By Angela Gemmill

Giant hogweed has been confirmed in Val Therese and other parts of the province so the Ministry of Natural Resources is working to educate residents about this invasive species.

It can sometimes be confused with cow parsnips, but Hogweed chokes out other vegetation and is very toxic.

The invasive species chokes out other plant-life and its sap can cause severe burns in skin.

MNR Media Rep for the Northeast, Heather Pridham, recommends getting a professional exterminator to remove the Giant hogweed because these experts can prevent the seeds from spreading.

Hogweed has been known to grow along roadsides, ditches and streams.