Clearwater County’s Agricultural Services department will begin roadside spraying of prohibited noxious weeds, woody vegetation (brush), and other nuisance vegetation throughout the County from late May to September.

For public safety, a buffer zone will be maintained between these roadside spray areas and county residences/yard sites.

As per the County’s Vegetation Management program, spraying on roadsides is done under the authority of Alberta’s Weed Control Act.  According to the Act, Clearwater County is required to control the weeds in the roadside just like any other landowner is on privately owned land.

As well, in the interest of public safety, brush control is performed to increase the sightlines on roadways and intersections as per the authority of the Alberta Highway Act. As a result, costs of maintaining these open roadways are reduced where brush and trees are managed properly as it makes snow removal easier and allows roads to dry out quicker after precipitation falls.

Officials say, Clearwater County works hard to maintain all of the gravel and paved roads within its jurisdiction. Whether its weed spraying, grass mowing or roadside brushing, vegetation management staff endeavor to control all vegetation within the right of way to protect the agricultural integrity, road safety, and infrastructure.

The County says weed infestations are spot sprayed with a boom-less sprayer or handgun. Herbicide injection pumps are said to allow for on the go selection so that the appropriate herbicide can be used with different weed species without the need to change tank mixes. Typical target species include but are not limited to Tall Buttercup, Wild Caraway, Ox Eye Daisy, Scentless Chamomile, Sweet Clover, and Canada Thistle.

County officials add, public and worker safety is always the priority. Specialized registered herbicides applied by Certified and Authorized trained applicators can be used safely around humans and animals with no side effects or grazing restrictions according to PMRA Canada.