Please note: Important information concerning the interpretations of legislation and other policies are contained in this page. It is recommended that the Disclaimer be read in conjunction with the information provided.

"Weeds are among the most serious threats to Tasmania's primary production and natural environment. They reduce farm and forest productivity, displace and degrade native species and communities, and contribute significantly to land and water degradation" (WeedPlan - the Tasmanian Weed Management Strategy).

A number of plants have been officially declared as weeds under the Weed Management Act 1999 because these plants are considered to have potential to:

• Reduce farm production,
• Degrade the State's natural or physical resources
• Degrade ecological processes 
• Reduce the genetic diversity of native plants.

Huon Valley Weed Management Strategy 

The Huon Valley Weed Management Strategy 2007-2012 (855 kb) is now available.  Please contact Council if you would like a hard copy.

 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. What is a weed?

2. Which plants have been declared as weeds in Tasmania?

3. If there are declared weeds on my land, what does it mean?

4. How do I identify the weeds in my area?

5. How do I control weeds?

6. Is there any funding assistance available to help control weeds on my land?

7. How do I remove the weeds?

8. What are the council's responsibilities regarding weeds?

9. Where can I go for further information?

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1.  What is a weed?

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"A weed is a plant which has, or has the potential to have, a detrimental effect on economic, social or conservation values" (National Weeds Strategy, 1999).

Seventy-seven plants have been officially declared as weeds under the Weed Management Act 1999 because these plants can cause, or have already caused, an adverse impact on our natural or agricultural environment.

Once plants are declared weeds under the Act, there are restrictions relating to their trade, sale, import, movement and disposal.

Under Section 15 of the Act, a Weed Management Plan must be drawn up for each plant within 12 months of it being declared a weed. These Plans are drawn up by the Department of Primary Industries, Water and Environment (DPIWE), and go through a public consultation phase before becoming statutory plans under the Act.

Draft Weed Management Plans have been drawn up for all declared weeds and these set out restrictions and approaches for reducing or eradicating them. They apply equally to public and private landholders. The DPIWE Website shows all draft Weed Management Plans.

2.  Which plants have been declared as weeds in Tasmania?

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Seventy-seven plant species have been declared weeds under the Weed Management Act as at May 2003.

Of those declared weeds, their known distribution in the Huon Valley, including their common name, their known distribution and the action required are detailed in the following colour coded table:

Eradication feasible in short-term presence confirmed (marked in RED)
Eradication feasible in short-term presence unconfirmed (marked in MAGENTA)
Eradication feasible in long-term only control actions required (marked in YELLOW)
Eradication not feasible prioritisation of sites for protection required (marked in GREEN)
Weed not known to be present in the Municipality

Name	Common name	Distribution	Action
Asparagus asparagoides (=Myrsiphyllum asparagoides)	Bridal Creeper	Restricted to garden plantings and coastal infestations - possible in Huon	Awareness campaign from DPIWE
Carduus pycnocephalus	Slender Thistle	Very widespread in variety of conditions	None required (see below)
Carduus tenuiflorus	Slender Thistle	Very widespread in variety of conditions	None required (see below)
Carex albula (C. comans)	Sedge	Unknown - used ornamentally and as soil stabiliser in road construction	None required (see below)
Carex buchananii	Sedge	Unknown - used ornamentally and as soil stabiliser in road construction	None required (see below)
Carex flagellifera	Sedge	Only known naturalised Tasmanian populations are in Huon Municipality	Eradication program in conjunction with DPIWE
Carex testacea	Sedge	Unknown - used ornamentally and as soil stabiliser in road construction	None required (see below)
Carthamus lanatus L.	Saffron Thistle	Usually present as feed grain contaminant; status in Huon uncertain, but its preference for dry areas is likely to restrict its presence	None required (see below)
Chrysanthemoides monilifera (including subspecies)	Boneseed, Bitou Bush	Widespread coastal populations	On-going control program; prioritisation of high-value sites
Cirsium arvense	Californian Thistle	Uncertain, but likely to be relatively common in disturbed areas	Code of practice
Cortaderia spp.	Pampas Grasses	Scattered populations of several species	Eradication program
Cytisus scoparius	English Broom	Scattered populations - increasing in size and density	Identification of sites at greatest risk (see below)
Datura spp.	Datura	Several species likely to be present as both feed contaminants and garden ornamentals	Eradication of Datura species (see below)
Echium plantagineum	Paterson's Curse	Scattered throughout Tasmania; present in Huon, especially where horses are present	Eradication (see below)
Echium vulgare	Viper's Bugloss	Scattered throughout Tasmania; likely in Huon, especially where horses are present	Eradication (see below)
Elodea canadensis	Canadian Pondweed (Elodea)	Widespread - status unknown in Huon	None required (see below)
Erica lusitanica	Spanish Heath	Widespread - common in Huon	Identification of sites at greatest risk (see below)
Foeniculum vulgare	Fennel	Widespread in Tasmania - associated with waste places and disturbed sites	Vigilance and special effort at control if required (see below)
Genista monspessulana	Montpellier Broom	Widespread - increasing in Huon	Identification of sites at greatest risk (see below)
Hypericum perforatum	St John's Wort	Scattered locations across Tasmania, including Huon	Eradication in conjunction with DPIWE, DIER
Lycium ferocissimum	African Boxthorn	Widespread in Tasmania - status unknown in Huon	On-going eradication program if required
Marrubium vulgare	Horehound	Widespread in drier areas and sheep properties - probable in Huon	Eradication of any roadside population
Pennisetum macrourum	African Feathergrass	Limited to Derwent and Huon Valleys	Eradication
Rorippa sylvestris	Creeping Yellowcress	Rare - present in Huon	Eradication coordinated by DPIWE; Possible where bulbs are commercially grown
Rubus fruticosus agg.	Blackberry	Widespread	Identification of sites at greatest risk (see below)
Salix spp. except S. babylonica, S. X calodendron and S. X reichardtii	Willows except weeping willows, pussy willow and sterile pussy willow	Widespread in Tasmania - restricted distribution of several species in Huon	Identification of sites at greatest risk (see below)
Senecio jacobaea	Ragwort	Widespread in wetter parts of Tasmania, including Huon	Establishment of cooperative eradication approach
Ulex europaeus	Gorse	Widespread in Tasmania - including Huon	Prioritisation of sites at risk; control program where necessary

