Quick response to Alligator weed infestation near Gunnedah

Landowners on the Namoi River are being called upon to look out for Alligator weed after an outbreak of the invasive waterweed was recently detected on the banks of the river near Gunnedah.  

“Staff from NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and weeds officers with Gunnedah, Tamworth and Liverpool Plains Councils are now undertaking a survey for Alligator weed to detect the spread of the invasive waterweed,” said
Philip Blackmore, NSW DPI Invasive Species Officer. 

“This is the first infestation of Alligator weed west of the range in the northern half of NSW – and it is a serious threat to irrigation industries and to wetlands.  

“Alligator Weed is a Class 2 Noxious Weed in this part of the state and a Weed of National Significance. 

“To assist with the monitoring and control program, landowners are being asked to regularly inspect their creek and river frontages and all flood prone areas and alert the authorities of any findings.”  

Mr Blackmore said Alligator weed is a devastating weed that can grow in water and on land.  

“Once it is established it is almost impossible to control so we need to get on top of things early.  

“The local weed control authority has been monitoring and treating the infestation since the initial finding by Tony Woods, Weeds Officer for Gunnedah Shire Council (GSC). 

“The Alligator weed has proven difficult to contain and control on the coast due to the difficult terrain along the creek banks and the numerous flood events. 

“We don’t want the same problem here in the north west – so we are very keen to find any infestations now and eradicate them,” Mr Blackmore said. 

Alligator Weed Alternanthera philoxeroides, is a summer growing perennial herb.  It has small white papery flower heads 8-10 mm in diameter, that appear generally from November to March. The leaves are shiny, spear-shaped, opposite and about 2-7 cm long and about 1-2 cm wide. One of the main identifying features of alligator weed is that the stems are hollow when mature. 

Alligator weed has extremely vigorous growth and a great tolerance to normal control measures which makes it a major threat to floodplains, wetlands, river and irrigation systems. It is one of the highest priority weeds for detection and management, with a significant amount of money spent on its control across NSW.  

“Alligator weed is currently a threat to all agricultural industries on the floodplain,” Mr Blackmore said.  

“Alligator weed also poses a huge threat to the aquatic environment,” he said.

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