Since 2019, the Tasmanian Government’s Weeds Action Fund (WAF) has been instrumental in supporting targeted weed management initiatives across the state. Through WAF Stage 1, the Huon Valley Council received funding to survey and manage African feather grass (AFG) infestations in the Huon region. Building on the success of this initial project, Council secured an additional round of funding for the 2024/25 financial year. This grant enabled further control efforts against AFG, delivered with support through the Highly Invasive Grasses Project, strengthening the region’s response to this significant environmental threat.
African feather grass is an aggressive invader of roadsides, waste areas, riverbanks and pastures. Dense infestations of this weed outcompete other plants and can completely block waterways, and when dry creates a fire hazard.
African feather grass is uncommon in Tasmania and only known to occur in the Huon and Derwent Valleys. HVC continues to work with landowners to manage AFG in the Huon.
Have you seen it?
- Tussock-forming grass to 2m high
- Leaves have a long sheath at the base, with irritating hairs at leaf nodes
- Flowers are long and thin, starting off brown then fading to white
- Plants produce flowers in late spring to late summer
We need your help to protect our environment from the spread of this weed. If you think you’ve seen African feather grass, please report to Council: (03) 6264 9479 or nrm@huonvalley.tas.gov.au