BEWARE: HOGWEED GIANT ON THE LOOSE!

If you are scratching your head while leafing through your wild plant guide, don't be worried if you can't find mention of this one.

It seems Dundas has been invaded by a plant, originally from Asia, called Giant Hogweed. As with many non-native plants, they can often spread quickly with no natural predators to keep them in check, but this plant is different: "its sap can leave burns that last for up to six years" when exposed to sunlight.

The local daily reports that City workers are applying herbicides to control the spread. So far they have found

six along Spencer Creek near Cootes Drive.
15 in Warren Park
a couple of plants on Old Guelph Road.

"It seems to be travelling up the creek bed," said Sue Gilpin, a city superintendent."

If you find some on city property, call 905-546-CITY to report it

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