Highly toxic poison hemlock found in Jenison park

GEORGETOWN TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD) — A new sign warns families in Jenison of the dangers of poison hemlock as they enter the Maplewood Park and Splash Pad on 12th Avenue.

The invasive plant has also spread in other sections of the park where signs are not posted.

Becky Steele, a Georgetown Township Trustee and a member of the Services Committee, said residents in the area reported the plants months ago, mistakenly thinking they were hogweed. The Township has been monitoring for poison hemlock ever since.

“We worked with MSU Extension to correctly identify the plant and we began exploring eradication options in May,” Steele told News 8.

According to scientists at the Michigan State University Extension , the weed was first brought to the U.S. in the 19th century as an ornamental garden plant, and has since spread throughout the continent. Contact with the sap can lead to blisters, but all parts of poison hemlock are toxic if ingested. It is infamously known as the form of death Socrates chose.

As for removing it, Georgetown Township trustees have opted not to use chemicals, because of the proximity of the weed to Maplewood Lake and nearby farmland.

“We are working to get bids to remove the plant mechanically, especially in the larger patches and where it is in close proximity to pedestrian paths,” Steele said. “In the meantime, signage has been put up to encourage visitors to the park to exercise caution.”

The township has yet to receive reports of anyone having an adverse reaction after coming into contact with the plant.

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