If you’re driving through Wisconsin, there’s some real natural beauty along the road this time of year. However, there also may be some dangers lying by the side of the road.
State DOT landscape architect Jim Merriman says reduced mowing along the roads have allowed wild prairie and wetland plants to thrive. It’s also allowed invasive plants, such as wild parsnip, to grow wildly.
Wild parsnip is similar to Queen Anne’s lace. The yellowish flowers can cause severe burns and blisters on the skin, leaving behind scars that last for years.
Merriman says motorists who get out of their cars to enjoy the flowers should take note of potentially dangerous plants that may also being growing there.