As Iowa’s nature trails are being used more than ever this summer, individuals should watch out for dangerous plants during their hikes. Louisa County Naturalist Lana McComb says individuals should watch out for wild parsnip, poison ivy, and stinging nettles. These plants grow in wooded areas that have been disturbed, such as man-made trails, ditches, or edge habitats that have been mowed, and can cause various skin rashes and issues. McComb says the oil on these plants is what causes rashes, skin irritation, or blisters. Not only should individuals avoid skin contact of these plants, but McComb says burning these plants can cause issues as well, “Then I always, especially now, remind people about the dangers of burning, to make sure you know what you’re putting in. If you’re perhaps gathering plants for a bonfire for the Fourth of July or if you’re just burning your ditch for maintenance. If you’re burning something like wild parsnip or poison ivy and you inhale that, that can really cause some issues. It’s important to take the proper precautions and if you’re planning for a fun bonfire, just make sure none of those plants are at all involved in your bonfire.” 

McComb says the best way to avoid contact with these plants is to stay on the designated trail in forested areas and wear pants, tube socks, and long sleeve shirts. If contact is made with one of these plants, make sure to wash your hands with hot water and soap, and watch for irregular skin reactions such as swelling.