Pembroke Weed Control Services

Our Weed Control Process

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

Proper weed debris and organic waste management in Pembroke is essential for environmental protection and regulatory compliance. Seasonal yard waste collection runs from April–November, requiring biodegradable paper bags only—plastic bags are strictly prohibited per Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection guidelines. Brush must be bundled in maximum 4-foot lengths and 50-pound bundles. The Transfer Station operates on set hours, with resident permits or stickers required, and accepts only approved materials. Invasive plants like Japanese knotweed, garlic mustard, and purple loosestrife must be bagged and landfilled, not composted, to prevent spread. Herbicide-treated material requires special handling and Board of Health coordination. Chemical containers must be triple-rinsed and disposed of at hazardous waste events—never in regular trash or recycling. Disposal in streets, gutters, or storm drains is strictly prohibited and constitutes an MS4 violation.

Pembroke Department of Public Works
100 Center Street, Pembroke, MA 02359
Phone: (781) 709-1430
Website: Pembroke Department of Public Works

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

Pembroke’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 and garlic mustard require priority management. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) 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, competitive plantings, and use corn gluten meal.
• Chemical controls: only as a last resort, with spot treatments and minimum effective rates. Soil compaction and organic matter content influence weed management strategies. Prevention includes compost incorporation and proper irrigation, with guidance 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. Weed control near streams, rivers, and wetlands must comply with buffer zones of 25-100 feet depending on application method, as outlined in the Massachusetts Clean Waters Act (M.G.L. c. 21). Groundwater and surface water protection is critical, especially near municipal wells and Zone II wellhead protection areas. Use low-drift nozzles and avoid applications during pollinator bloom periods. Erosion control is required during mechanical removal, with immediate revegetation and sediment barriers. Permits may be needed for chemical applications near wetlands or vernal pools; coordinate with the Pembroke Conservation Commission for compliance with the Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. c. 131, § 40).

Pembroke Conservation Commission
100 Center Street, Pembroke, MA 02359
Phone: (781) 709-1405
Website: Pembroke Conservation Commission

Massachusetts Pesticide Regulations & Professional Licensing Requirements for Pembroke

All commercial weed control in Pembroke 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. Federal EPA registration is mandatory for all products, and Restricted Use Pesticides (RUPs) require special handling and storage. IPM plans and environmental impact assessments are required for large-scale applications. Commercial operators must maintain 1M per occurrence and 2M aggregate liability insurance, environmental impairment coverage, and workers compensation. Detailed application logs, adverse incident reporting, and customer notification records are required. Coordinate with Pembroke Building & Inspectional Services for municipal contract compliance.

Pembroke Building & Inspectional Services
100 Center Street, Pembroke, MA 02359
Phone: (781) 293-3864
Website: Pembroke Building & Inspectional Services

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

The Pembroke Board of Health oversees public notification and safety for pesticide applications. Advance posting is required 24-48 hours before treatment, with clear signage. Setbacks of 100-150 feet are enforced from property lines, wells, water bodies, and sensitive sites like schools and healthcare facilities. Re-entry intervals range from 6-48 hours depending on the product. Special restrictions apply in organic farming areas. Public health risk management includes barriers, notification, and emergency contact procedures (poison control: 1-800-222-1222). Applicators must use PPE, calibrate equipment, and prevent spills or drift. Post-application monitoring ensures effectiveness and environmental safety.

Pembroke Board of Health
100 Center Street, Pembroke, MA 02359
Phone: (781) 293-2718
Website: Pembroke Board of Health

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

Pembroke’s climate (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; see National Weather Service Boston/Norton). Late spring is optimal for broadleaf weed control during active growth (May–June). Summer 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 limits (under 10 mph liquid, 15 mph granular). Temperature should be 60-85°F; avoid above 90°F. Consider microclimates, wildlife breeding seasons, and pollinator protection during bloom periods.

Stormwater Management & MS4 Compliance During Weed Control Operations in Pembroke

Weed control operations in Pembroke 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 and nearby rivers. Mixing and loading 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. Large-scale applications require reporting and may be inspected by municipal environmental officers. Coordinate with Pembroke Department of Public Works for enforcement and compliance.

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

Safe handling and storage of weed control products is mandated by Massachusetts 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. Mixing and loading should occur in dedicated areas to prevent spills, and equipment must be decontaminated between uses. Triple-rinse empty containers and document disposal at hazardous waste events. Never dispose of chemicals in drains, soil, or trash. Emergency response protocols include first aid, spill containment, and coordination with the Pembroke Fire Department and poison control.

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Pembroke, MA?

Pembroke’s neighborhoods each present unique weed management challenges. North Pembroke features glacial till soils with poor drainage, while Bryantville and East Pembroke have sandy outwash for excellent drainage. The Herring Run area contains marine clay and is sensitive to salt exposure from winter de-icing. Rocky shallow soils are common in the Mattakeesett and Oldham Pond areas, limiting root depth. Many neighborhoods border wetlands or streams, requiring buffer zones per the Wetlands Protection Act. Zone II wellhead protection areas restrict chemical use, and school zones require enhanced safety. Parks, conservation land, and organic farms demand drift prevention and public use considerations. Weed populations vary, with invasive species like Japanese knotweed concentrated near disturbed sites. Historic Districts and HOAs may have additional landscape standards.

Pembroke Municipal Ordinances for Equipment Operation & Commercial Applicator Standards

Pembroke 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 restrictions (often no operation before 9:00 AM or prohibited; verify local bylaws). Noise and decibel limits apply, especially in residential areas and during holidays. Commercial applicators must hold a business license, register with the municipality, and maintain 1M minimum general liability insurance, workers compensation, and environmental impairment coverage. MDAR Category 36 certification is required. Safety protocols include traffic control, equipment calibration, public notification (24-48 hours), and right-of-way permits. Environmental compliance covers material handling, vehicle maintenance, immediate cleanup, and proper waste documentation, in coordination with Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection and local ordinances.

Pembroke Water Department
100 Center Street, Pembroke, MA 02359
Phone: (781) 293-8162
Website: Pembroke Water Department