Casa Grande Ruins Picnic Area Closed Due to Invasive 'Stinknet' Weed

The invasive weed, known for its unpleasant odor and health risks, has led to the temporary closure of a popular picnic area at Casa Grande Ruins National Monument.

The Casa Grande Ruins National Monument picnic area is closed through April 30 due to the invasive stinknet weed, originally from South Africa.
Stinknet, with yellow globular flowers, can cause severe skin rashes and serious breathing problems.
Officials urge visitors to avoid walking or stepping on the weed to prevent its spread.
The weed has explosively spread in Arizona, causing heavy infestations and posing a threat to ecosystems.
Efforts are underway to reopen the picnic area by May 1, as teams work on a solution to the stinknet problem.