HomeMy WebLinkAboutPOL-037-24 Weed Control - Roadside
COUNTY OF NEWELL - POLICY HANDBOOK
POLICY NO: POL-037-24
TITLE: ROADSIDE WEED CONTROL
ADOPTED: March 28, 2024 (C-89/24)
SUPERCEDES NO: 2016-PAG-020 PAGE NO: 1 of 1
POLICY STATEMENT:
The County recognizes the significant impact that weeds pose on landowners and one of the
primary vectors for spreading weeds is via road networks.
POLICY PURPOSE:
This policy will set the guidelines for the Agricultural Services Department to implement a roadside
spraying program.
_______
POLICY GUIDELINES:
1. Roadside spraying will be an on-going program of the Agricultural Services Department.
2. On even years, targeted roads will be north of Highway #1. On odd years, targeted roads
will be south of Highway #1. Treatment areas will be the entire municipal right-of-way.
3. Problem areas will be identified by weed inspectors and/or Agricultural Services staff and
sprayed as time and budget permit.
4. Only herbicides licensed for roadside weed control will be used. Herbicides used will be
rotated from time to time to limit the chances of herbicide resistance.
5. The Agricultural Services Department will not spray roadside ditches where there is an
"Agreement for Restricting Herbicide Use” with the landowner and signs are posted.
6. No spraying will be done beyond the fence line.
7. Prior to the commencement of the spraying season, the County will advertise that road
spraying will be conducted. The advertisement will identify:
a. Start and end dates,
b. The option of setting up an exclusion zone,
c. Herbicides to be used, and
d. General location of primary spraying to be conducted.
8. Spraying will only be done under the supervision of a licensed pesticide applicator and the
County will follow standards set out by the Professional Vegetation Managers Association
of Alberta.
9. The County will ensure any required special permits are in place and followed.
ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
Director of Agricultural Services will ensure budget funds are allocated for resources.
Director of Agricultural Services will advertise the program and ensure staff are properly
trained.