Specific recommendations for managing weeds in the Huon Valley

Bridal Creeper (Asparagus asparagoides)

Bridal creeper is a climbing plant that produces fruits; birds disperse the seeds. It was introduced as a garden plant, but has now infested coastal areas in Tasmania's north, north west, and Flinders Island. Once established it is very difficult to eradicate. For this reason it is a Weed of National Significance. No bridal creeper plants have been recorded from the Huon Valley, but it is likely to occur in a garden in the area. Therefore, vigilance is important. If bridal creeper is found within the next 18 months, it is likely funding will be available to deal with it.

Slender thistle (Carduus pycnocephalus and Carduus tenuiflorus)

Both species of slender thistle are very widespread in Tasmania. It is particularly associated with disturbed areas and grazing. Practical management of this weed is likely to consist of responding to enforcement requests from the public, and ensuring that appropriate hygiene measures are undertaken to prevent the spread of slender thistles into unaffected areas.

Sedges (Carex spp)

The sedge family has many members, some of which are native to Tasmania. Identification of the weedy species is difficult, and will usually require formal identification by the Herbarium. Weedy species are likely to have been introduced either as garden ornamentals through the nursery trade, or as soil stabilising agents used by the former DMR and some Councils. Carex flagellifera is known from naturalised populations in the south of the Huon Municipality. It is likely that road maintenance has contributed to the spread of this weed. A survey of the problem is being undertaken by DPIWE (July 2002) and the results will be forwarded to Council. The Department of Primary Industries, Water and Environment would appreciate any possible weedy sedge sightings to be reported to us.

Saffron thistle (Carthamus lanatus)

This is likely wherever drought feed grain was fed out during 2000-2001. However, the higher rainfall in the Huon region will not favour this species. Any sightings of woody, yellow-flowered thistle should be reported to DPIWE.

Boneseed (Chrysanthemoides monilifera)

Boneseed is a Weed of National Significance. It is present in large numbers in the Huon, and eradication is not feasible in the short term. Most infestations occur on Crown land, and work is being done to prioritise sites based on their natural and other values. This process could be extended to infestations on private and council-managed land.

Californian thistle (Cirsium arvense)

This thistle species is perennial and spreads as much by roots as it does by seed. Inappropriate management of roadside infestations, particularly grading, has been responsible for much of the spread of Californian thistle on council-managed land. The level of infestation in the Huon is unknown, but it is highly likely to be present as it is well suited to high-rainfall conditions. Eradication is not feasible, but the development of a simple code of practice would be beneficial in controlling the spread of this and many other weeds.

Pampas grass (Cortaderia spp)

There are a number of isolated pampas grass plants found in the Huon area, with several denser infestations. Eradication is required, and can be achieved by appropriate control on public land and public education on private land. Enforcement may be required where landholders are unwilling to destroy their own plants. A concerted effort to remove pampas from the Huon could potentially involve Council providing assistance to landholders by undertaking spraying where appropriate.

