Eversource will not spray herbicides around power lines on the Island this year, but debate is far from over as the utility giant files a five-year plan that would allow continued spraying.
Following the lead of the town of Brewster, the Tisbury selectmen will go to court against Eversource to try to block the planned spraying of herbicides.
Edgartown selectmen backed off an idea to send a letter of concern to Eversource after the conservation agent shared information about plans to use herbicides under power lines.
Herbicide spraying on West Chop and near the Edgartown-Vineyard Haven Road could begin as early as Friday, after the state pesticide board voted last week not to consider a one-year moratorium on spraying in the region.
The Martha’s Vineyard Commission, state representatives, town officials and others are all calling on the utility giant to find alternatives to herbicide spraying under power lines this year.
For the first time in four years, Eversource Energy plans to apply herbicides under some of its power lines on the Vineyard. A public comment period ends March 27.