Council issues warning against relocating water lettuce

It may look like an appealing plant, but water lettuce is an invasive weed that risks the health of local waterways – prompting Council to issue a warning against relocating it for private use.

It comes after Lockyer Valley Regional Council became aware of instances where community members were removing the weed from public waterways and placing it in ornamental ponds.

“Council is aware of a water lettuce infestation at Narda Lagoon, Laidley and is arranging appropriate treatment,” Environment Portfolio Councillor Michael Hagan said.

“This is a category 3 restricted invasive plant under the Biosecurity Act 2014 and it must not be given away, sold or released into new areas.”

Water lettuce, which as the name suggests resembles a small open head of lettuce, is a free-floating aquatic weed that rapidly forms dense mats covering rivers, dams and irrigation canals.

It can restrict water flow, increase water loss by evapotranspiration and can serve as a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

It also prevents light penetration and exchange of gasses leading to a drop of oxygen in the water, which is detrimental to aquatic ecosystems.

Cr Hagan said Council was working with contractors to remove the weed mechanically, with works slated to be completed early next month.

In addition to sounding the alarm, Council has also installed signs prominently around the area of infestation, warning people of the biosecurity matter.

“People may not have been aware that water lettuce is an invasive weed,” Cr Hagan said.

“Hopefully through this process we can prevent further infestations, and I urge the community to help us safeguard our local environment and economy by doing the right thing.”

For more information, visit www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/pest-management or contact Council on 1300 005 872.