Herbicide treatment has begun in Tower area

Herbicide applications have begun in the Tower area, by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

Herbicides are used in select locations to reduce vegetation that would compete with newly planted tree seedlings. This gives the tree seedlings a better chance to grow and survive.

Appliction on 98 across across three sites begain June 20, continuing through July 30. Signs are posted on all herbicide treatment sites, and adjacent landowners within an eighth of a mile of the treatment sites will be notified.

The DNR plants trees on state lands to reforest harvested areas, provide wildlife habitat, protect watersheds, provide wood and fiber for forest products, sequester carbon and maintain healthy state forests. Part of the reforestation process involves applying herbicides where needed prior to or following tree planting. DNR foresters determine the right tree species for the site and private contractors plant the trees.

More information about how the DNR manages Minnesota’s forests can be found at mndnr.gov/forestry.