State of PA to Developer: Weeds Gotta Go

In an unusual action, the PA Department of Agriculture has ordered a developer to remove a state-designated noxious weed from wetlands on his property.

In a control order, developer William Murry is instructed to eradicate purple loosestrife from eight acres of wetlands at the Manor Township development. The pretty but destructive plant is taking over the wetland and is spreading into a township park, the order states. Enforcement actions in the Pennsylvania Noxious Weed Control Law are driven by complaints from community members and neighbors. Murry says he has contracted specialists to remove the loosestrife by this fall. He said eradication may involve a combination of treating the plants with a chemical herbicide and hands-on removal. http://local.lancasteronline.com:80/4/207940

Lancaster New Era – August 10, 2007