Herbicide Accident has Tragic Consequences

Ancient N.C. grape vine has near-death experience

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Jack Wilson stands next to the power pole and damaged portion of the grapevine at his home in Manteo, N.C., on Wednesday, June 30, 2010. The "mother vine" as it's known, is believed to be the first cultivated vine in America and more than 400 years old. It was sprayed with herbicide while utility workers were trying to clear the nearby power pole. Wilson works to clear away the dead leaves every day (the pile is visible in the background) and hopes that the vine will survive. (Preston Gannawayt)

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MANTEO

A large, old grape vine possibly growing here before the Lost Colony disappeared is on the mend after getting an accidental dose of a powerful herbicide.

But as experts continue to nurse the Mother Vine, including more pruning and fertilizing scheduled this week, a warning goes out to those who spray weeds in public places - be more cautious.

"From what I saw, this was just basically a lack of common sense," said Donald Hawkins, owner of Vineworks in Duplin County.

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