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Waterweeds Choke Our Waterways

The Department of Primary Industries (DPI) continues to build on its strong partnerships with Local Government.

By Department of Primary Industries - 24th May 2007 - Back to News

Carolyn Ferguson from the Baw Baw Shire and a registered Victorian Weed Spotter has assisted the DPI to locate two new sites of the State Prohibited Weeds, Water Hyacinth and Salvinia at Jindivick and Warragul.

DPI Weed Alert Contact Officer, Kylie Woods, said waterweeds pose a very serious risk to our waterways.

"By covering the waters surface with a thick mat of vegetation these two invasive aquatic plants have the potential to invade and choke Gippsland’s river systems."

"They shade out any submerged plants and impede oxygen exchange inhibiting all aquatic life," Ms Woods said.

"We were very fortunate that a vigilant member of the public raised the alarm after becoming suspicious of some plants being sold at the Rokeby Market earlier this year."

Investigations by DPI revealed that four Water Hyacinth plants were purchased by a local from the Wantirna Market 12 months ago. DPI has subsequently removed over 200 Water Hyacinth plants from two sites. Investigations are continuing to ascertain the source of these State Prohibited Weeds.

"Water Hyacinth can double plant numbers every five days when conditions are suitable."

The Salvinia plants were believed to have been attached to the Water Hyacinth plants when originally purchased.

Like Water Hyacinth, Salvinia also grows extremely quick and can double it’s size every two to three days.

Both Water Hyacinth and Salvinia are classified as State Prohibited Weeds in Victoria. State Prohibited Weeds is the highest category to which a noxious weed can be allocated.

DPI is responsible for the removal and treatment of State Prohibited Weeds in Victoria regardless of where they grow. However individuals and or businesses involved in the sale or possession of State Prohibited Weeds face significant penalties under the Catchment and Land Protection Act (CaLP) 1994. The maximum penalty under the CaLP Act is $12,000.

"I encourage anyone who purchased Water Hyacinth plants from the Rokeby Market, or know of an infestation of these or other State Prohibited Weeds to contact me at DPI Leongatha on (03) 5662 9900."

"It would be potentially disastrous if these weeds enter and invade our waterways. Improved community awareness, knowledge and vigilance are key factors in minimising this risk," Ms Woods said.

The Weed Spotter network is a State Government initiative aimed at detecting new weeds within Victoria that pose a significant environmental, economic and social risk before they become well established.

"The Weed Spotter network is a wonderful initiative and I encourage other like minded individuals to participate to ensure we protect the states valuable natural assets," Carolyn Ferguson said.

"This example highlights the effectiveness of the partnership approach between State Government and the community to manage invasive species," said Ms Woods.

For further information regarding the Weed Spotter program or to make a Weed Spotter report contact the DPI Customer Service centre on 136 186.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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