Murray River Council has released a Priority Weeds Identification Guide for local landholders to help them identify and prevent problem weeds becoming established on properties.
The guide has been developed in collaboration with NSW Local Land Services and the Biosecurity Teams at Murray River, Edward River and Berrigan Shire Councils.
Information and pictures on over 20 priority weeds species are contained in the guide, along with tips on identification and containment.
Mayor Cr Chris Bilkey said correct identification of weed species is critical for effective management.
"This guide has been developed as a handy identification resource for our landholders so they can help our Biosecurity Team find new and existing weed outbreaks across the footprint."
"We can all play a role in reducing biosecurity risks and it can be as simple as identifying and reporting unusual plants developing on our properties."
"We hope the new guide will be a welcome support tool for our landholders," he said.
Weed management is one of the toughest challenges facing Australian growers and biosecurity teams each and every year.
The smallest seeds can be carried far and wide by vehicles, machinery, people and animals, potentially spreading weeds to farms, roadsides, waterways and bushland across the area.
Murray River Council's Biosecurity Coordinator, Tim Moodie said although preventing the spread of weeds can be difficult, it is the most effective method of weed control.
"Getting on top of a weed outbreak as quick as possible comes down to identification."
"Our new weeds guide is a great identification tool and includes descriptions and images of weed species through a range of growth stages to make the identification process as easy as possible for our landholders."
Mr Moodie said locals should contact council's Biosecurity Team if they suspect a problem weed on their property.
"In the on-going battle against weeds, prevention needs to focus on stopping weeds becoming established on properties, so I would encourage locals to contact our team so that we can provide advice on appropriate management."
The priority weeds identification guide is available for free from any of council's customer service centres or by calling 1300 087 004.
Landholders are also encouraged to contact Tim and the team for delivery of a guide.
"We can drop a guide off to properties, discuss all things weeds and even complete a property weed inspection whilst we are there!" Tim said.
