The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is announcing the start of the Roadside Safety Vegetation Management (RSVM) Program late April through August 31, 2025.
CTDOT uses herbicides to safely and effectively control the encroachment of vegetation along and under guiderails, signs, and barriers within the state-owned right of way. Guiderail and barrier systems along divided highways and ramps will be treated beginning in the eastern region of the state, followed by the western region, the southern region, and lastly the central region.
The guiderail and other barrier systems along secondary state roads will be treated beginning in the central region, eastern region, southern region, and lastly the western region. From August 15 through November 2025, a program of spot spraying will be in place to manage specific locations populated by invasive plants / trees.
CTDOT will also be utilizing Foamstream and AquaPro application units in specific areas such as paved islands and barrier systems in vicinity to water courses. Both units apply high temperature steam to burn the upper and lower plant parts. The Foamstream unit also uses a non-herbicidal foam consisting of coconut oil, wheat, rapeseed oil, and potatoes. The foam functions as a thermal blanket, heating weeds long enough to eradicate them.
The impacts to travel will be minimal as this operation utilizes a moving (rolling) traffic pattern. All products utilized by CTDOT are approved by the Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. Extra precautions are implemented where guiderail systems are in proximity to sensitive areas such as wetlands and watersheds.
More information regarding the CTDOT’s herbicide program may be found in the Vegetation Management Guidelines on the CTDOT website.