Title: Publicity pays off in alligator-weed battle
[Far North Coast Weeds 2 Aug 2011] -- Public vigilance is paying off in the battle against alligator weed in the Richmond River catchment. Recent publicity about the threat posed by alligator weed (Alternanthera philoxeroides) led to the discovery of new infestations after reports from members of the public. A survey by Far North Coast Weeds (FNCW) earlier this year also discovered new alligator weed sites. FNCW noxious weeds officer John Moorhouse said that if alligator weed was not managed it had the potential to become the dominant vegetation across the entire Richmond floodplain and the Wilson-Richmond river systems. Mr Moorhouse said that FNCW wanted to thank community members for their involvement and assistance in locating and managing the new sites.
Since its discovery at Bangalow in 1998, alligator weed has infested the Wilson River system from Bangalow to Boatharbour and sites farther downstream in the Richmond River. Mr Moorhouse said the weed posed a threat to agriculture and the natural environment, as it was capable of out competing many aquatic plants and many terrestrial plants.
“Currently listed as a Weed of National Significance (WoNS), it has the potential to restrict water flow, deoxygenate water bodies, increase transpiration, dominate floodplains and infest nationally significant wetlands at Tuckean and Bungawalbyn,” he said
“Alligator weed can have an economic impact on agriculture and the environment, as well as social impacts on recreational waterway users and amenity.
“Unlike most weeds, alligator weed has the ability to grow within many habitat types.
“This allows it to occupy and dominate many niches, dramatically altering the landscape, with a negative effect on the natural environment.
“Alligator weed now occupies many sites through Byron Creek at Bangalow, with the infestation travelling down the Wilson River and Rocky Mouth Creek. The last know occurrence is in the Richmond River at Broadwater.
“The recent survey by boat also found new occurrences.”
Said to be one of the world’s worst weeds, alligator weed was extremely robust, being tolerant to high salinity, herbicide and dry periods.
Mr Moorhouse said that because of this FNCW was carrying out an extensive survey and control of alligator weed in the upper catchment, with regular survey and control in the lower catchment, supported by field days and media releases.
This was possible through funding provided by the Caring For Our Country initiative, in partnership with Northern Rivers Catchment Management Authority.
FNCW hoped that with effective management, this funding would continue and be extended to encompass the county as a whole.
Due to the invasive nature, difficultly of control and identification, FNCW is eager to assist affected land holders, and follow up any reports of possible incursions.
If you suspect you have a problem with alligator weed, or you believe you know the location of the plant, please call Far North Coast Weeds for advice and assistance. Report any possible new sites to 6623 3833 or www.fncw.nsw.gov.au .
For more information, call FNCW weeds services manager Jim Willmott on 6623 3833, mobile 0427 335 509.