A bylaw in the Town of Rocky Mountain House covering noise, nuisance properties, graffiti and other public concerns now includes rules to address invasive weeds.

Weed control has been added to the town’s Community Standards Bylaw, with penalties of up to $5,000 if a last-resort ministerial order is ignored.

However, Tracy Breese, legislative and protective services manager for the town, says education will come before enforcement, similar to policies dealing with overgrown trees and shrubs.

“It’s all about education. It’s not about handing out tickets,” she said, noting the maximum penalty for a first offence is $250.

Town officials say invasive weeds can spread quickly once established, causing long-term damage to ecosystems.

Under the updated bylaw, inspectors who identify noxious or prohibited noxious weeds will issue notices requiring landowners to control or destroy them.

If property owners fail to comply, the town can enter the property, remove the weeds and add the cost to the owner’s tax bill.

Typically, the process begins with a notice outlining required control methods. If necessary, the town may hire contractors to complete the work and bill the owner.

In supporting the amendment, Coun. Ken Moesker says the bylaw puts the town in harmony with the provincial Weed Control Act. The amendment was approved unanimously by council.

Mayor floats “No Mow May”

During the discussion, Mayor Shane Boniface raised the idea of “No Mow May.”

The initiative encourages residents to delay mowing in the spring to support bees and other beneficial insects.

Boniface said insects such as ladybugs help control aphids, and leaving lawns and leaf cover longer can support their early-season activity.

He also suggested encouraging residents to leave fallen leaves in place longer in the fall.

The idea is expected to return for more formal discussion at a future council meeting.