TASWEEDS incorporating SPOTTER Edition 16 August 2002 Page 1 TASWEEDS Inside…………. Edition 16 August 2002
• Weed Research in INCORPORATING Tasmania. SP TTER • Biocontrol • European olive • Spanish heath
• Progress on the Ground. • ECRWS • Greenlinks • Betsey Island • GAT WONS projects • Rice Grass
• Strategies and Planning • Weed management plans • WeedPlan review
• Weed Alerts • Robinia pseudoacacia • Miscanthus sinensis • Senecio angulatus
• Education and Awareness • Weedbuster Week • Crop weed seminar • A foxy move • A pain in the grass
• TWS News • Membership update • New member TASWEEDS incorporating SPOTTER Edition 16 August 2002 Page 2
WEED RESEARCH IN TASMANIA
Biological Control of Ragwort and Boneseed
Dr John Ireson, Principal Entomologist, TIAR.
Ragwort
The ragwort flea beetle (see below left) has now spread over at least 90% of Tasmania's ragwort infestations and has had a significant impact on ragwort in many areas. However, unfavourable site conditions (eg. waterlogged sites in winter, which result in the drowning of the root-feeding larvae) or incompatible management strategies have restricted its impact in some areas. For this reason, two additional biological control agents, the ragwort stem and crown boring moth (released in Tasmania in 1995) and the ragwort plume moth (released in 2000) have now been successfully established.
As both of these agents attack the crowns and stems of ragwort they will complement the effects of the root feeding larvae of the ragwort flea beetle. In addition, both agents are pre- adapted to survive well in wet or waterlogged pasture where the establishment of the ragwort flea beetle has been restricted. Of the two new agents, the ragwort plume moth (see below right), which is now established at 6 sites has a current dispersal rate that is about 4 times that of the stem and crown boring moth and appears to be far more damaging. Funds are now being sought to enable further releases of plume moth around the state to accelerate its dispersal and to assess the efficacy of this species.
Karina Potter has been working with the TIAR biological control group over the last 3 years on a PhD study into factors affecting the efficacy of the ragwort flea beetle.
This includes the impact of herbicides and waterlogging on beetle populations as well as the possible effect of genetic variation in ragwort populations on the feeding behaviour of the beetle. The results of Karina's study will be used to improve the use of the beetle in integrated control strategies for ragwort. TASWEEDS incorporating SPOTTER Edition 16 August 2002 Page 3
Boneseed
Unfortunately, attempts to establish biological control agents on boneseed have not met with much success, either in Tasmania or on the mainland. Four foliage feeding biological control agents have been released in Tasmania since 1991.
Intermittent releases of the black boneseed beetle (Chrysolina sp. 1) were made between 1991 and 1993 and again between 1995 and 1996. The painted boneseed beetle (Chrysolina sp. 2) was released during 1995 and the boneseed tip moth (Comostolopsis germana) between 1993 and 1997. Despite repeated and often large releases, none of these agents established. Predation by indigenous invertebrates has long been suspected as a key factor in preventing their establishment. The fourth agent, the boneseed leaf roller, 'Tortrix' sp. (see below left), was first released in Tasmania in October 2000. Surveys carried out in November 2001 failed to recover 'Tortrix' sp. at 9 sites where releases were made 9 to 12 months previously. One of the early releases involved a comparative experiment, involving the release of protected and unprotected egg batches, to determine the possible impact of natural enemies on agent establishment. About 70% of the unprotected egg batches were damaged compared to only 4% of the protected batches. Of the eggs that hatched, a significantly higher percentage of 'Tortrix' sp. (16%) survived on protected branches compared to unprotected branches (only 1% survival) when the experiment was terminated. Collections of potential invertebrate predators from boneseed plants during the experiment included 3 species of ants, 2 species of predatory mites and 10 species of spiders, 7 of which were hunting species. One of the species of predatory mite (Abrolophus sp.) was observed feeding on the unprotected 'Tortrix' sp. eggs at the study site. The results show that a complex of mainly generalist predators exist on boneseed in Tasmania and provided evidence that they could be a key factor in either restricting or preventing the establishment of 'Tortrix' sp.
Funding by the Natural Heritage Trust has enabled further releases of 'Tortrix' sp. These are scheduled for completion by September 2002, by which time it will have been released at over 40 sites in Tasmania. Because of these additional releases, it will be at least another 12-18 months before there is some indication whether the species will become permanently established. However, all of the 4 biological control agents released on boneseed in Tasmania spend large parts of their life cycle exposed on the foliage, which makes them particularly vulnerable to predation. The abundance of generalist predators that are associated with boneseed habitats in Tasmania may have prevented establishment of the first 3 agents released on boneseed and, as results already suggest, could also prevent or restrict the establishment of 'Tortrix' sp.
Although other biological control agents for boneseed are being evaluated, including the leaf buckle mite, Aceria neseri, and a rust fungus, Endophyllum osteospermi, failure of 'Tortrix' sp. to establish in Tasmania would further reduce the biological control options for boneseed in this State.
Note: • All weed biological control agents being used in Tasmania have been tested to ensure they feed only on the target weed. • Weed biological control agents do not eradicate their host plants but can reduce plant vigour, density and spread of populations. They should be considered as additional tools to be used in conjunction with other methods. TASWEEDS incorporating SPOTTER Edition 16 August 2002 Page 4
Olive Seed Trials – An Update. Cindy Hanson, Weed Section, DPIWE.
The trials summarised below are part of a larger research project, the aim of which to assess the potential for the European olive (Olea europaea europaea) to become an environmental weed in Tasmania. What are the seed germination requirements of olive seeds? An ability to germinate under Tasmanian field conditions is a prerequisite if an olive environmental weed problem is to develop here, as it has done in several parts of mainland Australia. An experiment, the first of a series of olive seed germination trials, was conducted at DPIWE’s Mt Pleasant Research Laboratories from October 2001 to January 2002 in order to gain basic information about olive germination requirements. Ripe fruit from feral olive trees were collected from around Adelaide, South Australia in the winter of 2001. The pulp was removed manually and the seeds washed and dried at room temperature. Seeds were divided into 2 groups. The hard seed coat was removed from one group using a small bench-vice, whilst the other group retained the seed coat. Each group was divided into replicates of 50 seeds that were placed on absorbent paper in lidded plastic containers. These seeds were then subject to a number of germination treatments between which temperature, light and moisture were varied. Germination began (see right) in some treatments in less than two weeks and in others, was still occurring some 130 days later when the experiment was wound up. This trial demonstrated the importance of temperature as a determinant of feral olive seed germination, compared with moisture and light. The optimal temperature for seed germination was around 15 degrees C with germination rates exceeding 90%. However, germination also occurred at 7 degrees C and at 20 degrees C, although the former took much longer to occur and the latter resulted in a higher proportion of deformed seedlings. Whilst moisture was certainly a requirement for germination, variations in the amount of water provided (except when no water was provided) did not produce statistically significant differences in this trial. Similarly, germination was not affected significantly by light or dark conditions. Germination differences between the seeds from which the hard seed coat had been removed and those from which it had not, were significant. Most germination occurred in the former group. However, two months into the trial, germination began to take place in a number of seeds whose hard coats had not been removed. This is interesting because it is sometimes suggested that seeds need to pass through the gut of a bird or other animal in order to germinate, the assumption being that digestive processes weaken the hard seed coat. Whilst ingestion by frugivores may well be important to the spread of feral olives, clearly the seeds may also germinate without it. Overall this trial represents a solid first attempt at better defining the germination requirements of olive seeds. None of the conditions applied in the laboratory were out of the realm of what exists in natural Tasmanian environments. Thus it appears that there may be some potential for feral seeds to germinate here at least. This would be a significant advance in the development of a feral olive problem. The results can only be applied to feral seeds but since feral material is reported to have been imported to Tasmania, mostly as rootstock, that application may become practical rather than hypothetical, over time. In addition, whilst not common, the collection of seed from feral mainland population and their subsequent raising in Tasmania is not unknown. This is predictable on the part of curious industry proponents seeking to develop and grow something different from the clonal stock available from both Tasmanian and interstate nurseries. TASWEEDS incorporating SPOTTER Edition 16 August 2002 Page 5
Feral seeds from other locations and seeds from commercial varieties grown in Tasmania will be subject to the same experiments over the next few years in order to develop a comparative picture of olive seed germination requirements. Of course, laboratory trials can reveal only so much about the potential behaviour of plants in the environment. For this reason, field trials are also planned.
