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Local governments join to tackle weedy issue
Let's get 'um' is a phrase that's likely to catch the eye.
That's the aim of Bungil Shire and Roma Town Council in drawing attention to a joint project aimed at tackling two major weeds in the region - green cestrum and African boxthorn.
The two local governments linked up to take a realistic catchment-based approach to a problem that cuts across boundaries developed by humans.
"This is a very exciting initiative. It's one of the first joint local government projects in the region focusing on land management issues," said Local Government Natural Resource Management Officer for the Maranoa-Balonne Catchment, Liz Otto.
Funding
The Australian Government, the National Landcare Program, the State Government, the Queensland Murray Darling Committee Inc. (QMDC) and two Councils have provided funding and support for the three-year program.
Activities
"Bungil Creek runs through the outskirts of Roma and it has a heavy infestation of these two weeds. The weeds are spread further downstream every time it rains," Liz said.
"A cooperative strategic approach based on natural catchment boundaries rather than on local government boundaries is just what's needed for a problem like this."
Local government plays a key role in managing weeds, but landholders have a legal obligation to rid their properties of weeds like green cestrum and African boxthorn.
By participating in the 'Let's get 'um' Weed Buster Program landholders will be reimbursed for a proportion of the money they spend on destroying these weeds.
"We're hoping the incentives will encourage landholders to take the initiative in controlling weeds," said Pest Control Officer with Roma Town Council, Tim Hopkins.
"Even when the majority are fulfilling their responsibilities, it only takes one plant to re-infest the area."
Measures for combating the weeds include cut-stumping, pulling/ripping and burning, as well as spraying. Green cestrum and African boxthorn have been jointly targeted as one chemical treatment can be used for both.
The Bungil Shire and Roma Town Council weedbusting effort is part of a larger weed and pest animal control program in the Border Rivers and Maranoa-Balonne Catchments which includes a total of eight projects.
More information
- Liz Otto, Local Government NRM Officer (Maranoa-Balonne): lizo@qmdc.org.au
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