Using wildlife to combat a weedy situation

Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens have recently released weevils as part of the council’s efforts to eradicate damaging water weeds. 

This approach is most effective in combating the waterweed problem that is currently developing at the Lagoons.

“The water lettuce weed is a key issue for the lagoons (it smothers the water’s surface, out-competes native water lilies and deprives native oxygen-producing plants of sunlight) so we have selected a certain type of weevil to combat the weeds before they spread further and cause any damage.”

The selected species of weevil specifically targets water lettuce and is highly suited to the botanic gardens location,” council’s Parks & Environment Manager Helen Paulsen said.

“The heavy summer rains have the tendency to remove the bulk of the weeds from the water body but due to the current state of the lagoons, it is necessary to kick-start the process with the weevils.”

According to Ms Paulsen the weevils will reduce the infestation over time, to a level that can be controlled by gardens staff.

“As the weevils breed and build up their numbers, they can then be transported to other sites around the Mackay Region where water lettuce is a problem, and help to control the weeds there,” said Mrs Paulsen.

“The conditions are now perfect for releasing the weevils.”

Remaining weeds will be kept under control by a combination of chemical and mechanical treatments.

This initiative will be of great benefit to our iconic Botanic Gardens, ensuring that it remains a beautiful location and is supported by council’s Natural Environment Section.

Contact: Dale Arvidsson

Phone: 4952 7300

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