How long do olive seeds remain viable?
The second experiment deals with assessing the longevity of olive seed in the environment. Seed longevity is an important component of any environmental weed profile because it helps determine how long a problem weed can persist in the environment.
Feral fruit were sewn securely into durable polyurethene mesh bags and shallow buried in bushland situations in two locations in Tasmania, one near the east coast and one in the north in winter 2001. A quantity of fruit from the commercial variety, Verdale, was also included in this trial. The intent is to exhume a number of bags each year, over four years and test the seeds for viability.
The first exhumation occurred in June 2002. In the case of the feral seeds, approximately one third had rotted out and were no longer viable. This was quite different to the Verdale seeds in which the rot rate approached two thirds. The rougher, probably more porous seed coats of the Verdale seed may account for this. Interestingly, a relatively large proportion of feral seed (sometimes up to 25%) had either germinated or begun to germinate. The remaining seeds, when cracked open appeared to be undergoing no visible changes and may have entered a state of dormancy. I had included a few spare Verdale seeds in the laboratory experiment described above but no germination occurred. I was surprised, therefore, to find that a bag of seeds from the longevity trial contained a few germinated Verdale seeds and a quantity of others on their way to doing so.
The results of this experiment at this point, indicate that the seed trialled can persist for at least one year in at least two types of Tasmanian environments. In addition, both feral and Verdale seed showed a capacity to germinate, unassisted in these environments, although the ability of the former to do so appears stronger.
Spanish heath research project.
Hana Eynon, University of Tasmania.
As an honours student from the University of Tasmania, I am examining the invasion ecology of woody weeds in the Coningham area, with emphasis placed on Erica lusitanica (Spanish heath). After mapping the distribution of woody weeds, 23 exotic species were found in the study area. Distributions were analysed for patterns in order to determine how environmental attributes (eg. water availability, soil type, aspect etc.) and cultural attributes (human disturbance) affect invasion ecology. Another concern is the susceptibility of native plant communities to invasion by woody weeds.
Apart from examining factors that affect the distribution of woody weeds, I have been looking specifically at the invasion ecology of Spanish heath. This weed is the most widespread in the study area, and occurs predominantly in native bushlands. It is forming mono-culture stands in the understorey of various plant communities, displacing native species and causing a decline in local biodiversity. Preliminary findings suggest that the distribution of Spanish heath may be limited by low water availability in the study area. Other environmental attributes that may influence its distribution, such as altitude, rainfall, geology, vegetation type and disturbance, are also being examined.
Future research on the invasion ecology of Spanish heath is vital for developing effective control measures and protecting native biodiversity. I hope this project will shed light on the invasive potential of Spanish heath, and assist in future studies. TASWEEDS incorporating SPOTTER Edition 16 August 2002 Page 6
PROGRESS ON THE GROUND
East Coast Regional Weed Strategy
Greg Stewart, Project Manager ECRWS
The ECRWS Group was recently granted a three-month extension by the Natural Heritage Trust to continue the current project to implement the East Coast Regional Weed Strategy until the end of December, this year. Although the Project Manager will cease employment, it is hoped that the group will continue to meet to discuss current weed management issues and look at options for further funding.
Environmental Weed Booklet:
The ECRWS Group has recently produced a booklet that details the weeds that are causing significant impact on Tasmania’s East Coast. The booklet contains information on general weed management and includes photographs and descriptions of 46 weed species. Break O’ Day Council and Glamorgan/Spring Bay Council have agreed to post a copy to all ratepayers, during September.
Roadside Weed Spraying:
Following an inspection of the highway network with Dept. of Infrastructure, Energy & Resources and Civil Construction Corporation to plan the annual roadside weed spraying program, work has commenced to spray Spanish Heath, Broom and Gorse. The work will be undertaken on the Lake Leake Road, Tasman Highway and the Esk Highway.
Demonstration of the “Aqua Therme” Steam Weeder:
At the last meeting of the ECRWS, a demonstration of the “Aqua Therme” Steam Weeder was provided by the operators, Land Solutions from Hobart. The unit pumps a mixture of steam and compressed air onto weeds via a hand-held nozzle that is connected to the pump by a 30 metre hose. Two nozzles can be operated simultaneously. It is ideal for treating weeds on hard surfaces in urban areas. It can be operated in all weather conditions and is non-polluting. The cost is approximately $100/hour with two operators.
Bridal Creeper:
Bridal Creeper is known to occur on the East Coast at Binalong Bay, St. Helens, Scamander, Falmouth and Swansea. As this weed normally requires more than one application of herbicide to kill the plant, the annual spraying program is currently being completed.
Pampas Grass:
The campaign, that started in mid 1999 to eradicate Pampas Grass from Tasmania’s East Coast is continuing. To date more than 5,000 plants have been treated and the sites recorded to allow for follow-up. Although the number of reports has reduced significantly, new sites are occasionally located. The ECRWS group provides free treatment of any reported plants.
Boneseed Leaflet:
The production of an information leaflet about Boneseed has just been completed. It is currently being printed and is likely to be used to target areas where a strong public education program is needed. The ECRWS and Dept. of Infrastructure, Energy and Resources are jointly funding the project. TASWEEDS incorporating SPOTTER Edition 16 August 2002 Page 7
Extending weed control beyond the boundaries of reserves
Peter Berney, Greenlinks Project Officer.
