IRVM techniques were introduced to Iowa in the mid-1980s in response to the need for groundwater and surface water protection. Prior to that time roadside weed control had relied exclusively on herbicides, with most counties employing an application method known as blanket spraying, also known as broadcast spraying, to spray wide swaths of the roadside. 

Besides being expensive and potentially harmful, blanket spraying was an ineffective means of weed control, creating openings for weeds by stressing and weakening roadside grasses and eliminating beneficial broadleaf species. Iowa counties were spending a lot of money putting large amounts of herbicide into the environment and, at the same time, making little or no headway in the control of roadside weeds. Clearly, this type of roadside management proved unsustainable.

Another development of the mid-1980s was the Iowa Department of Transportation’s use of native prairie grasses and wildflowers to control erosion and save money on fuel since native plants require less mowing than cool-season grasses. A few county conservation boards were also experimenting with this naturally adapted, alternative vegetation for roadsides. 

When the Iowa Legislature officially adopted IRVM in 1988, the cornerstone of the program became the establishment and protection of native vegetation in Iowa roadsides. The Living Roadway Trust Fund was created the following year, supporting state, city, and county roadside projects. For more information about the history of IRVM and the LRTF, see the 2018 report created by Jean Eells entitled “Iowa’s Living Roadway Trust Fund and Integrated Roadside Vegetation Management Program.”

Since that time over 100,000 acres of state and county road right-of-way have been planted to native vegetation. Diverse stands of 15–45 prairie grass and wildflower species—all naturally adapted to local growing conditions—provide stable, low-maintenance roadsides for Iowa.

Goals

Basic tenets 

The road to success for county roadside management

The integrated toolbox

The benefits of native vegetation

Iowa road departments plant native vegetation for a variety of reasons:

Progress to date

Herbicide use in Iowa roadsides has been reduced to spot-spray application and Iowa DOT and half of Iowa’s counties routinely plant native vegetation.

Since the early 1990s over 60,000 acres of state and 35,000 acres of county road right-of-way have been planted to native vegetation. Diverse stands of 20–45 prairie grass and wildflower species — all naturally adapted to local growing conditions — provide stable, low-maintenance roadsides for Iowa.

As of late 2023, 56 counties have an IRVM plan and 47 counties have a roadside vegetation manager. Counties with either a plan or a roadside vegetation manager collectively manage 308,000 acres of roadside vegetation using the principles of IRVM. 

As of late 2023, 19 cities have an IRVM plan. It is more difficult to estimate the number of city acres of right-of-way managed using IRVM techniques since unlike state and county highways, there is no comprehensive estimate of the amount of right-of-way in all Iowa cities.

The challenge

Encouraging the remaining counties and cities to place more of a priority on roadside vegetation is a challenge. Many are not so much against IRVM as they simply are not inclined to do much of anything with their roadside vegetation.

Of Iowa’s land area of 35,860,480 acres (56,273 square miles; 2020 Federal Land Ownership Report), 4.3% is public land. Roadside rights-of-way comprise around 60% of this public land within Iowa (Figure 1), representing a significant area where sustainable management techniques can improve water quality, reduce soil erosion, enhance aesthetics, and provide other public benefits.

Figure 1. Public land use in Iowa (acres). Sources: Tara Van Waus, Iowa Department of Transportation; Iowa Department of Natural Resources, 2023; Iowa County Conservation System, 2016, 2023; Vincent et al., 2020.

Initial considerations

Residents and county or city government employees may be among the first to be interested in starting a program that safely and strategically manages roadside vegetation using the principles of integrated roadside vegetation management.

People are most often interested in developing a roadside program because they want roadside management that is

Collect information on the current need for the program

Collecting information will help to make a strong case for an IRVM program to a county board of supervisors or city council that may be skeptical of its necessity. These suggestions are a good starting point from which to consider how much information is necessary to collect for your county or city. 

County vegetation management survey

Supporters need to gather the following information demonstrating the need for the IRVM program:

Obtain data from county herbicide-use records on the amount used, the cost, and the products used. Similarly, the county spray records typically provide information about who does the spraying, when it occurs, the technology used to spray, the miles covered each year, and the costs.

The County Vegetation Management Survey (Appendix 1a) can serve as a basis for evaluating a county’s roadside vegetation management program. Obtaining meaningful survey data may require interviews with members of the road maintenance crew or others directly involved. Though individual survey responses are subjective, the aggregate data will help identify and prioritize personnel and equipment needs. 

Where are the savings?

Counties and cities realize long-term savings by establishing native plant species that are better adapted and more competitive than non-native vegetation. Immediate savings are obtained by reducing or eliminating money spent on contractor services by

• spraying roadside weeds and conducting tree and brush removal with LRTF-purchased equipment; and 
• installing and maintaining erosion control measures with county personnel.

A professional vegetation specialist on staff can provide additional savings by

Potential objections to starting a program

Communicating the benefits of starting a program is important, but it’s also critical to be prepared to address the common objections given by those opposed. According to a 2016 survey of county board of supervisors and conservation board members (Stephenson et al., 2017), the greatest barriers to implementing IRVM practices are

Survey respondents said challenges to using native species include cost, adjacent landowners mowing the plantings, and acceptance internally or among contractors (Stephenson et al., 2017). A survey of engineers and roadside managers found similar barriers (Stephenson & Losch, 2016). Both reports provide useful background information about how county officials make decisions regarding roadside management. Of course, being familiar with local decision-makers’ values and perceptions of roadsides will allow citizen groups to be prepared for proposing this new initiative.

(Stephenson et al., 2017)

Proposing a program to county or city decision-makers

Those wanting to start a roadside vegetation program, whether county or city employees or citizens, will need approval from the decision-makers to move forward: the county board of supervisors, city council, or city administrator/manager who controls the local budget, and the engineer, county conservation board director, board of supervisors, or city administrator/manager who will supervise the roadside manager. Program supporters will typically present the need for a roadside vegetation program at a board of supervisors or city council meeting.

Citizens who want less roadside spraying and more native vegetation often lead the effort to change their county or city’s roadside management practices. This may start with one person or a small group who recruits other citizens to join the cause. Once the group has formed, it can lay out its goals over the course of a few meetings. 

The roadside program manager at the Iowa Roadside Management Office is available to answer questions and provide resources to help inform people about roadside programs. For example, the paper “Roadside Weeds, Brush, and Erosion: How Your County or City Can Manage Them to Create Safe, Healthy Roadsides and Roads” details the benefits gained from having a roadside vegetation program. Brochures about roadside programs and roadside vegetation are also available.

When the citizen group is ready, it should ask for time with the county board of supervisors to propose its vision and goals for the roadside vegetation program and request a formal IRVM committee. Unless the board can provide a large block of time during a regularly scheduled meeting, a special meeting specifically to discuss the proposal will allow for better discussion. The majority of the citizen group should be present at the meeting. 

Strategically choose the person or people to present about the proposed program based on who local decision-makers would trust the most. In some cases, it should be the county or city employee who would be responsible for developing the program and supervising the roadside manager. In other situations, decision-makers would also want to hear from one or more of the following people: the roadside manager, engineer, or conservation board director from a nearby county with a roadside program; a federal Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) employee; a Soil and Water Conservation District commissioner; the chair of the citizen group; someone representing farming interests; a weed control professional; the statewide LRTF coordinator; or the roadside program manager at the Iowa Roadside Management Office. The goal is to fortify the effort with respected individuals who can address the board of supervisors with candor and knowledge.

No matter who presents, it is crucial to demonstrate local support with a high turnout of residents (ideally including some with political influence) who support the effort. 

The desired outcome for this initial meeting should be for the board of supervisors to appoint a formal IRVM committee to examine the county’s current roadside management practices and determine what is best for the county. Recommended IRVM committee membership includes one or more county supervisors, the county engineer, the road superintendent/foreman, the weed commissioner, a member of the county conservation board, and key members of the original citizen group.

Residents can also write letters to the editor of the local newspaper and email or call their local officials to convey their support for the program.

The simplest approach to developing an integrated roadside vegetation management (IRVM) program is to think through the following details with your staff, community members and stakeholders. 

Name of the program

Example roadside program names:

Goals and objectives

Goals are broad, long-term outcomes while objectives are short-term, measurable actions taken to achieve goals.

Examples of roadside program goals from IRVM plans are listed below. Some programs categorize these as short-term goals (e.g., 0–5 years), medium-term goals (e.g., 5–10 years), and long-term goals (e.g., 10–20 years). 

Here are some examples of specific measurable roadside program objectives from the Dallas County IRVM plan:

To get ideas for other goals and objectives that would be appropriate for your county or city, see approved IRVM plans. All of the plans include goals and some plans also have objectives. 

IRVM plan

Counties and cities that want to apply for Living Roadway Trust Fund (LRTF) grants and request free native seed will need to submit to the LRTF an IRVM plan that is signed by the appropriate county or city officials. To formulate the plan, counties and cities will use one of two plan outlines: a the IRVM Plan Outline for Counties, State Agencies and Cities over 10,000 in Population form or the IRVM Plan for Cities Under 10,000 Population form. These forms and approved plans are on the LRTF website. 

For most parts of the plan outline, roadside managers and other staff will be able to incorporate information already gathered and created during the new program's planning and implementation. The plan outline may be more or less extensive than the county or city’s internal program documentation. The LRTF coordinator is available for any questions that arise as you work on your plan.

Email the final plan to the LRTF coordinator for approval. Both IRVM plans and LRTF grant applications must be submitted by June 1. Once approved, plans should be updated and submitted for review by the LRTF coordinator every five years.

IRVM plans developed prior to 2015, when the LRTF implemented the latest plan requirements, are considered inactive. Counties or cities who do not have plans that meet the latest requirements are ineligible to apply for LRTF grants or request native seed.

Staffing and the percentage of time each staff member will dedicate to the program

Identify what staff member will implement the plan. County or city officials will sometimes have someone who is already on staff implement the plan. More often, counties will create a new roadside vegetation manager position. 

Ideally, the roadside manager will have wide-ranging knowledge and skills. The best candidates will have a strong background operating heavy equipment such as tractors, mowers, chainsaws, pickup trucks, trailers, skid loaders, tree planters, prescribed fire equipment, hand tools, seeders and chemical spray equipment. They will also have good communication skills. Experience working with natural resources, vegetation or both is an important bonus. Candidates must like a challenge and be willing to learn as they go. The county or city may hire the roadside manager before developing the IRVM plan and conducting the roadside vegetation inventory so the roadside manager can be involved in developing the plan. Conversely, the department hiring the roadside manager may prefer to write the plan first to articulate their vision for the program and develop local support for hiring a roadside manager to implement the plan A generic position description (Appendix 1b) can be customized to fit your county’s situation.

Most roadside managers are responsible for at least 2,500 acres of roadside vegetation. They will be more efficient and able to get more done if they have the assistance of a permanent or temporary technician and summer help. With proper funding, a roadside program has a sufficient workload to employ

Results from the latest roadside manager salary survey can help when budgeting for staff salaries. Potential funding sources in the county budget for roadside positions include the rural basic fund, secondary road fund, road clearing appropriation, and county conservation board budget. See an example of a roadside manager job description in the appendix.

The full-time roadside manager

The best way to achieve common roadside program goals is to hire a full-time roadside manager. As the person overseeing all roadside vegetation management duties, the roadside manager is focused and motivated to

The roadside manager takes ownership of managing the county’s roadsides with pride and accountability. When one person coordinates every aspect of the program, the result is better roadsides. Although cities may not have the resources to hire a full-time roadside manager, they need to designate in their integrated roadside vegetation management (IRVM) plans who will lead the effort to manage roadsides using the IRVM principles.

A less expensive way to get started

A few Iowa counties have planted a lot of native vegetation in roadsides without a roadside manager.  These counties do not have the same level of vegetation management as those with roadside managers, but they do have access to the LRTF. The following are examples of how this can be accomplished:

Hopefully, these and other similar nascent efforts by counties attempting to establish the use of IRVM principles act as catalysts to eventually hire full-time roadside managers. Maintaining healthy roadsides with native vegetation takes a sustained, focused effort. A county board of supervisors supporting the implementation of IRVM principles is necessary but not sufficient to make it happen — having an employee in a critical position who wants the program to succeed is crucial.

Advisory committee: community partners who can help you with referrals, advertising, implementation, and more

IRVM steering committees (also known as advisory committees) meet regularly to stay updated on roadside programs’ activities and challenges it may be facing, and provide guidance. They also can help spread the word within the community about the benefits of having a program and provide political support as needed. 

Steering committees may be formed at any time but most often evolve from the committee formed during the initial effort to establish a program or are formed when a roadside manager is hired. Committees typically meet 2–4 times a year and consist of 5–10 members representing the private and public sectors. The committee may be comprised of some of the following members:

The county engineer, conservation board director, or initial IRVM committee members may recommend people to appoint but the county board of supervisors has the authority to appoint members. Committee members often serve three-year staggered terms, which can initially be structured as follows:

• 3 members — 1-year term
• 3 members — 2-year term
• 4 members — 3-year term

Once all of the 1-year terms are up, three people would be appointed for 3-year terms and once all of the 2-year terms are up, three more people would be appointed for 3-year terms.

Committees elect chairpersons and secretaries and meetings are subject to Chapters 21 and 22 of the Iowa Code concerning open meetings and public records.

Program organization/location

When deciding within which department to locate a county roadside program and who should supervise the roadside manager, keep in mind that greater independence allows for better planning and timely operations. Sometimes, a department may need to be restructured or reorganized to give roadside management personnel the autonomy to meet objectives. County programs can operate successfully within the engineer’s office, the county conservation board, or as an independent department. All three have advantages.

Generating support for the program

Members of a steering committee can generate goodwill for the program by communicating within their networks. Regular communication between the roadside manager and the committee members is important so members know about the roadside managers’ projects and what information to relay.

Working on projects that visibly show progress in a relatively short amount of time, such as brush control or seedings with signage, can help garner support for a new program. The appropriate level and type of publicity for a new program can vary depending on the county or city’s goals and progress on specific projects.

How the program will be evaluated

Completing an IRVM plan and a county vegetation management survey can identify goals and objectives that serve as the basis for evaluating the program. Examples of ways counties have evaluated aspects of program success include:

Budget

These expenses should be considered when anticipating the cost of a program

In the end, weed and brush control objectives are balanced against environmental concerns and limited county or city resources. With that in mind, determine an appropriate allocation of resources. Also, determine how much might be saved with better organization and efficiency.

The following steps need to be taken during implementation, which is the period right before the actual date that the integrated roadside vegetation management (IRVM) program officially begins and the months that follow.

Memoranda of understanding 

Partner organizations must sign any necessary memoranda of understanding.

