Landholders urged to be on the lookout for fireweed

While it might be bright and attractive to the eye, fireweed is a fast spreading weed that is on the rise throughout the Lockyer Valley.

Lockyer Valley Environment Portfolio Councillor Michael Hagan said Council officers had observed multiple infestations of the invasive weed on local properties recently.

“Council has been working with residents for some time to stop fireweed establishing in the region, however due to the current wet conditions we are anticipating a busy winter season ahead.

“Fireweed can have a significant impact on local farmers and is not only considered to be poisonous to horses and livestock, but also viewed as a high priority invasive plant throughout the Lockyer Valley.

“Fireweed spreads very easily through pasture seed, hay, turf, mulch, stock transport and machinery.

“It’s important to regularly monitor for fireweed and, like all invasive plants, it’s best to get in early and remove it before it becomes established,” he said.

Council’s Pest Management Officers are available to assist farmers with advice, identification and control of invasive plants.

“Our teams are managing an overwhelming number of requests for assistance with the toxic weed and providing treatment plans and assistance as quickly as we can.

“To successfully tackle the current outbreak, we also need landholders to be proactive and address the stubborn weed as soon as possible.

“Agriculture is a key economic driver for the Lockyer Valley and any risk to this industry is a risk to the region’s economy and our entire community,” he said.

Landholders who suspect they may have large quantities of fireweed growing on their property are urged to contact Council for an inspection.

“Due to the high influx of infestations, we are encouraging landholders to self-manage smaller quantities of fireweed, whereas if it is directly impacting crops or stock, we urge you to report it immediately.

“We also encourage landholders to familiarise themselves with Council’s Herbicide Subsidy Scheme which can help reduce the cost of controlling fireweed and other invasive pest plants,” Cr Hagan said.

Further information on fireweed can be found on the Department of Agricultural and Fisheries website, or to access the Herbicide Subsidy Scheme, contact Council’s Pest Management Officers on 1300 005 872.