The 3 Most Overlooked Vegetation Hazards Along Railroads—and How to Fix Them Fast

For rail safety officers, few things are more critical than keeping tracks clear and safe. But some of the most dangerous vegetation threats aren’t the ones you see towering overhead. They’re the ones hiding in plain sight. 

As a rail operator, it’s essential to identify and neutralize the top overlooked vegetation hazards before they cause delays, derailments, or disasters. Below, we’ll explore 3 common vegetation issues that many operators fail to recognize before it’s too late.

Why Vegetation Management Is So Critical for Railroad Maintenance

Vegetation overgrowth isn’t just an eyesore and fire hazard. It’s a liability for you and any pedestrians in the area. Insurance exposure is a significant concern, and you don’t want to risk injury or harm to someone because they can’t see an approaching car.

The last thing you want to worry about is an unexpected fine by the FRA. Managing trees, grasses, and weeds around tracks ensures FRA compliance and helps you avoid a potentially expensive incident.

Another reason to stay on top of vegetation growth is functionality. Vegetation management ensures visibility and operational continuity for passenger and freight lines.

3 Railroad Vegetation Hazards You Could Be Missing

1. Root Uplift Near Rails and Switches

The Hazard: Roots from trees growing too close to the track can destabilize rail beds, interfere with switch integrity, and damage signaling equipment.

How to Fix It: Use selective mechanical removal and root barrier installation to prevent re-growth and protect substructures. Heckel crews use rail-bound equipment for safe access and precision removal.

2. Overgrown Sightlines at Crossings

The Hazard: Low shrubs and mid-height trees can block visibility at rural or private rail crossings. This puts motorists, pedestrians, and your legal department at risk.

How to Fix It: Implement strategic brush removal and long-term vegetation suppression (herbicide or mechanical) that preserves sightlines year-round.

3. Leaf and Debris Accumulation on Tracks

The Hazard: Fallen leaves and vegetative debris can create slippery conditions and interfere with braking, especially during wet or icy months.

How to Fix It: Regular right-of-way maintenance to remove overhanging trees and high-shed species, especially near curves or grades.

Case Study: It’s All in the Numbers

We all know that vegetation can be dangerous. But how much of an impact does vegetation management actually have on track operation, safety, and compliance?

One of our Class I rail clients reduced vegetation-related safety incidents by 40% in one season using our focused hazard survey and remediation program. By prioritizing switch areas, curves, and high-risk crossing zones, we were able to help them get the most value and best results from their vegetation management.

Don’t Let Overgrowth Catch You By Surprise

You don’t need to wait for a derailment or lawsuit to invest in safety. These hazards are fixable with the right team, equipment, and urgency.

At Heckel Vegetation Management, we know how essential strategic vegetation management is for railroad operators. That’s why we offer hazard reviews and site safety surveys to help you identify danger zones and eliminate threats before they cost you.

Reach out to our team now to get started!