Rutland public works weighs roadside spraying and pilot tests to control poison parsnip

Town Road Commissioner Dave Seard told the select board the town is seeing increasing roadside infestation of poison parsnip and is considering a pilot spraying program for roadside right of way where feasible. Seard described prior mowing and manual efforts, said the plant can grow and seed rapidly, and warned that eradication is unlikely but that targeted spraying could reduce the roadside nuisance.

Seard described likely herbicide options discussed in the meeting (Banvel and a 2,4-D derivative) and noted spraying will only kill existing green plants; seeds in soil can regenerate plants for several years. He said any substantial roadside spraying would require a formal plan to the state showing spray areas, waterways, and wells and that affected landowners must be notified and could object. He suggested a pilot area between McKinley Avenue and Oldwood Road where rights-of-way and ownership are clearer, and he asked the board whether to pursue a scoped pilot and what notification steps would be required.

Board members asked for more information on regulatory steps and notification procedures. No formal decision was taken; Seard agreed to develop a plan for a limited test area, research state permitting requirements, and report back to the board.