Title: Supporting communities to protect the environment from invasive weeds
[The Farm Trader 8 Aug 2011] Prevention and early intervention are among the most effective techniques in mitigating the impact of weeds. This was one of the main messages provided to community groups and individuals at a recent environmental weeds seminar hosted by the Weed Society of New South Wales in Sydney. National Weeds Management Facilitator, John Thorp, is also on the Advisory Committee for the National Weeds and Productivity Research Program which is managed by the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation (RIRDC). He provided practical advice on effective weed management to participants, saying the problem is one shared by all Australians.“Good science underpins the development of information, tools, management options and resources that will enhance Australia’s capacity to better manage invasive weeds,” Mr Thorp said.
“They pose a major threat to Australia’s natural environment, out-competing native plants and degrading the habitats of native animals.
“What we want to do is encourage individuals and local communities working with environmental weeds to apply principles developed by RIRDC’s Weeds Program and help them be more effective in their weed management.”
Through RIRDC’s Weeds Program, the Australian Government is investing $12.4 million in leading the search for solutions to Australia’s on-going weeds challenge.
“Combatting weed problems requires coordination amongst all levels of government, in partnership with industry and the community. Building capacity across all of these stakeholders is essential to protecting Australia’s natural environment in the long-term,” Mr Thorp said.
“We’re working with local communities to reduce the impact of weeds and prevent new weed problems. We’re also investing in research projects aimed at better understanding the situation and how things like climate change may affect the spread of weeds.”
For more information about RIRDC’s National Weeds and Productivity Research Program, visit www.rirdc.gov.au. Practical tools and tips for land managers are also available at www.weeds.gov.au.
Article: WeedsNews2022 (permalink) Date: 9 August 2011; 10:09:44 AM AEST