Warning of dangerous weed invasion

To the Editor:

I am writing this letter to alert the people of Putnam County and the surrounding areas of the invasion of an obnoxious weed called Poison Hemlock.

You can see it wildly growing along roadsides and fields now. It is a very large, sturdy plant, growing three- to eight-feet tall with white blooms which can produce millions of seeds, so it spreads readily.

It is very toxic to humans and animals, horses, cows, sheep and goats. It should be cut off now by mowing or digging it up.

Always wear protective clothing, gloves and eye protection when handling any part of the plant.

The plant is similar to Queen Ann's Lace or Wild Carrot, but it much bigger with a strong stalk, speckled with purple spots.

All parts of the plant can be toxic. Lethal doses can be small, so it is important not to let animals graze near it or get it mixed in with baled hay.

More information can be obtained from the Purdue Extension Office.

Please, everyone, help keep this terrible weed from spreading into the food chain. Cut it down now!

Russell and Mary Harcourt

Fillmore