Stay at home orders and social distancing requirements may have postponed landholder weed inspections, but they have not stopped Yass Valley Council Biosecurity Weeds Officers from continuing the important job of protecting the local environment from invasive grass weeds.
Senior Biosecurity Weeds Officer Brett Lees has been out spraying infestations of Chilean needle grass on local roads.
"Chilean needle grass is a serious weed of pastures that has a significant impact on carrying capacity and dominating native grassland environments," Mr Lees said. "Livestock also have a hard time digesting Chilean needle grass and it can cause eye, mouth and stomach wounds.
"This week is actively growing as the temperature rises and the days get longer. This time of year is when the weed prepares to develop flowering seed heads.
"An established infestation of mature Chilean needle grass is a very difficult, lengthy and costly process."
Council's Biosecurity Officers are currently targeting small pockets of Chilean needle grass ahead of a broader invasive weeds control program that will be rolled out in the coming weeks.
Last financial year, Council implemented a weeds control program targeting invasive grass weeds, such as Chilean Needlegrass and woody weeds on Council land and roadsides.
Council is currently seeking tenders for weed spraying on Council managed roads, reserves and lands. A description of the tender and quote is available on Council's website.
6 September 2021
