Title: Adelaide ChemFree workshop demonstrates herbicide reductions possible
The Weed's Network's July 3rd Adelaide workshop for reducing herbicide use in weeding and vegetation management was filled to capacity. Participants were drawn from a wide range of professional roles, such as amenity horticulture, viticulture, landscape design and vegetation restoration. The day-long workshop featured eleven speakers who presented the latest practical knowledge on proven approaches to vegetation management without chemicals. Participants also gained insight into current public perceptions of the herbicide pollution and related health issues. A feature of the day was the roundtable peer discussions on the grounds of the University of Adelaide where participants shared their ideas on how to transition to non-chemical practices. Thank you to all our excellent presenters and to the great group of non-chemical weeding professionals and conservation volunteers who attended. A special thank you to Natural Resources Adelaide & Mt Lofty Ranges, Angove, Fiskars, Kalleske Wines, Nerada Tea and Organic Weed Control who generously supported the event. Interest in non-chemical weeding and vegetation is growing rapidly around the world due to the widespread development of herbicide resistance and growing public concerns over the health and environmental effects of using herbicide. Planning is now well underway for future workshops in Queensland, Victoria, Tasmania, New Zealand and South Africa — for more information on The Weed's Network's approach to working with weeds and vegetation, or to organise a workshop in your region, please contact The Weed's Network's General Manager Dr David Low. Comment.