Fight against Fireweed
Lockyer Valley Regional Council is urging landholders to partner in the fight against Fireweed, following an increased presence of the pest weed across the region.
Council’s Environment Portfolio Councillor Michael Hagan said it was vital for landholders to remember just how toxic Fireweed can be.
“Ideal growing conditions for weeds over past 18 months has resulted in an abundance of Fireweed across Southeast Queensland, with the Lockyer Valley no exception.
“Council crews are aware of and working to minimise the presence of Fireweed along Council’s roads and reserves, with regular treatment practices in place.
“The invasive weed has the potential to severely impact agriculture and livestock in the region if it's not removed from pastures.
“It has a distinctive 13-petal yellow flower that appears harmless, but can cause illness, slow growth and poor condition in cattle.
“It also has the potential to rapidly reproduce more than 10,000 seeds during a growing season, so awareness and attention to detail is extremely important.
“Landholders who suspect they may have Fireweed growing on their property are urged to contact Council for an inspection prior to treatment.
“We also encourage landholders to familiarise themselves with Council’s Herbicide Subsidy Scheme for the control of Fireweed,” Cr Hagan said.
Weeds covered under the Herbicide Subsidy Scheme include:
- Giant rat’s tail grass (GRT)
- Annual ragweed
- Parthenium
- Mother-of-Millions (MOM)
- Fireweed
- Groundsel bush
- African boxthorn
- Harrisia cactus
- Water Lettuce
- Water hyacinth
- Salvinia
Landholders interested in accessing the Herbicide Subsidy Scheme are encouraged to contact Council Pest Management officers for assistance or visit the Environment and Pest Management webpage.
Further information on invasive Fireweed can be found at website - daf.qld.gov.au or to access herbicide subsidy, contact Council’s Pest Management Officers on 1300 005 872.
