Contacts
- Bre Magee
651-234-7502
Location
Minnesota Department of Transportation
Metro District
Office of Communications
1500 County Rd B2 West
Roseville, MN 55113
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Mn/DOT Metro District crews to help eradicate noxious plant
Invasive species Oriental Bittersweet chokes out trees and other vegetation
Roseville, Minn. — The Minnesota Department of Transportation has identified several locations where the invasive species Oriental Bittersweet (celastrus orbiculatus) has been found in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area and will work to eradicate it at the following locations:
- Highway 36 at Dale St. in Roseville
- Several locations near Highway 10 in Ramsey
- Highway 100 at 66th St. in Edina
- In Hastings near Hwy 52 and Hwy 55
Although no lane closures will take place as crews remove these vines, motorists are advised to watch for non rush-hour shoulder closures on these roadways over the next several weeks.
Oriental Bittersweet is a vine non-native to North America and is very popular in floral arrangements and wreaths. However, it is considered an ecological threat and should not be planted.
The vine has been classified as noxious or prohibited in five states and has become established in 21 states and 14 national parks. Infestations already have been discovered in Wisconsin and Iowa.
Oriental Bittersweet can spread rapidly on its own and by birds. New growth chokes trees and other vegetation. Residents are asked to be sure not to mistake native bittersweet for Oriental bittersweet when purchasing at farmers markets or nurseries.
For real-time traffic information anywhere in Minnesota, visit www.511mn.org or dial 5-1-1.
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