Rational

Willow trees and invasive plants have resulted in significant damages to Hugo's trail system.  Roots come through the pavement and sprout up resulting in a very uneven trail surface.  Uneven trail surfaces are not desirable due to safety and accessibility concerns.  Damaged trails also erode and deteriorate more quickly due to normal factors.

Mowing and limited herbicide treatment have been used in the past for mitigation.  Mowing brush tends to cause the plants to respond by sending out multiple resprouts — the plant’s natural defense to the cutting. This only worsens the vegetation problem.  Mowing and tree removal will continue to happen in most areas of Hugo's trail system.