CN Rail will undertake its annual vegetation management along its railway tracks from June 3 – 30.
They will be spraying herbicide during that time. Their primary target is the gravel/ballast section of the track.
Vegetation management along the right of way is primarily controlled mechanically.
For more information, contact the CN Public Inquiry Line at 1-888-888-5909.
Has CN tried any non-chemical weed control options in the past, such as weed whacking? Have they worked?
CN has used weed cutting in the past to control vegetation, but this does not remove the roots, and actually encourages more growth, therefore it is not an effective long-term solution for vegetation removal along railway tracks. The application of steam injection has also been investigated; however they have proven ineffective in killing the roots, which could compromise the integrity of the rail bed.
CN has also explored other options, such as high concentrate vinegar (acetic acid), however this was deemed not a viable option as the acid reacts negatively with steel and the sensitive electronic monitoring equipment used to regulate safe movement and operation of trains.
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