Best Practices Handbook for Roadside Vegetation Management
July, 2009
Best Practices Handbook for Roadside Vegetation Management
Best Practices Handbook for Roadside Vegetation Management
Vegetation is an important element of maintenance
All levels of government throughout Minnesota are concerned with maintaining roadsides for safety and aesthetics. There are many benefits to effectively treating the roadside, including:
• Reducing maintenance needs and costs
• Reducing erosion and improving water quality
• Improving water infiltration and reducing runoff
• Preserving the roadside surface
• Providing safety for vehicles and travelers
• Limiting liability for the governing agency
• Maintaining good public relations
• Improving driving experience
• Providing habitat for wildlife populations
The handbook reviews Minnesota roadside vegetation management practices, and highlights local practices that have been found to be effective or efficient. The report outlines the following best management practices in detail for effective management of roadside vegetation for local agencies.
1. Develop an integrated roadside vegetation management (IRVM) plan
2. Develop a public relations plan
3. Develop a mowing policy and improved procedures
4. Establish sustainable vegetation
5. Control noxious weeds and prevent the establishment of new invaders
6. Manage living snow fences
7. Use integrated construction and maintenance practices
8. Manage roadside vegetation for wildlife and vehicle safety
This study provides a valuable resource to state, county, municipal and township roadway authorities. The full report is available at http://www.lrrb.org/pdf/200820.pdf
For more information, contact Dr. John Krenz, Minnesota State University Mankato, at john.krenz@mnsu.edu or 507.389.5735 or Paul Walvatne, Mn/DOT Office of Environmental Services, at paul.walvatne@dot.state.mn.us or 651.366.3632.
.
Browse news articles by year
|