Roadside Management of Japanese Knotweed

Author: Ray Dorsey

As we all know there’s good and bad in every part of life. We always hope that the good outweighs the bad. The COVID-19 outbreak is definitely a bad thing. On the bright side the seasons continue on and spring has sprung. A good thing.

As I was out on my daily walk this morning and practicing my social distancing (a good thing!?), I noticed many trees, bushes and several species of herbaceous plants in full bloom. A good thing. I also noticed many species of invasive and undesirable plant species coming out of dormancy and/or putting on new growth. A bad thing. One of those invasive species is Polygonum cuspidatum, Japanese knotweed.

Japanese knotweed is a prolifically growing invasive plant that invades areas with moderate sunlight like roadsides growing in excess of 12 ft in height. It has been classified as a noxious weed in seven states and is listed on many State invasive species lists. A bad thing.

Japanese Knotweed

Japanese knotweed poses a huge problem on roadsides. The plant(s) block out the sun to more desirable vegetation such as grasses and other low growing species. The plant(s) can also cause sight distance problems for motorists. Since Japanese knotweed grows so tall and spreads so prolifically, it hinders a driver’s line of sight at interchanges, rounding curves and pulling out of a driveway. A bad thing.

Japanese knotweed can be controlled. Measures include frequent mowing and application of herbicide(s) labeled for control. A good thing.

To further assist in control of Japanese knotweed, Clearion’s workflow solutions can help vegetation managers in combating this and other invasive species, a good thing. Clearion’s mobile technology allows roadside managers to track, schedule work, automate review and inspect is a good thing. Clearion can radically transform the way in which desirable vegetation and invasive species are managed by improving communication and data between managers and field crews.

Clearion: the good outweighs the bad!

Please email me to learn more. And, of course, we’re ready when you are to discuss how Clearion can fit into your digital operation.

 

 

Chris Kelly is the CEO and Co-founder of Clearion, a global software company providing inspection and maintenance management solutions for the utility and transportation industries. During his 25-year career, Chris has developed deep expertise at the intersection of field operations, geospatial technology, and sustainability initiatives. In addition to his role at Clearion, Chris serves on the board of the Olmsted Linear Park Alliance, The Ray Advisory Council, and coaches high school golf in his hometown of Atlanta, GA.