To prevent vegetation emerging from pavements, the community of South Portland will be completing pavement crack and crevice herbicide applications. A certified licensed contractor will complete the work. Target areas include roadside sidewalks, traffic islands, walkways and parking lots. The herbicides to be utilized will be Esplenade 200SC Herbicide and an organic herbicide called Finalsan Herbicidal Soap. Further information can be obtained from Municipal Pest Management Services, Inc. (603-431-0008 or swampfixer@swamp-inc.com).
The Public Works department applied for a waiver to the Landcare Management Ordinance to conduct this work because of infrastructure damage due to excessive vegetation. The Landcare Management Advisory Committee (LMAC) issued this waiver in February 2024. The above treatment will occur twice, in April and May, followed by four applications of organic-only herbicide June-September.
As stated in the Landcare Management Ordinance, a waiver can be applied for “in situations that threaten the public health and safety, or for the control of invasive species that pose a threat to the environment, or for the application of a rescue treatment to prevent damage to infrastructure.” To file for a waiver, persons may apply to the LMAC Waiver Committee prior to the use of a prohibited product or prior to the conduct of a prohibited application. Contact the LMAC staff liaison for more information or to apply for a waiver.
The use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers on public and private property is restricted in the City of South Portland, except in limited circumstances or when a waiver is granted. The Landcare Management Ordinance was enacted to create and foster vibrant landscapes that protect the health of people, pets, pollinators, and our critical waterways. The LMO establishes organic landcare methods as the primary means to care for and maintain property in South Portland, including lawns, gardens, athletic fields, parks, and playgrounds.