Arno Bay buffel grass warning
Multiple patches of the invasive buffel grass weed have been identified on roadside verges throughout Arno Bay including in the township.
Based on our records, these are new detections which is concerning. In addition, surveys that were undertaken at known sites after recent rain in the region, also found new germination.
Buffel grass (Cenchrus ciliaris) is our highest priority weed for control and eradication across Eyre Peninsula. Flowering usually occurs after rain during summer. The plant can germinate and set seed within six weeks, out-competing native species and threatening endangered animals due to food and habitat loss. The grass can grow and establish a colony in a broad range of soil types and landscapes.
Our Landscape Officers have also been undertaking site visits after community reports of other buffel grass sightings. One of these was found to be Pale Pigeon Grass (Setaria pumila subsp pumila), which is mainly a weed found at disturbed sites, roadsides, footpaths and cultivation areas.
We encourage the community to continue to let us know if you think you have seen buffel grass. Weeds can be tricky to identify correctly, and grasses even more-so. There are also some native grasses that look similar to buffel grass too.
Please get in touch with your nearest landscape officer or email us on EPLBadmin@sa.gov.au.
See our buffel grass fact sheet for more information including identifying features.
