Implementing the County Weed Control Plan

Implementing the County Weed Control Plan thompsbb

Most counties that execute their weed control plan in-house do so with the following parameters:

  • An agricultural tractor driving down a rural gravel road.
    In-house county staff are attuned to the wants and needs of the farmers, landowners, gardeners, beekeepers, prairie enthusiasts, and others in the community. This can make for a smoother implementation of the weed control plan.

    one full-time employee for much of the summer

  • two seasonal employees
  • one primary spray rig
  • $15,000–$30,000 spent on chemicals each year (as of 2024)
  • at least half of the county roadsides are managed for weeds each year; often, one-half of the county will be managed one year, then the other half the following year
  • herbicide applicator licenses and certifications maintained
  • proper herbicide storage
  • proper disposal of herbicide containers
  • awareness of the latest developments in herbicide and sprayer technology

The benefits of providing in-house county weed control include:

  • The county has control over how roadsides are managed. Sensitive areas such as gardens, bee hives, organic farms, prairie remnants, and roadside wildflowers are protected.
  • Having someone on staff who can apply herbicides and effectively control weeds is a great asset for roadside managers and county recreation staff.
  • When the person executing the plan lives in the county, personal pride and accountability become part of the equation, resulting in a more conscientious effort.