Giant Hogweed Attack on New York
Do Not Touch This Plant
Some media outlets are calling it the Green Monster. The DEC wants any sightings reported immediately. DO NOT TOUCH THIS PLANT is the message from the DEC. The Giant Hogweed has invaded New York.
Warning, take heed!
New York is Indeed
Under attack by a weed
A friend sent me a link about the Giant Hogweed yesterday. Today, another friend forwarded me an email about the very subject.
What is Giant Hogweed and how is it affecting NY?
The NY Post is calling it the "Green Monster" and it may very well be the devil in disguise. It has beautiful, huge umbrella-like flowers that top a towering plant that can reach heights of over 12 feet although some reports have it as tall as 20 feet.
So, what's the problem?
Aside from the sap causing blistering burn like skin reactions, once contact with the eyes is made the sap may cause blindness.
The Department of Environmental Conservation has issued a very stern warning, "Do Not Touch This Plant!!!" You can read the entire warning here.
The Hogweed is apparently being spread through seed transmission linked to birds. The plant is a biennial or perennial herb in the carrot family but it has disastrous effects upon humans. You can view the graphic photos from the DEC website. I have to warn you, it isn't pretty, click here.
The bad news is that Giant Hogweed has been spotted a mere 12 miles from our home in the Hudson Valley. It is very possibly just a short flight for any bird who decides to drop a few seeds on our property.
Be warned, if any Hogweed pops up near you, call the DEC hotline at 845-256-3111. They appreciate any sightings of this incredibly Giant Hogweed alien.
Sources:
http://www.nypost.com/p/news/local/green_monster_eC1GtRTKnNEAPTvUOVOo0H
Published by Michele Starkey
Optimist who enjoys writing, laughing and spreading good news. If I have but one life to live, I hope to make mine memorable. My epitaph will read: she lived, she loved, she left. View profile
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48 Comments
Post a CommentThat is so crazy.
good writing
good writing
well written - thank you
Don't have this plant in the West but it sounds nasty.
God bless your efforts to inform people about Hogweed. If anyone mistakes this plant for, “weed†and decides to smoke some, then they will be in for a rude surprise.
Wow...
wow!
Interesting.
Really out of the blue! Take care and good thought to spread this warning message, Michele - siva