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Selectboard authorizes Conservation Commission to fund knotweed removal along school trails
Summary
The Selectboard authorized the Westford Conservation Commission to use its funds to hire an invasive-species specialist to remove Japanese knotweed patches along school trails and Misty Meadows; the motion passed 3-0.
The Selectboard on July 23 authorized the Westford Conservation Commission (WCC) to spend WCC funds to hire an invasive-species specialist to remove a patch of Japanese knotweed along the Misty Meadows school trails and other affected sites.
WCC members described knotweed as a rapidly spreading invasive that cannot be effectively managed by mowing or cutting because those actions encourage spread. Selectboard member Deb Jorschick, who spoke from professional experience, warned: “You cannot mow it; you cannot cut it. Whatever you do to it will encourage it to spread.” The board then voted 3-0 to allow the WCC to contract for specialist removal using WCC funds.
Residents and WCC members noted potential impacts to nearby septic mounds and the need to coordinate with state-certified applicators. The board’s authorization directs the WCC to proceed with a targeted mitigation plan and report back with contractor details and costs.
