Pitt County urges responsible use of herbicides

Pitt County government is encouraging residents to responsibly use herbicides to protect vegetation that protects local waterways.

It is the third year the county has undertaken the Keep Pitt Green digital marketing campaign, County Manager Janis Gallagher said during February’s Pitt County Board of Commissioners meeting.

The goal is to encourage people to use selective herbicides that target specific weeds and grasses without killing surrounding vegetation, Gallagher said. The message will be delivered through various social media platforms and other outlets, she said.

The chemical glyphosate is found in commonly used grass and weed control products. When applied incorrectly, this herbicide can lead to loss of land due to erosion which causes sedimentation to occur. The buildup of sediment creates drainage system issues.

“Misuse or overuse of any chemical may cause loss of vegetation, especially on ditch banks, which can impede proper drainage resulting in standing water affecting neighborhoods and business areas,” said Matthew Stevens, Pitt County Cooperative Extension director.

“Standing water due to erosion of ditch banks is a breeding ground for mosquitos and other bacteria, raising health concerns for humans and livestock,” said PJ Andrews, Pitt County Soil and Water director.

Alternatives to glyphosate include Spectracide, Ortho, Scotts and Image. These products target specific plants like broadleaf weeds, sedges and grasses. The PSA, “Keep Pitt Green: Pro Tips for Lawn Care,” can be viewed in a two-minute long-form video or by visiting Facebook@PittCountyNC or pitt.ces.nscu.edu.

To learn more about glyphosate and lawn care alternatives, call Pitt County Cooperative Extension at 252-902-1700.