In 2003 the Cogongrass Control Demonstration Program received federal funding to assist landowners in controlling cogongrass which is ranked as the seventh-worst weed in the world and is considered one of the worst weeds in Mississippi.

Cogongrass was identified as a noxious weed in a bill introduced to the 2003 Mississippi Legislature. The Noxious Weed Law’s regulations fall under the authority of the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce (MDAC).

According to Dr. Lester Spell, Commissioner of MDAC, who has been a leader in invasive species control, “It is vital for our landowners to take action to put a halt to the spread of cogongrass in the state. Currently, this weed is having its greatest impact on the southern counties; however, it is rapidly spreading to all parts of Mississippi. In order to protect our natural habitats, agricultural lands, forest lands and property values, a cooperative effort such as this program was needed to impede the growth and dispersion of cogongrass. It literally dominates the habitat by out-competing other plants and animals for space and resources.”

“Keith Pouncey, field coordinator of Noxious Weed Programs, manages the effort for the MDAC's Bureau of Plant Industry. He is responsible for distribution of herbicides, providing technical guidance on proper application and verification of landowner compliance with the program. The MDAC is completing its fourth season of assisting private landowners through the Cogongrass Control Demonstration Program. After Hurricane Katrina interrupted the 2005 season, the agency was able to step up its assistance program in 2006 with 264 landowners receiving herbicides. Total acres of cogongrass treated for the year were 2,011 acres,” continued Dr. Spell.

“While landowners throughout the state have received assistance, the MDAC has been aggressively targeting leading-edge infestations in several of the northern and central counties. We have partnered with several state and federal agencies to identify new infestations, educate landowners and have infestations treated before they spread. Other participants in this control effort include the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Mississippi State University – with special recognition to Dr. John Byrd, the Mississippi Soil and Water Conservation Commission, the Natural Resources Conservation Service, the Mississippi Department of Transportation, the Mississippi Forestry Commission and Wildlife Mississippi. With continued funding and the dedicated efforts of the members of this partnership, control of cogongrass in Mississippi appears to be achievable,” concluded Dr. Spell.

For more information on obtaining assistance with the control of cogongrass, contact the Mississippi Department of Plant Industry at (662) 325-3391.