The Minnesota Department of Agriculture maintains the official noxious weed list for the state. The list is updated every three years (except for emergency listings) and was most recently updated in January 2026. 

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture maintains the official noxious weed list for the state. The list is updated every three years (except for emergency listings) and was most recently updated in January 2026. Here are three weeds that have a significant negative impact on Minnesota agriculture.

 

Palmer Amaranth
 Legal status: Prohibited Eradicate

Though native to the desert southwest and northwestern Mexico, this fast-growing annual has migrated up to Minnesota and can cause significant corn and soybean crop losses. It spreads by seed, and eradication involves destroying all above- and below-ground parts of the plant.

 

Canada Thistle
 Legal status: Prohibited Control

Also known as creeping thistle, this aggressive perennial has an extensive root system that allows it to spread and invade new areas. Since it continually produces new shoots, it outcompetes other vegetation and can severely reduce pasture capacity.

 

Wild Parsnip
 Legal status: Prohibited Control

It might feature charming clusters of yellow flowers, but wild parsnip spreads quickly, forming vast monocultures that damage native habitats and reduce forage quality. Its sap can also cause severe skin burns and blisters, and ingestion might harm livestock.