By Scout Nelson
Terry Weis is named the 2026 Weed Control Partner Award recipient by Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring. Weis served as the Weed Officer of Dickey County and has held this role since May 2012. The award recognizes its long service and steady efforts to protect land from harmful weeds and improve local land health.
Weis plays a major role in building and managing the leafy spurge beetle biocontrol program in Dickey County. He works closely with the North Dakota Department of Agriculture to receive beetles used to control leafy spurge, a fast-spreading weed that harms crops, grasslands, and natural areas. He also organizes the countywide distribution of insects and helps landowners take part in the program.
“Terry has been key to launching and maintaining the leafy spurge beetle biocontrol program within Dickey County. He collaborates with the North Dakota Department of Agriculture to secure insects, coordinates countywide distribution and has increased landowner participation,” Goehring said. “He has great relationships with residents, landowners and community leaders and is diligent in ensuring consistently clean ditches and rights-of-way throughout the county.”
Weis is known for his strong work ethic, careful planning, and friendly approach. He keeps his certifications up to date and attends all required meetings. He also checks roadsides, ditches, and public areas to make sure they remain free from harmful weeds.
“Terry is loyal to the weed control mission, very knowledgeable and proactive. He maintains all certifications, attends all meetings and consistently exceeds job expectations,” Goehring added. “His dedication to long-term weed suppression and ecological health is evident in both his workload and his reputation within the county.”
The award is presented during the 2026 Commissioner’s Noxious Weed Forum in Bismarck. Weis receives the honor in front of agriculture leaders, local officials, and weed control workers from across the state. His work supports cleaner land, stronger grass growth, and healthier communities.
This recognition highlights the importance of local weed officers in protecting farms, public lands, and natural areas for future generations.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-artiemedvedev
Categories: North Dakota, General