Right of Way Integrated Vegetation Management: Essential to Keep the Us Economy Moving

Abstract

Transportation and utility rights of way represent an often overlooked yet sizeable land mass across the U.S. that transects diverse topographies and ecosystems. These land uses, along with the necessary safety, drainage, and load bearing features, present unique challenges for vegetation management, especially on transportation rights of way. An integrated approach to vegetation management is essential to maintain the functionality of these corridors and should be part of the initial right of way design, but once constructed, mechanical and chemical control are the primary tactics to manage undesirable vegetation.