The Wright County Highway Department has announced the commencement of its vegetation management program set to initiate on April 28, targeting overgrowth along the county's highways. In a bid to improve motorist safety and road maintenance, crews will be cutting and applying herbicides to intrusive brush and noxious weeds. The herbicides, as confirmed by the county's announcement, are EPA and Minnesota Department of Agriculture approved, aimed at preserving grasses while eliminating unwanted vegetation.
Visibility issues and interference with road signage and wildlife crossings are among the concerns that Wright County aims to address with this operation. In a statement dispensed by Wright County, they declare, "Brush presents maintenance problems by retaining water along the roadbed, obstructing ditches, and damaging equipment." However, for property owners not keen on chemical treatment, the department is providing an option to manage roadside vegetation.
Those who wish to opt out of the spraying must acquire a NO SPRAY FORM by visiting the Wright County Highway Department Building or via email before April 25, 2025. Upon submission, property owners are obliged to display provided “DO NOT SPRAY” signs on their property and are responsible for the removal of noxious weeds by June 2, 2025. Should the property owners fail to adhere to this agreement, the area will be subject to the standard county spraying procedure.
The initiative underscores the county's commitment, not just towards the safety and maintenance of its thoroughfares, but also in respecting the choices of its residents concerning property management. "During the spraying operation, we’ll take care to avoid sensitive areas adjacent to the right-of-way such as tree plantations, ornamental plantings, crops, gardens, front yards, lakes, and streams," notes the official statement from Wright County. Property owners with questions or concerns can reach out to the Wright County Highway Department for further assistance.
