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Alligator Weed Loses Its Bite At Warragul

The Department of Primary Industries (DPI) has successfully completed work under an intensive eradication program to help remove one of Australia’s worst water weeds at a site in Warragul.

By Department of Primary Industries - 1st July 2009 - Back to News

Weed Alert Incursion Officer, Fran Hausmann, said alligator weed, (Alternanthera philoxeroides), is a State Prohibited Weed and a Weed of National Significance.

"The majority of alligator weed infestations have been found in the Melbourne metropolitan area, however there are two known regional, but isolated, infestations at Warragul and Bendigo," Ms Hausmann said.

"The alligator weed at Warragul was originally found by a Victorian Weed Spotter in an open drain.

"It spreads by fragmentation, and vigorously grows in both aquatic and terrestrial habitats with the potential to cause significant adverse impacts to our waterways, flora, fauna and recreational activities."

According to Ms Hausmann, the response operation had its complexities including the need to protect vulnerable species such as giant Gippsland earth worms and growling grass frogs present in the area.

This meant that the Warragul infestation had to be tackled using a combination of chemical, mechanical and manual techniques.

The ‘terrestrial’ infestation was treated with herbicide in late April and removal of the ‘aquatic’ infestations continued in early May. An excavator was used to remove the weeds at major sites, while individual plants were done by hand.

"Although costly, physical removal is an ecologically friendly treatment method that, when done carefully, can result in effective eradication of alligator weed," Ms Hausmann said.

"Rehabilitation works have also been carried out on the creek bank to protect it from erosion."

As part of a long term strategy, DPI is continuing to work in partnership with Baw Baw Shire Council to prevent any further incursions by alligator weed, while maintaining the park and playground area.

Ongoing monitoring of this site is being carried out and follow up treatments will start this spring.

The source of the Warragul infestation is unknown and DPI is urging members of the community to report any information they may have to help keep the weed out of the region.

If you think you have alligator weed in your backyard or have seen it in the Warragul area, please contact the DPI Customer Service Centre on 136 186.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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