January 28, 2015

Andres Alvarez, Director

Division of Consumer Protection

Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS)

P.O. Box 1163

Richmond, Virginia 23218

Topic: Proposed regulations regarding noxious weeds 2VAC5-317

Dear Mr. Alvarez,

The Virginia Native Plant Society thanks the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services for the hard work that went into developing the proposed regulations for the enforcement of the Noxious Weed Law. We have long sought regulations for this law and see this as a very positive first step in the controlling or eradicating of the noxious weeds enumerated in these regulations.

We know that the challenges of managing invasive plants will continue and look forward to working with VDACS to take further action in protecting both our beautiful natural areas and our critical agricultural industry from the worst weeds that threaten them.

Sincerely,

Nancy Vehrs

President, Virginia Native Plant Society

www.vnps.org