Passing a county/city resolution

The county board of supervisors or city council will need to pass a resolution establishing the program. Resolutions may also need to be passed or adopted regarding sections of Iowa code that pertain to IRVM programs, such as 314.22, and to accept LRTF grants. Work with other county or city staff to determine what resolutions are required.

Passing a budget

Some counties and cities develop and submit the budget for the roadside program to be passed by the supervisors or council separate from other expenses, while others absorb the expenses in another department’s budget. In either case, it will need to be approved by the relevant county or city governing body.

Hire the roadside manager and train staff

Provide the Tallgrass Prairie Center roadside program manager with the mailing address, email address, and phone number of the roadside manager leading the implementation of the IRVM program. The TPC roadside program manager will then send the roadside manager the following information:

The TPC roadside program manager will then connect the roadside manager to the Iowa Roadside Management network by

• adding the new roadside manager’s contact information to the listing on the TPC website and internal email list consisting only of roadside manager email addresses.; and
• adding the new roadside manager to the roadside management Google Group/email list and Roader’s Digest list, each of which is for those interested in roadside vegetation management.

Annual operations

A list of annual tasks, duties, and projects can help the roadside manager understand their responsibilities throughout the year. Here is an example of a list of annual operations that appears in some IRVM plans. Some plans have a more detailed list that is organized by month.

Job shadowing a neighboring roadside manager

After the roadside manager has begun working, the Tallgrass Prairie Center (TPC) roadside program manager will give the person an opportunity to job shadow an experienced roadside manager from a nearby county who is willing to help new roadside managers. This allows the new roadside manager to develop an early peer relationship and learn how another county approaches roadside management.

Chemical safety/handling

Controlled pesticide application is a useful part of the IRVM toolkit. Pesticide use in roadside rights-of-way is considered public pesticide application, which requires a state Commercial Pesticide Application license. To become certified, the roadside manager must pass a 50-question, closed-book exam over the Core Manual - Iowa Commercial Pesticide Applicator Manual; pass a 35-question exam specific to right-of-way pesticide application; and pay a $15 fee for public applicators. Check here for Applicator Licensing and Certification testing dates from the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship. 

Commercial driver’s license

The Iowa DOT requires operators of vehicles that weigh 26,001 or more pounds to obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL). Large pickups with trailers with a drill or spray equipment can top this weight. To obtain a CDL, applicants must complete applicable entry-level driver training from a registered training provider. Training providers charge an average of $4,000. For more information, see the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Training Provider Registry.

Chainsaw safety

There are several options for in-person chainsaw safety training:

These are some useful online resources for chainsaw training:

Prescribed burning

Controlled burns are a useful and cost-effective IRVM tool. Burning roadsides helps to control weeds, eliminate brush, and return nutrients to the soil. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Forestry website lists relevant courses in prescribed burning. To become certified (known as “Red Card” certification) to conduct controlled burns, one must complete a field day (part of the S-130 firefighter training course) and a series of online courses. Field day options are usually listed on the Iowa DNR website in early spring.

Plant identification

Identifying native and non-native plants is a vital skill for roadside managers. While recognizing noxious weeds may seem more important, it is equally important to recognize where native prairie plants are. Many prairie remnants are found on the sides of roads and train tracks, which are traditionally undisturbed areas. Remnant prairies are especially well-adapted to their environment, which makes them valuable sources for native seed.

Plant identification resources exist for every learning style. Commonly used resources are listed below. 

Webinars

Books and guides

Websites

Plant ID apps

Because plant ID apps aren’t 100% accurate, it is important to learn the basics of plant identification techniques using the resources above. That said, reputable plant ID apps can be used to provide roadside managers with a starting point when identifying plants. The apps also contain other information about species such as location, prevalence, etc. It is also good to be aware of the reputable apps to inform citizens who ask about them. Here are two that have been well-reviewed by amateur botanists.

• Pl@ntNet Plant Identification
• iNaturalist

Conferences and field days

Conferences attended by roadside managers

The conferences listed below offer opportunities to network with other roadside maintenance professionals and participate in continuing education. Most roadside managers attend the winter Association for Integrated Roadside Management (AFIRM) meeting and the Tallgrass Prairie Center Annual Roadside Conference. Those who are also weed commissioners attend the weed commissioners conference, also known as the Iowa Invasive Species Conference. All three conferences include a lot of information directly related to roadside vegetation management and counties and cities are encouraged to budget for roadside managers to attend. 

The other meetings listed are attended by fewer roadside managers, such as those who live near the meeting location. The TPC roadside program manager may be able to offer roadside managers a limited number of scholarships covering the registration fee. 

Winterfest — Iowa County Conservation System

Winter Meeting — Association for Integrated Roadside Management (AFIRM)

• Approximate date: A one-day meeting between late February to mid-March
• Presentation and discussion topics are of interest to roadside managers.

Invasive Species Conference — Iowa Weed Commissioners’ Association

Iowa Prairie Conference

North American Prairie Conference

Roadside Conference — Iowa Roadside Management

Upper Midwest Invasive Species Conference

Conferences with a roadside management table

The Iowa Roadside Management Office at the Tallgrass Prairie Center has a table in the exhibition area at some of the events below to educate attendees about roadside vegetation management. The table may be staffed by the TPC roadside program manager or roadside managers, whose registration fees would be covered by the TPC. A small number of roadside managers may also attend some of these conferences on behalf of their county or city.

Statewide Supervisors Meeting

Iowa State Association of Counties Spring Conference

Iowa Statewide Association of Counties Fall Conference

Iowa County Conservation System Fall Conference

Iowa Streets and Roads Workshop and Conference

County Engineers Conference

Field days

Many conservation-oriented organizations and equipment dealers offer useful field days. The organizations listed below host virtual and in-person field events.

Practical Farmers of Iowa

• A series of free field days during the growing season on topics related to sustainable agriculture, including prairie seeding and burning.
• Attended by natural resource professionals and private landowners.

Prairie on Farms Program (Tallgrass Prairie Center)

• One or two field days (not held every year) on planting native vegetation in agricultural fields.
• Attended by farmers and natural resource professionals interested in prairie restoration. 

Hawkeye Cooperative Weed Management Area Invasive Species Field Day 

Iowa Learning Farms 

• A free webinar series on topics related to land management such as soil health, improved water quality, and pollinator conservation. 
• All webinars are archived on its website.

Email lists and e-newsletters

Joining email lists and subscribing to email updates and e-newsletters is a good way to keep up with the latest news in roadside equipment, vegetation management, and roadside management in Iowa and beyond. 

Roadside management email list

The TPC roadside program manager maintains a roadside management Google Group email list. Email the TPC roadside program manager to be added to the group. Group members can pose questions to the group to provide insight and search archives of previous questions. Members pose questions to the group to gain insight about others’ experiences with equipment, share job openings, and share time-dependent news that can’t wait for the monthly Roader’s Digest email update.

Roader’s Digest email update

The Roader’s Digest newsletter, deemed the “Newsletter of the Iowa Integrated Roadside Vegetation Management Program,” was established by the TPC roadside program as a quarterly paper newsletter from 1989 to 2005. In 2017 it was reinstated as a monthly email update.  Subscribe and read previous email updates and archived issues. 

Midwest Invasive Plant Network e-newsletter

The MIPN e-newsletter contains invasive plant news from around the region. People can subscribe and read previous newsletters on the MIPN website.

Iowa Native Plant Society discussion group

The Iowa Native Plant Society maintains a discussion group available to anyone interested in native plants.

Professional organizations

Belonging to one or more of the following organizations can be an avenue for making professional connections and keeping up with innovations in vegetation management: 

Taking advantage of the Living Roadway Trust Fund

Since 1990, counties have enjoyed support from the Iowa Department of Transportation’s Living Roadway Trust Fund (LRTF). Roadside managers submit applications each year to acquire resources for their program. The LRTF does not fund salaries, trucks, or tractors. While eligibility for this funding requires only that a county have an Integrated Roadside Vegetation Management (IRVM) plan on file with the LRTF, a county’s level of commitment to IRVM is a factor when grants are awarded. Having a full-time roadside manager demonstrates a strong commitment. Applications are due June 1 each year.

Typical equipment needed for a program

LRTF grants can be used to cover 80–100% of the cost of most of these items. See the latest LRTF Funding Guidelines or contact the LRTF coordinator to verify if LRTF funds can be used for a particular purchase. 

Roadside vegetation inventories  

The most effective roadside management starts with an accurate picture of the condition of roadsides in the county or city. A roadside vegetation inventory helps decision makers set management priorities and provides baseline data for measuring program success.

Information collected in a roadside vegetation inventory includes herbaceous cover, tree and brush cover, weed concerns, bare areas, and areas with erosion and encroachment. The inventory development process typically involves a windshield survey, which means observing the roadside conditions while driving throughout the county or city. Windshield survey observations can be recorded every quarter mile or whatever interval is needed. Those conducting the inventory must be able to identify weeds, distinguish native prairie vegetation from non-native grasses, and recognize areas of erosion and encroachment. If more than one individual is conducting the inventory in separate vehicles, training must be provided to ensure accurate, uniform data collection.

LRTF funds can be used to hire someone to do the inventory. The roadside manager and county engineer make the plan for the inventory process and train the person who does the inventory so the collected data will be accurate and useful. Allow six to eight weeks to complete the inventory. It is ideal to conduct the inventory in late summer or fall since this is the easiest time to identify stands of native vegetation.

If paid for by LRTF grant funding, rules stipulate that roadside inventories must be recorded on GPS devices. The LRTF provides free software for collecting and recording roadside inventory information. The LRTF also funds the purchase of GPS units, mapping software and laptop computers.

People who may be hired to conduct a roadside vegetation inventory include:

Identify prairie remnants

Every county in the state has a few roadsides containing small patches of native plants descended from the original prairie. These prairie remnants may possess just a few species or they may be quite diverse. Either way, they provide a glimpse into the past and are valued as sources of genetic material and models for future prairie restoration. They merit protection.

Look for prairie remnants in places like an old railroad right-of-way that parallels the highway or land that may have been too rocky or wet to till. A thorough survey of roadsides in your jurisdiction is the best way to document the location of remnants and prevent their destruction. Generally, do not try to enhance a remnant by inter-seeding with native seed unless that seed comes from remnants in the immediate vicinity.   

Native seed from the Iowa Roadside Management Office

Since 1998, nearly all native seed planted in Iowa rights-of-way has been provided to counties and cities at no cost to them. The seed has been paid for with Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) grant funding secured by the Iowa Roadside Management Office at the Tallgrass Prairie Center. The FHWA program providing the grant funding has undergone several name changes over the years and is currently the Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside Program. These funds are approved annually. 

Prior to requesting free seed, counties and cities must file an approved IRVM plan with the LRTF and provide the labor and equipment to plant the seed. These native seed mixes have a value of $250–350 per acre and can only be used in road rights-of-way. For example, the seed cannot be used along trails that are outside of road rights-of-way.

Each September or October, the TPC roadside program manager emails eligible counties and cities to solicit seed requests for the subsequent year. Roadside managers will need to decide how many acres they would like to receive and provide maps showing where seed will be drilled or planted using heavy equipment that may cause rutting of the soil greater than 6 inches. The Iowa DOT archaeologist will review this information to ensure no Indigenous burial sites will be impacted. Maps do not need to be provided for sites that will be hydroseeded or broadcast seeded since these methods cause only shallow soil disturbance that will not affect burial mounds.

The seed is typically distributed over a two-day period in April, May, or June at the shed south of the Tallgrass Prairie Center. The seed must be planted by December 31 of the following year. The FHWA requires recipients to provide a seed report with maps every six months showing where the seed was planted.

A few counties have created their own seed production plots to supplement the seed they obtain from the Iowa Roadside Management Office. Counties also occasionally purchase seed from commercial sources to supplement what they receive from the Iowa Roadside Management Office.

Create data collection tools and processes needed to evaluate the program

GIS mapping tools can be used to record data on roadside management activities such as brush cutting, spraying, and invasive species removal. 

County board of supervisors

Board of supervisors members can better understand roadside management programs if the roadside manager provides quarterly reports and invites them on regular shop visits and tours. Engaging board of supervisors members in discussions aligned with their interests, such as spraying weeds and brush mulching, helps build a good relationship with the BOS.

For example, aggressively spraying noxious weeds during the peak months of June and July is one way to gain positive attention from board of supervisors officials. Demonstrating progress in problem areas through spraying and quantifying the work accomplished through acres treated shows the value of the roadside manager role. Showcasing individual projects and demonstrating equivalent effort in work compared to roads employees also helps garner support.

County roads department

Keeping engineers and secondary roads superintendents updated about planned actions contributes to coordination and alignment with road projects. Involving secondary roads employees in brush control activities that transition from manual to more effective methods establishes positive rapport with the roads department.

Offering training sessions on invasive plants, herbicide safety, and environmental concerns to secondary roads employees is beneficial.

Emphasizing the importance of maintaining good relationships and effective communication with coworkers, engineers, and road superintendents eases workflows and decision-making processes.

County conservation

Leveraging collaboration between departments, such as the Conservation Board and Public Works staff supports the transition toward an integrated approach in proposing ideas.

Reports about Iowa county official perspectives on roadside vegetation management

In 2016 and 2017 the TPC roadside program manager conducted LRTF-funded research with social scientists from the UNI Center for Behavioral Research on how county roadside managers, county engineers, county conservation board directors, and chairs of the boards of supervisors perceive roadside vegetation management. All Iowa county officials, regardless of if they had a roadside program or not, were surveyed.

Survey questions for roadside managers and engineers primarily focused on how respondents manage roadside vegetation. Example questions included the following:

Survey questions for chairs of the board of supervisors and county conservation board directors included the following:

Reports summarizing results from all of these surveys can be found on this webpage.

Understanding and responding to landowner concerns

If landowners are dissatisfied with how roadside vegetation appears or is being managed, it is important to ask clarifying questions to understand their concerns before responding. Two common landowner concerns with potential clarifying questions and responses are provided below as examples. The questions and responses were gathered from audience feedback during a talk about communication at the 2023 roadside conference.

Example 1. A landowner is unsatisfied with the appearance of roadside plants and brush. Some potential clarifying questions are below: 

There are some example personalized responses that are tailored to the landowner’s concerns:

Example 2. A landowner is concerned about roadside weeds encroaching onto their property. Some potential clarifying questions are below:

There are some example personalized responses that are tailored to the landowner’s concerns:

Preventing mowing and spraying of plantings

Some roadside managers have found that talking to directly to landowners or placing doorknob hangars that include contact information on people’s houses explaining why you are planting and maintaining native plants in the roadside helps prevent adjacent landowners from mowing or spraying roadside vegetation. Communication is key. Sometimes, after you have spent years maintaining a planting or remnant, you may still find that the adjacent landowner routinely mows it or intentionally sprays it with herbicides, violating the Iowa Code (check the most updated versions of Iowa Code 317.11 and 317.13, which include restrictions on landowners regarding haying, burning, mowing, or spraying in areas managed using an IRVM plan). What can you do? 

