The Ministry of Public Works and Environment has begun testing a new vegetation control machine as part of its ongoing work to maintain Bermuda’s roadsides, sidewalks, verges and public spaces in a more environmentally responsible way.
The Foamstream L16 machine uses hot water and a biodegradable foam to treat unwanted weeds and vegetation. The foam acts as an insulating blanket, holding heat on the plant long enough to damage it from the leaf down toward the root.
The Minister of Public Works and Environment, the Hon Jaché Adams, JP, MP, was on site today on Middle Road in Devonshire, where he personally tested the machine and observed its operation with Ministry staff.
Minister Adams said the pilot programme reflects the Ministry’s practical approach to public maintenance and environmental care.
“This is exactly the type of solution we should be testing,” said Minister Adams. “Roadside vegetation is a real issue in Bermuda, especially during periods of heavy rain when growth increases quickly.
“It affects visibility, sidewalks, road edges and the overall appearance of public spaces. The Ministry has to keep these areas maintained, but we also have to be responsible in how we do it.”
The Government is currently testing one Foamstream machine. If the pilot programme proves effective in Bermuda’s conditions, the Ministry will consider purchasing additional units for wider use.
The Ministry has eliminated the use of glyphosate-based products, such as Roundup, in public areas due to environmental concerns. Foamstream is being tested as an alternative that does not rely on traditional pesticide spraying.
The Minister added: “We are not saying that one machine will solve every vegetation problem overnight. It is a pilot programme.
“We want to see how effective it is, how our crews work with it, how often areas need to be treated, and whether it gives better long-term results. If it works well, we can look at expanding its use.”
The Ministry noted that roadside vegetation has to be managed consistently, particularly during the summer months, when rainfall contributes to rapid growth.
Traditional cutting and weed-whacking remain useful, but they often remove only the visible growth, which can return quickly.
The machine forms part of the Ministry’s broader investment in practical tools and equipment to improve public maintenance across the Island.