A major issue in bushland reserve management is up to a limit of ten plants per household. The the need to control environmental weeds. Bushcare information brochure explained how to remove a groups in Hobart meet regularly to undertake weed cotoneaster and poison the stump. If a household control activities in the Hobart City Council wished to participate they filled out a registration reserves. However, despite their efforts, weed card which they returned to the Council. The plant invasion continues to be a problem while the source material was then cut down and stacked on the side of seed for many environmental weed species lies of the road in bundles on a designated weekend. At outside the reserve boundaries. Plants such as the beginning of the following working week a cotoneaster, boneseed, holly and hawthorn are Hobart Council crew with a chipper collected the found in nearby residential gardens and the seed material and chipped it. Altogether a total of 17 from these species is readily transferred into a local tonnes of cotoneaster was removed in the project. reserve by birds, animals and in stormwater runoff. For a number of elderly residents, the task of removing cotoneaster plants was not possible, in The Greenlinks project is a cooperative project their case a contractor was hired to undertake the between the Hobart, Glenorchy and Kingborough removal. Participants in the program are sent a Councils and funded through the Natural Heritage voucher they may present at a designated nursery Trust and by the three participating Councils. It where they can then select their replacement plants. aims to protect and extend bushland areas in the In the information brochure, residents were three municipalities. In the municipality of Hobart reminded that even though it is a weed, cotoneaster most activities are focussed in protecting bushland could provide useful functions including acting as a in the Hobart City Council reserve system, which screen from neighbours or the road. It may also act comprises 53% of the municipal area. In to stabilise soil on a steep slope. It was September 2001 the Greenlinks project in recommended that neighbours be consulted prior to association with the Hobart City Council sought to removing any plants. Since undertaking the address the issue of reducing the seed source of cotoneaster program a similar program focussing on environmental weeds in the residential area holly around Fern Tree has been undertaken and 5.5 surrounding the Lambert Gully Reserve. tonnes of holly was removed from the gardens of Cotoneaster was the target weed in a program that participating households. offered residents free native plants in exchange for cotoneaster plants that they removed from their The approach adopted in these weed reduction gardens. Cotoneaster was planted extensively in programs has two advantages, firstly, it leads to an the Mt Nelson area following the 1967 bushfires in increased awareness for many members of the Hobart. It is now a major problem weed in the public about the issue of environmental weeds. Lambert Gully Reserve. Secondly, it provides them with an incentive and a deadline for them to act on the problem. In both The project began with a brochure being delivered instances where these programs have run there has to each house explaining the impact cotoneaster been a very positive response from the public and it was having in the reserve and the connection has proved to be a successful means of getting between the problem and their gardens. The public involvement in weed management in their incentive offered to the households was in the form local area. of a free native plant for each cotoneaster removed, TASWEEDS incorporating SPOTTER Edition 16 August 2002 Page 8
Weed Control on Betsey Island Nature Reserve
– a Coastcare funded project
Extract from ‘Weed Control on Betsey Island Nature Reserve Interim Report to Coastcare’, December 2001, by R. Glazik and R. Schahinger
Betsey Island is a familiar, if not immediately recognisable, part of the Hobart landscape. Many will know it as that lump in the distance as one makes the final descent into Hobart along the Brooker Highway. It lies 20-25 km SSE of Hobart, about 600 metres to the south of South Arm Neck. The island is about 175 hectares in size, with a north-south extent of 2.5 km. The highest point on the island is 143 metres above sea level. About a third of the island is covered with eucalypt forest, another third supports succulent herbfields, while the remaining third is a mix of scrub, sedgeland and coastal grassland. The underlying substrate is Jurassic dolerite, with a small area of Triassic quartzose sandstone on the island’s northeastern tip. The western side of the island slopes relatively gently down to the sea, while the eastern coast is precipitous, with spectacular dolerite cliffs. There are extensive areas of deep Recent sand over much of the island, providing ideal conditions for both the Little Penguin and Short-tailed Shearwater to establish rookeries. A pair of Wedge-tailed eagles is known to reside on Betsey Island (see photo this page) and Swift Parrots have been sighted there in the past. Both species are considered endangered at the state and national level. The island provides a significant and relatively secure habitat for birds, free of introduced predators.
Some history of Betsey Island Nature Reserve
In the peace and tranquillity prior to Europeans arriving in the area, Betsey Island was known by the melodic name of Teemeteleeta. The first European sighting of Betsey Island by a European was supposedly by Abel Tasman in 1642, but the island was not charted until D’Entrecasteaux’s voyages of discovery in 1793, when it was named Willaumez after an officer, Lieutenant Willaumez. Reports of the date of this event vary, as does the spelling of ‘Willaumez’. Matthew Flinders landed on Betsey Island in 1778 while on his expedition around Van Diemen’s Land in the Norfolk.
In 1793 the island was renamed Betsey Island by the surveyor John Hayes, after whom or what is debatable. In 1826 a Mr. King was said to have obtained the island for the purpose of breeding silver-haired rabbits for the Chinese fur trade. He was thought to have brought in 10,000 rabbits to the island, with numbers swelling to perhaps 30,000 at some point. Today the ancestors of these rabbits can still be seen hopping TASWEEDS incorporating SPOTTER Edition 16 August 2002 Page 9 around the island, though happily in far fewer numbers. Around 1832 Betsey Island was purchased by Sir John and Lady Franklin for £910, and it then became known as Franklin Island. In 1852 the island was stripped of timber by pilferers for export to Port Phillip, apparently at a high price! In 1866 the island was vested in trustees for the purpose of the Tasmanian Acclimatisation Society, and in 1867 Lady Jane Franklin presented it to the Victorian Acclimatisation Society. Upon the death of Sir John Franklin it was given to the Tasmanian people. In 1890 the executors of the estate of one of the trustees agreed to the vesting of the island in the Trustees of the Tasmanian Museum. Whitworth, in the Tasmanian Gazetteer and Road Guide claimed the island to be ‘now used by the Acclimatisation Society as a receptacle for English birds and animals.’ In 1928 the island was declared a Wildlife Sanctuary under the Animals and Birds Protection Act 1919 by proclamation gazetted on 5 June 1928 which subsequently became a conservation area by virtue of the transitional provisions of the second Schedule to the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1970. The island was proclaimed the Betsey Island Nature Reserve in 1981 (Statutory Rules 1981, No. 146).
Cape Leeuwin Wattle infestations
Few people will have any idea of the Betsey Island’s diverse range of plant communities, or indeed the extensive penguin and shearwater rookeries that occupy much of the island’s lower slopes. Even fewer will realise that the island’s integrity is under serious threat from invasion by the introduced plant from Western Australia, Cape Leeuwin Wattle (Paraserianthes lophantha) (see photo this page).
This problem has been recognised as far back as the 1950s, however no action has been taken until this Coastcare funded project was implemented. This project involved mapping of the vegetation and the weeds, propagation and control trials and then strategic weed control activities. To date about two thirds of the infestation of Cape Leeuwin Wattle has been dealt with in the first instance (see maps), and a large patch of Serrated Tussock was sprayed. An Aboriginal Heritage Survey was commissioned to consider the likely impact of weed works on known cultural sites.
Once the mapping was complete works were started. Contractors were employed to further the weed control work that had already been undertaken by Robert Boughey. The contractors, Earth Support Services, specialise in target specific weed control methods only, and set about removing the Cape Leeuwin Wattle in the priority areas. For large plants the cut and paste method was used, while smaller specimens were hand pulled. The work done by Robert and then the contractors, as can be seen on the maps, made a significant dent in the size of the infestation.