If you want to pursue monetary damages you can consult with your county attorney who can notify the landowner responsible for the damages. If the landowner or farm operator has inadvertently sprayed the planting, they may have liability insurance that will pay for damages and can reach a settlement with the county attorney, usually without legal action. The settlement time is generally around 9-12 months. Word gets around and it sends a message to other people that the county will enforce Iowa Code that applies to roadside vegetation. 

For sites that have been sprayed you can call the Pesticide Bureau at the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) to send out a pesticide inspector who will take vegetative samples to determine if spraying/drift occurred, conduct an investigation, and issue a report, but IDALS cannot enforce anything on your behalf; that is up to the county. 

The Iowa State Association of Counties General Counsel (515-369-7014) can be a good resource for questions regarding sections of Iowa Code that apply to roadside vegetation management.

Letters and permits

Iowa Code Section 317.13 requires a county to require permits for burning, mowing, or spraying of roadsides by individuals; these activities must be consistent with the adopted IRVM plan. This subsection only applies to roadside areas of a county that are included in an IRVM plan. Example permits are included in the appendix.

Counties may also choose to create permits for individuals to collect seed, plant native seed or plants, or manage the invasive species in roadsides bordering their property.

Programs, partnerships, and events

Community events

Being present at public events and meetings can be an effective way to engage with the community. Some roadside managers have a booth at the county fair, for example. 

In odd-numbered years, the Iowa DNR holds Resource Enhancement and Protection (REAP) regional assemblies around Iowa; these assemblies are public meetings where information about REAP expenditures is presented and attending state officials listen to public feedback. Since 3% of REAP goes toward roadside vegetation management, roadside managers often attend to answer any questions about how those dollars are spent toward managing local roadside vegetation.

Presentations for community groups and schools

Groups that roadside managers have spoken at include local chapters of master gardeners, master conservationists, Sierra Club, Pheasants Forever, Rotary Club, and Kiwanis Club. The TPC roadside program manager has a PowerPoint template with information about the benefits of roadside programs that roadside managers can request and modify to suit their needs.

Roadside managers have also spoken to school groups. The TPC roadside program manager may have stickers available that have proven popular with schoolchildren. If your county has a root banner, inviting children to lay down next to the banner and see how their height compares can be a fun activity. Other educational activities related to prairie roots that meet Iowa educational standards are provided on the Educator Resources page of the Tallgrass Prairie Center website.

Press releases

Notify landowners and the public before major work is undertaken to maintain transparency. Some roadside managers also annually issue a press release about Iowa’s mowing law in April or early May. See an example press release in the Appendix.

Adopt-a-Prairie Program

A small number of counties have allowed landowners to partner with the roadside program to re-establish prairie vegetation in the roadside bordering their property. The county roadside manager removes the existing vegetation and replaces it with native vegetation if the landowner’s application is accepted; there does not have to be a road regrading project associated with the reseeding. 

Outreach materials and signage 

Signage for plantings

Use signage in plantings and high-quality areas to showcase native species. Signage lets the public know that a planting is intentional and not a bunch of “weeds.” Some counties prefer to print their own signs that include the county logo; Iowa Prison Industries is commonly used to print signs. Signs can include language such as “Roadside Prairie” or “Native Vegetation—Do Not Mow or Spray.” Counties that have an adopt a prairie program for residents and want a large number of signs can check with the LRTF coordinator to see if they can apply for an LRTF grant to purchase a large number of signs.

Other counties with a program obtain signs from the TPC roadside program manager, who uses LRTF funds to pay Iowa Prison Industries to print a certain number of signs each year. Check with the program manager to see what signs are available.

For landowners who want to know where they can get signs for their prairie plantings on private property, the Tallgrass Prairie Center maintains a webpage that directs people to different sources for signs.

Frequently asked questions

The TPC website includes a list of frequently asked questions and responses regarding roadside vegetation management.

Posters and guidebooks

The Living Roadway Trust Fund has free attractive posters available such as the Jewels of the Prairie poster set, a set of seven attractively illustrated guides to prairie plants and animals; the pollinator poster series; and a “roadsides of opportunities” poster. 

They also print spiral-bound guidebooks on how to identify pollinators, seedlings, and trees and shrubs that are free to the public. These materials are helpful to have available when tabling at community events and are available through the Living Roadway Trust Fund Publications website or by checking with the TPC roadside program manager, who may have some available.

Brochures: roadside management series

The TPC roadside program manager has brochures on roadside vegetation topics such as Iowa’s mowing law and landowner questions regarding roadsides. 

Brochures: how to restore prairie

The Center has a set of 10 brochures that provided detailed how-to technical information for topics such as collecting seed, designing seed mixes, site preparation, seeding, and maintaining plantings. The information is distilled from the Tallgrass Prairie Center Guide to Prairie Restoration in the Upper Midwest and can be downloaded on the Technical Guide Series part of the Tallgrass Prairie Center website.

Prairie root banners

The Center’s banners with life-size images of roots available for ordering capture people’s attention by conveying the tremendous density and size of prairie root systems. Approximately 14-foot long when rolled out, these portable and durable banners roll up for easy storage. Some counties or cities display them in the local nature center, library, or county courthouse. 

Prairie root specimens that are up to ten-foot long are an especially effective visual tool for public outreach. Similar to the prairie root banners, counties may display prairie root specimens at the local nature center, library, or county courthouse. To cover the cost of growing the roots over three years, the Center charges over $2,000 per root specimen plus shipping. 

Stickers 

The TPC roadside program manager may have stickers available that say “Roadsides for Wildlife” or that have the Iowa Roadside Management logo. 

Pull-up banner

The TPC roadside program manager may have pull-up banners with roadside vegetation information that can be borrowed for outreach events such as tabling at local community events.

Wall calendar

The TPC roadside program manager produces an annual wall calendar with a theme related to roadside vegetation management. For example, themes have included “Historic Roadsides,” “Celebrating Remnants,” and “Plant This Not That.” Wall calendars are mailed to roadside programs in the fall.

Lesson plans

Prairie roots 

A team of Iowa educators created a set of prairie roots lesson plans that align with Iowa Core standards for upper elementary and middle school students. Roadside managers can share the lessons with local educators or implement one of the lessons when visiting a local school.

Social media

A few roadside programs maintain their own social media account, but it is more common for programs to occasionally submit posts to a larger account such as the county conservation, county road department, county, or city social media account. According to social media best practices, posting at least two to three times a week is best for engagement and visibility. 

The TPC roadside program manager maintains an Iowa Roadside Management Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube accounts for public outreach. 

Recordkeeping and cost data

Good recordkeeping is an important part of effective communication because it conveys transparency and builds trust. Accurate and up-to-date digital recordkeeping is a vital part of a roadside manager’s job, and should be started immediately. Roadside managers usually have to report to county boards of supervisors or a city council. Detailed, readily-accessible records provide an easy way to supplement reports like these with numerical values (including number of acres planted, volume of seed obtained through the Transportations Alternative Program, or the number of locations sprayed). Proof of accurate record keeping helps to justify the existence of a roadside manager’s position. 

Keeping account of costs and material-use is particularly useful, as it can be used as proof of the money and labor saving benefits of IRVM, particularly in reducing mowing and spraying. It is advisable to keep separate records for herbicide applications and other IRVM activities, as roadside managers are required to document every time they spray. 

As mentioned earlier, location-centric records are an especially useful tool. Many roadside managers have partnered with their county’s GIS division to develop useful tools for this purpose. 

Report about public perspectives on roadside vegetation

In 2016, Trees Forever received funding from LRTF to hire a marketing firm, Mindfire Communications, to research how Iowans, stakeholders, and legislators view the mission of the Living Roadway Trust Fund. Key survey questions included the following:

• Who are our target audiences and where do we reach them?
• What messages resonate with them?
• How do we best drive engagement and support as well as perceptions of value in LRTF initiatives?

Read reports summarizing results.

Use seed adapted to local climate and growing conditions

Yellow tag

Iowa yellow tag certified source-identified seed is highly recommended for roadside plantings. Because the Iowa Crop Improvement Association certifies that this Iowa seed originates from Iowa prairies, the region and climate to which it is adapted are known. This seed is often collected from multiple sites within a region of the state, giving it a broad genetic base and potentially making it adapted to a wider range of growing conditions. Buying yellow tag seed also reduces the risk of introducing new weeds to Iowa. Most of the seed provided through the FHWA grant is yellow tag seed.

Local ecotype

Local ecotype seed of Iowa or nearby origin that is not yellow-tag certified is also appropriate for roadside plantings and can be obtained from seed vendors by requesting “local ecotype” seed. Some counties establish their own local ecotype prairie grass and wildflower production plots with seed collected from prairie remnants within their county or region. It is important for this seed to be well cleaned and tested so it is known how much live seed is actually being planted.

Cultivars

Cultivars or cultivated varieties are generally not recommended. Cultivars are often derived from sources too far south and west of Iowa and so are adapted to a different climate and growing season. Most were developed for forage production and can be too aggressive in diverse plantings. Cultivars are available in only a limited number of species.

Sources of yellow tag species and related information can be found in the Iowa Crop Improvement Association’s Native Seed Directory. Additional native seed sources and information can be found in the Tallgrass Prairie Center’s Iowa Prairie Seed and Service Providers page.

Learn to read them

Commercial seed labels contain a variety of information related to the quality of the seed. Some or all of the following items will be on the label:

A “TZ” (tetrazolium) % may also be on the label. Some native species’ seeds will not break dormancy for germination tests. These seeds can be biochemically tested using tetrazolium chloride (TZ). Living tissue is stained red, allowing analysts to determine the viability of non-germinated seed.

Seed stored for more than a year or grown/harvested “in-house” should be tested. The Iowa State University Seed Testing Laboratory and many private seed testing labs perform TZ tests as well as purity and germ tests, and will identify weed seeds in the sample. TZ test kits are also available.

The amount of weed seeds in a lot can vary widely; some of these amounts can seem high but are not necessarily cause for concern.

Tallgrass Prairie Center Insights

Three hundred and eighty noxious weed seeds per pound of native seed does seem high, but I sometimes get lots that have over 1,000 noxious weed seeds per pound. In my mind it's negligible since the actual weed seeding rate ends up being very low, and they are not necessarily all live seeds. The noxious weeds that show up in these tests are almost invariably annual agricultural weeds, so they will probably be gone within 2–3 yrs. The weed seed bank (at least in post-agriculture settings) is many orders of magnitude higher than these small amounts. Weeds listed as noxious on the tag are not necessarily Iowa noxious weeds either, so depending on who you buy from they might not even need to report it that way. In other words you may be seeding these weeds without knowing their identity anyway (they would be listed as a whole in the weed seed percentage). In this example, wild buckwheat is noxious in Minnesota but not in Iowa. I'm guessing they included it to cover bases for interstate commerce. While I wouldn't reject a lot like this, it would be worth keeping an eye on the planting. 
-Justin Meissen, Research and Restoration Program Manager, UNI Tallgrass Prairie Center, 2024

Keep seed cool and dry

The viability of native seed deteriorates rapidly at high temperatures and high humidity.

General rule of thumb for seed storage: Temperature plus humidity should not exceed 100.

• Most seed will last at least a year at 50° Fahrenheit and 50% relative humidity.
• For each 10° increase in temperature, seed longevity is halved.
• For each 1% increase in moisture content of the seed (not RH), longevity is also halved.

Example: Seed stored at 70° and 6% moisture content has only one-quarter the lifespan of seed stored at 50° and 6% moisture. Likewise, seed stored at 50° and 8% moisture content has only one-quarter the life span of seed stored at 50° and 6% moisture.

“Ideal” seed storage requirements vary with individual species, but most can be stored in a temperature- and humidity-controlled environment for at least a year without losing significant viability. Some IRVM programs have a dedicated seed storage facility. These insulated rooms and small buildings are rodent proof and include air-conditioning units and sometimes industrial dehumidifiers.

In the absence of a seed storage facility, seed should be stored in the coolest place possible. Air circulation can improve conditions in spaces without temperature/humidity controls. Short periods of heat (over 100° F) can be tolerated by most seeds, but long-term exposure can destroy the embryo.

Commercially produced seed has been properly dried before being bagged. Ideally, seed storage bags should be made of breathable materials such as cloth or woven nylon. Well-dried seed (8–14% moisture content, depending on species) — if  kept cool and dry — can be bagged and stored in garbage cans, plastic bags or other sealed containers without suffering damage from fungus or freezing. Watch for moisture build up.

Additional information on seed quality, processing and storage is found in The Tallgrass Prairie Center’s Native Seed Production Manual.

Roadside Manager Insights

We’ve noticed Liatris grows very poorly unless it’s dormant seeded shortly after harvest. Perhaps it loses viability or vigor when stored over winter, or maybe it needs to be stored at a higher humidity than most seed. 
-Jim Uthe, James Devig, Dallas County, 2024

With a little increase in rate per acre, I think generally year-old seed can be used with no problem. We use older seed (2–3 years) at whatever rate it takes to use it up over the course of the season. I add a reduced rate of new seed to cover any loss of germination. 
-Linn Reece, Hardin County, 2010

Take advantage of prairie diversity

Native roadside seed mixes need to include species adapted to a wide range of growing conditions, from wet to mesic to dry. To outcompete weeds, the mix should also include species that occupy different ecological niches within the planting, grass species and broadleaf species, warm-season and cool-season species, tall plants to shade out thistle seedlings, and small plants to fill in underneath.

When working in narrow ditches, such as those found within a 66-ft. right-of-way, it is most efficient to design one mix that includes species for a wide range of site conditions — from the gravelly, well drained soils at the top of the slope, to the heavy, saturated soils at ditch bottom. Apply the same mix over the entire area and let it sort itself out. Wider rights-of-way may have wet or dry areas large enough to justify designing and planting a seed mix specific to those spots.

To achieve a well-rounded mix with all the benefits native vegetation has to offer, include species from each of the following functional groups. The Tallgrass Prairie Center’s Designing Seed Mixes technical guide and seed calculator can also be helpful for designing seed mixes.

A well-rounded native seed mix will include species from each of these groups:

Quick-establishing

Some native species develop faster than others. These are important for early erosion control and provide positive PR while slower species establish. 

Warm-season grasses

Roadside plantings rely heavily on these prominent members of the native plant community. These grasses continue to grow through the hot summer months. They provide long-term erosion control and good fall color.