English broom (Cytisus scoparius) and Montpellier broom (Genista monspessulana)

Both brooms are abundant in the Huon, and it would appear their ranges are rapidly expanding. Eradication is not feasible. Management will require determining those areas currently uninfested and of high conservation value, and taking appropriate steps to ensure these areas are protected as best as possible.

Datura (Datura spp.)

Several species of datura (and the closely related Brugmansia) are likely to be present in Huon Municipality. Most landholders are happy to comply with any directive to remove the annual species of datura once they are made aware of the toxicity of the plant. However, the larger perennial species (including the red-flowering Brugmansia sanguinea) are likely to be regarded with considerable attachment by landholders. Efforts to control these should only take place where landholder support is total. This is particularly important in the case of the Brugmansias, as their legal status is uncertain.

Paterson's curse (Echium plantagineum) and viper's bugloss (Echium vulgare)

Both species of Echium are present in the Huon, although they are neither widespread nor abundant. Eradication is feasible, but will require landholder commitment. Identification of infestations is a key starting point; technical assistance will be available from DPIWE, and a concerted effort by affected landholders involving the sharing of resources (eg spray equipment and herbicides) will result in reduced management costs.

Canadian pondweed (Elodea canadensis)

The distribution of Canadian pondweed is unknown in Tasmania, although it is widespread in many streams. At this time, no management strategy is appropriate until more information is gathered on the population distribution of this plant.

Spanish heath (Erica lusitanica)

Spanish heath is abundant in the Huon, and it would appear its range is rapidly expanding. Eradication is not feasible. Management will require determining those areas currently uninfested and of high conservation value, and taking appropriate steps to ensure these areas are protected as best as possible.

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)

Fennel is a widespread roadside weed, and a considerable nuisance to roadside managers in many council areas in the state. Its prolific seeding, rapid growth and resistance to chemical control make fennel a potential problem in all corridors prone to disturbance. Fennel should therefore be controlled where found in order to prevent the creation of a costly maintenance problem. If herbicide control is undertaken, this fact should be clearly signposted to prevent accidental poisoning to those who harvest the leaves, seeds and bulbs.

St John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum)

St John's wort is present in several small populations in the Huon area - all known infestations are on land managed by DIER. An eradication campaign will commence 2002-2003. Should populations be found on other tenures, a more cooperative approach will be required. Because St John's wort is considered a medicinal herb, and control activity should be clearly signposted to avoid the risk of accidental poisoning.

African boxthorn (Lycium ferocissimum)

African boxthorn is found in relatively small infestations on the Peninsular; it has been the subject of a concerted eradication campaign. Eradication is feasible, but some locations - particularly in the coastal zone - are very difficult to access. As African boxthorn is a priority weed under the South East Weed Management Strategy, information on priority actions should be sought from that project.

Horehound (Marrubium vulgare)

Small populations of horehound may be present in the Huon Municipality; they are particularly associated with a history of sheep grazing. Management is likely to largely be the responsibility of private landholders, but horehound may occasionally occur as a roadside weed. Care should be taken not to disturb any such sites. Herbicide control is effective provided appropriate chemicals are used.

African feather grass (Pennisetum macrourum)

Small populations of African feather grass have been present in the Huon region for a number of decades. Eradication is required, and particular care needs to be used when disturbing infested areas. It is clear that several populations in the Huon have been increased by inappropriate roadside maintenance. DPIWE will provide technical assistance to Council and other landholders.

Creeping yellow cress (Rorippa sylvestris)

One population of this horticultural weed is known from the Huon region. It is being controlled by the landholder and DPIWE.

Blackberry (Rubus fruticosus agg)

Blackberry is widespread in Tasmania. Eradication is not feasible, and control measures are likely to be restricted to keeping blackberry out of areas of high conservation value, as well as areas of public amenity. Land managers may be required to control blackberry on their property, but they will not, in ordinary circumstances, be required to eradicate it.

Willows (Salix species)

A variety of willow species are declared under the Weed Management Act; a number of these are present in the Huon Municipality, although the extent of infestations is much less than other parts of the state. An added consideration is that heritage legislation and regulation may protect some willow trees. Willows are Weeds Of National Significance, and funding may be available for some projects, particularly where the juxtaposition of some species may give rise to viable willow seed production. It may also be possible to obtain assistance in prioritising sites for future willow control.

Ragwort (Senecio jacobea)

Ragwort is present in scattered populations in the Huon Municipality, and has been for a number of decades. While it is the responsibility of individual land managers to control this weed, it is unlikely that eradication of ragwort can be achieved without a cooperative approach. Enforcement may be possible, but rarely succeeds in actual eradication of plants as they tend not to be visible when control is most effective. It is highly likely that neighbouring landholders will seek enforcement when they fear infestation of their properties. A local supply of resources (equipment, expertise etc) is the best possible approach to eradicating ragwort in the area.

