CRISFIELD, Md. — Overgrown weeds have been growing along streets, sidewalks and other public areas in parts of Crisfield this summer, but city officials say crews and a licensed contractor are working to get the problem under control.
The city says it has been difficult to address the problem because it did not have the required license to spray weedkiller.
Crisfield Director of Public Works Brian Fowler says the city is working to obtain its own applicator’s license.
“We have an employee that's actually taking the classes so that we can actually get a applicator’s license so that we can spray,” Fowler said.
In the meantime, the city hired a licensed contractor to treat about 20 streets last week.
Fowler says the treatment includes a pre-emergent product that should help control weed growth into the winter.
City crews are also continuing to weed-whack and maintain areas around town.
“We're going to continue to go after the streets and weed eat, you know, as, as we can keep up with it the best we can,” Fowler said.
Some neighbors say they have noticed the city taking action.
Jessica Ward of Crisfield says she believes the problem is starting to improve.
“I think it's getting somewhat better,” Ward told WBOC. “I think it's been so many complaints about it, and then now I think the city has taken action and it's getting better.”
Aram Polster of Smith Island says he has not noticed a significant weed problem in the city.
“I haven't really noticed there to be a problem, so maybe they are taking care of it,” Polster said.
The city says the contractor’s treatment should help keep the weeds under control through the winter.
Officials are also working to obtain the necessary license so city employees can spray the weeds themselves next year.
