NEWFANE — The Selectboard is considering a transportation alternatives grant through the state transportation agency to combat the growing problem of Japanese knotweed.
Selectboard member Gloria Cristelli explained at the board's Sept. 19 meeting that the AOT's Transportation Alternatives Program is accepting applications for funding to either develop feasibility studies or to develop projects that lead to construction.
All projects must demonstrate a strong transportation link. The part of the program that the selectboard is interested in would help with vegetation management practices in transportation rights-of-way to improve roadway safety, prevent against invasive species, and provide erosion control.
Because of a profusion of Japanese knotweed, Newfane has a lot of erosion control problems, Todd Lawley, the board's vice chair, said.
Japanese knotweed is a large, aggressively invasive plant species resembling bamboo.
AOT says there is a required sponsor funding match of 20 percent for construction projects and 50 percent for feasibility studies.
Cristelli attended an informational workshop on Sept. 24 as part of the application process. Should the grant be applied for and received, the money would be part of the budget for next summer, the board said.