Japanese Knotweed is listed as one of the world’s top 100 invasive species and amongst the most difficult plants to control. This plant has the potential to impact homes, roads, parking lots, and other infrastructure.  Evidence shows that manual removal, digging it up or chopping the stalks is not a viable long term solution.  The combination of the deep root network and the fact that the smallest amount of the plant can re-root making the eradication of the plant very difficult.  Only specific chemicals used by trained professionals seems to be the most effective method in controlling Japanese Knotweed.

The current knotweed sites in the Village of Chase are:

  • Chase Home Hardware – 197 Shuswap Ave. – South entrance gate
  • Chamber/Info Centre – 400 Shuswap Ave. – NE side of building
  • Museum – 1042 Shuswap Ave. – SW side of property at end of public sidewalk
  • 1010 Hillside Ave. – SW corner of property
  • 1025 Okanagan Ave.
  • 845 Sicamous Ave.
  • 910-918 Sicamous Ave.

View the Chase Knotweed Map

How to Identify Japanese Knotweed

  • Semi-woody perennial plant capable of reaching 1-3 metres in height.
  • Stems are round, reddish-purple, smooth and have a bamboo-like appearance.
  • Leaves are ovate with a flat base, reaching 3-6 inches long and 2-5 inches wide with pointed tips.
  • Flowers are greenish-white.
  • Fruit is small and white with wings that help to disperse seeds to new sites.
  • Seeds are brown and shiny.

If you spot Japanese Knotweed in your yard, neighbourhood or anywhere within the Village, please let us know!  Call the Village Office at 250-679-3238 or email chase@chasebc.ca

If you see Japanese Knotweed, or signs indicating the plants being treated, avoid contact and keep pets away. If there is contact with plants that have been treated and should any skin irritation occur, wash affected areas with soap and water.

To learn more about Japanese Knotweed or other invasive plants visit the websites below: