But dense ground cover or rough terrain can cause spotty coverage, and chemical runoff can harm the environment. Now, NC State scientists have come up with a better way. Jim Burton and Walter Skroch have made an herbicide applicator that can be attached to weed mowers. It applies a thin film of chemicals directly to plant stems as they're cut. Tests show that up to 90 percent of the herbicide applied this way is directly absorbed into the plants.
None ends up on the ground, reducing the risk of runoff.
And since the chemical is never sprayed in the air, it's safer for workers, too. Burton and Skroch worked with Burch Inc. of Wilkesboro to create the applicator. A model for use on home lawnmowers is being developed. Dr. Tom Drake can't stop the erosion. A way to predict where and when erosion will most likely take place.