The depths of private wells in this area and the clay in the soil will provide a layer of protection from chemicals for well water users.
The restoration plan will call for as little herbicide use as possible. It will be used to spot treat areas that are not responding to the mechanical mowing, raking, and burning. A licensed applicator will be hired to do the work and will be informed of the concerns residents have. Species likely needing some chemical treatment include: common buckthorn, glossy buckthorn, reed canary grass, and giant reed.
Other options besides herbicides will be evaluated at for treatment of the buckthorn and reed canary grass. One option that has been working in other parts of the state is the use of conservation grazing by livestock (such as goats), as well as frequent mechanical control (winter mowing and raking) coupled with frequent controlled burns.