As with all good weeds, there is a seed bank in the soil. Germination tests done during the project suggest that the seed bank is probably large and the viability is very high. While fire is a stimulant to germination, it is not essential and seedlings appear all year round. Now volunteers will be needed to continue on the good work, and hand pull seedlings as they emerge in the areas that have been cleared.
Priority areas for future work are detailed in the report, and recommendations include having Cape Leeuwin Wattle declared under the Weed Management Act 1999, in an attempt to halt sales.
Cape Leeuwin Wattle is but one example of how an ornamental and popular plant can end up costing the community dearly. This shrub with a superficial resemblance to the local Silver Wattle (Acacia dealbata), has dark-green feathery foliage, greenish-yellow flowers in spring and large reddish-brown seedpods in summer. It is a fast grower and can live for around 20 years, while a mature plant can produce thousands of seeds annually. These seeds are spread by ants, water or human activity, and can remain dormant in the soil for at least ten TASWEEDS incorporating SPOTTER Edition 16 August 2002 Page 10 years. It is well adapted to our climate and soils and has proven to be a successful invader of undisturbed coastal woodland/forest and scrub, and more open communities like succulent herbfields. It forms a dense layer 2-4 m high, out-competing any native plants and inhibiting the regeneration of native species. As this plant becomes more dominant over time, the structure and diversity of the native bush is lost.
Cape Leeuwin Wattle is a popular ornamental garden shrub, still available for sale in most leading nurseries. It is already costing us in terms of biodiversity, time and money. Do not buy this plant and if you have it, try to replace it with a plant that will not become a management nightmare. There is clear evidence and recognition that this species will be costly to manage in the future. The long-term strategic management of this plant requires not only on-ground work and education in the community, but also legislative measures to prohibit its sale. TASWEEDS incorporating SPOTTER Edition 16 August 2002 Page 11
Weeds of National Significance (WONS)
Gorse - Blackberry - Willows
Three new Weeds of National Significance projects have just been launched by Greening Australia (Tasmania) to undertake works to control gorse, blackberry and willows. GAT will receive $1,165,000 from the Natural Heritage Trust over the next 12 months for the management of these projects. Most of these funds will be distributed to landowners and community groups as “devolved grants” to assist them with their on-ground works. The gorse project is the largest and, like the blackberry project, control works are to be undertaken in bushland as well as on agricultural land. The willows project will have on-ground works restricted to around twenty strategically chosen sites.
Project priorities are generally:
• To keep these weeds out of areas where they don’t already occur
• Eradication in areas where occurrences are small and localised
• Containment and reduction in areas of high conservation priority vegetation (such as threatened species or communities) where eradication is not feasible
National and State weed strategies and statutory weed management plans that are currently being developed will guide the project protocols, site selection methodologies, on-ground activities, and follow-up. We intend to align the projects with existing state, regional and catchment strategies and on-ground works already initiated, and with the unfolding regional approach to implementing the Tasmanian Natural Resource Management Framework.
Sebastian Burgess (ph 6223 6377, E mail [email protected]) is managing the projects and the following Project Officers have recently been appointed:
Gorse South: Paul Fazackerley ph 6223 6377 [email protected] North: Ed Parker ph 6223 6377 [email protected] North West: Greg Taylor ph 6432 2434 [email protected]
Blackberry Statewide: Ed Parker ph 6223 6377 [email protected]
Willows Statewide: Kiowa Rieck ph 6336 5472 [email protected]
A Communication Officer is also to be appointed to the gorse project to publicise it and to develop and deliver best practice control educational material and advice.
At the time of writing, project procedures, site assessment criteria and funding guidelines were being developed and field tested. Landholders and community groups interested in applying for funding are urged to contact one of the officers above to submit an expression of interest. TASWEEDS incorporating SPOTTER Edition 16 August 2002 Page 12
From the RICE GRASS NEWSLETTER – JULY 2002
MANAGEMENT TEAM The Little Swanport estuary was surveyed and all infestations treated during January 2002 with a follow up treatment in May 2002. The survey of the area in May Scott Parkinson joined the team as Technical Officer in revealed an efficacy of >95% after the treatment in November. Scott has extensive marine farming January, with only 30 m2 remaining. experience, recently working on a pearl oyster farm in Broome. Scott replaces Doug Summers who moved to Derwent River Katherine late last year. Doug was a founding member of Initial area of rice grass 1 hectare the rice grass team and will be greatly missed. Current area of rice grass 1 square meter Greg Stokes was again contracted to the program, in what is his third year. Greg has over 10 years experience The Derwent River was surveyed and treated in in managing and monitoring the environmental impacts December 2001 with likely habitats re-surveyed in April of rice grass and is a valued member of the program. 2002. Very little rice grass was found this year with only a few hot spots containing individual plants. Only 1 m2 2001/2002 WORK AREAS was found during the April survey. The rice grass program is working in conjunction with the Parks and Wildlife Service, and with continued monitoring, Bridport eradication of rice grass is achievable in the near future. Initial area of rice grass >3 hectares Current area of rice grass <10 square meters St Helens A community meeting was held late last year to review Initial area of rice grass 1 square meter the Bridport Area Based Management Plan. It was unanimously decided to implement a community-based Current area of rice grass 1/2 square meter approach to achieving eradication of rice grass from the Georges Bay and Medeas Cove were surveyed and Bridport region. In order to educate the community, treated during January 2002. Very little rice grass was three field days were held, two in December and one in treated with only 6 small plants found, all in the southern March. Approximately 15 community members attended corner of Medeas Cove. With continued monitoring and these days and are now know about identification, habitat treatment, the eradication of Rice Grass is achievable in preference, survey methods and control techniques. the near future for this area. Thanks to Peter Edson (Community Coordinator) and Jay Wilson (Dorset Council) for their efforts organising the field days. Circular Head The follow-up survey in March revealed excellent results Initial area of rice grass >52 hectares from treatments undertaken in December, with efficacy estimated at almost 99%. Approximately 10 m2 of rice Current area of rice grass approximately 25 hectares grass was treated. The rice grass infestation at Circular Head was re- evaluated in April 2002, with the total estimated area of infestation reduced to 25 hectares. This can be attributed Little Swanport to a reduction in area due to control efforts, and Initial area of rice grass >10 hectares improved survey techniques involving experienced staff trained in weed control. Current area of rice grass 30 square meters Circular Head infestations extend from Black River in As with Bridport, a community meeting was held last the east, westward to the Harcus River, including many year where it was unanimously decided to support a of the islands within Robbins Passage (including community based approach to achieving eradication in Robbins Island). This entire coastline (excluding Duck the Little Swanport estuary. We received good support River and Deep Creek Bay) was surveyed, and all plants from the community and we held 2 field days with a total treated, totalling approximately 3 hectares. of 8 people attending and participating in the rice grass survey. Thanks to Tom Tenniswood (Community The efficacy rate for nearly all areas in the Circular Head Coordinator) for his help in coordinating field days and region for 2001 was approximately 98%, with the the continued support of the oyster growers from the exception being Montagu River (80%). Presumably this region. reduced efficacy rate was due to a late treatment (May), when the plant was beginning to enter its dormant (winter) phase. TASWEEDS incorporating SPOTTER Edition 16 August 2002 Page 13
