MARATHON — The township is advising residents to stay away from an invasive plant growing in the area.
The municipality issued a warning that cow parsnips have been growing in the area of Cummings Beach near Lake Superior.
Contact with sap from cow parsnips can lead to severe burning and blistering of the skin and temporary or permanent blindness when exposed to the sun.
Symptoms can take place within 48 hours and can lead to painful scarring.
Anyone who comes into contact with the plant is urged to wash well with soap and water, keeping the affected area out of the sun, and to see a doctor if the exposure area becomes inflamed.
Cow parsnips look very similar to giant hogweed, and can grow to a height of to 2.5 meters tall and the leaves are palmate-shaped, one to two metres wide. It also has a few purple areas and deep ridges, with fuzzy hairs.
The cow parsnips tend to grow along trails, the edges of parks, and open spaces.
Parents are especially urged to keep their children and pets away from these plants.
According to the township, the invasive species has been reported to the Ontario Invasive Species Centre.
For more information on how to properly dispose of Cow Parsnips growing in your area, click the link.
