Tackling the Tussock Turmoil

Thursday 31 August 2017

Through a joint effort between landowners, Wellington Shire Council and the Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources (DEDJTR), a control program is occurring in the Avon River area, to assist eradicate the spread of the Serrated Tussock.

This unwelcome plant is a declared pest species in Victoria, it is highly invasive and impacts local farms and the natural environment. The Serrated Tussock is a serious weed of pasture whose seed heads are carried along the ground or blown considerable distances through the air.

Wellington Shire Council General Manager Built and Natural Environment, Chris Hastie says: “The presence of the Serrated Tussock has a significant impact on the agricultural and farming community. The major environmental impacts pose a significant risk, with the Serrated Tussock out competing many native and endangered grass species. Its presence also greatly affects land value.

“Management and extermination of this high threat plant could save farmers time and money in lost farming and control costs if we can stop the spread early on.”

Livestock are unable to digest the plant due to its high fibre and low protein content, resulting in a loss of condition and in extreme cases starvation. Wool quality can also be substantially reduced due to the presence of the Serrated Tussock seeds.

Council contractors will be working along road sides in the coming weeks, as part of its annual control program, as the Shire ramps up its efforts to eradicate this invasive species.

Council encourages all landholders to follow the directions of the DEDJTR compliance notices and complete Serrated Tussock control within the advised timeframes.

Further information is available from http://bit.ly/serratedtussock or by contacting Council’s Land and Natural Resources Coordinator on 1300 366 244.

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