As mentioned earlier, the program has, employed the During April 2002 the management team surveyed areas services of a commercial spray company. Beechworth not covered on the field day, with an estimated 1.5 Ha of Pty Ltd successfully tendered for the contract to treat rice rice grass treated. grass in Kemp’s and Bolduan’s Bay. The total area treated was approximately 2.5 hectares, quite a FUTURE OF THE PROGRAM substantial infestation. Thanks to Joe Murrel, Phillip Wilson and their team for their help, expertise and With the current allocation of Natural Heritage Trust professionalism. funding drawing to a close, focus is now on ensuring local communities are equipped with the resources and Thanks also to Ian Duthie and the Circular Head expertise to continue monitoring and control of rice grass Shellfish Growers Association for their continued and to strive for eradication. support. The Program currently has funding for a further 18 months. In this time the emphasis will be to facilitate the smooth hand over of management to communities. With Port Sorell adequate support and monitoring eradication is a feasible Initial area of rice grass >109 hectares outcome for the Derwent, Little Swanport, St Helens and Bridport. Current area of rice grass No current estimate All areas within the “Rice Grass Free Zone” were The team will continue to work in Smithton and Port successfully surveyed and treated during March and Sorell to maintain the rice grass free zone in conjunction April 2002. At the community meeting held late last with the community. year it was decided to support the proposed extension of the Zone from Squeaking Point to Spalding’s Lane on INFORMATION the western shore, across to Eagle Point on the eastern shore. With the support of the local community over half th Phone : 6233 2404 this area was surveyed on the 25 of March at the annual : 0408 380 377 Rice Grass Community Field Day run and organised by Julia Butler-Ross. A total of 28 people attended, all were educated on the negative impacts of rice grass, methods Email : [email protected] of rice grass removal and the importance of regular, thorough surveys to maintain the Rice Grass Free Zone. Or : [email protected]
STRATEGIES AND PLANNING
Weed Management Planning – update
Cindy Hanson, Weed Section, DPIWE
The Department of Primary Industries, Water and Environment has prepared draft statutory weed management plans for an additional 35 of the 86 plants currently listed as declared weeds under the Weed Management Act, 1999. Draft weed management plans specify the prohibitions and requirements applicable to declared weeds under the Act.
By the time this issue of Tasweeds reaches you, these draft plans will have become available for comment until Friday October 4th, 2002. Copies of the plans are available from DPIWE and will also be placed on the department’s website at www.dpiwe.tas.gov.au.
The 35 plant species are:
Achnatherum caudatum espartillo TASWEEDS incorporating SPOTTER Edition 16 August 2002 Page 14
crow garlic Allium vineale
Asparagus asparagoides bridal creeper
Asphodelus fistulosus onion weed Bassia scoparia kochia Berkheya rigida African thistle Carduus nutans nodding thistle Carex comans New Zealand sedge Carex flagellifera New Zealand sedge Carex testacea New Zealand sedge Chondrilla juncea skeleton weed Cortaderia species pampas grasses Cuscuta species dodder Datura species datura Echium plantagineum Paterson’s curse Echium vulgare viper’s bugloss Egeria densa egeria Emex australis spiny emex Equisetum species horsetail Eragrostis curvula African lovegrass Erica lusitanica Spanish heath Hieracium species hawkweeds Homeria species cape tulip Hydrilla verticillata hydrilla Hypericum perforatum St John’s wort Lagarosiphon major lagarosiphon Myriophyllum aquaticum parrot’s feather Nassella neesiana Chilean needle grass Onopordum species Onopordum thistles Pennisetum macrourum African feather grass Pennisetum villosum feathertop Salpichroa origanifolia pampas-lily-of-the-valley Senecio jacobaea ragwort Solanum marginatum white-edged nightshade Xanthium species burrs
For each of the 35 species, the relevant weed management plan describes the legal prohibition of the introduction, sale and distribution of these plants in Tasmania. It also outlines measures for their early detection, control and eradication, where relevant. The plans apply to the whole of the State of Tasmania.
This second batch of draft plans deals mostly with declared weeds, the known distribution of which is limited in Tasmania at this time. There are 29 plants that fall into this category. It is suggested that each of these plants is eradicable from the entire state. The DPIWE expects to play a major role in managing these weeds, in line with its focus on preventative weed management. However, a co-operative approach between State and Local government will be vital to the ultimate success of eradication programs for any of these plants. Each weed management plan for these plants comes with a table that lists the broad, known distribution of the plant, by municipality. More detailed descriptions of locations and the nature of infestations or occurrences can be provided upon request. The proposed eradication of these plants on a statewide basis is based on our best available knowledge. It is also very possible that other people have additional knowledge of such infestations TASWEEDS incorporating SPOTTER Edition 16 August 2002 Page 15 and that this information could be sufficient to warrant changes to this tentative eradication proposal. Any extra information you can provide on this matter will be greatly appreciated.
In addition, plans for three plants which are not yet present in the state but which are considered to pose a weed threat are included. These plants are Chondrilla juncea (skeleton weed), Hydrilla verticillata (hydrilla) and Lagarosiphon major (lagarosiphon). For these plants, the management focus is entirely preventative by way of importation and sale prohibitions. The DPIWE will take lead responsibility.
Finally three plans for plants which are relatively widespread in Tasmania are included. These are Erica lusitanica (Spanish heath), Echium plantagineum (Paterson’s curse) and Senecio jacobaea (ragwort). Eradication across Tasmania is not deemed possible for these plants at this time - their management is relatively complex. Accordingly, Tasmania has been zoned in order to distinguish areas where eradication may be possible from areas where it may not be possible. The zoning has been performed on a municipal basis. The zoning proposals are based again on our best available knowledge. Should you have any questions or additional information that is relevant to this, please do not hesitate to make contact. Weed management plans for a further 17 declared weeds with complex management requirements are being developed and are due to be distributed for comment in October this year. We have released these three in advance to seek input on format, content and practicability.
All Tasmanian Weed Society members are invited to make written submissions in relation to all or any of these draft weed management plans. Submissions must be received, in writing by 5.00 pm, Friday 4th October 2002. Please advise beforehand should you require more time to consider the plans. Also, do not hesitate to contact me on 6336 5414 or at [email protected]. if you would like to discuss any of the plans in greater detail.
WeedPlan Review Update Christian Goninon, Weed Section, DPIWE
Many of you will know that the State Weed Strategy, WeedPlan is being reviewed. Over the last 3 months consultant John Thorp and the Tasmanian Weed Management Committee (TWMC) have been busy preparing a recommendations report to address the following objectives:
1. Assess the implementation of the current Strategy through the TWMC and work group structure; 2. Identify progress towards desired outcomes and the impact of the Strategy on weed management in the State; 3. Consider the relevance and appropriateness of the Strategy and the manner in which it is presented (ie content and format); 4. Identify gaps and areas for improvement and make recommendations about the Strategy and its future implementation and direction;
The Recommendations report is now finalised. This concludes the first stage of the review. This has not been tabled and is yet to be endorsed by the TWMC. Consideration is now being given to Stage 2 of the review; that is the development of WeedPlan 2. Public comment will be sought on the draft WeedPlan 2 so stay tuned. The aim is to have WeedPlan 2 finalised by late 2002. TASWEEDS incorporating SPOTTER Edition 16 August 2002 Page 16
A thorny problem?
