Posted: March 5, 2012

Southern Downs Regional Council pest control officers will be visiting properties from now through to 22 May 2012 to check for instances of declared plant pests as part of a series of rotational inspections of the whole region.

The current survey will map the distribution and spread of declared pests across the region, with particular emphasis on some areas.

In the Northern Zone that will be Warwick, Junabee, Wiyarra, Tannymorel, Murray’s Bridge, Loch Lamond and the areas that border Junabee Road and Warwick Killarney Road. In these areas they are looking at all pests but in particular for instances of African Boxthorn, Tree pear, Weedy Sporobolous grasses, Honey Locust, Blackberry and Mother of Millions.

In the Southern Zone the focus will be on Cannon Creek, Applethorpe and The Summit, with emphasis on instances of Fireweed, Blackberry, Weedy Sporobolous grass and Annual Ragweed.

Council will also be mapping rabbit harbour and educating people on pest animal control for wild dogs, foxes, rabbits and feral pigs.

“Our goal is to have an environmentally sustainable Southern Downs,” said Tim O’Brien, Manager Environmental Service. “Controlling declared pest plants is extremely important in maintaining a healthy environment and productive agriculture.

“Some of these plants are harmful to livestock, whilst others can quickly infest crops,” Mr O’Brien said. “Some provide refuge for pest animals, and some, like Parthenium weed, can even harm human health.

“While it is the landholder’s responsibility to control declared pest plants on their property, we will work with them to help identify pest plants and to help with understanding the best practices for treatment.

“Pest management is something we need to work on together. To assist landowners with plant pest control, Council has large pumps and spray units available for hire at reasonable rates,” he explained. “We are also asking residents to let Council know if they notice pest plants on road reserves.”

Council works with Landcare and environmental groups to assist them with field days and plant pest education programs. If you have a group that would like assistance please call 07 4661 0300 or 07 4681 5500.

The current survey began on 22nd February 2012 and will run for three months, expiring on 22nd May 2012.

More information can be found on the Department of Primary Industry website, click here for the A-Z listing of pest plants.

ENDS