Spring is here and that means it’s time to tackle weeds.
City of Vernon contractors will start the spring weed program from June 7 to 10 to control weeds and grass that may impair traffic visibility, damage road asphalt surfaces and cause safety issues for pedestrians and cyclists.
“Weeds are controlled with mechanical trimming that includes roadside tractor mowing, weed line trimming and a spray program for weeds on paved road surfaces with concrete curb and gutter,” said Tanya Laing Gahr, the city’s communications officer.
Road shoulders in rural areas of Vernon, including Okanagan Landing and Blue Jay, are maintained. The road shoulders are mowed with a tractor equipped with a flail mower. This work is performed three times a year. Hand-line trimming is included in the program to maintain pedestrian walkways.
There are two weed-control spray applications each year. The timing of the applications are based on the life-cycle of various weeds and grass being targeted.
“Generally, the first application is in May, followed with the second application in September. Only vegetation that creates a hazard to pedestrians and cyclists or has the potential to damage infrastructure is targeted,” said Laing Gahr.