Weed Abatement Program

The City of Madras Public Works Department enforces the Weed Abatement Ordinance Program May through September, annually. This program serves as preventative care to our community by removing dry brush and grasses that may easily catch fire. We appreciate everyone's attention to keeping weeds and grasses cut low to help prevent a  potentially disastrous condition.

Typically, program enforcement notices are printed in the Madras Pioneer in May. Early warning/reminder letters are mailed to vacant lot owners in June as well. City staff may also send photographs and letters to non-compliant property owners throughout the weed abatement enforcement season. These property owners are given ample time to clear their lots prior to the City's notices of non-compliance. A limited amount of grant funding is available each year for residents who are financially unable to manage weed abatement (see Weed Grant Program information below).

The City has a representative serving on the Jefferson County Weed Advisory Committee which meets on the first Friday of each month at 1:00 PM at the County Annex Building (66 NE D Street).  The Committee's mission is to serve the interests of the citizens and landowners of Jefferson County by reducing or eradicating noxious weeds and to provide direction to Jefferson County staff with regard to education about and treatment of noxious weeds in the county.

The Weed Advisory Committee aims to serve the public by:

• Assisting the county in effective education, outreach, and treatment of noxious weeds.
• Advocating for effective weed control programs.
• Receiving information from county staff in order to make informed decisions.
• Cooperating with local interest groups and state and federal agencies thereby promoting partnerships.
• Assisting in accessing funding.
• Reporting and making recommendations to the Jefferson County Board of Commissioners.
• Assisting the county with the identification of appropriate additions to and deletions from the Jefferson County Noxious Weed List.

For complete information on the City's ordinance 8.15.060, Section (4), click here.

To contact the Madras Public Works Office regarding weed abatement or tall grasses, call 541-325-0313 or email mquinn@cityofmadras.us.