Monday, November 11, 2024

Aerial surveys reveal Kempsey weed infestations

NSW

Recent aerial surveying conducted by Kempsey Shire Council has revealed growing infestations of Groundsel Bush in the Willi Willi, Morparrabah, Stuarts Point and Collombatti areas.

Council Weeds Officer, Greg Egan said his team will work closely with impacted landholders to help control the invasive plant.

“Groundsel Bush invades open to dense forests, bushlands and agricultural land, outcompeting grazing vegetation and native species,” said Mr Egan.

“Under the NSW Biosecurity Act, everyone has a legal obligation to manage identified priority weeds on land they own or occupy. Council Weed Officers are available to help landholders reduce the risk of weeds impacting assets of high value.”

Groundsel Bush wasn’t the only invasive species discovered during the aerial surveys.

“Searches for infestations of Cockspur Coral Tree and Tropical Soda Apple took place, and we found one infestation of the Tropical Soda Apple in a known area,” said Mr Egan.

He said landholders should also keep an eye out for Mother of Millions, as the weed is not only highly invasive but highly toxic stock and poisonous to animals and humans.

“Mother of Millions invades household gardens as well as natural and farm landscapes, and the red-orange flowers are five times more poisonous than the leaves and stems.”

“Many farmers control this weed on their land to ensure that their cattle or other stock do not eat them,” said Mr Egan.

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