In an effort to protect Connecticut\’92s natural ecosystem, the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) and CT DOT Office of Environmental Planning (OEP) now mandates that all invasive species must be removed within project limits before any work can commence on any state construction project.

When bidding your next job that includes invasive species removal or invasive species control refer to this helpful summary of guidelines from the Office of Environmental Planning.

1. Identify all invasive species in the invasive removal areas outlined in the Project Plans and Specifications.

2. At the pre-construction meeting, submit an invasive removal plan to the Environmental Scientist for review. This plan should include the following:

• List of all invasive species present on site

• Species specific treatment methods for complete eradication

• Removal methods planned

• Schedules showing dates and types of initial, intermediate, and final treatment

• This must take into consideration the time period required between herbicide application and physical removal of the species, which is typically a minimum of 2 weeks

• List of construction activities planned in invasive removal areas during the eradication period

• Disposal methods

• On-site methods and areas

• Off-site disposal location

• Proof of DEEP licensure for herbicide application

• Description of safety equipment and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to be employed

• Procedures for handling chemical spills

To continue reading the entire list of OEP guidelines please download our white paper, “The Invasion of Invasive’s” by clicking the photograph below.

Over the past decade, the State of Connecticut in partnership with the Department of Transportation has become more aware of the inherent threat that invasive species pose to our native habitats. In order control invasive species on job sites contractors have a new set of guidelines that must be followed on job sites that are being enforced by the CT Office of Environmental Planning.

Contractor’s responsibility before and during invasive removal:

Maintain labels for each herbicide being used
Provide OEP with a 10 day notice prior to beginning work so the Environmental Scientist can arrange to be present when necessary
Follow all manufacturer\’92s recommendations and requirements of regulatory agencies for herbicide formulations and applications.
Maintain written, detailed records of all herbicide applications, including formulation, concentration, areas treated, dates of application, which must be submitted to the Environmental Scientist following each treatment

Invasive species can be controlled using mechanical and chemical techniques. Guidelines from the OEP also don’t end in the before and during stages of removing invasive species either. There are guidelines for disposal of invasive vegetation as well as steps to be completed on the job side after the invasive species have been eradicated. To learn more about the entire invasive species removal process please download our white paper “The Invasion of Invasive’s” to learn more.

Over the past decade, the State of Connecticut in partnership with the Department of Transportation has become more aware of the inherent threat that invasive species pose to our native habitats. These non-native species have multiplied at aggressive rates, out-competing native species that provide beauty to our landscape and in addition, many ecological benefits to birds and wildlife. In an effort to protect Connecticut\’92s natural ecosystem, the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) and CT DOT Office of Environmental Planning (OEP) now mandates that all invasive species must be removed within project limits before any work can commence on any state construction project.

All Seasons Landscaping Contractors has had many years of experience performing invasive removal on many projects all across the state. Our crew members are all DEEP Licensed Pesticide Operators that spray under the direction of a Licensed Commercial Supervisor. We also have the equipment that can handle clear cutting invasive species, including sizable caliper woody ornamentals, close to the ground. This enables us to quickly and efficiently, mechanically remove invasive species covering large surface areas.

After spending countless hours combing over detailed specifications and project plans, then having to aggressively bid against your competitors, it is frustrating enough to get a signed contract and permission to start work after finally being awarded the job. The last thing any contractor needs is to have their job delayed any further because invasive species have not been eradicated on the job site.

If you have any questions in regards to invasive removal on your next project, please read our new whitepaper “The Invasion of Invasives” which you can download for free by clicking the image below.