Dighton Weed Control Services

Our Weed Control Process

Contact Dighton's Department of Public Works for Weed Debris Disposal & Organic Waste Management

Proper disposal of weed debris and organic waste is essential for environmental protection and regulatory compliance in Dighton. Seasonal yard waste collection runs from April–November; residents must use biodegradable paper bags only (no plastic), as required by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection. Brush must be bundled in maximum 4-foot lengths and weigh no more than 50 pounds per bundle. The Transfer Station requires resident permits or stickers, and fees may apply depending on material type and volume. Invasive plants like Japanese knotweed, garlic mustard, and purple loosestrife must be bagged and sent to landfill—never composted—to prevent spread. Herbicide-treated material requires special handling and coordination with the Board of Health. Chemical containers must be triple-rinsed and disposed of at hazardous waste events, never in regular trash or recycling. Disposal in streets, gutters, or storm drains is strictly prohibited and constitutes an MS4 violation. Dighton Public Works
979 Somerset Avenue, Dighton, MA 02715
Phone: (508) 669-5028
Website: Dighton Public Works

Understanding Common Weeds & IPM Strategies for Dighton's Glacial Till & Rocky New England Terrain

Dighton’s landscape is shaped by glacial till and rocky soils, with acidic pH (5.5-6.5) and variable drainage. Common broadleaf weeds include dandelions, plantain, white clover, ground ivy, and broadleaf dock. Grassy weeds such as crabgrass, foxtail, and annual bluegrass thrive in disturbed areas, while perennial weeds like violets and Canada thistle persist in compacted soils. Invasive species—Japanese knotweed, garlic mustard, purple loosestrife, and oriental bittersweet—require vigilant management. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) prioritizes:

• Cultural controls: mow at 3-4 inches, use balanced fertilization (see UMass Soil Testing Lab), core aerate, and overseed with fine fescues.
• Mechanical controls: hand-weeding, mulching (2-4 inches), landscape fabric, and flame weeding.
• Biological controls: encourage beneficial insects, use competitive plantings, and apply corn gluten meal.
• Chemical controls: only as a last resort, with spot treatments and minimum effective rates. Soil health improvement and proper irrigation are key to long-term prevention. Consult UMass Extension for region-specific guidance.

Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Requirements for Weed Control & Water Quality Protection

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) enforces strict requirements to protect water quality during weed control. Coordination with watershed protection programs is essential, especially near streams, rivers, and wetlands. Buffer zones of 25-100 feet are required near water bodies, depending on application method, per the Massachusetts Clean Waters Act (M.G.L. c. 21). Groundwater protection is critical near municipal wells and Zone II wellhead protection areas. Use low-drift nozzles and avoid applications during pollinator bloom periods. Erosion control measures, such as immediate revegetation and sediment barriers, minimize soil disturbance. Permits may be required for chemical applications near wetlands or vernal pools; always consult the Dighton Conservation Commission and comply with the Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. c. 131, § 40). Dighton Conservation Commission
979 Somerset Avenue, Dighton, MA 02715
Phone: (508) 669-6431
Website: Dighton Conservation Commission

Massachusetts Pesticide Regulations & Professional Licensing Requirements for Dighton

All commercial weed control in Dighton must comply with Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) regulations. Applicators must hold a valid license—Category 36 (Turf and Ornamental Horticulture) is most common, with additional categories for right-of-way or interior plantscapes. Certification requires passing an exam and 10 contact hours of continuing education every 3 years. Federal EPA registration is mandatory for all products, and Restricted Use Pesticides (RUPs) require special handling and storage. Applicators must maintain 1M per occurrence, 2M aggregate liability insurance, environmental impairment coverage, and workers compensation. Detailed records of applications, weather, rates, and target species are required, along with adverse incident reporting to MDAR. Coordination with U.S. EPA Region 1 and municipal monitoring programs ensures environmental safety.

Dighton Board of Health Guidelines for Pesticide Application & Public Safety Protection

The Dighton Board of Health oversees public safety during pesticide applications. Advance public notification is required 24-48 hours before treatment, with clear signage posted on-site. Setbacks of 100-150 feet are enforced near property lines, wells, water bodies, and sensitive facilities such as schools and healthcare centers. Re-entry intervals range from 6-48 hours depending on the product. Special restrictions apply in organic farming areas and certified organic land. Protect children, pets, and sensitive individuals with barriers and notification. Emergency contact for exposure is 1-800-222-1222 (poison control). Applicators must use proper PPE, calibrate equipment, and prevent spills or drift. Post-application monitoring includes effectiveness evaluation and non-target impact assessment. Coordinate with municipal emergency services for incident response. Dighton Health Department
979 Somerset Avenue, Dighton, MA 02715
Phone: (508) 669-5182
Website: Dighton Health Department

