House Joint Resolution No. 257, passed in 1977, established a subcommittee charged in part with the study of Johnsongrass infestation in Virginia. This species of grass, considered among the worst of weeds, reduces crop yields and lowers the value of real property. It is spread when its seed is carried to new fields by birds, wind, or other means; when its rhizomes extend from one area of a field to a larger area; or when equipment carries parts of rhizomes from one field to another field. Heavy infestations of Johnsongrass are common once it is introduced into an area, and the eradication of it is very difficult. The Subcommittee established pursuant to House Joint Resolution No. 257 considered several approaches for dealing with the problem, and recommended a pilot program to test the effectiveness of local control efforts. This recommendation was approved and funded by the 1978 General Assembly.