Cool-season species

Plantings are strengthened by a species component that greens up early in the spring. These plants provide late-winter/early-spring erosion control and occupy the niche sought by non-native, cool-season competitors like smooth brome.

Legumes

The prairie flora includes many legumes that thrive in roadside plantings. They fix nitrogen and improve habitat.

Showy and easy

These species establish readily, are relatively inexpensive and create masses of color noticeable at 65 mph. They are crowd pleasers. 

Showy

The following species cost a little more or are harder to establish but still add important color and habitat.

Early bloomers

It’s relatively easy to extend a planting’s blooming season into the fall. Spring color is harder to come by. The following plants provide the earliest color visible from the road.

Wet species

Upland species dominate roadside seeding mixes. Species adapted to wet areas are needed for moist ditch bottoms.

A note about tall grasses and non-native perennials

For visibility and safety, tall grasses — such as big bluestem and Indiangrass — should not be planted at intersections or driveways. Omitting these grasses throughout the remainder of a planting, however, will limit its adaptability. Big bluestem and Indiangrass are versatile, adapted to conditions from medium-dry to medium-wet. Short native grasses, on the other hand, are generally adapted only to dry sites.

Non-native perennials — such as tall fescue, perennial rye, crown vetch, and birdsfoot trefoil — are very competitive and will persist to the point of adversely affecting survival of native seedlings. These species should not be used in permanent or temporary mixes for sites planted to natives.

Seed mixes for shoulders

Native species are not used on the shoulder. Examples of seed mixes that withstand repeated mowing and are well-suited to shoulder conditions follow.

• 50% Kentucky, 31% fescue, and 50% perennial rye

• 45% Kentucky, 31% fescue, 45% perennial rye, 6% medium red clover, and 4% alsike clover

• 35% Fawn fescue, 35% perennial rye, 20% timothy, and 10% alfalfa, or hairy vetch

Roadside Manager Insights

Keep in mind in most situations we’re not recreating a diverse prairie. We’re stabilizing the roadside with native plants.

-Joe Kooiker, Story County, 2024

Aspect/shading sometimes need to be taken into account, especially on small plantings or problem areas. In shaded areas, we use savanna species in the mix. If there’s a lot of shade, we may plant a nonnative, cool-season mix. 

-Jim Uthe, James Devig, Dallas County, 2024

We use local ecotype hand-harvested forbs and combined seed from our native seed nurseries to add diversity to our roadside seed mixes. 

-Joe Kooiker, Story County, 2024

Try to tailor your mix so the ROW has color all year long.

-Joe Kooiker, Story County, 2024

Depending upon soil type, we may use up to a 1.5x the rate of native seed to help speed establishment and stabilization. 

-Jim Uthe, James Devig, Dallas County, 2024

Seeding rates

Put down enough good seed to get timely vegetative cover and ensure planting success

Steeper slopes require heavier seeding rates. To get adequate erosion control, it’s more affordable to increase the amount of grass in the mix than to increase forbs. The result is that roadside plantings tend to have a higher grass to forb ratio than other prairie restorations. No matter how much native grass seed is put down, at least a 25% forb component is recommended to achieve adequate diversity and long-term stability. A 50% forb component is considered adequate for a fairly diverse planting. Some counties—especially those with their own forb seed plots—may exceed 50% for intersections and other highly visible plantings.

Grass to forb ratio

To get adequate erosion control, it's most affordable to increase the amount of grass in the mix. No matter how much native grass seed is put down, at least 25% forb component is recommended to achieve adequate diversity and long-term stability. 50% is better.

Seeding rates are calculated in one of two ways:

• Seeds per square foot 
• Lbs./acre

Though frequently used, lbs./acre is not a precise way of measuring the number of seeds planted since seed weights vary greatly between species. For example, one ounce of compass plant contains 660 seeds, while one ounce of black-eyed Susan contains 92,000 seeds. When accurate calculations are desired, use seeds/ft.

Seeding rates for roadside mixes are determined by slope and – to a lesser degree – seeding method. Budgets can also be a factor. The following chart provides general guidelines – a good idea of how many seeds should be put on the ground.

Minimum recommended seeding rates

These rates apply to drill seeding, broadcast seeding and hydroseeding (two-pass method). When hydroseeding with seed mixed in the slurry (one-pass method), increase rates by 15–30% to compensate for seed hung up in the mulch. (Note: Under real working conditions, even the best attempts at measuring seed quantities in the field will not be perfectly precise.)

The Iowa Prairie Seed Calculator will help you if you would like to create custom mixes. 

May and June are ideal seeding months, but road construction projects are rarely ready for seeding at this time. The following seeding calendar provides suggestions for protecting slopes and improving seeding success throughout the year.

January to mid-March

Winter months occasionally present windows of opportunity for frost seeding, a practice that originated as a way of incorporating seed into the soil when a native grass drill was not available. Seed is spread over bare soil made friable (loose or porous) by a cycle of freezing and thawing. Results can be good, but opportunities can be brief.

Late March through April

If site conditions permit (ground not frozen or too sloppy) this can be a good time for seeding. Warm-season grasses won’t germinate until soil temperatures reach 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Include oats as a cool-season nurse crop.

May and June

This time of year provides the best soil temperature and moisture conditions for germination and survival of warm-season species, including most prairie grasses and wildflowers.

July and August

Although every county can point to successful plantings during these months, hot, dry summer conditions are generally less favorable for planting natives. Consider a temporary seeding at this time, with the permanent, native seeding in the fall or the following spring.

If natives must be seeded now:

September and October

Native seed germinating this late in the season is unlikely to develop enough root reserves to overwinter. Yet some of these plantings do succeed, maybe because a lot of the seed does not germinate until spring. Research is needed.

• Erodible sites must be stabilized with winter wheat.
• Increase seeding rate 25%.

November and December

Dormant seeding, considered a good option on level ground, is more complicated on erodible slopes. Cover crops seeded this late won’t provide erosion control until spring. The majority of native seed will remain dormant over winter. While some forb species do better when dormant seeded, some of the native grass seed planted at this time will deteriorate over winter.  

• Erodible sites must be stabilized with winter wheat.
• Increase seeding rate 25%.

Roadside Manager Insights

Timing is everything, watch the weather and don’t just seed a site to get it off the list.

-Joe Kooiker, Story County, 2024

Ideally, we begin dormant seeding in October or November once the 4” soil temperature reaches 50 degrees, but if erosion is a concern or there is an issue regarding a regulatory permit, we will seed earlier and may increase the seed rate some and hope for dormant seed.

-Jim Uthe, James Devig, Dallas County, 2024

I try not to seed in August, September, or early October. I prefer to wait until November, then drill into a cover crop and mow the following spring. If weather conditions deteriorate in November, I can still seed in the spring. However, there are many factors that can influence when seeding gets done including size of project, time available, topography, etc. Small sites and those that are not conducive to drilling typically get seeded as soon as possible.

-Wes Gibbs, Jones County, 2024

I don’t intentionally wait to frost seed. I might consider it, but only on flat areas in perfect conditions. 

-Wes Gibbs, Jones County, 2024

Site preparation enhances seed to soil contact, helps ensure proper planting depth and can even provide erosion control.

Prior to working the site

Seedbed preparation for drill seeding

Ideal seedbeds are friable, firm and smooth

Seedbed preparation for hydroseeding

Seedbeds can be left rougher to reduce erosion.

Heavily compacted soils

Getting your seeds to grow is a priority, try to get good seed to soil contact when possible.

-Joe Kooiker, Story County, 2024

For hydroseeding we prefer the site to be rough and a little soft. We seed immediately after the construction equipment has left, with no additional seedbed preparation. The rough texture keeps the seed in place and the softness allows for better root penetration. However, for drill seeding, firmness is the most important factor. It is easy for seed to get buried too deep in soft seedbeds, either during or post planting. 

-Doug Sheeley, Dallas County, 2024

There are two kinds of cover crops. Cover crops planted along with the permanent seed mix are called nurse crops or companion crops. Those planted by themselves pending a better time to plant the permanent mix are referred to as temporary seedings or stabilizer crops.

Cover crops help hold the soil and are recommended on slopes 3:1 or greater. Oats Avena sativa, annual rye Lolium multiflorum* and winter wheat Triticum aestivum are excellent cover crops because they are inexpensive, easily established and not overly competitive.

Recommended nurse crops/companion crops (planted with the native seed) — per acre

Recommended Temporary Seedings/Stabilizer Crops (native seed to follow in the spring) — per acre

Caution: For native plantings, winter wheat is preferred over winter rye. Winter rye is taller, more persistent and possibly allelopathic, chemically inhibiting the growth of wildflowers. There are many kinds of rye: annual rye (Lolium multiflorum); perennial rye (Lolium perenne) and winter rye, cereal rye and grain rye (all names for the same plant, Secale cereale). Do not seed piper sudangrass, millet or sorghum too heavily. One good rain can cause mass germination. Piper sudangrass may cause concern among landowners as it is sometimes confused with shatter cane.

Cover crop conversion chart

Cover crops are as much for public perception as they are for erosion control. Having your plantings turn green in a timely fashion is essential for a program’s success.

-Joe Kooiker, Story County, 2024

We use a bushel per acre of winter wheat as a nurse crop when dormant seeding with a hydroseeder. In the spring when hydroseeding, we use a bushel of oats if the soil prep, soil moisture forecast are appropriate. We may continue to use oats through summer in good soil that’s adequately prepped and if moisture is in the forecast. We will blend in annual rye and/or even pearl millet or may substitute the oats for these species as soil conditions and forecast become less favorable.

-Jim Uthe, James Devig, Dallas County, 2024

In addition to increasing our native seed rate on very steep slopes, we also increase our cover crop rate, we essentially do this by applying more material out of the hydroseeder as concern for erosion increases.

-Jim Uthe, James Devig, Dallas County, 2024

In typical Iowa soils, fertilizer and plant growth hormones aren’t needed. However, we’ve used various growth stimulants along with starter fertilizers and various other amendments on steep slopes with poor soil, and have had very good results. It’s cheaper to quickly establish a cover crop than to spend the time and resources repairing or redoing a project. It’s also good PR with the engineering staff and public to see a quick green-up. Again, we only use this practice on areas of very poor soil with a lot of erosion potential, or to protect a high-dollar project.

-Jim Uthe, James Devig, Dallas County, 2024

The majority of our regraded slopes are steep. I regularly use 2.5 bushels of oats, 6 lbs. of annual rye and 3 lbs. of timothy along with the permanent seed mix. This provides a better chance of stabilizing the slopes while the permanent seeding establishes, and I haven’t noticed any detrimental effect to the planting’s long-term success. 

-Linn Reece, Hardin County, 2011

The nurse crop can be added to the slurry in the second pass with good success. Wheat and oats are very difficult to keep in suspension in pure water, so it’s better to include in the mulch in the second pass.

-Wes Gibbs, Jones County, 2024

On large, contracted projects we fertilize the cover crop to DOT specs; the flush of weeds has usually subsided by the time we plant natives in the fall or following spring. We do not use fertilizer when hydroseeding. 

-Wes Gibbs, Jones County, 2024

When broadcasting in light tillage we use some, but sparingly. I wouldn't recommend fertilizer with natives, but it does help cover crops planted in nutrient-deficient soils. 

-Wes Gibbs, Jones County, 2024

I have used several different cover crops from oats, winter rye, buckwheat, perennial rye, and going to experiment with sorghum grain and Sudan grass, and mellites for summer ditch cleanouts and other projects. I will utilize these species because they are drought tolerant, and they are fast growing. These are things that we are all battling with in the ROW’s. For rates of current use – oats 30 to 40lbs/ac, winter rye 1bu/ac, perennial rye 10lbs/ac I keep this thin with the rye and oats to get some fast green on projects but then the natives can out compete them in the long run, and buckwheat 10 to 20lbs/ac on summer projects keep it on the lighter side with oats and perennial rye because they have a large leaf and can cause shade out of natives until a mowing on a first year seeding. I like buckwheat in my summer blend because it is fast growing and drought tolerant.

 Most of these cover crops are broadcast seeded, however I have done some drilling and mixed it in with the hydroseeder as a method of seeding. I have seed success with all application methods.

-Griffin Cabalka, Black Hawk County, 2024

Native seed can be ordered pre-mixed. If species come individually bagged, they will have to be mixed thoroughly. Mechanical seed mixers are available. Otherwise hand mix as follows:

There are three seeding methods: drill seeding, broadcasting and hydroseeding. Each has advantages and disadvantages.

Drill seeding

Seeding with a native grass drill is the preferred method on level rights-of-way. Drilling is a one-step process and is quicker and cheaper than hydroseeding. Drills do a better job establishing native grasses and produce faster results overall.

Drills do not work well on slopes. At 3:1 or steeper, the drill will try to slide sideways causing the disk openers to dig in and bury the seed. Projects with silt fences present another challenge; maneuvering a tractor and drill around these fences is difficult.

Drill seeding tips

Hydroseeding

Hydroseeding is ideal for bridge approaches, cleanouts, culverts and wet or steep slopes. In most cases, the entire project can be hydroseeded from the shoulder. Other hydroseeding advantages — hydromulch reduces soil erosion; the risk of seeding too deep is eliminated; colored mulch on the soil makes a positive impression on the public.

Filling the hydroseeder takes time, so drilling or broadcasting are usually quicker for larger projects. Other hydroseeding disadvantages — mulch is expensive and can double the cost of a seeding, the seeding rate is harder to control, and hydroseeding is strictly a bare-ground application.

Hydroseeding tips

Hydromulching rates

Broadcast seeding

Broadcast seeding is a viable option now that commercially available native seed is cleaner and less fluffy than it once was. When applied with broadcast seeding equipment, this debearded seed flows better and slings farther and truer than in the past.

Broadcast seeding tips

Hand seeding

Scattering seed by hand followed by light raking is very effective for smaller sites and prevents fine seed from being planted too deeply.

Packing the seed

Packing seed tightly to the soil ensures a more consistent flow of moisture from the soil to the seed. The result is better germination and better seedling survival.

• Packing is most important after broadcast seeding, but is always beneficial.
• A 4-ft. cultipacker section on a 3-point is very effective and will go places the tractor and drill can’t.

Roadside Manager Insights

We lightly disk the seedbed before hydroseeding, if possible; cultipack after we seed; then apply mulch (two-pass method).

-Joe Kooiker, Story County, 2024

The hydroseeding is a great method of seeding, but not always necessarily the tool for the job.

-Joe Kooiker, Story County, 2024

When filling a hydroseeder from a creek, know your source. Don’t fill from an area with invasives (e.g., purple loosestrife).

-Jim Uthe, James Devig, Dallas County, 2024

Filling near the site with a trash pump has drastically improved the efficiency of the process. We mounted the pump on the seeder, so we simply drop a fill line into the water and turn on the pump.