Seasonal Weed Control Calendar & Weather Timing for Dighton's Climate Zone 6b

Dighton’s climate falls within USDA Zone 6b, with distinct seasonal weed management needs. In early spring, when soil temperatures reach 50-55°F, apply pre-emergent controls for crabgrass (late March–early April). Late spring (May–June) is optimal for broadleaf weed control during active growth. Summer (July–August) requires spot treatments and nutsedge management, with increased irrigation during dry spells. Fall (September–October) is best for perennial weed control and pre-emergent applications for winter annuals. Always avoid applications before predicted rainfall (24-48 hour window), and observe wind speed limits (under 10 mph for liquid, under 15 mph for granular). Temperature should be 60-85°F; avoid above 90°F. Consider microclimate variations—coastal areas may experience salt exposure and fog, while interior zones have colder winters and shorter growing seasons. Coordinate with wildlife breeding and pollinator bloom periods to minimize ecological impact. Consult the National Weather Service Boston/Norton for local forecasts.

Stormwater Management & MS4 Compliance During Weed Control Operations in Dighton

Dighton is subject to MS4 permit requirements under the Clean Water Act, which mandate best management practices to prevent chemical runoff into storm drains and local waters. Protecting Massachusetts Bay, Cape Cod Bay, Buzzards Bay, and local rivers and ponds is a priority. Application sites must be at least 100 feet from storm drains or water bodies during mixing and loading. Use secondary containment for chemical storage and respond immediately to spills with absorbent materials and barriers. Equipment wash water must be managed in designated areas with proper drainage. Long-term, IPM reduces chemical loads and protects aquatic ecosystems. Compliance includes reporting large-scale applications, municipal inspections, and timely correction of violations. Reference MassDEP Stormwater Management Standards and EPA NPDES for detailed requirements.

Safe Handling, Storage & Disposal of Weed Control Products Under Massachusetts Regulations

Safe storage and disposal of weed control products are governed by strict Massachusetts regulations. Store chemicals in locked, ventilated areas at least 100 feet from wells or water supplies, with temperature control (40-90°F). Maintain inventory using the FIFO (first in, first out) method and secure against unauthorized access. Always use PPE as specified on product labels and Safety Data Sheets. Mix and load chemicals in dedicated areas to prevent spills, and decontaminate equipment between uses (triple-rinse sprayers). Empty containers must be triple-rinsed and documented, then disposed of at household hazardous waste events—never in drains, soil, or trash. Coordinate with the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection for hazardous waste programs. Emergency response includes first aid for exposure, spill containment, and contacting poison control (1-800-222-1222) or local emergency services. Dighton Fire Department
300 Main Street, Dighton, MA 02715
Phone: (508) 669-6611
Website: Dighton Fire Department

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Dighton, MA?

Dighton’s neighborhoods each present unique weed management challenges. The North Dighton area features glacial till soils with poor drainage and acidic pH (5.5-6.5), requiring careful timing and product selection. Williams Street and Berkley Line neighborhoods have sandy outwash soils with excellent drainage, while Main Street Village and Historic District areas may have rocky shallow soils and strict landscape standards. Marine clay is found near the Taunton River, with salt exposure from winter de-icing. Proximity to wetlands and streams requires buffer zones per the Wetlands Protection Act, and Zone II wellhead protection areas restrict chemical use. School zones, organic farms, and conservation lands demand enhanced safety and drift prevention. Weed populations vary, with Japanese knotweed and garlic mustard common in disturbed sites, and resistance issues noted in areas with repeated herbicide use. Community values and HOA covenants influence method selection and investment.

Dighton Municipal Ordinances for Equipment Operation & Commercial Applicator Standards

Dighton enforces municipal ordinances to ensure safe and responsible weed control operations. Equipment may be operated 7:00 AM–7:00 PM weekdays, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM Saturdays, with Sunday restrictions (often before 9:00 AM or prohibited; verify local bylaws). Noise and decibel limits protect residential areas, and holiday restrictions often mirror Sunday rules. Commercial applicators must hold a business license, register with the municipality, and maintain 1M minimum general liability insurance, workers compensation, and environmental impairment coverage. MDAR Category 36 certification is required for all pesticide applicators. Safety protocols include traffic control, equipment calibration, and public notification with 24-48 hour signage. Environmental compliance mandates proper material handling, vehicle maintenance, immediate cleanup, and documentation of waste disposal. Coordination with the Dighton Building and Inspections Department and Dighton Water District ensures regulatory adherence. Dighton Building and Inspections Department
979 Somerset Avenue, Dighton, MA 02715
Phone: (508) 669-5184
Website: Dighton Building and Inspections Department Dighton Water District
192 Williams Street, Dighton, MA 02715
Phone: (508) 823-2039
*Website: Dighton Water District