Gorse (Ulex europaeus)

Gorse exists in large infestations in the area. Eradication is not feasible. Instead, sites of high conservation with little or no gorse should be given control priority. Gorse is a Weed of National Significance, and as such, funding will be available for some on ground works.

3.  If there are declared weeds on my land, what does it mean?

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The Weed Management Act 1999 and the associated Weed Management Plans provide detailed information on the legal obligations relating to landowners and declared weeds. This includes restrictions on the:

• sale
• trade
• importation
• movement of declared weeds, or things that may be contaminated by declared weeds.

It also includes requirements in relation to such things as boundary protection.

Basically, the Weed Management Act puts obligations on all landholders, both public and private, to take an active part in either controlling or eradicating the weeds on their property, as per the relevant Weed Management Plan. In areas where declared weeds have not yet been recorded, it is everyone's responsibility to prevent the weeds getting established and to look out for new infestations.

If you travel from areas interstate or overseas infected with declared weeds, it is important that you check all your belongings for seeds, fruit and plant matter, or get quarantine officials to check them when you arrive in Tasmania. The importation of some plants is also restricted under the Plant Quarantine Act 1997.

Weed inspectors can require action to be taken to remove weeds. Council can provide you with contact details for the weed inspector for your area. The weed inspector will be able to provide you with more detailed information on your obligations under the Act.

4.  How do I identify the weeds in my area?

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Huon Valley Council can help you to identify weeds in your area, through the NRM Office and give you brochures to help identify and information to control them. Contact the NRM Office on 6264 0357.

Council can also give you the contact details of community groups operating in the area such as Bushcare or Landcare groups, the Understorey Network or various 'Friends of' groups which are often involved in weed management activities.

A very useful set of links can be found listed in the 'Weeds' section of the NRM Office Services webpage, and Fact sheets on the control of weeds declared under the Act are available from DPIW.

5.  How do I control weeds?

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There are a number of key steps to successful weed control:

• Plan weed control activities carefully.
• Find out the different options for weed removal before starting.
• Make weed control activities strategic - start in areas that have few weeds and gradually work in towards the main infestations.
• Concentrate on clearing weeds from areas that are mostly in good condition.
• Be prepared to sustain the effort. You could actually make the problem worse by clearing too much too soon and not doing enough follow-up work.
• Get adjacent land managers to work together to eradicate the weeds.

Council's NRM Office has information sheets that provide information on a range of options for removing key agricultural and environmental weeds in the Huon Valley.

6.  Is there any funding assistance available to help control weeds on my land?

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Depending on the weed and area you live in, there may be some funding available.  For further information call 03 6264 0357.

7.  How do I remove the Weeds?

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Successful weed control requires consideration of the characteristics of the plant itself, as well as the context in which it is growing. What may be a successful and acceptable solution in one situation may be ineffective or inappropriate in another. Seek professional advice before undertaking weed control work.

The actions you need to take to remove weeds in your area depend on:

• the weed(s) you are dealing with
• the environmental conditions
• the season of the year

Often an integrated approach that uses a combination of control methods may be required to effectively deal with a weed. These methods may include:

• pulling or digging out by hand or by machine
• mulching or establishing competitive vegetation
• grazing, mowing or slashing
• spraying with appropriate herbicides.

If using chemicals:

• take adequate safety precautions,
• always read the instructions on the label
• be especially careful near lakes and waterways as some chemicals harm aquatic ecosystems. Ther are only a limited number of herbicides registered for use near waterways.

Some weeds need a variety of methods to successfully remove them and some follow-up work will nearly always be required.

For further information on weed control contact Council's NRM Office on 6264 0357.

8.  What are the Council's responsibilities regarding weeds?

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Under The Weed Management Act 1999 , Weed Management Plans have been prepared for all 77 declared weeds. These plans specify from which municipalities the weeds should be eradicated and those in which the weeds must at least be contained. Weed Management Plans provide the legal framework by which weed law enforcement can occur.

In the Huon Valley a more strategic approach to weed management has been established, with the development of the Huon Valley Weed Management Strategy 2007-2012 (855 kb). This document identifies the declared weeds relevant to the Huon Valley and the management approach for each of them.

Councils have some obligations under Section 39 of the Local Government (Highways) Act 1982, to keep roadsides (on Council roads) clear of vegetation that may obstruct sightlines or become dangerous, including weedy vegetation.  DIER has responsibility for managing roadsides in the Huon Valley (for State roads), and utility companies (Telstra, Aurora, etc) have responsibility for the land on which their infrastructure is situated. 

9.  Where can I go for further information?

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For further information and help with weed identification, please visit the Weeds Australia website. This website has an excellent tool for weed identification and you can search by locality, description, and you can also view photos: http://www.weeds.org.au/ to confirm your identification.