Identifying weeds made easy
Published on 04 May 2015
Mildura Rural City Council now has a new, free resource available to help residents stamp out weeds in our region. The WEEDeck Identification Cards provide people with a photo reference and description of potentially devastating and destructive weeds often found locally.
Environmental Sustainability portfolio Councillor Judi Harris said the WEEDeck cards provide information on everything from the origin of the weed, to the method it uses to spread and whether or not it is toxic to humans or animals.
“The cards are made from a tough, water resistant cardboard and are designed to be used in the outdoors,” Cr Harris explained. “There’s general information on how to collect specimens, how to manage weeds on your property and what to look out for specifically in our region.
“Weeds are a major issue for the whole community and it’s important everyone does their little bit to stop the spread of these pests.”
The cards show 25 different weed species commonly found in residential, industrial and farming areas. This includes weeds from the herb family such as the Khaki Weed, Prickly Lettuce and Caltrop, and shrubs and vines such as the Prickly Pear and Golden Dodder.
“Council is responsible for the eradication of weeds in a number of key areas but the reality is that they are spreading faster than we can control them,” Cr Harris said. “We need everyone to literally ‘chip’ in and tackle this problem together.”
“It’s not just an environmental issue – it costs the whole community in terms of money spent trying to eradicate the pests and also in damage done to bike and pram tyres and harm to animals. And we’ve all suffered the pain of a Three-corner Jack hidden in the carpet!”
While the WEEDeck is a handy tool for residents, Council’s comprehensive Draft Invasive Plants and Animals Plan is also now out for public comment. The plan looks at the long term strategy for managing invasive plants and animals in our region.
Residents are encouraged to review the plan which is now available online at www.mildura.vic.gov.au/haveyoursay or from Council Service Centres and will remain open for public comment until Friday 29 May 2015.
WEEDecks are also available for free from Council Service Centres and more information about how you can help in the eradication of weeds is available from www.weeds.org.au
ENDS
Media enquiries
Angela Umback
p) 03 5018 8689
e) angela.umback@mildura.vic.gov.au