Andrew Crane, Weed Section, DPIWE.
Many of the plants we recognise as weeds have a feature that makes them look wrong in our natural landscape. It might be their colour, leaf-shape or the way they grow, but there is something innately “weedy” about them. Every so often a specimen appears that goes beyond the simply “weedy” and into the category of “dangerous”. This is certainly the case with a cane that was presented to the DPIWE for identification: it was a metre long, rigid and covered with 2 cm paired-woody spines that were angled, tough and capable of puncturing leather gloves and tractor tyres.
According to those at the Department of Infrastructure, Energy and Environment who found the plant on the roadside in the state’s north-west, it had formed a narrow thicket of similar canes. These were each up to 2 m high, leafless, and very thorny. It was surprising to discover from Dennis Morris at the Herbarium that the canes belonged to Robinia pseudoacacia, or the black locust tree, that normally grows up to 35 m tall. It appears that several years of slashing and roadside maintenance had caused the locust to sucker profusely. The extremely thorny nature of the regrowth has posed a serious problem for roadwork, and is an example of how knowledge of a plant’s biology can be crucial in adopting suitable maintenance techniques.
Black locust is a native of North America, where it has a limited natural distribution. However, its value as a timber species and garden ornamental has seen it introduced to most parts of the temperate world. It is rapid growing – up to 3 m in its first year – frost resistant, and its timber does not rot readily. This has made it a popular choice for windbreaks and soil erosion control, as well as its traditional wood value for posts, poles, TASWEEDS incorporating SPOTTER Edition 16 August 2002 Page 17 railroad ties, and mine timbers. It has been grown in Europe since 1600, and now has a role in the commercial forestry industries of many sub-tropical and temperate regions across the world, including New Zealand. The light to dark brown wood is used to make panelling, siding, flooring, furniture, and in boat building. It is also a preferred wood for pulp production, and has been used extensively to “rehabilitate” heavily disturbed areas, such as mine sites. Its ornamental value endures into the present though it is now most often used as rootstock for cultivated forms such as dwarfs, pink varieties and mop-tops. Bees harvest Robinia nectar to produce a honey regarded as one of the world's finest.
As well as its economic value, black locust has attractive foliage and flowers. Locust flowers form pendant clusters of white blossoms in late spring, and its long (20- 45 cm) pinnate leaves consist of 5-33 small oval, alternate leaflets. The sharp spines found on new growth are absent on older growth. Locusts are legumes and produce pods similar to those of our wattles. Also like our wattles, the seeds of Robinia species can persist in the soil for a number of years.
The suckering that has occurred on the North West coast is typical of the black locust’s main means of propagation. Root suckers can arise spontaneously from the extensive fibrous root system of trees as young as four or five years old, and although most suckers originate where branch roots emerge from older roots they can also form elsewhere on one or two year old fibrous roots. In natural stands it can increase the radius of a population by as much as 3 m per year.
Given it s ability to thrive in a variety of conditions and its extensive propagation, it is hardly surprising that black locust has become a serious weed pest in some parts of the world, particularly the temperate grasslands of the United States. Although it was introduced to Tasmania early in the nineteenth century, black locust has not become a significant environmental weed. It is surprising it has not been used more in commercial forestry, as it would appear ideally suited to a range of locations in Tasmania. If this were to occur then careful management to avoid wilding establishment would be critical.
Lurking in the long grass Andrew Crane, Weed Section, DPIWE.
A particularly exotic grass specimen was given to me recently by the co-ordinator of the Huon Valley NRM project, Nikki Den Exter.
It had come to her in a flower arrangement, and was suitably impressive: the flower head was a fan-shaped cluster of woolly spikes, each about 15 cm long and a centimetre in diameter. The spikes were made up of lots of fluffy grass seeds and it looked – well – weedy.
Formal identification by the Tasmanian Herbarium confirmed that it was Miscanthus sinensis, known variously as Japanese silver grass, Chinese grass (!), or Eulalia grass.
A native of Asia, this grass grows rapidly to 2 metres, and its drooping foliage and upright stems have made it a favourite ornamental in the Northern Hemisphere. However, it is considered an invasive weed in Canada and the US, where it particularly enjoys disturbed areas. Given that it originates in Asia it is quite likely that it will thrive in the cooler parts of Australia as TASWEEDS incorporating SPOTTER Edition 16 August 2002 Page 18 well. Indeed, it has recently been detected as a weed along railway lines in the Blue Mountains of New South Wales, where its vigorous growth undoubtedly mark it out as a fire risk. Indeed, it seems fire adapted and has invaded areas of wilderness in the United States and Canada immediately after wildfire.
Miscanthus species are very conservative water users, despite their phenomenal growth rate. This has marked them out as a potentially useful energy source. In fact, a three year project is underway in Germany and the Netherlands to produce a super Miscanthus hybrid, capable of growing just about anywhere (!) in order to produce biomass for combustion-based energy production and fibre for everything from cloth to house bricks. Miscanthus species are already being grown commercially in at least seven European countries as well as in the United States.
So, as well as its attractiveness, there may well be economic reasons soon driving its establishment in Australia. Management of the weed risk potential will be critical in allowing the development of a new industry without putting Australia at yet further risk from a new weed.
Fortunately, the specimen I received appeared to have no viable seed on it, but if viable seed was produced it would probably present something of a weed risk. Australia has enough nasties lurking in the long grass, without having to worry about the long grass itself.
Will the real Cape ivy please stand up?
Andrew Crane, Weed Section, DPIWE.
Not that long ago the creeper we commonly call Cape ivy underwent a scientific name change, from Senecio mikanioides to Delairea odorata. But there is another Cape ivy lurking out there. Senecio angulatus, or climbing groundsel, a native of South Africa, is not yet common at all in Tasmania. It is, however, a real problem in New Zealand and southern Australia.
East Coast Weed Strategy Co- ordinator Greg Stewart recently found a single plant covering an area of approximately 20 square metres. It was also found a few years ago at Kaoota in the state’s south. The Kaoota plant was clearly a garden escape, but it had invaded nearby bushland, despite being a long way from its preferred coastal habitat.
Senecio angulatus (courtesy Dept. of Conservation, NZ) This plant will establish in drier, open sites, preferring plenty of sunshine and free-draining soils. It tolerates salt, wind and drought. It spreads by seed, with established plants quickly putting out runners. Vegetative reproduction can result in thickets of 20 m diameter or more. Human assisted spread occurs through TASWEEDS incorporating SPOTTER Edition 16 August 2002 Page 19 sale at market and fundraisers and through bush dumping. Shrubs and understorey species are swamped by its rapid growth, and native species up to about two metres can be completely eliminated.
Senecio angulatus differs from the Delairea in a number of ways. It tends to grow as a straggly shrub to 5 m rather than a true creeper, and it has fleshier leaves, and larger, yellow flowers. In Australia it appears that that Senecio angulatus flowers slightly later as well, with most flowers appearing in late winter or early spring. It has become a significant environmental weed in New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia.
