News release from DAFF
Biosecurity Queensland senior biosecurity officer Petra Skoien said Weedbuster Week was an annual event filled with activities and celebrations aimed to raise awareness and involve the general public in weed management.
Weedbusters is a year-long campaign that culminates with Weedbuster Week, held during the first week of September every year. Weedbuster Week provides an opportunity to encourage participation in weed control activities, provides recognition of existing activities and facilitates weed education.
“Held from 2 -8 September, it’s a great time to get outdoors and help your local school, Landcare group, Bushcare group, or council tackle problem weeds in your area,” she said.
“Activities can range from weed clean-ups, field days and demonstrations, to weed identification walks and competitions.
“In cities and regional towns throughout Queensland, a lot of people like to spruce up their gardens in spring, so it’s also a good time for people to check they aren’t spreading weeds.
“Everyone can help prevent weed spread by keeping their gardens weed-free.
“When planning your garden, choose your plants carefully and purchase non-weedy plants.
“You should also be careful with mulch as weed seeds can survive the mulching process. It’s also helpful to buy weed-free soil, mulches and fertilisers,” Dr Skoien said.
“People should also review or develop practices to prevent weeds from entering or leaving their property to protect themselves from future weed problems.
“In rural areas, weeds compete with pasture needed for livestock and agricultural crops.
“Weeds can also increase the risk of fire, increase maintenance costs and reduce enjoyment of recreational activities.”
Dr Skoien said highly invasive weeds threaten grazing lands, waterways, national parks and urban environments.
“Weeds cost Queensland an estimated $600 million annually and have significant impacts on primary industries, natural ecosystems, and human and animal health,” she said.
“Weedbuster Week presents the perfect opportunity for landowners to work out the weed control and prevention strategies that they want to conduct on their own properties over the next twelve months.”
For more information about Weedbuster Week and how to get involved, call Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23 or visit the website, www.daff.qld.gov.au.
Media contact: Kerri Neville, 07 3087 8596
Sorry, the comment form is closed at this time.