Working together to tackle spiny rush
If you’ve spent time around Barmera Lake recently, you may have noticed clumps of a sharp, spiky plant appearing along parts of the shoreline and surrounding scrub, making some areas difficult to access.
Known as spiny rush (Juncus acutus), this invasive species is creating challenges for visitors while also threatening the environment and cultural values.
Spiny rush is a priority pest plant in Murraylands and Riverland aquatic landscapes, and following the 2022-23 River Murray flood it has spread into new areas around the lake.
To tackle the problem, the Murraylands and Riverland Landscape Board, River Murray and Mallee Aboriginal Corporation (RMMAC) Rangers and Berri Barmera Council are working together to control infestations and prevent further spread.
This work forms part of the River to Recovery project, which is bringing together partners across the region to prevent post-flood pest plants from becoming established and spreading throughout the River Murray corridor.
Post-flood resurgence of spiny rush
The 2022-23 River Murray flood breathed life back into the iconic floodplains and wetlands across the region. However, it also created ideal conditions for a range of pest plants to spread.
While floodwaters drowned many of the mature spiny rush plants, viable seed remained in the soil. As water levels receded, new infestations emerged along shorelines, riverbanks and wetlands.
At Barmera Lake, floodwaters also dispersed seed into new locations, particularly along the shoreline, creating a threat to both the environment and community access to one of the region’s popular recreation areas.
A collaborative control effort
In May, 9 RMMAC Rangers joined landscape board district officers for a dedicated spray day around Barmera Lake.
The team undertook spraying by foot and quad bike as well as by boat to reach areas inaccessible by land.
More than 100 plants were sprayed across approximately 5 kilometres, with some more dense infestations still to be treated.
Managing spiny rush for the future
Follow-up inspections have already shown treated plants beginning to die off, demonstrating the effectiveness of the control program.
However, managing spiny rush is a long-term effort, as seeds can remain viable and dormant in the soil for up to 3-5 years. Because of this, ongoing monitoring and follow-up control are essential. Further spraying is planned for spring to target regrowth and emerging infestations, helping protect environmental values and community access around Barmera Lake.
By working together, the landscape board, RMMAC Rangers and Berri Barmera Council are helping to reduce the spread of spiny rush and protect the environmental, cultural and recreational values of Barmera Lake and the wider River Murray corridor.
Find out more information on the River to Recovery project here.
