Group on fire to tackle weeds

Fireweed is in the firing line as the Kangaroo Valley community unites to take on the management of this noxious weed and fortify the future of farming in the district.

On Saturday September 1 the Kangaroo Valley Sustainable Land Management Group (KVSLMG), supported by the Department of Primary Industries (DPI), Shoalhaven City Council and Southern Rivers Catchment Management Authority, will highlight new strategies they have adopted to deal with fireweed.

The new group was formed by landholders who have been actively managing fireweed for the last 30 years - now they’ve invited local residents and government to work with them.

DPI agronomist, Tony Cox, said that he has worked with the group to develop cross-property plans which give landholders extra power to deal with weeds.

"Cross-property planning covers the management of weeds, fertiliser use, grazing, biosecurity, water quality and biodiversity issues," Mr Cox said.

"Weeds, water and wildlife can’t be contained by fences so it’s important landholders work together to deal with issues which affect the whole landscape."

Local dairy farmer and KVSLMG chair, Robert Cochrane, said the group was keen to see fireweed on the radar for the whole community.

"Fireweed is a weed of national significance which can have a huge impact on agricultural production and the environment – it’s toxic to cattle and devalues grazing land by taking over pastures," Mr Cochrane said.

"For the last 30 years we’ve been removing fireweed before it has a chance to flower, seed and spread and we’re determined to stay on top of weed management and ensure the agricultural, environmental and economic health of our community.

Mr Cochrane said the University of New England’s fireweed authority, Brian Sindel, was a drawcard for the field day.

"Professor Sindel will be discussing his work to identify a biological control for fireweed and current controls – he’ll also be able to answer questions and explain why it’s critical to control the weed now."

Giant Parramatta grass (GPG) management will also feature on the program with DPI researcher, David Officer, due to discuss the progress of biological control trials for GPG.

The field day, which starts at 10 am and concludes with a paddock walk at 2.30 pm, is open to all interested members of the public.

Photographs are available from bernadette.york@dpi.nsw.gov.au

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