Sebastian updates integrated pest management approach; staff reports reduced herbicide use

City of Sebastian staff presented an update Tuesday on the city’s Integrated Pest Management plan, outlining how inspections, mechanical and biological methods and limited chemical applications are used to control invasive and nuisance plants in parks, ponds and stormwater canals.

The presentation matters because invasive aquatic and shoreline plants can reduce stormwater capacity, impede flow, damage infrastructure and spread into the Indian River Lagoon and other water bodies if not managed, City Engineer and Special Projects Director Karen Miller said.

Miller described the IPM cycle as “inspection, monitoring, identification, planning, implementing strategies, record keeping, and evaluating,” and said the city separates plans for parks and for stormwater conveyance. She said the program emphasizes nonchemical options first — biological controls, cultural plantings and mechanical removal — and treats…