Title: Local council uses goats to manage weeds in wetland
[Merimbula News 28 Oct 2013] — Volunteers at Panboola Wetlands in NSW Australia have worked hard to remove weeds and have been assisted by Council in their efforts to eradicate dense infestations, but now the wetlands is getting help from a completely different source – goats. Bega Valley Shire’s weeds and vegetation manager, Ann Herbert, said: “In recent weeks council vegetation officers have overseen a different weed control program, using goats to control blackberry, privet, honeysuckle and other woody weeds on an area of Crown Land within the wetlands. “The goats have stripped the area of small trees, shrubs, low hanging branches and enjoyed lopped tree branches. The area was effectively cleared for officers to get in and cut the bigger trees, many of which have been ring-barked by the goats. Branches and fallen trees have been stockpiled for disposal,” said Ms Herbert. Further weed control will continue in the next twelve months with indigenous trees and shrubs to be planted in autumn 2014. “It is proving a very successful project and a great example of how community and council can work together,” said Ms Herbert. For more information on weed management using goats contact Bega Shire Council on +61 2 6499 2222. ${imageDescription} Comment
