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Commissioners trim roundabout lights and discuss knapweed weed control
Summary
After petitions about lighting at the Casa 7 and 40 roundabout, the county reduced the planned number of lights and discussed next steps for roadside invasive knapweed management, including possible contractor certification and coordination with MnDOT.
Hubbard County commissioners approved a reduced lighting plan for the Casa 7 and Highway 40 roundabout and heard an extended discussion about invasive knapweed control along county and state rights of way.
Highway staff reported that an engineer review cut the planned lighting from 16 fixtures to 12 while still meeting state and county standards for sight lines and conflict points. Staff said the revised layout maintains safety year-round, including during winter dusk hours.
Commissioners then discussed widespread knapweed in county right-of-ways. County Ag Inspector Greg Hensel (referenced by staff) advised that noxious weed control can be done by mowing or spraying. County staff said they are currently mowing but will explore certifying one or two county employees as noncommercial sprayers to respond quickly to township complaints and to contract seasonal spraying for larger areas. Commissioners noted significant knapweed along Highway 71 and discussed contacting MnDOT maintenance (Bemidji district) about state ditch management where the state controls the right-of-way.
Staff said timing and capacity are constraints: spraying should occur before mowing to reduce seed spread; limited seasonal staffing and water-toting capacity affect scheduling. Commissioners asked staff to map problem locations and pursue a programmatic response, including short-term catch-up spraying where needed.
