NSW will join the fight against some of Australia’s worst weed species as 12 invasive weed species, including the scourge of the Far South Coast – fireweed, are included in a national weeds initiative.
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NSW Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI) Manager Invasive Species, Scott Charlton, the Weeds of National Significance initiative helps state and federal governments tackle the most serious and destructive weeds in the country.
“These nationally-recognised weeds pose a significant threat to agriculture, human health, productivity and the environment,” Mr Charlton said.
In addition to fireweed, the others are African boxthorn, asparagus weeds, bellyache bush, brooms, cat’s claw creeper, gamba grass, Madeira vine, opuntioid cacti, sagittaria, silverleaf nightshade and water hyacinth.
“Under the Weeds of National Significance initiative, NSW DPI will lead coordination efforts for combating fireweed, asparagus weed, sagittaria (arrowhead) and water hyacinth,” he said.
“Working with state and federal authorities, NSW DPI will lead the development of management plans for these weeds and oversee national control efforts.”
Further information on weeds is available on the NSW DPI website: www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/agriculture/pests-weeds/weeds
Fireweed – search and control now!
RECENT and continuing rain has prompted fireweed germinations in many parts of the region with seedlings readily identifiable in pastures, recreation and conservation areas.
Bega Valley Shire Council’s weeds manager Ann Herbert said now was the time to get down on your knees in the paddocks.
“If you are planning to use herbicides then now is the time to spray,” Ms Herbert said.
“Once fireweed flowers, herbicides are less effective with greater concentrations often required, hence it becomes more costly to control.
“Many landholders in parts of the valley are using goats or sheep as one of their fireweed management tools and reports indicate they are very effective in preventing flowering and seeding.
“Where plants are scattered or where a landholder has only a small area to manage, hand-pulling is a viable option, requiring regular reinspection and control.
“A mix of control methods is always the best option, no matter what the target weed.”
Fireweed and more general weed management, along with native and introduced pasture management programs, will be topics at a Field Day to be held on 1865 Myrtle Mountain Road on Saturday, April 28.
For more information on fireweed management or to register for the field day phone Council on 6499 2222.
Similarly, vigilance at this stage and regular hand-pulling will minimise the numbers of plants maturing and seeding, reducing fireweed densities and extent over time.
