Roadside Spray Policy - Lincoln County, Montana

Lincoln County Roadside Spray Policy

Lincoln County Weed Department is responsible for controlling the noxious weeds and vegetation on the rights-of-way along County and State roads. The Department abides by the County and State Noxious Weed Plans and acts in accordance with the EPA label requirements of the herbicides being used. The following guidelines are provided as an overview of how invasive species and nuisance plant species are treated by the Department within Lincoln County.

• All herbicides will be used in a safe manner to ensure the protection of surface water, ecological integrity and maintain public health and safety.
• Where appropriate, brush and small trees may be chemically treated if the vegetation creates a sighting hazard within the right of way.
• Weed and/or brush species must be present and observable prior to treatment within any portion of the right-of-way.
• Site-specific guidelines will be followed for weed treatments within or adjacent to known sensitive plant populations.
• No herbicides will come in contact with water and no spraying will occur in wetlands or other aquatic areas. Aquatic labeled herbicides will be used where appropriate.
• We respect agreed on No Spray Zones that are maintained by the landowner.
• Spraying does not occur if the wind speed is over 10 mph or if the ambient air temperature is above 85° F.
• To minimize the risk of spills, herbicides are transported daily to the project site with the following conditions: transport only the quantity needed for that day's work; and transport only concentrate in containers in a manner that will prevent tipping or spilling, and in a compartment that is isolated from food, clothing, and safety equipment. Mixing shall only be done at or near the project site.
• Mixing, loading, and equipment cleaning are done more than 200 feet from private land, open water, or other sensitive resources.
• Spraying does not occur within 50 ft of people or animals.
• Highway warning signs are used when treating roadsides to inform the public and protect the spray crew.
• Weed population levels and herbicide efficacy in treated areas are recorded and monitored.
• If a conflict with a landowner occurs and the crew can not resolve it, they may refer the landowner to their supervisor or Weed Board Chairman.

These are meant as guide lines and may be amended as special situations arise.