-Josh Brandt, Cerro Gordo County, 2010

When hydroseeding, be sure to mix seed thoroughly in the water, both initially and periodically during application. Our Finn hydroseeder can reverse the mechanical agitation, which is helpful.

-Jim Uthe, James Devig, Dallas County, 2024

We have better germination with lighter hydromulch rates (400–500 lbs./acre).

-Dave Sedivec, Chickasaw County, 2010

There’s been some concern about high mulch rates affecting seed germination. I don’t think that’s an issue with large grass seeds, and even small seeds aren’t affected when dormant seeding with a high mulch rate since the mulch softens and breaks down over the winter. The seed can’t germinate if it’s washed away, so use enough mulch to get the job done right. 

-Jim Uthe, James Devig, Dallas County, 2024

When mixing seed, we mix 10 acres worth of the fluffy grass (sideoats, big blue, Indian, little blue and Canada wild rye) and compass plant and put it in large, plastic garbage cans. Then we mix 10 acres worth of the remaining forbs in a large Rubbermaid tote and put the two slick grass seeds (rough dropseed and switch) in a 3rd tote. Our fluffy grass rate is around 10–12 bulk lbs/acre, our forbs are usually around 3–4 and slick seed is around 2 lb./ac.

-Jim Uthe, James Devig, Dallas County, 2024

When hydroseeding, we bump these rates an extra 30 to 50% at times depending upon site conditions and current climatic factors. We pretty much always seed with mulch and we typically use 1,500 lbs. of wood fiber mulch per acre. Our 3,300-gallon unit seeds about 0.9 acres pretty well with 1,350 lbs. of mulch in it (3,600 gal. of material per acre). Some people I know put 1,500 lbs. in a 3300 gallon seeder and seed a full acre, but we always seem to run a little short doing it that way. 

-Jim Uthe, James Devig, Dallas County, 2024

Don’t trust your drill to meter your seed. Know your acreage and equally distribute the seed.

-Wes Gibbs, Jones County, 2024

When hydroseeding, you initially have to know how much area you are covering with a full load. With our Finn T-90, I cover a third of an acre per load. That may be more than is recommended for that size machine, but it means fewer loads per job and quicker to finish. With our 22-foot wide ROWs (average), we travel 660 feet to make that 1/3 of an acre. With practice you can become pretty accurate — arriving at 660 feet with an empty hydroseeder. If we use UNI’s recommended rates, then big bluestem at 1.5 lbs per acre, for example, uses 0.5 lbs per load. We weigh out the amount of each species needed for a 1/3 of an acre and put it in one bag ahead of time. Then we can just dump the bag in each load. This holds true for the nurse and temporary crops as well. 

-Linn Reece, Hardin County, 2011

Occasionally a landowner will contact the county IRVM program to request a native planting adjacent to his/her property. If the site is conducive to a successful native planting, some counties accommodate these requests. Converting non-native vegetation to native requires eliminating the existing vegetation, usually by application of glyphosate. Cool-season grasses such as brome, fescue and bluegrass can be persistent and might require more than one application.

Establishment mowing

During the first growing season, native seedlings remain small and can suffer losses due to competition by tall, thick weeds.

Evaluating new plantings

First-year native seedlings are small, making them hard to find and even harder to identify. As a result, people often worry or assume the planting is a failure.

General short- and long-term erosion control techniques are outlined below. The erosion control industry has many useful websites with up-to-date technical specifications and guidelines. A list is provided at the end of the chapter. Take advantage of these resources and other educational opportunities to stay abreast of this rapidly evolving industry.

Soil preparation

Strike a balance between an ideal seedbed and maximum erosion control. Firm, friable soil surfaces — recommended for seeding — can be susceptible to erosion. Loose, rough soil surfaces provide better infiltration and slow runoff.

Surface roughening practices, such as directional tracking and grooving, slow runoff by creating depressions or grooves perpendicular to the flow. On steep slopes, these practices must be used in conjunction with other methods, preferably hydroseeding. 

Directional tracking

Driving a bulldozer or other tracked vehicle up and down a slope leaves depressions perpendicular to the slope. (Driving a tracked vehicle across the slope can increase erosion.) Tracking may not be appropriate on clayey soil since compaction can inhibit vegetation establishment, and severe compaction can even prevent no-till drills from penetrating the soil. Concerns regarding compaction decrease when hydroseeding or broadcasting during the dormant season, since freezing and thawing will loosen the soil.

Grooving

Pulling a disk or ripper behind a tractor or dozer, or back-dragging a toothed bucket with a loader across a slope creates a series of ridges and grooves. Grooving can be more effective than tracking because the depressions are usually deeper and the soil is left in a looser state. Many implements can be used.

SUDAS (Statewide Urban Design and Specifications) specifies grooves be no more than 15 in. apart and 3 in. deep, though groove depth is subject to debate. Deep grooves improve erosion control, but increase the likelihood of seed becoming buried too deeply to germinate. Seeding method will help determine the appropriate groove depth. One-step hydroseeding is best over deeper grooves since mulch keeps seed near the surface. If seed is not incorporated in a slurry when planted, lighter grooving is recommended.

Mulch

Mulch helps prevent splash erosion and holds seed in place by absorbing rainfall impact and binding soil particles together. Mulching is accomplished by blowing on straw or by hydromulching.

Straw

Dry cereal straw — free of noxious weed seed — can be applied alone or on top of seed to provide short-term erosion protection, conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Typically oats or wheat straw is used — blown on at a rate of 1 to 1½ tons per acre. Straw applied evenly at the correct rate will allow approximately 50% of the soil to be visible. If applied too heavily, seed germination may be affected. Some bale processors can be adjusted to make shorter or longer mulch — longer is better.

To keep straw mulch on site, it must be crimped or tacked in place. Areas accessible to ground-driven equipment can be crimped. Crimpers (a.k.a. mulch tuckers or mulch discs) are mounted on a 3-point and pulled with a front-wheel assist tractor. Test runs are necessary to ensure the crimper wheels go into the soil at least three inches — enough to anchor the straw. Properly anchored straw mulch will stand up straight and look similar to oats mowed high.

Tacking is accomplished by adding tackifier to water in a hydroseeder and applying evenly until the straw is wet, but not running off. This dries and acts as a glue to hold the straw in place. Tackifier rates vary with brand and are provided on the bottle in lbs. per acre. If too much tack is added, the mixture will get slimy and prevent the pump from priming. 

Some IRVM programs use prairie hay — harvested from plots or plantings — in place of straw mulch. Application method and rates are similar to straw, though rates may vary depending on the dominant species in the hay. Fewer bales will be necessary because the hay weighs more than straw.

Roadside manager insights

We use wheat straw. It seems to be longer than oats straw and is typically the same price. I have worked with a local contractor who brings up Kansas wheat straw. We have also used Iowa Certified weed seed free straw. 

-Wes Gibbs, Jones County, 2024

With oats or wheat straw, I’ve used seed-bearing stalks to my advantage; it can work as a good cover crop. 

-Ben Hoskinson, Mahaska County, 2011

We use an agricultural-type bale processor (no cannon). I use the rate of 1.5 T/acre as a minimum when planning. Just be sure you aren’t blanketing over your seed. You should be able to barely see the ground through the mulch before it is crimped. 

-Wes Gibbs, Jones County, 2024

To apply straw mulch, I use a small bale blower with a gas motor. It does a nice job of shredding up the bales. The process is labor intensive and, so I usually only tackle small projects with it. The big round bale blowers/shredders (I don’t have one) are less labor intensive and can cover a lot more area in less time.  This method requires mobilization for the bales and a large tractor to run it .  I generally mulch at 1000 to 1500 lbs. per acre. 

-Ben Hoskinson, Mahaska County, 2011

Our mulch tucker / cultipacker combo is 8 ft. wide and weighs 1600 lbs. We pull it with a 95 HP tractor – you might be able to go a little smaller as long as you have sufficient weight in front to balance it when in the “up” position. 

-Wes Gibbs, Jones County, 2024

We always use 1.5 tons/acre of straw mulch.

-Ole Skaar, Roadside Development, Iowa DOT, 2011

We have a couple organic farmers in the county. When I need straw, I buy it from them. They usually have a field in their rotational plan that will be in oats. I support the concept and like to help them in this small way.

-Linn Reece, Hardin County, 2011

If harvested in the fall just after the seed heads have matured, prairie hay bales will carry enough seed to plant a new site. Some seed supplement may need to be used. I think prairie hay works better than straw. It is just reedy enough that it lays out and kind of locks together.  Straw is a lot lighter and doesn’t lay down as well. 

-Ben Hoskinson, Mahaska County, 2011

Hydromulch

Hydromulches are applied with or on top of seed to conserve soil moisture and, depending on type, prevent splash, sheet or rill erosion.  None are suitable to withstand the shear stress of concentrated-flow situations.

Common types of hydromulch

Cellulose (paper)

Made from recycled newspaper, magazines and corrugated cardboard, cellulose is the least expensive hydromulch. Its advantages over wood fiber mulch include: greater water retention, quicker mixing and better pumpability. Cellulose may be the least effective at controlling erosion since it does not have long, interlocking fibers. Be aware of the “paper mache” effect which reduces moisture and airflow to seed, and occurs when cellulose is applied too heavily or with too much tackifier.

Wood fiber

Wood fiber mulch is produced from milled wood, typically aspen. It is more expensive than cellulose and does not hold as much moisture, but it has more loft and the interlocking fibers provide greater erosion control.

Wood/cellulose blend

Blended  mulch usually consists of 50-70% wood fiber and 30-50% paper products. It falls in the middle of the two previous mulches in terms of cost, water retention, pumpability and erosion protection.

BFM (bonded fiber matrix)

BFM is a wood fiber mulch — usually with elongated fibers — containing various adhesives, binders and synthetic fibers. BFM mulches retain their strength much longer than traditional mulches.

MBFM (mechanically bonded fiber matrix) and FGM (flexible growth media)

These mulches contain elongated wood fibers and crimped synthetic fibers along with various adhesives and binders. The crimped fibers provide a strong, mechanical, fiber-fiber-soil bond. No cure time is required to provide erosion protection.

Hydromulch application

Hydromulch is mixed with water and often a tackifier in a truck- or trailer-mounted tank. Spraying the slurry on to the site is called “hydromulching.” When “hydroseeding,” seed and amendments are added to the slurry. The terms are often used interchangeably. Recommended hydromulching rates are shown in Table 1 and discussed in "Seeding Methods."

Tackifiers bind mulch fibers to each other and to the soil, enhancing erosion protection. Tackifiers can be purchased separately or be pre-blended in the mulch. Organic and synthetic tackifiers are available. All products have different recommended rates. See manufacturer recommendations before application.

Tackifying agents are preblended in BFM, MBFM and FGM products and undergo a chemical process known as “cross-linking” which prevents rainfall from rewetting and dissolving the tackifier after it is applied.

Amendments are added to the slurry to accelerate seed germination and establishment and improve poor soils. Amendments include water soluble fertilizer, water-storing polymers and plant growth stimulants. Refer to the manufacturer for recommended rates. Peat moss and compost screenings can also be added as a soil amendment, though little research exists on rates.

Synthetic fibers can be added as an amendment to increase the mechanical bond of traditional wood fiber and blended mulches.

Hydromulch profile

Roadside manager insights

An important factor that can get overlooked when dealing with sheet erosion is the additional overland flow that may be coming from the roadway. This can really affect hydroseeded areas, and increased rates of hydromulch may be needed. This doesn’t seem to be an issue when using blankets – which makes sense since blankets are appropriate for protection against channelized flow.

-Jim Uthe/James Devig, Dallas County, 2024

SUDAS section 7E-5 deals with mulching to prevent sheet erosion, but I feel they are overly cautious. For instance they don’t recommend hydromulching on slopes steeper than 6:1. I recommend looking at manufacturer specs for available products.

-Jim Uthe, James Devig, Dallas County, 2024

I use a wood/paper blend which I think works the best. The wood I’ve used by itself doesn’t have enough substance. I also use FGMs or BFMs as a supplement to the wood/paper or as a stand alone.

-Ben Hoskinson, Mahaska County, 2011

Compost blanket

Typically used on poor soil, a compost blanket is a 1–4 inch layer of compost applied with a blower truck. The compost is a blend of coarse and fine material. If seed is applied with the blanket, the layer should not exceed 2 inches; establishing roots may not penetrate the underlying soil if the blanket is deeper. Be sure the compost is well-cured; if applied while still “hot,” vegetation may not establish.

A compost blanket should not be used where overland flow is expected. The blanket will absorb rainfall, but overland flow can erode the compost. If the blanket must be used in areas with overland flow, till in the compost.

When applied correctly, compost blankets are very effective at preventing erosion and promoting seed growth. Specialized equipment is necessary to properly apply compost blankets, so a contractor is typically hired. Due to the expense, a guarantee should be requested to ensure the job is done correctly.

Rolled erosion control products (RECPs)

RECPs are arguably the best way to stabilize most channel areas. They are also used to stabilize slopes. Because RECPs need vegetation to function properly, site conditions must be conducive to vegetation establishment. In extremely poor soils or deep shade, riprap or erosion stone may be the best option. Temporary and permanent rolled products are available.

Manufacturers of RECPs provide specs for their products online. Most manufacturers also provide software to help determine the appropriate product for a given site. A list of virtually all RECPs on the market and their specifications is in the Geosynthetics Specifier’s Guide.

Types of RECPs

Erosion control blankets (ECBs)

Erosion control blankets are temporary, degradable rolled products made of natural or polymer fibers mechanically, structurally or chemically bound together to form a continuous matrix. Blankets are usually classified as netless, single-net or double-net.

Netless blankets consist of fibers stitched together with a biodegradable thread. Because there is no net, this product is typically used in intensively mowed areas and areas where animals could become entangled in netted products.

Single- and double-net blankets consist of one or two polymer or jute nettings interwoven with natural fibers — typically straw, coir (coconut) and/or excelsior. In general, netless and single-net are used on slopes or in low-flow channels. Double-net can be used on slopes and in higher-flow channels.

Turf reinforcement mat (TRMs)

TRMs are permanent, non-degradable, rolled products made of synthetic materials. These three-dimensional mats provide immediate erosion protection, enhance vegetation establishment and offer long-term functionality by permanently reinforcing vegetation. TRMs are typically used in high-flow ditch channels and on very steep slopes where unreinforced vegetation may not provide adequate erosion protection.

SUDAS classifies TRMs by material and by their performance in channel and slope applications. Refer to Table 1 for more information.

