Brush along the roadway can pose a variety of problems including obstructing drivers vision, encroaching onto the travel surface, restricting proper drainage and limiting space for snow removal and storage. Sufficient open space along a road creates a sense of openness which contributes to driver ease and freedom from strain as well as providing space for the escape of potential accidents.

Brush is defined as bushes, shrubs and trees up to six inches in diameter, measured at a point four and a half feet above ground level. This definition is based on the Michigan Trees Evaluation Guide prepared by the Michigan Forestry and Park Association and Michigan State University Forestry Department. As a further point of reference, the Michigan Department of Transportation recognizes trees above eight inches in diameter measured at a height of four and a half feet above ground level. The removal of trees below eight inches are simply included in general excavation costs.

When removing brush, the Livingston County Road Commission crews adhere to the following guidelines:

• All brush within 10 feet of the outside shoulder shall be removed to provide adequate drainage and/or roadside safety.

• Additional brush within the road right-of-way shall be removed if necessary for the purpose of establishing adequate drainage and/or for roadside safety (especially at intersections).

• If brush outside the roadway right-of-way needs to be removed in order to provide adequate drainage or roadside safety, the approval of the property owner shall be requested and secured.

• All brush stumps not removed shall be sprayed with the EPA approved herbicide to prevent or retard future growth