Gear, Tools and Safety

Safety is our first priority. The choices we make about the clothing we wear, and the tools and methods we use in the field help us to insure that we minimize risk. Generally, invasive plant control work is very safe, but some simple precautions can make a big difference. There is plenty of work to do that does not require one to take chances with one’s safety and well-being. Here are our recommendations:

Notify someone — Let someone (your spouse, friend, a neighbor) know when and where you will be working, especially if you will be working alone. If you have a cell phone, it’s a good idea to carry it with you.

Keep track of your physical condition and surroundings—keep hydrated and stop work when you become tired. Overexertion and dehydration can lead to a loss of concentration. As you progress through the woods, keep an eye out for tricky footing, poison ivy and yellow jackets (the latter usually nests in the ground near fallen logs or at the base of trees near the woodland edge). A simple look around and consideration of your next move will help you to avoid these occasional hazards. If a spot looks treacherous, remember that one can always come back in the late fall, winter or early spring when most of the hazards are absent.

Water, bug spray and sunscreen—as with any active outdoor activity, it is vital that individuals carry water and drink frequently to re-hydrate. One quart of water for every two hours is a standard rule of thumb in the worst heat of the summer. Insect repellent and sunscreen keep one safe from insect bites and sunburn.

Natural hazards—Poison ivy usually is found growing on the ground below knee height, but occasionally branches out 4 feet or so from tree trunks on which it climbs. Learn to identify it. Even if you do not think you have had contact with poison ivy, it is a good idea after work to wash up with cool water and strong soap, take your outer clothes off carefully and wash them separately from your other clothes in hot water. Be aware that poison ivy resin can persist for quite some time on gloves, tools, clothing, etc. Some folks find Tecnu (brand) cream, available over-the-counter at drug stores, to be a good post-work preventative. In the odd chance that you get stung by a yellow jacket or bee, be aware that some folks can have an extreme allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention. And, although ticks are rare in our area, learn how to do a self-check for ticks.

Special safety note: Do not pull vines down from trees. Doing so may dislodge debris or, worse, pull a limb down on your head. “Window” the vines, cutting them as far up as you are able, and leave the upper portions to die and decompose naturally.

DC Woodlands

Invasive exotic plant control in Washington, DC

www.dcwoodlands.org