Herbicides for invasive plant control

Read these frequently asked questions to learn how herbicides can be used to control invasive plants and benefit native wildlife.

MassWildlife's Habitat Programs use invasive plant control and other management tools to create, restore, and maintain a diversity of habitats for rare and common wildlife in Massachusetts. Herbicides are one of several tools used to manage invasive plants. 

Why are invasive plants a problem in Massachusetts?

Invasive plants are non-natives species that can spread rapidly and cause ecological harm. They often outcompete native plants for sunlight, water, nutrients, and space. Over time, invasive plants can become dominant, reducing plant diversity and changing the habitats that native wildlife depend on for food, shelter, and reproduction.

Controlling invasive plants can be expensive and require years of ongoing management. However, allowing invasive plants to spread also comes at a cost. As infestations grow, they often become more difficult and expensive to control. Left unmanaged, invasive plants can degrade wildlife habitat, reduce biodiversity, and make ecosystems less resilient to environmental changes and other stressors. 

Of the over 2,200 plant species documented in Massachusetts, 72 are considered invasive, likely invasive, or potentially invasive by the Massachusetts Invasive Plant Advisory Group. Invasive species are found in many different habitats. Examples include tree-of-heaven and mile-a-minute vine in upland areas, purple loosestrife and phragmites in wetlands, and water-chestnut and Eurasian water-milfoil in aquatic habitats. Click here to view a list of invasive plants. Taking action to control invasive plants before infestations become widespread can help protect native plants, reduce long-term management costs, and support healthier, more resilient ecosystems.

What techniques does MassWildlife use to remove invasive plants?

MassWildlife uses a variety of techniques to manage invasive plants, including hand pulling, cutting, mowing, prescribed fire, and herbicide applications. These methods may be used individually or in combination. MassWildlife’s habitat team considers the characteristics of the invasive plant they are trying to control, the extent of the infestation, and the habitat where it occurs when selecting techniques that are most likely to achieve long-term habitat restoration goals. 

Why are herbicides used in habitat management?

Herbicides are an effective tool for controlling invasive plants, especially when other methods are unable or unlikely to provide lasting results. Many invasive species can quickly regrow after mowing, cutting, or hand-pulling because they have extensive root systems with the ability to produce new shoots from small root fragments. In some cases, digging or pulling can disturb the soil and encourage the establishment of even more invasive plants. When used appropriately and selectively, herbicides can control these persistent plants, sometimes with less soil disturbance and fewer repeated mechanical treatments. MassWildlife’s habitat team carefully selects the most appropriate management tools to protect native plants, restore habitat, and provide long-term benefits for wildlife.

How does MassWildlife select sites for herbicide use?

Herbicides are not automatically used at every site where invasive plants are present. MassWildlife uses herbicides selectively and sparingly based on site-specific conditions and conservation goals. Invasive plant control is prioritized in areas where invasive species threaten important wildlife habitats, native plant communities, or rare species.

MassWildlife evaluates the type and extent of the invasive plant, the ecological importance of the site, and the potential consequences of leaving invasive plants untreated. Biologists also consider whether other management techniques would be effective, the presence of sensitive natural resources, and whether herbicides will help achieve long-term habitat improvements.

How does MassWildlife apply herbicides?

The herbicide and application method are selected based on the invasive plant being treated, site conditions, and potential impacts to surrounding vegetation and wildlife. Some herbicides, such as those containing glyphosate, affect a broad range of plants, while others are more selective and target particular types of vegetation. In Massachusetts, all pesticide products must be registered with the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. MassWildlife strictly adheres to the approved product label for every pesticide product used. Products are used only in accordance with their registered labeling, application directions, restrictions, and safety requirements. Herbicide applications on MassWildlife lands are conducted by MassWildlife staff or contractors who hold the appropriate pesticide applicator licenses or certifications issued by MDAR. 

Herbicides can be applied using several techniques, including:

• Targeted spraying: Handheld or backpack sprayers apply herbicide directly to the leaves of invasive plants.
• Wipe/Wick: Herbicide is wiped directly onto target vegetation using specialized applicators, minimizing contact with surrounding plants.
• Cut-stem or cut-stump treatment: Herbicide is applied directly to a freshly cut stem or stump to help prevent regrowth.
• Larger-scale applications: Specialized equipment may be used when treating extensive, dense infestations of invasive plants, including but not limited to UTV and tractor treatments.

More precise application methods are often used in areas with sensitive habitats. Invasive plant control often requires ongoing management, and multiple applications are often needed over several years to achieve desired results. 

How do herbicides impact other, non-target plants and wildlife?

Herbicides are intended to control invasive plants, but they can also impact native vegetation if exposed. When selecting herbicides and application methods, MassWildlife carefully considers the potential effects on non-target species, soil, water, and surrounding habitat. Targeted applications can help limit contact with desirable plants, and treatment timing are adjusted to avoid sensitive periods for plants and wildlife when appropriate. While no management approach is entirely without potential impacts, MassWildlife works to minimize unintended effects while restoring the native vegetation and habitat diversity that wildlife depend on.

