Revised March 31st, 2024
Note: This content has been archived and may no longer be accurate or relevent
Note: This article explains the influence residents can have when they become involved in a respectful discussion.
In a rare move, the Shorewood City Council rescinded an earlier vote that allowed a contractor (Prairie Restorations) to use Garlon4 herbicide on buckthorn stumps in Freeman Park. In their rush to use grant funding from 2021, Council previously approved a poorly written contract and Mayor Labadie signed it without proper due diligence and specificity.
At Monday’s City Council (Jan. 21, 2024) meeting, several residents brought forth various scientific studies showing the negative health impacts of Tryclopyr – the main ingredient in Garlon herbicide products. Not only does Garlon contain a DANGER warning on its labeling that defies the City’s own Bee Safe program, studies in humans and animals show it affects the liver, kidney, respiratory system and may promote birth defects.
The buckthorn removal in Freeman Park started January 29, and did not include Garlon. Instead, forestry mulching equipment is being used for clearing.
For now, the City Council will take a step back and look at alternatives to harmful herbicides to permanently eliminate the buckthorn in the park. Options–which include the mulching equipment, pulling and cutting, then exhausting the plants–have already been discussed.
If you have been successful at eliminating buckthorn in and around your home or business and would like to share your methods contact info@shorewoodcitizenadvocates.com.
We are grateful for the investigative work of Shorewood resident Barry Brown . We are also grateful for a teachable city council that listened to sound warnings and will pursue a safer, more effective course of action.