Juneau, WI – Dodge County officials are preparing to begin an herbicide spraying program targeting invasive plant species along rural roadways, with work expected to ramp up in late April.
According to the Dodge County Highway Department, the initiative aims to improve roadside vegetation management and reduce the spread of noxious invasive plants that pose risks to public safety and infrastructure. Crews will focus on areas within the road right-of-way, where invasive species can obstruct visibility and create hazards for drivers, utility workers, and emergency responders.
Officials said residents may notice crews applying herbicides designed to specifically target harmful weeds such as wild parsnip while preserving native grasses and beneficial plants. The products being used are certified by the Environmental Protection Agency and are applied by trained staff to ensure environmental safety.
The spraying will cover all county roads and approximately the southern one-third of state highways within Dodge County, including portions of State Highways 16, 26, and 67. No spraying is planned within city or town road systems. The timeline for completion will depend on weather conditions, though officials anticipate roughly two weeks of activity once operations begin.
Highway officials emphasized that the herbicides used are selective and intended to support healthy roadside ecosystems, allowing pollinators and native vegetation to thrive while eliminating hazardous invasive growth.
Residents with concerns, including organic growers, are encouraged to contact the Dodge County Highway Department for more information about the program and its potential impact.
Officials advise drivers to remain alert for roadside crews and equipment during the spraying period.
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