Photos courtesy of MN DNR
Wild parsnip is an issue, especially for trails since it easily moves along these corridors. The invasive weed that can cause chemical burns to skin is growing along the Root River Bike Trail.
Wild parsnip, a non-native plant, was first discovered in Minnesota in the 1990s. While this plant causes a range of impacts to the environment, the largest concern from this invading species is its ability to inflict burns to skin of people that come into contact with the sap from the plant. Wild parsnip is found in open places such as roadsides, pastures, and disturbed areas.
Be aware of what could happen if you accidentally come in contact with this weed. Avoid skin contact with the toxic sap of the plant by wearing gloves, long sleeves and long pants. When the juice of wild parsnip comes in contact with skin in the presence of sunlight, it can cause a chemical burn which can look like a rash with blistering and discoloration of the skin.
Learn more about wild parsnip and at www.dnr.state.mn.us/invasives/terrestrialplants/herbaceous/wildparsnip.html. An ivasive plants guide can also be found at the DNR website.