Blenheim Run Invasive Vegetation Management

WSSI developed and executed a comprehensive invasive species management plan that would support natural area reforestation through regeneration over a two-year project construction phase.

The Challenge

WSSI’s client developed an apartment complex that utilized a stormwater easement through an adjacent plot of forested land. To offset the environmental impact of construction, the client was required to place the full adjacent forested parcel of land under a Forest Conservation Easement and develop and implement an invasive species management plan.

Our Solution

WSSI’s ISA-certified Arborists first evaluated the site and created the plan to meet City of Havre de Grace’s requirements and best practices for Maryland projects. After City and client approval, WSSI’s Maryland Department of Agriculture-licensed pesticide applicators executed the invasive species management program.

The short timeline meant that WSSI needed to generate significant progress on the site over the two-year contract period with a winter mechanical treatment, monthly chemical treatments in the spring, and bi-weekly chemical treatments in the summer.

Specifically, WSSI completed mechanical removal of vines, shrubs, and trees with hand tools and a forestry mower, then applied chemical treatments to stop the growth of invasive vines, shrubs, and herbaceous plants. To protect water quality in a stream running through the treatment area, we selected only herbicides approved for use in aquatic locations.

Halfway through Year 1, the stormwater easement was cleared in the middle of the project area. Lack of canopy cover allowed more light that fueled invasive plant growth. WSSI observed invasive plant re-establishment, so in Year 2 we stepped up the treatment frequency and intensity.

WSSI completed work on the site at the end of the 2024 growing season. Our plan recommended two additional years of post-treatment to encourage native plant regeneration.