Invasive Species Control Makes Way For Ground-Mounted Solar Panels

Clearway Energy

DRG undertook this multi-year invasive species management project for several solar panel sites across the state of Massachusetts.

Project Narrative:

Clearway Energy contracted Davey Resource Group, Inc. (DRG) to chemically manage woody and herbaceous plant material located underneath various photo-voltaic (PV) solar ground-mounted arrays. Each site had been evaluated to develop a site-specific prescriptive treatment program based on the existing vegetation conditions, as well as any individual site needs or restrictions. Our proposed treatment plan relies on plant growth regulators (PGRs) and herbicides.

A multi-phased approach was the most effective way to realize the full benefits of chemical vegetation management. The focus of Year 1, Task 1 (spring of 2020) consisted of initial herbicide treatments at each site. Year 1, Task 2 (early fall of 2020) consisted of follow-up treatments at each site to address any continued growth of unwanted vegetation. Treatments during the second year focused on the application of PGRs to limit the growth of desired vegetation at the site.

>> Learn more about our DRG team servicing New England areas.