Is herbicide use safe for people living nearby?

People may have concerns about herbicide applications near their homes, communities, and outdoor recreation areas. Herbicides are regulated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR). Before a pesticide is registered for use, the EPA evaluates information about its potential effects on human health and the environment. Product labels establish legally enforceable requirements for their use. MassWildlife uses licensed applicators who must follow laws, regulations, and product label instructions. Applicators also consider site conditions to prevent unintended exposure. Protecting public health is an important consideration when planning and conducting treatments; safety protocols are in place to reduce potential exposure and protect people and the environment.

Can people and pets visit an area after MassWildlife has applied herbicides?

MassWildlife lands provide important opportunities for outdoor recreation, and visitors may have questions about using recently treated areas. Restrictions on entering treated areas depend on the herbicide product, application method, and site-specific conditions. Product labels may specify precautions or waiting periods before people and pets can enter treated areas. Visitors should follow posted notices and any temporary access restrictions during or after treatment. Anyone with questions about a specific treatment area can contact MassWildlife for additional information.

Who conducts herbicide applications on MassWildlife land and how are they trained?

Herbicide applications on MassWildlife lands are conducted by MassWildlife staff or contractors who hold the appropriate pesticide applicator licenses or certifications issued by the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR). Licensed applicators must demonstrate knowledge of pesticide safety, application methods, environmental protection, and applicable laws and regulations. They are also required to maintain their credentials through ongoing education or examination. MassWildlife has a dedicated Herbicide Safety Officer who maintains herbicide-related records, provides technical support, and oversees compliance with all state and federal laws. 

All herbicide applications must comply with applicable federal, state, and local requirements, including product label instructions and any necessary environmental permits or approvals. These requirements help ensure that herbicide applications are conducted by qualified professionals who understand both the effectiveness and potential risks of the products they use.

Does MassWildlife use herbicides near wetlands, ponds, and other water resources?

Invasive plants can pose significant threats to wetlands, ponds, and other sensitive habitats, making their control particularly important in some locations. Herbicide applications in or near these areas require additional consideration because of the potential effects on water quality, aquatic organisms, and surrounding vegetation. MassWildlife secures all necessary permits for herbicide application, including those under the Wetlands Protection Act and Massachusetts Endangered Species Act.

Biologists evaluate site conditions and select products and application methods appropriate for the location. Herbicides used directly in aquatic environments must be specifically labeled Aquatic Approved for that use. The goal is to protect sensitive habitats while minimizing potential impacts from treatment.

How does MassWildlife know whether herbicide treatments are working?

Invasive plant control often requires ongoing management. Some invasive plants have extensive root systems, produce large numbers of seeds, or can reestablish from seeds already present in the soil. As a result, a single treatment may not eliminate an infestation. Follow-up treatments may be necessary over several years to control regrowth and prevent invasive plants from becoming dominant again.

Monitoring and evaluating habitat management efforts are important parts of MassWildlife's work. Following invasive plant control, biologists assess treatment results and determine whether additional management is needed. Depending on the project, this may include evaluating invasive plant regrowth, the recovery of native vegetation, and changes in habitat conditions. This process, known as adaptive management, allows MassWildlife to learn from treatment results and adjust approaches over time. Scientific understanding of herbicides and their potential environmental effects continues to evolve. As new research, monitoring results, or regulatory guidance becomes available, MassWildlife is committed to adapting management practices over time.

How can I learn more about MassWildlife’s herbicide use at a particular location?

MassWildlife appreciates the public’s interest in conserving wildlife and restoring habitats. MassWildlife hosts guided walks on properties and presentations for the public throughout the year and you can visit MassWildlife’s calendar to find upcoming events. If you have questions about habitat management on MassWildlife’s properties, please email [e-mail] or call the district office nearest you:

• Western District: [phone] 
• Connecticut Valley District: [phone]
• Central District: [phone]
• Northeast District: [phone]
• Southeast District: [phone]

How can I help prevent the spread of invasive plants?

Preventing invasive plants from becoming established is one of the most effective ways to protect native habitats. Once invasive plants spread, controlling them can be difficult, costly, and require years of ongoing management. 

Residents and communities can help prevent the introduction and spread of invasive plants by taking a few simple steps:

• Choose native plants for gardens, landscaping, and decorating, and avoid using known invasive species.
• Clean boots, equipment, vehicles, and boats before moving between natural areas to avoid accidentally transporting invasive seeds or plant fragments.
• Dispose of yard waste responsibly and never dump plants, soil, or landscaping debris in natural areas.
• Learn to recognize invasive plants and address new infestations early, before they have an opportunity to spread.
• Share information with neighbors and community groups about the importance of preventing invasive species.

By working together to prevent the introduction and spread of invasive plants, we can help protect native plants and wildlife while reducing the need for more intensive management, including herbicide treatments, in the future.