Weather just right for control of African boxthorn
This winter, African boxthorns have been a target pest species for control in critical locations across the Murraylands and Riverland. District staff have been mapping, controlling and coordinating efforts by staff, landholders, council and contractors to reduce the numbers of this pest plant.
Posted 09 August 2021.
Murraylands and Riverland Landscape Board, Murraylands District Manager Kylie Moritz said uncontrolled infestations can invade cropping and bushland, provide shelter for foxes and rabbits and a home for fruit fly.
“A coordinated effort last year controlled African boxthorns from more than 800 kilometres of roadside and 100 kilometres of railway tracks throughout the region,” she said.
“We now need to follow up and do targeted control of new plants or regrowth.
“Roadsides and properties have been the focus, especially the heavily infested areas and those with remnant native vegetation.
Ms Moritz said it’s been a team effort by District staff throughout the region to complete control of so many African boxthorns.
“While out and about, the staff took advantage of the opportunity to monitor other pest plant species that may be targeted in future programs, Ms Moritz said.
“African boxthorn plants will be taking advantage of the recent rains. They will be looking green and healthy, which offers the perfect opportunity for control.
“We are keen to work with landholders and encourage them to call us to assist in developing a management plan for their property and roadsides.
”We can provide advice and expertise to help them get on top of the problem,” she said.
And the best recipe for success is to follow-up and control any regrowth and new seedlings.
Declared for control under the Landscape South Australia Act (2019), the most effective time to control African boxthorn is during the cooler, wetter months while the plant is actively growing.
For advice on identification and control options or assistance with other pest plant or animal issues, landholders are encouraged to contact their local Murraylands and Riverland Landscape Board office at Murray Bridge phone: 8532 9100 or Berri phone: 8580 1800 or visit our website for weed identification and information factsheets.
This project is supported by the Murraylands and Riverland Landscape Board through funding from Landscape levies.
