People urged to report locations of toxic Ragwort to Department

People have been asked to report sightings of toxic Ragwort weeds growing in their areas in Co Kildare.

The Department of Agriculture inspectors will then follow up the information with local landowners or farmers.

The humid weather has seen the toxic Ragwort weed flourishing on fields, roadsides and waste ground around Co Kildare in recent weeks.

Motorway service workers were also seen removing Ragwort from the sides of the M7 motorway during this month.

Farmers and landowners have a responsibility to control Ragwort under the Noxious Weeds Act as it is illegal to allow the plants to grow on your property.

Fines under the Noxious Weeds Act of up to €1,000 can be applied after conviction in court.

Persons wishing to report a location at which Noxious Weeds are present can do so at: https://www.agriculture.gov.ie/farmingsectors/crops/controlofnoxiousweeds/

The Ragwort plants are highly poisonous and can kill cattle and horses if they're eaten.

The toxins in Ragwort can also affect humans if absorbed through the skin.

The pulled plants should be destroyed or disposed of to a landfill.

Ragwort is also toxic to deer, goats, pigs and chickens.

Sheep are less affected by it but some trials would suggest lower thriving levels due to eating Ragwort.