Bourne Weed Control Services

Our Weed Control Process

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

Proper weed debris and organic waste management in Bourne is essential for environmental protection and regulatory compliance. Seasonal yard waste collection runs from April–November, requiring biodegradable paper bags only—plastic bags are not accepted per Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection guidelines. Brush must be bundled in maximum 4-foot lengths and weigh no more than 50 pounds per bundle. The Transfer Station operates on a permit/sticker system for residents, with posted hours and fee structures; accepted materials include leaves, grass clippings, and brush. Invasive plants such as Japanese knotweed, garlic mustard, and purple loosestrife must be bagged and landfilled, not composted, to prevent spread. Herbicide-treated material requires special handling—coordinate with the Board of Health for guidance. Chemical containers must be triple-rinsed, documented, and brought to hazardous waste events; never dispose of them in regular trash or recycling. Disposal in streets, gutters, or storm drains is strictly prohibited and constitutes an MS4 violation.

Bourne Public Works Department
24 Perry Avenue, Bourne, MA 02532
Phone: (508) 759-0600
Website: Bourne Public Works Department

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

Bourne’s landscape features glacial till, sandy outwash, and rocky shallow soils, with a typical acidic pH of 5.5-6.5. Common broadleaf weeds include dandelions, plantain, white clover, and ground ivy, while grassy weeds such as crabgrass, foxtail, and annual bluegrass are prevalent. Invasive species like Japanese knotweed, garlic mustard, and purple loosestrife require priority management. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in Bourne emphasizes:

• Cultural controls: mow at 3-4 inches, use balanced fertilization (see UMass Soil and Plant Nutrient Testing Laboratory), core aeration, and overseeding with fine fescues.
• Mechanical controls: hand-weeding, mulching 2-4 inches deep, landscape fabric, and flame weeding.
• Biological controls: encourage beneficial insects, use competitive plantings, and apply corn gluten meal for pre-emergent control.
• Chemical controls: only as a last resort, using minimum effective rates and spot treatments. Soil compaction and drainage issues are common in glacial till, requiring cultural controls and compost incorporation. For seasonal weed emergence, consult National Weather Service Boston/Norton for soil temperature data. Prevention strategies include improving soil health and irrigation management, with support from UMass Extension.

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

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) enforces watershed protection and water quality standards during weed control. Buffer zones of 25-100 feet are required near streams, rivers, and wetlands, depending on application method, to prevent pesticide runoff and drift. Compliance with the Massachusetts Clean Waters Act (M.G.L. c. 21) is mandatory. Groundwater protection is critical, especially near municipal wells and Zone II wellhead protection areas. Use low-drift nozzles and avoid applications during pollinator bloom periods. Coordinate with the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife for rare species and habitat protection. Erosion control is required during mechanical weed removal, with immediate revegetation and sediment barriers as needed. For chemical applications near wetlands or vernal pools, consult the Conservation Commission and obtain permits under the Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. c. 131, § 40).

Bourne Conservation Department
24 Perry Avenue, Bourne, MA 02532
Phone: (508) 759-0600 x1346
Website: Bourne Conservation Department

Massachusetts Pesticide Regulations & Professional Licensing Requirements for Bourne

All commercial weed control in Bourne must comply with Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) regulations. Applicators require licensing in Category 36 (Turf and Ornamental Horticulture), with 10 contact hours of continuing education every 3 years and regular license renewal. Federal EPA registration is required for all products, and Restricted Use Pesticides (RUPs) demand strict handling and storage. IPM plans must be documented, and environmental impact assessments are necessary for large-scale applications. Commercial operators must carry 1M per occurrence, 2M aggregate in general liability insurance, with environmental impairment coverage and bonding for municipal contracts. Detailed application logs, adverse incident reporting, and customer notification records are required. Coordinate with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 1 for federal compliance and with municipal environmental monitoring programs.

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

The Bourne Board of Health oversees public notification and safety for pesticide applications. Advance posting of 24-48 hours with clear signage is required. Setbacks of 100-150 feet are enforced from property lines, wells, water bodies, and sensitive sites such as schools and healthcare facilities. Re-entry intervals range from 6-48 hours depending on the product. Special restrictions apply in organic farming areas. Risk management includes barriers to protect children, pets, and sensitive individuals, and emergency contact procedures (poison control: 1-800-222-1222) must be in place. Applicators must use PPE—respirators, chemical-resistant gloves, and protective clothing—and calibrate equipment to prevent over-application. Spill prevention, drift control, and post-application monitoring are required, including effectiveness evaluation and non-target impact assessment.

