The fight against Cabomba (Cabomba caroliniana) has reached a significant milestone with the Territory Labor Government announcing that the upstream quarantine zone of Darwin River has been lifted, restoring access to the river between Old Bynoe Road and Leonino Road.
Cabomba can choke waterways, wetland ecosystems, fishing and swimming holes and improve mosquito breeding conditions. It is a fully submerged plant with surface flowers, native to America.
The reduction of the 12 kilometre quarantine area down to 6 kilometres, follows a 14 year battle to contain and eradicate Cabomba from Darwin River.
Management of the area is still continuing and the quarantine area over the remaining section between Cox Peninsula Road and Old Bynoe Road will remain in place prohibiting movement, unless an appropriate permit from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources has been obtained.
Fines of more than $100,000 can apply to anyone caught within the remaining quarantine area along Darwin River.
The NT Government thanks the public for their patience and understanding regarding the Cabomba quarantine area and remind them to report any Cabomba sightings to the DENR Weed Management Branch on 08 8999 4567. To familiarise yourself with Cabomba please visit www.nt.gov.au/cabomba
As noted by Minister for Environment and Natural Resources, Eva Lawler
Preventing Cabomba spreading and removing it from the environment will save our freshwater systems, help the Territorys recreational fishing industry, tourism opportunities, the environment and create local jobs.
Remaining affected areas in Darwin River will continue to be treated because the Territorys natural environment is one of our greatest assets and a big part of what makes living here so special.
The Territory Labor Government is getting on with the job containing and eradicating this aggressive and invasive weed.
