Skin damaging plant popping up on roadsides

Wild parsnip can cause scars that last for two years

     Residents of north central Iowa are warned to be aware of a roadside plant that can cause lasting damage, said T.J. Herrick, wildlife biologist for the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

 Wild parsnip is an invasive plant that can grow and spread quickly.

     “People should definitely watch out for it while its actively growing, as it is now,” Herrick said.  

     If the plant’s sap comes in contact with human skin, then is exposed to sunlight, very painful blisters or burns will appear where the sap was.

     Read the full article in the July 14 edition of the papers.