Ditch spraying will start soon! In mid-May, the Porter County Storm Water Department will begin its annual ditch spraying in the southeast area of Unincorporated Porter County, known as Area 1. The department sprays its regulated drains to remove invasive plants and bulky vegetation that if left untreated, may prevent proper drainage from occurring. On the map, sensitive areas are called out to guide the spraying activity. Examples of sensitive areas include specialty commercial crops previously known to the department and properties registered by their owners on Driftwatch.org, a specialty crop online registry. These specialty areas include organic vegetation and apiaries (bee hives). Spraying along residential areas is also avoided. Property owners within the proximity of the spray zones have been mailed a letter explaining the project. Any structures or appurtenances located within 25 FT of the top of the bank along a county-maintained open drain (i.e. ditch) should be removed from this regulated drainage easement. These include sheds, children’s play sets, decorative landscaping, fences or other items. If there are additional questions or concerns, please email lori.larson@porterco.org.