Selecting the appropriate RECP

Slope applications

Manufacturers’ general application guidelines are the easiest way to select a product. A link to an example of these guidelines is provided here. Slope length and grade are used as criteria. Product longevity (determined primarily by material weight) must also be considered when using degradable products. Time of year, soil fertility, aspect, seed mix and other factors affect how quickly vegetation establishes. A product may be appropriate for a specific slope length and grade, but if installed over a seeding in poor soil, it may deteriorate before vegetation establishment.

Manufacturer software is also used to select products for slope protection. Links to examples are provided below. Slope length and grade, surface condition of the soil and the soil erodibility (K) factor for the soil type (found in the NRCS soil survey for each county) are entered in the program which then suggests multiple appropriate products. Growing conditions and seed mixes determine the appropriate functional longevity.

Software examples

Channel applications

When stabilizing a concentrated flow area with temporary RECPs, estimate the amount of flow and time it will take for vegetation to establish. Then use manufacturer specs to select a blanket with the appropriate strength and longevity.

For large-scale projects, especially in high-flow situations, further analysis may be necessary:

Installing RECPs

Erosion control blanket installation

RECPs are often maintenance-free after vegetation has established. Until then, inspect after every runoff event, adding staples where erosion has occurred. Routine maintenance is easier than repairing and reseeding the large ruts and gullies that can form under improperly installed or maintained RECPs.

TRM installation

Roadside manager insights

I had heard at one time that forbs germinate better under straw than excelsior, but I’m starting to become a skeptic on that claim. For instance, I just inspected a project where we used Curlex-2 and there were just as many partridge pea seedlings in the blanketed areas.

-Jim Uthe, James Devig, Dallas County, 2024

TRMS can stabilize very steep slopes, but in a typical county roadside setting it may be cheaper to buy more right-of-way, grade it to a generally slope, and stabilize by hydroseeding or seeding/mulching.

-Jim Uthe, James Devig, Dallas County, 2024

We used double-net, straw/coconut blankets for concentrated flow areas with success, but due to the cost we’re switching to double-net straw. They seem to allow just as good germination as the straw/coconut blend and are almost $20 cheaper per 100 ft. roll. They seem to provide adequate protection in a typical ditch bottom, but don’t last as long.

Single-net straw blankets are available, but they only work in low-flow channels and are much more difficult to unroll than double-net. Double-nets are only about $7-10 more.

-Jim Uthe, James Devig, Dallas County, 2024

If you’re doing a lot of RECP installations, get a staple gun. It’s worth the money! And if you need to cover a lot of surface area, I suggest the 16 ft. rolls (vs. the more common 8 ft. rolls). They’re still fairly easy to handle and they cut your installation time and labor almost in half. 

-Wes Gibbs, Jones County, 2024

We do not use straw or straw/coir blankets in channels. Those materials don’t absorb water like excelsior, so the blankets float if rain causes any flow. You might get them to work with sediment logs or lots of staples, but that isn’t cost effective. Nothing beats good wood excelsior.

-Ole Skaar, Roadside Development, Iowa DOT, 2011

Other

Flow transition mats

Flow transition mats are a “green” alternative for riprap or concrete in the transition area between flow outlets and channel flow. The semi-rigid, plastic mats – approximately 4 ft. x 4 ft. x ½ in. – are designed with holes which allow vegetation to grow. The mats are installed on top of a TRM in areas of high scour, such as culvert outlets. Flow transition mats can provide better protection than riprap and installation is an easy, one-man job.

Roadside manager insights

ScourStop can be used as a riprap alternative for channel protection if flow occurs only during larger rain events. The channel needs to dry out at times so vegetation can establish.

-Ole Skaar, Roadside Development, Iowa DOT, 2011

Containing eroded soil on the project site will be the responsibility of some IRVM programs. Basic sediment control products likely to be used on county rights-of-way are described below.

Wattles, sediment logs and filter socks

Wattles and sediment logs are tubes of straw, coir or excelsior fibers encased in burlap or degradable plastic netting and anchored by wooden stakes. Both filter sediment and slow water flow. Wattles and logs containing densely packed material – especially straw – are good as slope interrupters. Excelsior logs are more porous and less likely to float, so are better suited for ditch checks. Both are good for perimeter applications and inlet protection.

Filter socks are degradable tubes filled with compost, generally used for perimeter control or at intervals along a slope to capture sheet flow. To enhance sediment control, polyacrylamide (PAM) may be added to the compost. PAM captures clay particles creating cleaner runoff.

Wattles, logs and filter socks are usually easy to install and can be put on bare soil or over erosion control blankets.

Silt fence

Silt fences are geotextile barriers trenched in to the ground and supported by posts. They are useful on perimeters and in channels with relatively low flow. Silt fences filter out small amounts of sediment as runoff passes through the fabric. They need to be kept clean to function properly and must be removed after final stabilization, but are easy to install and relatively low cost.

Silt fences are not effective in high-volume flows and should not be used as a check dam. During moderate or heavy rains, a silt fence check dam will concentrate water from the entire channel, along with the water’s energy. This concentration either goes around the outside of the fence or over the top at the lowest point. It can also go underneath the fence, causing erosion.

Silt fences are ineffective when improperly installed, and improper installation is common. To avoid the problems inherent with these practices, follow up-to-date specifications such as those found here:

Check dams

Check dams should be constructed of clean rock, permeable plastic berms or similar products. Unlike silt fence, check dams do not cause water to dam up; they let water pass through – slowing its velocity and dissipating its energy.

Sedimentation can occur on the upstream side. If it becomes too great the check dam will function as a waterfall and the project may begin to fail. Monitor and excavate the upstream side if necessary.

Plastic berms should not be placed in areas susceptible to filling with debris (e.g., corn stubble from a field waterway).  One heavy rain can cause these berms to fill with stubble, creating a dam.

Improper check dam design is not uncommon and can cause project failure.  Follow current design specs, and account for the individual characteristics of each site.

Roadside manager insights

If a rain event is relatively small, silt fences will function properly. But small rain events typically cause little to no erosion. Silt fences may be good for PR but they create a point of failure for the project. A roadside is essentially a headwater stream. Stream dynamics show that flow = area*velocity. When the water from a flat, six-foot wide channel is concentrated into a width of typically less than a foot at the low point of a silt fence, the water’s velocity increases substantially, thus erosion is caused instead of prevented.

-Jim Uthe, James Devig, Dallas County, 2024

Rock checks should mostly be below ground. The “waterfall” problems can be eliminated if the check doesn’t extend above ground-level.

-Wes Gibbs, Jones County, 2024

Erosion and sediment control web sites

Develop a county weed control program that provides:

An integrated approach to roadside vegetation management means relying on a variety of weed control methods: mechanical, biological, chemical and cultural. IRVM emphasizes cultural control — establishing and promoting healthy, native vegetation – and tries not to rely exclusively on herbicides for controlling weeds.

Establish native vegetation

Native vegetation is the cornerstone of IRVM. Plant the best-adapted vegetation and keep it healthy. Iowa native plants are naturally adapted to the state’s climate and growing conditions. They handle tough roadside conditions. Their tall growth and deep roots help prevent weeds. Keep the natives healthy with the use of prescribed fire.

Do not overuse herbicides

Overuse of herbicides weakens all vegetation, making roadsides more susceptible to invasion by weeds. Overuse of herbicides also eliminates desirable and harmless broadleaf species that would otherwise reduce weed invasion by occupying the same niche sought by weeds. For these reasons IRVM promotes careful spot-treatment of weeds when using herbicides.

Consider mowing

Mowing must be considered before resorting to herbicides. The effectiveness of mowing depends on target species and timing. The feasibility of mowing depends on roadside slope and available equipment. County road right-of-way is often not suited to tractors. Still, spot-mowing for weed control is encouraged and counties should look for ways to make this a more frequent and viable weed control option.

Pay attention to timing

Timing is key to successful vegetation management; the effectiveness of mowing and spraying depends on it. IRVM recommends hiring a full-time roadside manager as the best way to provide professional, proactive and systemic weed control.

Keep goals realistic

IRVM recognizes there is no such thing as total weed eradication, so have realistic goals. Accept the presence of some weeds and keep them at a manageable level. Weed species that post no real threat to agriculture or natural areas should be tolerated. Prioritize weed control efforts, beginning with highly traveled roads.

Annual weeds 

Annual weeds have a one-year life cycle. They germinate, grow, flower, set seed and die in one year or less. They reproduce by seed only. Common roadside annuals include common ragweed and giant ragweed.

To control:

• Mow prior to seed-set.
• Eliminate bare soil and disturbances to vegetation.

Biennial weeds 

Biennial weeds have a two-year life cycle. In the first year a basal rosette (circular cluster of leaves on or near the ground) is produced. The second year a central flowering stalk elongates and the plant dies after seed maturation. Biennials spread only by seed. Common roadside biennials include musk thistle, bull thistle, poison hemlock, wild parsnip and wild carrot.

To control:

Perennial weeds

Perennial weeds can live for a few years or for many years. Some perennials reproduce only by seed; many spread by seed and a variety of underground reproductive structures. Control of these perennials may be very difficult because of their extensive root systems.

To control:

Iowa’s noxious weed list is outdated. It includes several species that no longer pose a threat to agriculture, and it does not include certain plant species now considered troublesome in the state.

The state’s primary herbaceous (non-woody) roadside threats are listed in Table 2. Herbicides remain the most practical means of controlling these weeds in county road right-of-way.

Table 2: Iowa's Primary Roadside Threats and Herbicide Recommendations

Notes: The most commonly used brand names are shown here. Many of these products are now available under other (often less-expensive) labels.

Where Garlon (triclopyr) is noted, either Garlon 3A (amine formulation) or Garlon 4 (ester) can be used. Garlon 4 is usually more effective but in hot weather can volatilize, drift and affect non-target species. 3A is non-volatile and usually considered the best choice for hot weather.

Herbicide labels

Labels explain how to use the product effectively while protecting yourself, non-target plants and the environment. Take time to read the labels; it may be the most valuable time spent in weed control.

Adjuvants

Adjuvants are often added to the herbicide solution to increase its effectiveness. These products are put in the water tank at labeled rates.

Iowa’s noxious weed list includes a few woody species and several non-listed trees and shrubs have become troublesome in non-agricultural land throughout the state. In roadsides, all trees and brush are potential safety hazards. The primary goal of county roadside tree and brush control is to provide safe roads for the traveling public. Safety goals include:

Most roadside tree and brush control is accomplished by mechanical or chemical means. A correctly timed prescribed burn can also control brush.

Refer to "Tree and Brush Control for County Road Right-of-Way," a 2002 Iowa Highway Research Board/UNI-IRVM publication, for complete brush control information. Herbicide recommendations from that publication — with updates  — are shown in the appendix.

Resisting outside pressure to apply more chemicals might require educating a landowner — or even a member of the board of supervisors — why it might be inappropriate to spray. The following points can be helpful when talking to someone whose weed control philosophy is based primarily on experience with row crops and lawns.

Most counties that provide their own weed control:

Benefits of providing in-house county weed control:

In the early days of IRVM, many counties sent crews into the ditch equipped with backpack sprayers. They carefully spot-sprayed weeds. While this method provided good weed control with a minimal amount of herbicide, roadside managers soon learned they could not cover enough of the county.

Since then IRVM has helped drive the development of spray truck technology that delivers herbicides with the accuracy and control needed to live up to the program’s original principles — killing target species without weakening non-target species or putting too much chemical on the ground.

Progress has been made, not just with more responsive on/off control switches and multi-directional spray nozzles, but with systems that monitor flow, record data and greatly reduce operator exposure. As with any spray equipment, these systems are only as good as the person whose finger is on the trigger. The objective is still to spot-spray. Beware of getting comfortable and sitting too long in the cab. Be conscientious, stay alert and be ready to grab the handheld sprayer and walk to that distant shrub to treat it properly. Never underestimate the value of your own labor; sometimes it’s still best to put on the old backpack.

Roadside manager insights

We don’t spray shoulders, just bridge abutments and guardrails.

-Jim Uthe, James Devig, Dallas County, 2024

We don’t spray wild parsnip unless asked or if there’s a really rank patch. Unfortunately, if we tried to spray every parsnip plant we’d essentially be blanket spraying many areas. 

-Jim Uthe, James Devig, Dallas County, 2024

I publicize in the paper when we will start spraying, and encourage people to call me with locations of sensitive areas – gardens, bee hives, allergies, etc. I have “No Spray Zone” signs for willing landowners. 

-Jeff Chase, Des Moines County, 2024

Higher diversity roadsides are more robust, more resistant to weeds. Maintain high diversity even if you don’t have the opportunity to establish natives. Don’t spray species that are not creating problems.

-Wes Gibbs, Jones County, 2024

Our goal each season is to cover half the county for noxious weeds and the other half for brush. Most of the weed spraying is noxious thistles and teasel. When spraying brush, we try to cover areas in which brush and trees were cut the prior winter to catch any re-growth.  

-Wes Gibbs, Jones County, 2024

We have isolated patches of garlic mustard that get sprayed. However, what exists in the ditch is usually spill over from the woods. What makes it to the ROW is just the tip of the iceberg, so I don’t get too excited about chasing it down. We have plenty of parsnip that, historically, was sprayed every year. Still have plenty of it. We currently do not spray parsnip. 

-Wes Gibbs, Jones County, 2024

I mostly use the web or my sales rep for technical support. It’s too hard to maintain up-to-date, written information on the most effective herbicides for each species. But like anything else, the advice is only as good as the source.

-Josh Brandt, Cerro Gordo County, 2009

Counties typically used truck- or trailer-mounted chemical injection (high-end) or tank mix (basic) spray systems. The following is one county’s description of its two spray rigs. These fairly well represent the range of equipment available.

Our high-end unit is a Legacy 6000 chemical injection system from Mid Tech. This unit has a GPS to record the rate, type and amount of chemical used. We download that info to our desktop and print our reports. Our system has three injection pumps with three chemical tanks, and a 300-gallon water tank all on a skid for easy loading and unloading on the pickup. All the controls and the electric start are mounted in the cab on a computer stand. We have three bumper-mounted spray nozzles — 6 ft., 20 ft. and 30 ft. — and a hose reel with 300 ft. of hose in the back. We like this unit because we can easily switch chemicals to spray something else and one person can load and unload everything in less than an hour. A downside of this system — we can only use liquid chemicals, otherwise everything gets plugged up.

Our basic unit can also be loaded in the truck by one person. Just about any chemical can be used because it’s a tank mix system with an agitator in the tank. It has a 200-gallon tank, also on a skid, run by a 5 ½ HP motor. We have two nozzles, a 6 ft. and a 30 ft. on the right-front bumper. There is a hose reel in the back with 200 ft. of hose. There’s no GPS on this system, so we have to keep track of everything. We mounted switches in the cab to run the nozzles, but we have to get out to turn the system on and off.

