08/26/2026
📣 NOTICE: The Tennessee Department of Agriculture Division of Forestry will be carrying out kudzu control measures at Natchez Trace State Forest this week. We will use an aerial herbicide application to target kudzu, with little to no impact on trees in the area.
Weather permitting, application is planned for Aug. 27, 2026.
Joy Forest Road, Dickson Forest Road, Thorn Forest Road and Woods Forest Road will be closed for 24 hours to facilitate the application and minimize visitor exposure to the chemical. Signs will be posted to indicate which areas are temporarily closed.
‼️ FAQs ‼️
Q: Is there a health risk to visitors after the closure period?
A: No, the closure allows enough time to pass between application and public re-entry to eliminate any risk to visitors.
Q: Will this impact the hardwood and pine trees in the area?
A: No, this chemical targets specific plants, including invasive species like mimosa trees and kudzu. It does not impact most pine and hardwood trees.
Q: Will this impact properties outside the state forest?
A: No, there should be no impact outside the state forest listed.
Q: Will this impact waterways?
A: This will not be sprayed near waterways, so it should not affect water quality in the area.
Q: Will wildlife in the area be impacted?
A: Studies show that the selected chemical has a low toxicity profile for animals, with no significant effects.
