Colac Otway trials steam weed control
Colac Otway Shire Council is continuing its proactive investigation into weed control options with an onsite demonstration of the latest steaming treatment to tackle weeds and reeds.
Council Chief Executive Peter Brown said Council was continuing to minimise the use of glyphosate because of public concern regarding its use, along with pursuing other weed control options, including steam.
"Glyphosate is registered for use in Australia by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority which continues to advise that the use instructions on glyphosate provide adequate protection for users.
"We are actively monitoring what is happening at other Councils and the State Government review of the use of chemicals to treat weeds.
"Council had previously considered steam weed control and as technology has improved, we have taken the next step of trialling the non-chemical method in particularly sensitive areas such as playgrounds.
"Members of our Services and Operations, Parks and Gardens and Environment teams attended a demonstration of a steam weed control treatment at the Lake Colac foreshore, targeting a variety of weeds and reeds.
"We have now started a steam treatment trial on the Pirate Park playground at Elliminyt and along the Barongarook Creek.
"Weeds have also been problematic along Barongarook Creek where Landcare groups have planted native plants.
"We have also started a trial of an organic product called BioWeed along the lakeside footpath.
"We are also monitoring other agencies' use of chemicals and alternative methods, particularly DELWP and large rural councils which have similar challenges to Colac Otway.
"Council is looking into why councils that had previously trialled non-glyphosate treatments had not continued with other options.
"The trials will aim to find the balance between using steam and organic treatments, while maintaining Council land to the meet the community's expectations on Council's limited budget.
"Meanwhile Council will continue to minimise use of glyphosate and continue to store and use it in accordance with a Safety Data Sheet.
"Use of this chemical is also managed by a Safe Work Method Statement for Weed Spraying which specifies the use of Personal Protective Equipment."
