Partnering to address priority weeds
Tweed Landcare Inc brings together many stakeholders to control Monkey’s Comb - a priority prevention weed.
Capacity to Deliver - LP-022-003
The issue
In early 2021 Tweed Landcare were advised by a bush regeneration Contractor of an infestation of Monkey’s Comb (Pithecoctenium crucigerum) on a private property at Upper Duroby. At the time the 2 Hectare infestation on steep terrain along Upper Duroby Creek was the only known infestation in the Tweed.
The solution
We organised a site inspection with relevant representatives from the bush regenerators, Council, Rous County Council and North Coast Local Land Services- who all have a role in the management of weeds.
At the meeting we confirmed it was a priority weed and discussed the scope of works and a realistic approach to eradication.
Tweed Landcare then applied to Rous County Council for funding for the first year of a multi-stage project to undertake best-practice control.
The impact
In the first stage Contractors undertook primary weed control of Monkey’s Comb across approximately one-third of the site. This workis holding well and dense native regeneration has been observed across the treated area.
After a second funding application to Rous County Council the next stage of eradication works has commenced. By the end of the second stage another 0.6 Ha of primary weed control and follow up across the stage 1 area will be completed.
Another two or three years of funding will be required to complete primary and follow up weed control. Then the site will need to be monitored for new incursions.
This project is successful because Monkey's Comb is the dominant weed at the project site so the Contractors are not having to 'step over' lots of other weeds.
Key facts
- Funding secured by Tweed Landcare control of regional prevention weed Monkey’s Comb.
- Tweed Landcare worked with all stakeholders to bring the project together.
- Biosecurity is everyone's duty.