Vegetation Management

Vegetation management is a hot topic. Some citizens would rather have things look natural. Others would rather have the roadsides cleared further back than they are. What do we think? Well, there is a reason why we are doing things the way we are. We love suggestions, but we'll also clue you in to our reasoning.

First, grasses, weeds, blackberry vines, and other vegetation that are allowed to grow adjacent to the edge of pavement may limit a drivers ability to see around curves. Limited sight distance restricts the driver’s view of oncoming vehicles, pedestrians, bicyclists, wildlife, or other objects in, or adjacent to, the road. By limiting the growth of roadside vegetation, drivers will be able to see further thus improving the reaction time they have to avoid other drivers, pedestrians and objects.

Second, vegetation that is allowed to grow adjacent to the edge of pavement creates a barrier to proper drainage. In addition to creating a barrier, the vegetation will act as a sponge. Ponding water saturates the roadway shoulder area adjacent to the edge of pavement. Saturated shoulders become soft, develop pot holes and degrade the pavement. Pot holes and damaged pavements create dangerous situations for drivers.

And finally, vegetation build-up at the edge of the pavement can create a barrier to proper drainage resulting in ponding. These ponds can cause hydroplaning or freeze during the winter creating an icing hazard.

Click here for a copy of the vegetation management policy.