Another type of truck-mounted spray system used in roadsides is an invert emulsion sprayer. Invert emulsion was developed to reduce herbicide drift and volatilization by producing large droplets of water surrounded by oil. The mayonnaise-textured droplets do not dry as fast as water, so leaf penetration is improved. Invert emulsion sprayers do not work with all types of chemical products; liquid formulations usually work best.

Bumper=mounted nozzles or raised, multi-section, nutating spray nozzles are typically used on county rigs. The following is one county’s description of both nozzle types:

A multi-section, nutating spray head allows a mindful operator to choose which section of the ditch to spray — in 2, 4 or 6 foot increments out to 30 feet. A system with multiple bumper-mounted nozzles can spray different distances too, but they tend to spray everything up to that distance. The mutli-section system uses less herbicide primarily by hitting a narrower band. But if operators of multi-section systems hit all seven switches every time they spray a single thistle — just to make sure they don’t miss — there won’t be much reduction in herbicide. Ultimately a good operator still makes the difference.

The backpack sprayer is the best way to reduce herbicide use and target specific invasive plants, especially in diverse wildflower plantings.

Anyone who applies pesticides for a county agency or other government entity must be certified. The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship-Pesticide Bureau administers the state’s pesticide applicator certification process. A description of this process — and related information — are in the appendix.

Roadside manager insights

We have an 800 gal tank. I like using a lot of water; bigger droplets = less drift.

-Jim Uthe, James Devig, Dallas County, 2024

Our spray rig came with an 8HP engine which failed due to a mechanic’s error and was replaced with an 11HP due to availability. It lasted 8 or 9 years and was replaced with a 13HP which lasted 8 or 9 years too. We are on our second 13HP now. Our pump is a Hypro centrifugal pump with an electric clutch.

-Jim Uthe, James Devig, Dallas County, 2024

The Legacy 6000 can be used as a datalogger and rate controller. When our old datalogger died, we just piggybacked the Legacy onto our existing rate controller because it was a lot less work than redoing everything.

-Jim Uthe, James Devig, Dallas County, 2024

We recommended a minimum of 2 chemical injection tanks, 1 brush, 1 thistle. We used to put 2,4-D in our third tank for use on large patches of various undesirable weeds (giant ragweed, hemp, crown vetch, parsnip, hemlock, etc.). Now we put a low rate (5 oz/ac) of Method herbicide in the third tank and use it in addition to our brush mix when spraying honeysuckle.  

-Jim Uthe, James Devig, Dallas County, 2024

Excellent, up-to-date information about invasive species and their control is available on the web. Take advantage of the following websites.

Weed and invasive species information

Herbicide information

• Herbicide Effectiveness on Invasive Plants in Wisconsin

Herbicide suppliers

Herbicide manufacturers & reps

Herbicide spray equipment companies

Property trained staff, the right equipment and advance planning are key to a successful and safe prescribed burn.

Training and personnel requirements

Though there are no state-wide minimum requirements for individuals participating in roadside burns, training opportunities are administered by the Iowa DNR that provide basic information for performing safe prescribed burns.

The minimum recommended training session is S130/190, which covers the basics of fire behavior and wildfire fighting techniques. This 40-hour course, combined with an annual eight-hour refresher, is adequate preparation to participate in a prescribed roadside burn. A combination of experience and additional training may be necessary to plan and lead a successful and safe burn.

Staff requirements for roadside burns vary with the conditions at each site; the size of the crew depends on the size and complexity of the burn. As a general rule, two to four qualified people can safely execute most roadside burns. Burning alone or understaffed is not advised, so it may be necessary to coordinate efforts with other agencies. Secondary road maintenance crews, county conservation boards, local fire departments, and other county IRVM programs are possible partners.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) standards vary among agencies, but some general guidelines should be considered.

Minimum suggested PPE

Roadside manager insights

Burning in the ROW can be dangerous, try to minimize smoke over the road and set up work zone flagging if necessary. 

-Joe Kooiker, Story County 2024

Prescribed Fire in the ROW can be difficult but is an important part of the roadside program. Roadside burning is a great tool and should be utilized. 

-Joe Kooiker, Story County 2024

Plan for the worst with water and equipment so you’re not under-prepared. Roadside burns can be challenging, but when done correctly, they’re not a big deal. It’s an accepted management practice that’s cheaper than spraying and cutting.

-Wes Gibbs, Jones County 2024

Stick with your burn plan. Even if you’ve spent a lot of time getting equipment and personnel to a burn site, if on that day conditions in the field do not meet your burn plan, DO NOT BURN. 

-Linn Reece, Hardin County, 2011

A small test burn at the anchor point will indicate fire and smoke behavior and the feasibility of continuing with the prescribed burn. 

-Jon Steege, Fayette County, 2011

We use strip head fires to speed up the burn without using a full-blown head fire. It works well with a smaller crew. 

-Jon Steege, Fayette County, 2011

Multi-use tanks and pumping systems should be thoroughly cleaned inside and out before being used for a new purpose. 

-Jon Steege, Fayette County, 2011

We try to vary burn seasons and intervals between burns so we aren’t adversely affecting any one set of desirable species. 

-Jim Uthe/James Devig, Dallas County

Use this survey as a tool for evaluating existing roadside management practices. The results will identify the program’s strengths and weaknesses, and be a guide for shaping the direction of the program’s future management practices. The survey is primarily intended to be used by an IRVM steering committee. Responses can be subjective, varying widely from one person to the next. Interviewing roadside management personnel will add validity to the process. 

 Rate each of the following by circling all responses that apply. 

1. Tree and brush control
   • Maintenance of sight lines
     • Very good
     • Adequate
     • Inadequate
     • Big need
   • Maintenance of recovery zone
     • Very good
     • Adequate
     • Inadequate
     • Big need
   • Removal of trees that present immoveable objects
     • Very good
     • Adequate
     • Inadequate
     • Big need
   • Removal of hazardous tree limbs
     • Very good
     • Adequate
     • Inadequate
     • Big need
   • Amount of tree cutting in general 
     • Well-balanced approach
     • Too aggressive
   • Quality of tree and brush cutting
     • Clean & professional
     • Not too bad
2. Weed control
   • General perception of roadside weed control
     • Very good
     • Adequate
     • Inadequate
     • Big issue
     • Not an issue
   • Amount of roadside spraying being done
     • Very good
     • Adequate
     • Inadequate
     • Big issue
     • Not an issue
   • Effectiveness of roadside weed spraying
     • Good results
     • Making progress
     • No sign of improvement
     • Losing ground
   • Characterize the application of herbicides
     • Responsible
     • Inconsistent
     • Indiscriminate
   •  Do spray crews need to cover more of the county each year?
     • Yes
     • No
     • Not the main concern
   • Is most weed spraying completed during May, June and September when spraying is most effective?
     • Yes
     • No
   • When a landowner complains about roadside weeds, but the weeds in question are not considered much of a problem, do you...
     • Take advantage of the opportunity to explain the county’s IRVM program and weed control priorities 
     • Automatically spray the weeds
3. Who does the roadside seeding? 
   • Private contractor
   • Private contractor does large jobs
   • Secondary roads
   • Conservation
4. When is native vegetation used in roadsides? 
   • After nearly all road projects
   • High profile projects 
   • Ditch cleanouts
   • Wide rights-of-way
   • Not at all

5. Equipment needs

   Consider working condition, current technology, appropriateness and availability of each of the following and recommend what equipment needs to be replaced or added.

   • Trucks
   • Tractors
   • Spray equipment
   • Chainsaws
   • Mowers
   • Seeding equipment
6. Number of employees with:
   • Weed control as primary responsibility during spray season
   • Brush control as secondary responsibility year-round
   • Herbicide applicator certification
   • Chainsaw and boom mower experience
   • Vegetation management knowledge/background
   • Native plant establishment/management experience
   • Prescribed burn experience/certification
7. How much is the county currently spending on:
   • Tree and brush control
   • Weed control
   • Seeding road projects
   • Erosion control measure installation
   • Weed commissioner salary
8. Based on the responses to these questions, which of the following are recommended?
   • Hire a full-time professional roadside manager
   • Hire a 9-month assistant roadside manager
   • Hire more seasonal help
   • Hire better-qualified seasonal help
   • Free up more existing personnel for roadside management
   • All of the above

_________ COUNTY, IOWA

POSITION DESCRIPTION

Position Title: Roadside Vegetation Manager

Department: County Engineer or County Conservation or Independent

Supervisor: County Engineer or Conservation Director or County Supervisors

Salary Range: $35,000–$45,000

Definition

A permanent, full-time position for the general implementation of the county’s Integrated Roadside Vegetation Management (IRVM) program and duties associated with all aspects of vegetation management within county secondary road right-of-way (ROW) corridors. Primary work activities are focused on the continued maintenance and development of safe travel corridors for vehicles and the application of sound ecological principles to manage desired vegetation types along those corridors.

Optional:

• Will perform related duties as required by the county engineer.
• Will work directly with parks and wildlife area managers to assist them with routine public land and facility management goals and objectives.

 Duties and Responsibilities

1. Direct the assigned staff in the design and implementation of the county’s IRVM plan.
2. Control noxious weeds in road rights-of-way, particularly those species identified by the county IRVM committee.
3. Coordinate and assist with control and removal of woody vegetation along county roadways.
4. Establish vegetation, primarily native, in cleaned, regraded and newly created ROW.
5. Conduct prescribed burns in selected county road ROW.
6. Conduct safety training for assigned staff.
7. Perform all duties and responsibilities of the County Weed Commissioner.
8. Develop a program of public information and education to promote public understanding of IRVM and wise land use practices that support IRVM objectives.
9. Inventory and document plant communities and related conditions along county ROW.
10. Manage those areas of native vegetation identified by the inventory process to improve diversity and overall health.
11. Maintain accurate, up-to-date records of the following activities: herbicide application, seeding and reseeding, prescribed burning, tree and brush removal and timely handling of complaints from county residents and other government agencies.
12. Assist with and perform scheduled and non-scheduled routine equipment maintenance and arrange with supervisor for non-routine work to be completed by private vendors.
13. Direct and assist with production, harvest and processing of native seed for use in ROW seeding projects.
14. Compile monthly individual and supervised staff work activity reports for all tasks completed.
15. Keep records of maintenance performed on assigned equipment and facilities.
16. Assist supervisor with annual budget preparation and expense tracking for ROW management operations.
17. Submit applications to the Living Roadway Trust Fund and other funding opportunities.

Qualification Requirements

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to satisfactorily perform each essential duty. The requirements listed as follows are representative of the knowledge, skill and ability required.

1. Ability to operate and maintain the necessary tools and equipment.
2. Ability to identify native and introduced plant species, including noxious weeds.
3. Ability to organize assigned work and develop efficient strategies to accomplish said work.
4. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other staff, the general public, special interest groups and individuals from other agencies.
5. Ability to operate personal computers and demonstrate or attain proficiency in Windows, Microsoft Word, Excel and the internet.
6. Ability to continue professional training to remain knowledgeable of current issues, trends and management techniques.
7. Ability to make minor repairs on equipment and facilities not requiring a trained, professional repair person.
8. Ability to work a non-standard work week, including nights and weekends to accomplish the objectives of the position. 
9. Ability to maintain accurate safety, work and equipment maintenance records.

The requirements and duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.

Education and Experience

A bachelor’s degree in a natural resource-related field and a minimum of two years practical work experience in natural resource/vegetation management or any equivalent combination of education, training and experience which provides requisite knowledge, skills and abilities for this position.

Knowledge of the tools and equipment required to perform the job.

Language Skills

1. The ability to communicate effectively with co-workers and the general public.
2. Ability to deal with the general public in a tactful and courteous manner.
3. Ability to properly and effectively communicate verbally and in writing.

Reasoning Ability

1. Ability to apply common-sense understanding to carry out instructions in written, oral or diagram form.
2. Ability to apply common sense to solve problems or achieve work objectives.
3. Ability to recognize work situations that require special attention.
4. Ability to deal with problems involving several variables in standardized situations.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations

1. Valid Iowa Commercial Drivers License (within 60 days of hire date).
2. Valid Iowa Pesticide Applicator License in category 6, Right-of-way and category 1A, Agriculture.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

1. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is routinely required to stand, walk, sit, operate hand tools, kneel, stoop, balance and climb ladders and equipment. These activities may be required for two or more hours at a time during an 8–10 hour work day.
2. The employee must routinely lift 50-pound objects 40 inches high and carry them for 15 yards.
3. The specific vision abilities required for this job include: close vision, distant vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

1. While performing the duties of this job the employee may work around moving parts/equipment.
2. The employee may work outdoors in extreme hot, cold, rainy, snowy and windy weather conditions.
3. The employee may be exposed to dust, fumes and loud noises.

Comments

Must be insurable for driving under county insurance company policies.

Applicant will be subject to post-offer, pre-employment drug and physical testing.

The county is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the County will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages prospective employees and incumbents to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

______ COUNTY INTEGRATED ROADSIDE VEGETATION MANAGEMENT

General Plan

Section 314.22 of the Iowa Code, Integrated Roadside Vegetation Management, states:

It is declared to be in the general public welfare of Iowa and a highway purpose for the vegetation of Iowa's roadsides to be preserved, planted, and maintained to be safe, visually interesting, ecologically integrated, and useful for many purposes.

DEFINITION

Integrated Roadside Vegetation Management (IRVM)

A long term approach to vegetation management that:

1. Systematically evaluates each area to be managed.
2. Determines which plant communities best fit the area.
3. Develops procedures that will encourage, enhance or re-establish native plant communities.
4. Provides self-sustaining, diversified, visually interesting vegetation.
5. Keeps safety and an improved environment as priorities.
6. Utilizes the most beneficial methods to prevent or correct undesirable situations by disturbance or less than optimum vegetative ground cover.
7. Enforces Chapter 317, Code of Iowa Noxious Weed Law.

INTRODUCTION

The prime purpose of road corridors is to transport people and goods safely and efficiently from one location to another. The prime purpose of roadside vegetation is to hold soil in place without creating hazards.

__________ County's vegetation management goals must meet certain safety and functional requirements before aesthetic, recreational, or economic considerations can be addressed. These are to maintain a clear zone recovery area, meet minimal sight distance requirements and provide for erosion control. We are also required by law to mow or otherwise control noxious weeds. 

Through the use of IRVM, we should be able to meet the prime purposes, provide a safe corridor for travel and address other desirable uses for roadside vegetation. 