Bourne Health Department
24 Perry Avenue, Bourne, MA 02532
Phone: (508) 759-0615
Website: Bourne Health Department

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

Bourne’s climate in Zone 6b requires careful seasonal planning for weed control. In early spring, apply pre-emergent controls when soil temperatures reach 50-55°F (late March–early April). Late spring (May–June) is optimal for broadleaf weed control during active growth. Summer (July–August) focuses on spot treatments and nutsedge management, with increased irrigation during dry periods. Fall (September–October) targets perennial weeds and pre-emergent control for winter annuals. Avoid applications before predicted rainfall (24-48 hour window), and observe wind speed restrictions (under 10 mph for liquids, under 15 mph for granular). Apply only when temperatures are 60-85°F and avoid above 90°F. Consider microclimate variations—coastal areas experience salt exposure and fog, while interior zones have colder winters. Protect wildlife during breeding seasons and pollinators during bloom periods. Coordinate with National Weather Service Boston/Norton for local forecasts.

Stormwater Management & MS4 Compliance During Weed Control Operations in Bourne

Weed control operations in Bourne must comply with MS4 permit requirements under the Clean Water Act and MassDEP Stormwater Management Standards. Best management practices include preventing chemical runoff into storm drains and protecting local waters such as Massachusetts Bay, Cape Cod Bay, and Buzzards Bay. Mixing and loading of products must occur at least 100 feet from storm drains or water bodies, with secondary containment for storage. Immediate spill response and proper equipment wash water management are required. Long-term, IPM reduces chemical loads and protects aquatic ecosystems. Municipal programs integrate these standards with climate action and sustainability initiatives. Large-scale applications require reporting, and municipal environmental officers conduct inspections and enforce compliance, with penalties for violations.

Bourne Engineering Department
24 Perry Avenue, Bourne, MA 02532
Phone: (508) 759-0600 x1347
Website: Bourne Engineering Department

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

Safe storage and disposal of weed control products are governed by Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection regulations. Store chemicals in locked, ventilated areas at least 100 feet from wells or water supplies, with temperature control (40-90°F). Inventory should follow FIFO (first in, first out) and be secured against unauthorized access. PPE must be selected per product label and Safety Data Sheets (SDS). Mixing and loading should occur in dedicated areas to prevent spills, and equipment must be decontaminated (triple-rinse) between uses. Empty containers require triple-rinse and documentation, and leftover chemicals must be brought to hazardous waste events. Never dispose of chemicals in drains, soil, or trash. Emergency response protocols include first aid, spill containment, and immediate contact with poison control (1-800-222-1222) and municipal emergency services.

Bourne Fire, Rescue & Emergency Services
130 Main Street, Bourne, MA 02532
Phone: (508) 759-4412
Website: Bourne Fire, Rescue & Emergency Services

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Bourne, MA?

Bourne’s neighborhoods each present unique weed management challenges. Sagamore and Buzzards Bay feature glacial till soils with poor drainage, requiring careful timing and cultural controls. Monument Beach and Gray Gables have marine clay and sandy outwash, with salt exposure from winter de-icing and coastal winds. Cataumet and Pocasset contain rocky shallow soils and are near wetlands, necessitating buffer zones per the Wetlands Protection Act. Bournedale and Bourne Village are close to Zone II wellhead protection areas, restricting chemical use. School zones and playgrounds require enhanced safety protocols, while organic farming areas demand drift prevention. Parks and conservation lands, such as those managed by the Conservation Commission, require public use considerations and adherence to municipal standards. Weed populations vary, with Japanese knotweed and garlic mustard common in disturbed areas, and resistance issues may arise from previous treatments. Community values, property standards, and seasonal occupancy patterns influence management approaches.

Bourne Municipal Ordinances for Equipment Operation & Commercial Applicator Standards

Bourne enforces strict municipal ordinances for weed control equipment operation and commercial applicator standards. Permitted operating hours are typically 7:00 AM–7:00 PM weekdays, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM Saturdays, with Sunday operations often restricted before 9:00 AM or prohibited—verify local bylaws. Noise and decibel limits apply, especially in residential areas and during sensitive hours. Commercial operators must maintain a business license, contractor registration, and insurance (1M minimum general liability, workers compensation, environmental impairment). Bonding is required for municipal contracts, and MDAR Category 36 certification must be verified. Safety protocols include traffic control, equipment calibration, and public notification with 24-48 hour signage. Environmental compliance covers material handling, vehicle maintenance, immediate cleanup, and proper waste documentation. Coordination with Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection and local ordinances is essential for all operations.

Bourne Building and Inspection Department
24 Perry Avenue, Bourne, MA 02532
Phone: (508) 759-0600 x1344
Website: Bourne Building and Inspection Department

Bourne Water District
211 Barlow's Landing Road, Pocasset, MA 02559
Phone: (508) 563-2294
Website: Bourne Water District