What is the council’s policy on using dangerous herbicides such as Glyphosate?
I would like to know whether in the light of the biodiversity crisis, DCC is taking steps to prevent contractors from using herbicide except in particular emergency situations.
There is no overarching Devon County Council (DCC) policy relating to herbicide and pesticide use. Instead, decisions are made by relevant Services based on their specific operational requirements, whilst considering environmental objectives in line with the Authority’s standard procedures. This has resulted in steps being taken by relevant Services to restrict the use of herbicides / pesticides and, where practical, to consider non-chemical alternatives. An overview of the position in relating to the three main Service areas known to use herbicides / pesticides is set out below.
Highway Management
The overall objective is to control the impact of weeds rather than eradicate all growth. Limited control of excessive weed growth on hard surfaces such as carriageways, footways and cycle ways will be undertaken on a reactive basis where the size and density of the weed growth may create a hazard to the highway user or result in serious damage to the structure or surface. Manual control methods will be used to remove excessive weeds on hard areas. The total, non-residual herbicide glyphosate will be used to control weeds on filter / French drains. The herbicide will be applied to the weed growth only. The glyphosate used will be that approved for use near watercourses i.e. aquatic approval.
Grounds Maintenance
DCC operates a Corporate Grounds Maintenance Contract which covers grounds maintenance activities on DCC owned premises, including relevant school sites. This incorporates a choice of weed control options for most relevant operations; this may include the use of glyphosate formulations. Individual site managers (i.e. DCC / individual schools) can currently choose herbicide free options for most operations on a site-by-site basis if they wish. The contract is up for renewal and the updated version offers an expanded range of options including the use of low impact non systemic herbicides and non-herbicide treatments. It contains non–herbicide options for all normal and routine contract operations.
Waste Management Sites
DCC has responsibility for a range waste management sites including some historic landfill locations, waste transfer sites and civic amenity recycling facilities. Active sites are operated through contractual arrangements, which include provision for certain herbicide and pesticide application where required, including the occasional control of non-native and invasive species such as Japanese Knotweed and the control of rats and flies.