The goals of the Integrated Roadside Vegetation Management Program are to: 

1. Preserve and provide safe, functional and environmentally improved corridors of travel throughout the county.
2. Utilize a long-term integrated management program that promotes desirable, self-sustaining plant communities in roadsides, drainage districts and other public lands in __________ County.
3. Encourage those plant communities that are native to Iowa through preservation and re-establish whenever practical.
4. Implement a brush control program within the roadsides and county drainage districts.
5. Make more efficient and effective use of chemicals as a control method of undesirable plants.
6. Enhance the scenic qualities of the roadsides and their value as roadside habitat.

PROCEDURES FOR INTEGRATED ROADSIDE VEGETATION MANAGEMENT

1. Inventory sites to be managed, listing areas of desirable vegetation and those needing improvement.
2. Determine the appropriate management methods needed.
3. Determine the best time to implement management procedures and see that they are accomplished at that time. Temporary procedures may be needed to preserve an area before permanent methods can be utilized. 

INTEGRATED ROADSIDE VEGETATION MANAGEMENT METHODS

Integrated vegetation management includes the use of cultural, mechanical, biological and chemical practices. Each location must be evaluated to determine the method to be used. One or more of the following will be used:

1. Cultural Methods

   Cultural controls can be achieved through the introduction and management of desirable plants to control noxious weeds and other undesirable plants. __________ County IRVM will use diverse native grass and forb mixes in their plantings. These diverse native plantings will be maintained and protected. Traditional lower gardening turf/lawn species may be used in clear zone areas or in front of private buildings at the landowner's request.

   Prescribed fire is recognized as a valuable tool in brush and invasive plant control and can be used to enhance and maintain native plant communities. __________ County recognizes the potential hazards relating to prescribed fire. Therefore roadsides will be burned only under the safest atmospheric conditions by burn crew personnel trained and certified in the use of fire. 

2. Mechanical Methods

   This involves anything from tractor mowers for managing shoulders, weed control and planting maintenance for pruning shears, chainsaws and boom mowers for controlling brush and maintaining guardrails and the clear zone.

3. Biological Methods

   This involves the use of animals, insects, bacteria or viruses to control plant growth. Natural enemies of noxious weeds could possibly be used in the ROW if necessary. Further research will be needed on other possible biological controls before the county will recommend them.

4. Chemical Methods

   Selection of chemicals to be used shall be based on their label constraints and residual effects on the environment. They will be monitored to document their effectiveness and impacts upon target and non-target species. 

   The herbicide industry continually develops new chemicals with specific effects on specific plant species. These herbicides can be valuable tools for controlling undesirable plants on a short-term basis. __________ County herbicide applicators will be certified by the State of Iowa as public applicators in categories 1A and 6.

EDUCATION AND INFORMATION

As part of the county's IRVM plan, it will:

1. Develop a public awareness campaign to gain support for integrated roadside management through media, established organizations, seminars and brochures.
2. Obtain educational and informational material on IRVM to be presented in seminars and distributed to adjacent landowners, the general public, consultants and contractors.
3. Provide guidelines and directives for contractors and others who seed, plant and maintain roadsides.
4. Prepare and distribute instructions on preservation of desirable areas and treatment of areas that need improvement.
5. Gather, develop, and distribute information with other jurisdictions, municipalities, counties and nonprofit organizations.
6. Encourage research in all aspects of IRVM, e.g.: road design for improving IRVM, planting methods, management practices, seed sources, seeding rates, seed mixes, planting materials, etc.
7. Encourage use of native seeds and plant materials.
8. Document and map all aspects of the IRVM progress using GIS software.

This is a flexible plan that requires common sense interpretations with changes as necessary to fit the ever-changing complex circumstances realized in roadside vegetation management. 

Diversity mix

(mixes change slightly each year based on species availability and prices)

Wet species bagged separately for use in moist ditch bottoms.

Ditch clean-out mix

Foliar Brush Control Herbicide Recommendations

Roadside manager notes (2011) — Foliar herbicide:

• Garlon/Escort is a common mix for brush control. Where Garlon (triclopyr) is noted, either Garlon 3A (amine formulation) or Garlon 4 (ester) can be used. Garlon 4 is usually more effective but in hot weather can volatilize drift and affect non-target species. 3A is non-volatile and usually considered the best choice for hot weather. 
• We quit spraying Tordon in roadside situations due to standing water and high water tables.
• Arsenal usually kills cool season grass, which can eventually create thistle problems. We limit its use to Japanese Knotweed.
• We've had good luck with Opensight at 3.3 ounces per acre plus an additional 1 ounce per acre of Escort on all of these trees.
• Honeysuckle control is different. When isolated patches are found, consider basal treatment.

Basal Bark Brush Control Herbicide Recommendations

Roadside manager notes (2011) — Basal bark herbicide:

• We've started adding about 0.5–1% Stalker to our 25% Garlon 4 mix. We used to add 3% Stalker, but our "ring of death" seemed to last for three or more years rather than just one.
• It helps to hack up thick- or corky-barked tress and trees > 2 inches in diameter.
• For most trees, we use 2.5 gallons Garlon plus 4 quarts Stalker plus 12.5 gallons diesel fuel or basal oil to make about a 15 gallon mix.

2002 herbicide recommendations taken from Tree and Brush Control for County Road Right-of-Way.

Iowa Pesticide Applicator Licenses and Certifications 

Certified Applicators 

Each individual who applies pesticides for a state or county agency, municipal corporation or other government entity is required to be certified. Certified public applicators may obtain a one-year certification for $10 or a three-year certification for $15. Certifications are valid only when associated with a valid licensed agency. Written examinations are required for first-time applicators. Written exams are also required for individuals adding on certification categories and those persons choosing not to maintain continuing instruction credit hours.

The core examination and appropriate category test(s) must be successfully passed before application for certification can be made. Additional categories may be added anytime with no extra charge. Any category will carry the same expiration date as the card on which it is added. Each certified individual must be listed as an applicator under a current Iowa pesticide applicator license for that certification to be valid. 

Renewal of Applicator Certifications 

Each applicator is placed on a three-year “qualification cycle.” During those three years, an applicator may maintain a single-year certification by submitting a one-year fee and renewal form (certification renewal forms are provided by the Pesticide Bureau). A 30-day grace period from the date of expiration will be allowed for the renewal of the certification. At the end of the qualification cycle each applicator must indicate a method of renewal by: 

1. Declaring that at least two hours of continuing instruction for each certified application category has been received for each of the previous three years and verification of having received training is on file with the applicator’s employer; or, 
2. Completing written tests at the end of the third year of the “qualification cycle;” or, 
3. Maintaining a combination of training and testing. 

Note: An applicator who misses two hours of training for any one category for any one year is required to complete written tests for that particular category. There are no provisions for “making up” missed continuing instruction hours to avoid the written test. 

Written applicator tests are offered daily, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Wallace Building at East Ninth and Grand in Des Moines. If a group of ten or more is involved, please call (515) 281-4339 or (515) 286-5601 and make an appointment. Otherwise, no appointment is necessary. Photo identification is required. Tests are also offered on a limited basis at some cooperative extension service area offices. Please contact either the area office or the Pesticide Bureau for a current testing schedule.

Contact Information 

Restricted-use Pesticide Recordkeeping 

These rules apply to both certified private and commercial applicators. The Iowa Pesticide Act requires applicators to keep records of all pesticide applications for 3 years. The federal regulations require pesticide applicators to record the following information within 14 days of the restricted use pesticide application: 

• The brand or product name and the EPA registration number of the restricted use pesticide that was applied. 
• The total amount of the restricted-use pesticide applied. 
• The location of the application. 
• The size of the area treated. 
• The crop, commodity, stored product or site to which the pesticide was applied. 
• The month, day and year on which the restricted-use pesticide application occurred. 
• The name and certification number of the certified applicator who applied the restricted-use pesticide.

More information can found in this IDALS document. 

P R A I R I E  C O U N T Y  E N G I N E E R

1 2 3 4  H I G H W A Y  1

P R A I R I E  C I T Y ,  I O W A  5 4 3 2 1

5 5 5 - 1 2 3 - 4 5 6 7

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date: March 1, 2024

Contact: Mike Jones, Prairie County Roadside Manager – 555-123-4567

Prescribed Burning in County Rights-of-way

Prairie County IRVM will be conducting prescribed burns in county road rights-of-way during the next few months. Prescribed burns are an effective resource management tool utilized to discourage the growth of weeds and woody vegetation, while promoting the growth of desired native vegetation in roadside prairie sites. All staff members are certified in wildland firefighting and take all necessary safety precautions to minimize the risks associated with a prescribed fire. Please use caution when approaching a burn site as staff members and equipment may be near the traveled portion of the road.

For more information, contact the IRVM office at 555-123-4567.

P R A I R I E  C O U N T Y  E N G I N E E R

1 2 3 4  H I G H W A Y  1

P R A I R I E  C I T Y ,  I O W A  5 4 3 2 1

5 5 5 - 1 2 3 - 4 5 6 7

MEMO

TO: RESIDENT

FROM: MIKE JONES

DATE: MARCH 10, 2024

RE: CONTROLLED BURNING IN RIGHT-OF-WAY

(address)

In order to encourage the establishment of native plant communities in our roadsides, different management techniques must be used along with our more traditional methods of mowing and spraying. Prescribed burning (not to be confused with wildfire) is any fire ignited by management actions to meet specific objectives. Goals of prescribed burns in terms of roadside management include stimulating growth of desirable species such as native grasses and flowers, impeding growth of undesirable species such as weeds and woody vegetation, and giving desirable species a competitive advantage over other species. In some instances, a prescribed burn may replace the need to use herbicides in the ROW. 

A prescribed burn for the right-of-way in the vicinity of your residence is scheduled for this spring. The burn will be conducted only by properly trained personnel and only under the safest conditions. The purpose of this memo is to notify you that a) a prescribed burn will take place, b) smoke will be produced in and around the vicinity of the burn for a short time, and c) this action may require minor traffic control around your residence. 

Specific location:

Right-of-way on Apple Avenue between 120th Avenue and 130th Avenue

For any questions, comments, or concerns about this notice, please contact:

Mike Jones, Roadside Manager/Weed Commissioner

Prairie County Secondary Roads Department

1234 Hwy 1

Prairie City, IA 54321 

555-123-4567

Burn history

Last updated: 5/1/2023

Prescribed Burn Management Plan

Location: West side of Apple Ave. between 120th St. and 130th St.

Prescribed burn parameter for this location

Temperature: 40–70 F

Wind direction(s): East or southeast

Wind speed: < 15 miles per hour

Relative humidity (%): > 30%

Personnel requirements: 1 crew boss, 1 additional

Equipment requirements: 1 pump truck (300 gallons), hand tools, 1 backpack sprayer

Potential hazards:

• Wood utility poles (x6)
• Phone box 20 yds. north of farm drive
• Corn stubble in adjacent field (tilled)
• Stop sign
• Plastic culvert under farm drive

Prepared fire breaks required

Description:

• Wet line near intersection of Apple Ave. and 120th St.
• Wet lines around potential hazards

Potential anchor points: Northwest or southwest corners

Special concerns:

• Heavy traffic on Apple Ave. after 3 p.m.
• Acreages/farms located to the west and northwest

Notes:

Smooth brome abundant on the north end – early spring burn desired

Prescribed Burn Weather Information

Location: West side of Apple Ave. between 120th St. and 130th St.

Date: April 18, 2024

Personnel:

• Crew boss: Mike Jones
• Crew: James Smith

Forecasted weather data

Source: NOAA

Forecast time frame: 9–11 a.m.

Temperature: 60–68 F

Relative humidity (%): 55–62%

Dewpoint: 32 F

Wind direction: Southeast

Wind speed: 7–10 mph

Cloud cover: Partly cloudy

Beginning on-site weather data

Time: 9:35 a.m.

Temperature: 64 F

Relative humidity (%): 58%

Dewpoint: 32 F

Wind direction: ESE

Wind speed: 8–10 mph

Cloud cover: Mostly sunny

Ending on-site weather data

Time: 10:15 a.m.

Temperature: 66 F

Relative humidity (%): 53%

Dewpoint: 30 F

Wind direction: SE

Wind speed: 8–10 mph

Cloud cover: Partly cloudy

Notes: 90% burn – approximately 2 acres

Native plant and seedling guides

• An Illustrated Guide to Iowa Prairie Plants. Christiansen, P. and M. Muller. 1999.
• Central Region Seedling ID Guide for Native Prairie Plants. USDA - NRCS Elsberry Plant Materials Center and the Missouri DOC. 2005.
• How to Know the Grasses. Pohl, Richard W. 1978.
• The Prairie in Seed: Identifying Seed-Bearing Prairie Plants in the Upper Midwest. Williams, D. 2016.
• The Prairie Seedling Guide, 2nd Ed. Bockenstedt, P. 2007.
• Roadside Plants and Flowers. Edsall, M. 1985.
• The Tallgrass Prairie Center Guide to Seed and Seedling Identification in the Upper Midwest. Williams, D. 2010.
• Tallgrass Prairie Wildflowers: A Field Guide to Common Wildflowers and Plants of the Prairie Midwest. Ladd, D. and F. Oberle, 1995.
• The Vascular Plants of Iowa. Eilers, L. and D. Roosa. 1994.
• Wetland Plants and Plant Communities of Minnesota and Wisconsin, 2nd Ed. Eggers, S. and D. Reed. 1997.
• Wildflowers of the Tallgrass Prairie, The Upper Midwest, 2nd Ed. Runkel, S. and D. Roosa. 2010. 

Restoration and Management guides 

• A Practical Guide to Prairie Reconstruction. Kurtz, C. 2001.
• The Ecology and Management of Prairies in the Central United States. Helzer, C. 2009. 
• The Tallgrass Prairie Center Guide to Prairie Restoration in the Upper Midwest. Smith, D., D. Williams, G. Houseal and K. Henderson. 2010.
• The Tallgrass Prairie Center’s Native Seed Production Manual. Houseal, G. 2007.
• The Tallgrass Restoration Handbook, Revised Ed. Packard, S. and C. Mutel. 2005.
• Tree and Brush Control for County Road Right-of-Way. Williams, W. 2002.

Weed and weed seedling guides

• A Field Guide to Terrestrial Invasive Plants in Wisconsin. Wisconsin DNR. 2010.
• Common Weed Seedlings of the North Central States, Reprint. Chomas, A., J. Kells and J. Carey. 2001.
• Invasive Plants of the Upper Midwest: An Illustrated Guide to Their Identification and Control. Czarapata, E. 2005.
• Weeds of the Midwestern U.S. & Central Canada. Bryson, C., M. DeFelice and A. Evans. 2010.
• Weeds of Nebraska and the Great Plains. Nebraska Department of Agriculture. 1995.
• Weeds of the Northern U.S. and Canada: A Guide for Identification. Royer, F. and R. Dickinson. 1999.