BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — A super weed that can devastate corn and soybean crops has now been found in five North Dakota counties.

Palmer amaranth can grow as tall as 7 feet and produce hundreds of thousands of seeds. It’s strong enough to stop combines and resist many herbicides.

It was first confirmed in North Dakota in McIntosh County in August. North Dakota State University says it’s now also been confirmed in Benson, Dickey, Foster and Richland counties.

Agronomist Tom Peters says infestations are small and there’s still hope for preventing a widespread infestation. He says diligence by farmers, other landowners, gardeners and even hunters is key.

Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring has encouraged farmers to scout fields this harvest, and the Game and Fish Department has asked hunters to keep an eye out.