Work events
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Ghost Town Trail
Wed, August 9, 2023, 4:30 – 8:30 pm
Description
We will spray Japanese and Giant knotweed with glyphosate herbicide in the six-mile section between Dilltown and Heshbon. Knotweed has thick roots and rhizomes that can extend 6 feet deep and 60 feet horizontally. It is not feasible to eliminate it by mechanical methods. Some biological treatments are starting to show an impact on knotweed, but in many of the trials, the treatments are not able to effectively curb knotweed. Chemical treatments are effective; but of course, they cause some collateral damage. We will try to minimize that collateral damage by using the minimum effective dosage and trying to target just the knotweed leaves.
Our goal is to eliminate the smaller, easily accessible infestations so that they don't spread. These small infestations are surrounded by native plants that will fill in once we eliminate the knotweed. The largest or inaccessible infestations would best be handled by professional crews, so Plant Patrol will not treat them.
Our protocol is a two-step process. We cut the knotweed to the ground in June. At least six weeks later we return and spray the resprouted knotweed, which will only be one or two feet tall, with glyphosate herbicide. That late in the growing season, the plants' nutrients will be flowing back into its roots. The herbicide will be drawn into the knotweed roots and will kill the plants.
We will use a vehicle to drop off pedestrian volunteers along the trail with spray equipment. Cyclists will carry backpack sprayers or will travel with a bicyclist with a trailer to haul other cyclists' sprayers.
Plant Patrol will supply all of the necessary equipment and supplies. Bring your own water or snacks, if you wish. Wear a long sleeved shirt, long pants, and closed shoes. If you have a favorite pair of safety glasses or chemical-resistant glove, you can bring them. Otherwise, we will supply safety glasses and chemical-resistant gloves. If you can work by bicycle, bring your bike.
Meet at the Heshbon trail head at 4:30 pm or 5:30 pm. We will have a Plant Patrol organizer at the parking lot at both times, so you can start at whatever time works for you. You can get driving directions by entering the address 60 Wagner Dr, Blairsville, PA 15717 into your GPS system or Google Maps.
If rain or winds are predicted, then we will reschedule this event for another evening. Contact volunteers@plantpatrol.org if you have any questions or if you wish to volunteer without registering on the Web site.
Visit this location's web site: Ghost Town Trail