BEWARE OF WILD PARSNIPS

Nicollet County weed inspector, Tom Kennedy has discovered wild parsnips in the road right of way along county road 15 west of St. Peter. Wild parsnip causes "phyto-photo-dermatitis". This happens when the sap of the plant, from broken stem or leaves touches the skin and is exposed to ultraviolet light. Within 24-48 hours, the affected area will redden and in most cases blister. These blisters can be painful for a couple of days.

In many cases the blisters will lead to brownish pigmentation that can last for years. Unlike Poison Ivy, the reaction caused by contact with this noxious weed is not an allergic reaction. Toxin in the sap is absorved by the skin and energized by ultraviolet light. NO ONE IS EXEMPT.

Identifying characteristics: A flower appears during the second year. The flower resembles garden dill. The stalk stands from 2-5 feet high and holds clusters of yellow flowers and later dozens of flat, oval seeds. Plants need to be sprayed and also cut down. end