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Go Native In Wellington Shire

New funding for the replacement of roadside weeds with native trees

By Karen Gregory - 15th October 2002 - Back to News

There’s a great chance to go native in Wellington this Spring – but you’d better be quick about it.

Wellington Shire Council, the department of Natural Resources and Environment and Landcare have joined forces to invite everyone to replace roadside weeds with native trees.

The Weeds for Trees program covers the cost of herbicides to control weeds and revegetate roadsides with indigenous plants.

Wellington Council Environmental Planner Natalie Liddell said weeds being targeted this year include Blackberry, St John’s Wort, Paterson’s Curse and Bridal Creeper.

"Individuals, neighbours, or a community group can apply for funding to tackle unsightly weeds," she said.

"Council has provided funding, with a matching contribution from the NRE, and Landcare will supply indigenous plants to protect roadsides from weed regrowth and increase wildlife corridors.

"One of the best ways to make a big impact is to get together with neighbours, or a group of friends, to make sure that as large an area as possible is targeted at a time."

The available herbicides include Melsulfuron and Glyphosate. Site inspections are held to make sure that the weeds applicants want to target will need the use of 40 grams of Metsulfuron, the minimum amount that will be issued.

Application forms for the program are available from Council, NRE and Landcare and must be submitted by close of business of Friday 1 November 2002. The forms can also be downloaded from Council’s website www.wellington.vic.gov.au.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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