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Committee hears Redstart Forestry review and plans for invasive honeysuckle eradication; work expected in 2027
Summary
Committee members reported a Redstart Forestry site review confirming extensive invasive honeysuckle (some reaching tree-like size); an estimate and plan for eradication are expected in about two weeks, with eradication work planned for 2027 and potential use of up to $20,000 in maintenance grant funds.
Kathy Damon reported that she and Chair Tom Kidder accompanied James King from Redstart Forestry for a site review of an NRCS invasive-honeysuckle report. Redstart identified additional invasive species to monitor and found significant honeysuckle on the Bailey property, with some plants "reaching tree-like sizes." Redstart will provide an eradication estimate and plan in about two weeks; a separate estimate for the Bailey property will follow.
The committee discussed control options, including the use of goats; Cindy Merrill cautioned that goats "would debark trees." Chair Kidder noted a provider charging a $1,350 initial fee plus daily/acre rates. As part of the planned Bailey purchase, minutes record that a Vermont Housing and Conservation Board grant could include up to $20,000 in maintenance fees that might be used for eradication work. The committee expects eradication work to take place in 2027.
