An invasive agricultural and environmental weed is the target of a joint surveillance and eradication effort at Lake Joondalup today.
An invasive agricultural and environmental weed is the target of a joint surveillance and eradication effort at Lake Joondalup today (Wednesday 28 January).
Biosecurity search teams from the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) and the Department of Biodiversity Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) are inspecting the area within Yellagonga Regional Park for the declared weed, Noogoora burr (Xanthium strumarium).
DPIRD biosecurity officer Glen Coupar said Noogoora burr had previously been detected at several wetland sites within Perth's northern metropolitan suburbs, including at Yellagonga Regional Park.
"Initial works to eradicate the weed within Yellagonga eight years ago resulted in a substantial reduction after large infestations were treated," Mr Coupar said.
"We also conducted frequent follow up surveys to remove any emerging seedlings and our surveillance work has been ongoing since then.
"We are carrying out this vital joint activity to ensure that this highly invasive weed does not become established in the southwest of Western Australia."
Mr Coupar said the burrs, which carry seeds, were capable of floating on water, enabling the weed to spread quickly along riverbanks and waterbodies and were easily transported via clothing and footwear or by attaching to animals.
"Noogoora burr is toxic to livestock, poses a threat to the environment and the burrs can contaminate wool in sheep grazing areas," Mr Coupar said.
"The weed forms dense, single species areas that dominate riverbanks and floodplains displacing native vegetation and threatening wetland ecosystems.
"It has the potential to seriously impact agricultural and pastoral industries.
"Noogoora burr is a significant weed which spreads quickly and once established, it is difficult to eradicate."
Burrs are green when new and turn brown when ripe. Each burr is covered with hooked spines and horn-like projections at the tip that cling to fur and feathers and when lodged in animals, they cause pain, infection and lameness.
Additional information on Noogoora burr can be found in the factsheet which is available on the DPIRD website .
Community members are encouraged to report Noogoora burr and other unusual weeds to the department using the MyPestGuide Reporter app
