Iowa Right-of-Way Herbicide Practice Exam

The application of persistent nonselective herbicides requires careful consideration of their impact on desirable tree species in the surrounding area. Applying herbicides outside an area equal to twice the height of the desired trees is advisable because it establishes a significant buffer zone that helps mitigate the risk of herbicide drift or unintended uptake by the trees.

This buffer ensures that any residual herbicide that may be present in the environment does not affect the trees, which could otherwise suffer from damage or stress, potentially leading to decline or death. The principle behind this approach is that many trees can absorb chemicals through their root systems, and a larger distance from the tree’s canopy enhances the protection against adverse effects. This practice also considers factors such as wind and soil movement, which can impact the spread of herbicides and their subsequent effect on nearby vegetation.

By following this guideline, practitioners can more effectively protect valuable trees while controlling unwanted vegetation in rights-of-way.