Committee backs measure allowing certified volunteers to apply nonrestricted herbicides on state parks
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Summary
Senate Bill 163 lets certified volunteers apply nonrestricted herbicides on state agency lands under express agency authorization and supervision to control invasive plants; it passed the committee 15–0 after supporters cited staffing shortages and ecological impacts.
Senate Bill 163, sponsored by Senator Mark McDougall, would permit volunteers who obtain the necessary certification to apply nonrestricted herbicides on properties owned by state agencies, provided the agency gives express authorization and the work occurs under direct supervision.
"This allows volunteers...to be certified as commercial applicators," McDougall said, adding the provision is limited to nonrestricted herbicides and requires agency supervision. Supporters argued the change helps understaffed state parks and reduces costs from invasive plants.
Chris Lane of Blue Ridge Prism and David Harland of Friends of Machicomoco State Park described extensive volunteer hours and large infestations (Harland estimated about 35,000 Callery/Bradford pears at one park) and urged the committee to support the bill. Jay Ford and other conservation partners testified in favor, noting economic and ecological harm from invasives.
Questions from senators focused on scope and safeguards: the bill requires certification equal to that of commercial applicators, express agency authorization, and direct supervision by agency personnel.
Outcome: the committee voted to report SB 163 (Eyes 15, no 0) and send it forward for further consideration.