Management team is working quickly to eradicate the plant from the area.

Described as a weed that makes poison ivy "look like a walk in the park," Giant Hogweed is capable of producing painful, burning blisters when contact is made with the plant's sap. Additionally, temporary or even permanent blindness can occur if the sap enters the eye, according to the Washington State Noxious Weed Control Board.

Giant Hogweed typically grows in densely canopied areas and is reportedly known to overtake native species and increase soil erosion.

For more information, including detailed descriptions of Giant Hogweed, visit www.nwcb.wa.gov/weeds/giant-hogweed.