Its salt tolerance, zero maintenance requirements, and supposed fire-retardant qualities made it a favourite in coastal gardens in the middle of last century, but it has quickly established itself in native vegetation areas as well. Fortunately, it is not as difficult to deal with as some other coastal weeds. The plant is susceptible to a range of woody weed herbicides, and where use of these is not appropriate, slashing and heavy mulching can be effective. Plant material removed in this way breaks down readily if spread out to dry, and unlike Delairea odorata, Senecio angulatus does not readily resprout from stem fragments.
Delairea odorata is already a serious environmental weed in a variety of habitats in Tasmania, but we have an opportunity to prevent the establishment of its cousin. As in the management of so many weeds, vigilance is essential, so if you see cape ivy that looks a bit different, stop and collect a bit. Unfortunately it’s hard to believe that there are only two plants in the state. Workshop -New Weed Incursions and How to Respond
Date: Thursday 17 October 2002. Venue: Main Hall, Burnley Campus, University of Melbourne, Richmond, Victoria, Australia. Presented by Weed Society of Victoria (WSV) and the Department of Natural Resources and Environment (NRE), Victoria.
Contact: WSV Secretary, Ros Shepherd, [email protected], or call/fax 03 9576 2949 for complete program or more information. Fees: include lunch, am/pm teas, proceedings. Students $35, WSV members $55, Non-WSV members $80, late fee after 14/9/02 ADD $20. WSV is not registered to collect GST (WSV Incorporation No. A0011723W, ABN 15 496 325 152). Registration closes: Fri 11 October 2002.
Topics include: * Victorian Weed Alert - a new rapid response plan. * National initiatives for new incursions, pre and post-border. * How to become a 'Weed Spotter' and what do they do. * Assessment of new weeds. * Managing new weed incursion sites. * Role of other authorities. * Other weeds we should be looking for. * Four case studies of new/potential weeds: Senegal Tea, Branched Broomrape, Mexican Feather Grass, Hawkweeds. * Question and answer session. * Specimens or photographs of a number of new and potential weeds will be displayed on the day.
Speakers include Paul Pheloung OCPPO Canberra, Jack Craw NRE, Kate Blood NRE, John Weiss/Linda Iaconis NRE, Michael Hansford NRE, Phil Pegler Parks Victoria, Randall Robinson Consultant, Jim Wilding of Murray Goulburn Water, Mark Farrer NRE.
EDUCATION AND AWARENESS TASWEEDS incorporating SPOTTER Edition 16 August 2002 Page 20
Weed Awareness in Tasmania – events Weedbusters Tasmania, as part of the National Weed Awareness program, is gearing up for a number of weed initiatives this year culminating in Weedbuster Week (13 – 20 October). We have a diverse and enthusiastic organising committee with broad community representation. In addition we have a Green Reserves team of highly motivated weedbusters to help us organise a number of events. The National Weedbuster program has broadened its outlook and now seeks to involve and enthuse as many stakeholders as possible in weed activities throughout the year. To meet this aim we have some exciting new approaches to weed awareness and on ground activities planned for Tasmania.
♦ At a national level there are three Weedbuster competitions with prizes, two aimed specifically at schools and one that is also available to community groups and local government. Details are available at www.weedbusterweek.info.au and entries close on 27th September.
♦ We are encouraging community groups and local government to target invasive mainland wattles during Weedy Wattle Week (2 – 7 September). Wattles that are currently invading bushland and coastal reserves in Tasmania include Cape Leeuwin wattle (Paraserianthes lophantha) and Golden wattle (Acacia pycnantha). Other wattles that are of concern in some areas include Sallow wattle (A. longifolia), White Sallow wattle (A. floribunda), Cootamundra wattle (A. baileyana), Sticky wattle (A. howittii) and Early Black wattle (A. decurrens).
If your group has these mainland wattles escaping from garden or roadside plantings and becoming environmental weeds in your area then slot this week into your diary and organise some on-ground activity. Already we have groups interested in joining in at Weymouth, Coles Beach, Don Reserve, Boat Harbour, Sisters Beach and on the east coast. Remember if you are planting wattles make sure they are Tasmania native species local to your area, we have a beautiful array with a range of flowering times, foliage colour and growth forms.
♦ Weedbuster Week (13 – 20 October) update. This year’s national theme is “Helping Protect Australia’s Big Backyard”. We have devised two state-wide initiatives focusing on Gorse and Pampas Grass. In addition we are encouraging a wide range of stakeholders including local and state government, utilities, schools and community groups to register their events and be involved in weed activities. This year we will launch the program from Wesley Vale primary school who were last years national competition winners with students making woven weed baskets.
Registration forms have been sent out to all ‘care’ groups and all NRM coordinators throughout the state. Additional forms will be sent out to all local and state government organisations, utilities and schools. We hope that Weedbuster Week 2002 will again have a strong on ground focus with additional attention being given to highlighting weed initiatives conducted throughout the year. In addition we will have a stall at Salamanca market with Woody Weed, Green Reserves conducting a weed awareness survey and lots of giveaways. Organise and register your events for Weedbuster Week 2002. Contact us if you need a registration form.
For further information on any of these events or to receive a registration form please contact: Sandy Leighton WeedPlan Education Officer [email protected]
Ph: 6233 3197
Seminar Happening Soon………. TASWEEDS incorporating SPOTTER Edition 16 August 2002 Page 21
Alternatives for weed control in conventional and organic cropping.
As previously advised, Bo Melander of the Department of Crop Protection, Danish Institute of Agricultural Sciences (DIAS), Research Centre Flakkebjerg, will be visiting Tasmania in early October 2002. Bo has kindly agreed to present three seminars, dates, venues and times for which are listed below. Bo has wide experience in physical weed control in conventional and organic cropping, including preventative, thermal and cultural control methods, as well as assessing the economics of weed control. Some topics to be covered include:
• Agriculture in Denmark including organic farming over the last decade. • Mechanical and physical weed control in cereals • Mechanical and physical weed control in vegetables.
Don’t miss you chance to hear Bo speak. The presentations are free and light refreshments will be provided. Dates and venues are as follows.
1st Oct 2002. North-west seminar, 5.00 pm – 7.00 pm at Stoney Rise Government Offices, Rundle Rd, Devonport. 2nd Oct 2002. Northern seminar, 6.00 pm – 8.00 pm at State Government Offices, Old Bass Highway, Prospect. 3rd Oct 2002. Southern seminar, 3.00 pm – 5.00 pm at DPIWE New Town Labs, St John’s Avenue, Newtown.
For catering purposes please advise of your attendance at least one day before the seminar. Contact Sally Newlands on 6421 7630, John McPhee on 6421 7674 or Cindy Hanson on 6336 5414
NATIVE PLANTS AS ENVIRONMENTAL WEEDS By Jean Taylor and John Hamilton, Australian Plants Society
For some time now those of us involved with Bushcare/Landcare/Coastcare have noticed that feral native plants form a component of the weeds invading our precious bushland. These plants become weedy in a number of ways. They can grow from dumped garden clippings, berries or seeds can be dispersed by birds or animals, or they can interbreed with local natives, diluting the local gene pool – grevilleas, acacias and eucalypts have been noted as showing this potential.
