Frequently Asked Questions
Is HD Machines experienced managing full-service programs? We currently manage 12,000 miles, 70,oo0 acres and 5 divisions for 2 Class 1 railroads.
Is HD Machines licensed to conduct business in your area? We are currently licensed and haved commercial applicators in the following states: LA, MS, AL, TN, GA, FL, SC, NC, VA, OH, MI, and IN. We have the capacity and capability to expand those qualifications to any area that is presented to us as an opportunity for business.
How can we help you improve your Vegetation Management programs? We offer full services and are commited to maintaining your right-of-way annually. We are committed to designing a program that will meet your requirements on an annual basis.
What are our programs that we apply on your right-of-way?
YARDS – Pre-emerge program and applying in late winter and early spring months will enable control of weeds before they seed, grow and germinate. This application will be completed as the frost line lifts and prior to the weeds growing. This program is successful if we have eliminate or limit weed growth during the spring and summer.
BALLAST – Pre-emerge and post emerge programs and applying 2 times annually in all areas except the southern parts of LA, MS, AL, FL, and SC. The first application will focus on the winter annuals, annuals and grasses that are in the target area. The second application will focus on areas not controlled during the first application, hard to control species, and invasive species (example: Kudzu).
BRIDGE – Pre-emerge program and applying in early spring months will enable control of weeds before they seed, grow and germinate. This application will be completed as the frost line lifts and prior to the weeds growing. This program is successful if we have eliminate or limit weed growth during the spring and summer.
CROSSINGS – Post emerge program applying 2 times annually in all areas except the southern parts of LA, MS, AL, FL, and SC. The goal in this area is to promote the growth of grasses to minimize the amount of erosion in the treated area.
BRUSH – Post emerge program applying 1 time annually to areas that have been brush cut the previous year.
What do we do to remain safe? We have a certified Roadway Worker Trainer that conducts manual training for all our drivers and management. Drivers are trained in HD Vegetation Management (HDVM) training each season. Drivers are also Certified Applicator’s in the handling and application of pesticides. All drivers attend daily safety briefings with their assigned track supervisor or roadmaster. HD Managers and drivers have weekly safety meetings to review performance.
How long before we can re-enter into the location of the application? You must review the label for the re-entry statement to ensure you adhere to it’s guidelines for each chemical used in the application. A copy of the label and the msds is maintained in each of HD Machines trucks for your review.
Are HD Machines drivers drug tested? Yes, we maintain drug screening to the DOT standard for all drivers. We also conduct drug tests on any and all employees if we have reasonable suspicion of misuse.
Is the chemical harmful? Due rigourous testing by the EPA, the herbicides used today have very little if any mammalian toxicity and are less harmful than many household products. HD Machines builds programs that utilize chemicals that fall into this category.