Richland County Highway crews to spray to control harmful invasive weed species

The Richland County Highway Commission has acknowledged a need to initiate a higher level of maintenance regarding rural roadside vegetation management, primarily the eradication of noxious invasive species.

Invasive species within the road right of way and adjacent properties can pose significant health risks to highway workers, utility workers, first responders, and anyone else utilizing the right of way.

In the upcoming months you may notice our crews spraying these areas to help control and eradicate wild parsnip and other harmful invasive weed species.  Our staff has been trained and certified in applying EPA certified herbicide.  These herbicides are plant specific and will not hurt native plants.  This means grasses, milkweed, and other native plants will flourish, helping out our wildlife and pollinators.

Our intention is to spray ALL STATE ROADS.  The window of opportunity will be dictated by the weather; however we anticipate three to four weeks of spraying starting in the middle of May.

If you have any questions, please call the highway shop at 608-647-2208.