Plants under state and/or federal law that must be controlled or eradicated are known as?

Plants that must be controlled or eradicated under state and/or federal law are classified as noxious weeds. This designation is applied to specific plants that are considered harmful to agricultural crops, horticultural crops, livestock, or human health. Noxious weeds can outcompete native plants, disrupt ecosystems, and degrade the environment, leading to significant economic consequences and challenges in land management.

Regulatory frameworks often require landowners and managers to take action to prevent the spread of these plants, which may include eradication efforts or control measures. The classification as noxious reflects the legal obligation to manage these species to protect the agricultural and ecological integrity of the area.

In contrast, while invasive species also pose threats to native ecosystems, they may not always fall under regulatory mandates for control in every jurisdiction. Native grasses refer to plants that are indigenous to a given area and generally are not subject to control measures. Endangered species, on the other hand, are protected by law due to their rarity and the need for conservation, not eradication.