Residents warned over 'destructive invaders' taking over Aussie suburbs
Several new invasive plants were added to the Sunshine Coast Council’s eradication list on Thursday night.
An Aussie council is urging residents to help protect the community from “destructive invaders” that are damaging the environment and creating a “costly” problem. Several new invasive plants were added to the Sunshine Coast Council’s wanted list for total destruction on Thursday night.
The drooping tree pear cactus, cane cactus, eve’s pin cactus and prohibited cholla cacti — all of which the authorities say present a serious “risk” — have been identified for eradication under the council’s updated biosecurity plan.
Surveys of the region also led to the listing of “locally significant invasive plants” such as the blue and coastal morning glory vines, cocos palm, thorny poinciana and molasses grass. “These species can significantly impact natural areas, are highly invasive, spread naturally and easily, and are often relatively widespread,” the report states.
“It is recommended that land managers aim to take actions to control and prevent further spread of these species when they are impacting or threatening high value natural assets.”
It is well-known that invasive weeds have a detrimental effect on the ecosystem by out-competing native species and therefore reducing the food available to wildlife. Some can be toxic to humans and animals, threaten agricultural activities or can choke dams and waterways.
In an attempt to educate residents to help stop the spread, the Sunshine Coast Council has outlined 81 priority plants and animals that are a threat to the area. Foxes and wild dogs are a danger to pets and livestock, while rabbits can be devastating for farmers.
“We aim to prevent invasive species from infiltrating our region, eradicate those that we’ve found in low numbers, contain those found in some areas of our region, and manage those that are widespread to reduce their impact,” Councillor Winston Johnston said.
“When everyone takes action on biosecurity, it benefits the whole region.”
Measures to eradicate invasive plants
Community members are being urged to be aware of and survey their properties for the identified “eradication” plants, all off which should be removed or destroyed following an approved method.
“Establish an on-going monitoring program to measure progress toward eradication, including inspection by Sunshine Coast Council to ensure compliance,” the biosecurity report states.
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