Supervisors review drainage‑ditch tree and shrub control work, discuss contract wording and mechanical removal for overgrown stretches

Summary

The board reviewed the first‑year results of a drainage‑ditch tree and shrub control contract, discussed tradeoffs between fall herbicide application and spring timing, mechanical removal for dense, tall growth and asked staff to clarify contract language and include short descriptive invoice notes by drainage district.

County staff and the contractor briefed the Franklin County Board of Supervisors on the drainage‑ditch tree and shrub control work and plans for reissuing bids. The contractor said results vary by drainage and that fall applications are more effective and safer for crops than spring treatments; supervisors noted some stretches contain 3‑ to 25‑foot vegetation that may require mechanical removal.

Supervisors asked that future invoices include brief, per‑district descriptions (for example, "minimal spraying; looks great" or "needs mechanical removal") to aid oversight. Staff explained the new contract is written to price all 20 drainage districts with a one‑year term and an option to renew; supervisors requested clearer wording to reflect an annual rotation (typically 10 districts per year) while keeping prices set for all 20 so the county can add additional districts if needed.

Board members also discussed beaver dam impacts and the need to coordinate mechanical or trapping work where practical. No change to the existing contract award was made at the meeting; staff said bids will be reissued and contract language refined.