Connecticut Department of Transportation

04/19/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 04/19/2024 13:57

Roadside Herbicide Spraying Program to Begin Across Connecticut

CTDOT Press Releases

04/19/2024

Roadside Herbicide Spraying Program to Begin Across Connecticut

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) will conduct a roadside herbicide spraying program from May 13 through August 31, 2024, along Interstates 84, 91, 95, 384, 395, 691 and all other divided highways and secondary roads in accordance with CTDOT's Vegetation Management Guidelines.

The CTDOT uses herbicides to control the encroachment of vegetation safely and effectively under guiderails, signs, and barriers within the state-owned right of way. Guiderail and barrier systems along divided highways and ramps will be treated beginning in the southern region of the state, followed by the central, the western, and lastly the eastern region.

The guiderail and other barrier systems along secondary state roads will be treated beginning in the central, eastern, southern, and lastly the western region. From August through November, spot spraying will be in place to manage specific locations populated by invasive plants / trees. The CTDOT will also be utilizing a Foamstream Application unit in specific areas such as paved islands and barrier systems in areas close to water courses. The unit applies high temperature steam and non-herbicidal foam consisting of coconut oil, wheat, rapeseed oil, and potatoes. The foam functions as a thermal blanket, heating weeds long enough to eradicate them.

The impacts to travel will be minimal as this operation utilizes a moving (rolling) traffic pattern. All products utilized by CTDOT are approved by the Connecticut Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP). Extra precautions are implemented where guiderail systems are in proximity to sensitive areas such as wetlands and watersheds. More information regarding the Department's herbicide program may be found in the Vegetation Management Guidelines on CTDOT's website.



FOR MEDIA INQUIRIES:
OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS
860-594-3062
[email protected]

Twitter: @CTDOTOfficial
Facebook: Connecticut Department of Transportation

Share this information on: