Hemlock Water Dropwort

Hemlock water dropwort (Oenanthe crocata) is a plant toxic to both humans and livestock. It grows luxuriantly in the stream here, and anywhere wet. We need to clear it periodically otherwise it blocks the flow of water in winter. We use it as a mulch if we catch it before it’s seeded, or hot compost it if it has, but SO much of it. This pile represents about a third of what we’ve just cut, and we’ll do it again towards the end of the summer.