The edges of roads are mowed once a year by the Public Works Department, starting in late June or early July. This is done to increase safety by improving visibility, controlling the growth of trees and shrubs near the road, and facilitating proper drainage.
Roadside Vegetation Control
In Lake of Bays, brushing involves managing trees, bushes, weeds and general overgrowth along public roads owned by the Township. Roadside brushing and tree removal are essential parts of road maintenance, contributing to safety, road longevity, and effective snow management.
On this page, you will learn why roadside vegetation management is important for taxpayers and general driver safety, and what occurs along the roadside long after the maintenance has been completed.
Why brushing is necessary
Road Safety
Improving Sightlines: Overgrown vegetation and trees can obstruct drivers’ visibility of oncoming traffic, pedestrians, wildlife and road signs. By removing these obstructions, sightlines are greatly improved, making Lake of Bays roads safer for everyone.
Hazards of Falling Tree Limbs: During winter months, the weight of accumulated snow on the branches may cause them to break off and/or hang down onto the roadway, potentially endangering motorists.
Protecting the Road Base
Allow Sunlight and Air Movement to Reach the Road Base: Air movement and sunlight aid in the drying process of Lake of Bays roads, preventing the buildup of ice in winter, and drying out the road after rainfall. This reduces the risk of slippery conditions and prolongs the road's lifespan. A dry road is less prone to damage such as potholes, cracks and deterioration over time. This not only enhances safety for motorists but also reduces the need for costly repairs.
Snow Storage
Allow for Snow Storage: At times, Lake of Bays experiences heavy snowfall. Cleared areas along the roadside are vital for the storage of plowed snow. Without these cleared areas, snow can build up on the road itself, narrowing the available driving space and creating hazardous conditions. Additionally, storing snow in cleared areas can lead to a more gradual melt, reducing the risk of flooding when temperatures rise.
The Aftermath
Roadside vegetation management is essential for safe and efficient roads. While the initial clearing of overgrown vegetation might appear disruptive, it serves many important functions. A year after brushing, the roadsides would show signs of natural regrowth, while still providing improved sightlines and drainage. The decomposed mulch from the brushed vegetation adds organic matter to the soil helping grasses, wildflowers, and shrubs to start regrowing in the cleared areas.
Mowing
Spraying for Noxious Weeds
The Township does not conduct regular spraying operations on Township-owned roads. The only herbicide application that is done is for the isolated control of noxious weeds like Giant Hogweed, Phragmites, and Japanese Knotweed.
Common Questions
The Township did brushing on my road, and it looks terrible! Can they be less heavy-handed?
A canopy of branches and leaves arching over the winding roads in Lake of Bays can indeed create a breathtaking sight. However, while aesthetically pleasing, these tree canopies pose significant safety concerns and reduce the life expectancy of our roads.
Reduced sightlines around curves due to overhanging foliage can obstruct drivers' visibility, increasing the risk of collisions. Additionally, during winter months, the weight of accumulated snow on the branches may cause them to break off and/or hang down onto the roadway, potentially endangering motorists.
Another important point to consider is that removing overgrown vegetation helps make the roads safer and preserves the longevity of Township roads by exposing the road base to sunlight and air movement. Please refer to our "Protecting the Road Base" section for more detailed information.
What if I don't want the Township to clear trees in front of my property?
The Township will only clear trees and brush deemed necessary within its right-of-way.
Does the Township need my permission to brush in front of my property?
No. The Township is responsible for maintaining ditches and roadsides on Township-owned roads, and they will conduct this vegetation control in areas where these operations are required.
Can I clear trees from the ditch/roadside in front of my property?
No. Residents are not permitted to clear-cut the ditch or roadside in front of their property. The ditch and roadside areas are owned by the Township. If you have a specific concern, please submit it to our Public Works Department.