As members of the Australian Plants Society we are trying to alert people of the dangers of growing plants outside their natural range, or indeed outside their catchment area. Unfortunately it is difficult to produce concrete evidence sufficient to convince a gardener that their favourite plant is guilty of such a misdemeanor.
While recent publications such as Bush Invaders of South-East Australia by Adam Muyt and Environmental Weeds a Field Guide for SE Australia by Kate Blood implicate various mainland Australian natives as weeds in Tasmania, only scanty evidence can be verified by herbarium records.
Rae Glazik, a botanist with the Nature Conservation Branch, is attempting to raise public awareness of the weediness of Cape Leeuwin Wattle (Paraserianthes lophantha) and sweet pittosporum (Pittosporum undulatum) (see previous article, this issue). She would like to receive information about the location (with grid reference if possible), size, age and source of infestation ie was it planted? has it spread gravitationally. Please send information to: Rae Glazik, Bushcare Technical, Nature Conservation Branch, GPO Box 44 Hobart 7001, Ph 6233 6835 or email [email protected].
John and I are interested in receiving similar information about any native plants, particularly in the south of the state, and we are especially interested in learning of mainland acacia species which have interbred with Tasmanian species. Please send information to: Jean Taylor and John Hamilton 446 Manuka Rd, Kettering 7155 or email [email protected].
Steve outfoxes the weeds TASWEEDS incorporating SPOTTER Edition 16 August 2002 Page 22
Stephen Welsh, our well respected and much loved Regional Weed Management Officer (RWMO) for the north is soon to join the Fox Taskforce on a 12 month secondment. As you can see below he is excited to have the opportunity to wear a new hat and have some foxy adventures. Woody Weed may well be feeling a bit left out! Pampas, it’s a pain in the Grass
This year for National Weedbuster Week we have an exciting statewide initiative focusing on pampas grass. Our pampas grass efforts will be coordinated by the Regional Weed Management Officers at the DPIWE and will focus on follow up treatment of plants in the NW, NE and S. We have a fantastic pro-active track record for this weed in Tasmania and eradication statewide is now a legitimate option. Over the last 5 years we have had a huge team effort involving DPIWE Regional Weed Management Officers, the Natural Heritage Trust, Forestry Tasmania, regional community weed strategy groups, industry and local and state government agencies. Over a quarter of a million dollars have been spent resulting in nearly 50,000 plants killed. This demonstrates what can be achieved when everyone gets in and has a go – as is the case with all weeds, we all have a role to play in the management of pampas grass. So report any pampas grass on 1300 368 550 and let’s make Steve will take on the role of Community Tassie a pampas free state! Engagement Officer with the Fox Taskforce. The position is based at TFGA House (but within Parks and Wildlife / DPIWE), has been developed to build stronger linkages between the Fox Eradication program and stakeholders, as well as educating the community more about the impact of foxes and encouraging support for the eradication program.
Steve will be leaving in mid-September 2002. We need to protect our own backyard from weeds Jamie Cooper will occupy the northern RWMO whether we live in an urban setting or are a larger position in his absence. As such Jamie's position in landholder in rural Tasmania. Every year Devonport as the north-west RWMO will be vacant Weedbuster Week seeks to promote a cooperative for 10-12 months. approach to weed management by encouraging community groups, schools, industry and local and This position will be advertised shortly and the state government to become more active in their Weed Section looks forward to having someone in weed management efforts. So register your event the north-west as soon as possible. Congratulations and go into the draw for some great prizes. Steve, we wish you all the best in your new role. Contact: DPIWE WeedPlan Education Officer Sandy Leighton on 6233 3197 [email protected] TASWEEDS incorporating SPOTTER Edition 16 August 2002 Page 23
Tasmanian Weed Society News
Membership fees still being accepted………….
Many thanks to all who have returned membership forms and payment for this year. We now have a total of 22 members, 13 of which are individual, 5 corporate and 4 community groups. For those of you who forgot last time, we have enclosed another membership form with this issue of Tasweeds – please take the time to fill it out.
New Member
Matthew Baker Graduate Weed Taxonomist at the Tasmanian Herbarium
Matthew was appointed as the Tasmanian Herbarium's Weed Taxonomist in June 2002. This two-year position was created under the Graduate Development Program initiated by the then Department of State Development (now Economic Development). Matthew has a degree in Agricultural Science with honours from the University of Tasmania. Prior to this appointment he worked as a plantation researcher with Forestry Tasmania and Norske Skog.
Matthew's role at the Herbarium is to provide botanical advice about weeds and other plants of economic importance to the public, government and private enterprise. His major duties include identifying and classifying introduced plants. He is aiming to develop the Herbarium's main collection and the public reference collection to better represent the introduced species naturalised in the state.
At the moment he is familiarising himself with declared weeds in Tasmania particularly concentrating on the dreaded willows. He hopes to contribute to various public awareness and educational programs such as National Weedbuster Week and the Tasmanian Weed Alert Network as well as other programs.
Matthew hopes to build his knowledge by working closely with Dennis Morris whose depth of experience and knowledge in this field make him an Australian expert.
The Tasmanian Herbarium is part of the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery and is located on the University of Tasmania's Sandy Bay Campus. Matthew can be contacted on 62262635 or by email [email protected]
Congratulations, Matthew, on your appointment to this timely and valuable position. TASWEEDS incorporating SPOTTER Edition 16 August 2002 Page 24
Tasmanian Weed Society Executive 2002 -2003
Position Name and Organisation Contact Details
Andrew Bishop President Clean Products Team Leader [email protected] DPIWE
Tim Rudman Past-President Nature Conservation Branch DPIWE [email protected] Tim Rudman GPO Box 44A HOBART TAS 7001 Vice-President (P) 6233 3912
Tim Rudman (Cindy Hanson during Public officer Tim’s absence)
Dean Zeven [email protected] Treasurer Environmental Services 12 Short St ULVERSTONE DPIWE (P) 6429 8763 (F) 6429 8720 (M) 0418 175 460
[email protected] Cindy Hanson PO BOX 46 KINGS MEADOWS, 7249 Secretary Weed Section (P) 6336 5414 DPIWE
Karen Stewart Regional Representative (North West Burnie and Waratah Wynyard Councils [email protected] Tasmania) Weed Strategy Co-ordinator
Greg Stewart [email protected] Regional Representative East Coast Regional Weed Strategy Council Office, St HELENS, 7216 (North Tasmania) Co-ordinator (P) 6376 1281
Regional Representative Christian Goninon [email protected] (South Tasmania) Weed Section GPO BOX 44A HOBART 7001 DPIWE (P) 6233 3654
Cindy Hanson [email protected] DPIWE PO BOX 46 KINGS MEADOWS, 7249 (P) 6336 5414
Andrew Crane [email protected] Weed Section Newsletter Editors GPO BOX 44A HOBART 7000 DPIWE (P) 6233 3650
Sandy Leighton [email protected] Weed Section New Town Research Laboratories, 13 St Johns Avenue, NEW DPIWE TOWN. (P) 6233 3197
Got Something to Say?? As always, we’d like to hear from you. Deadline for the December 2002 edition of Tasweeds is Friday December 6th 2002. Contact the Tasweeds Editors as listed in the TWS Executive directory above.