Community reports crucial to stopping spread of buffel grass

Buffel grass is a declared weed that is highly invasive and both difficult and costly to control. It invades and dominates native vegetation, threatens native animals, impacts irrigated areas and poses a significant fire risk if left unmanaged.

Murraylands and Riverland Landscape Board District Team Leader Hannah Spronk said buffel grass is a significant concern because of its ability to dominate large areas of the landscape and alter how ecosystems function.

“Once buffel grass becomes established, it can transform diverse native vegetation into thick grassland, crowding out native plants, disrupting how native animals move and feed, and changing how fires move through the landscape.

This build-up of thick, dry grass increases the likelihood of hotter and more frequent fires, which pose risks to communities, infrastructure and the environment.” Hannah said.
The landscape board’s coordinated control efforts such as removing seed heads, removal and deep burial of individual plants and herbicide application have reduced incursions over time, however increased summer rainfall has created ideal conditions for new growth and spread.

“During the 2025-26 season the landscape board has recorded germination at known and new buffel grass sites. Community reports are a vital part of our control efforts, helping us to detect, manage and monitor buffel grass before it becomes established in the landscape.” Hannah said.

Buffel grass is typically found along transport pathways beside highways, truck stops and pull-over bays, where seeds accumulate from passing vehicles. Seeds can spread further by wind, water and vehicles that pass through infested sites. Whilst infestations in the Murraylands and Riverland region are generally small and isolated, buffel grass is particularly dominant further north in South Australia, as well as interstate.

Hannah said vehicle hygiene plays an important role in preventing the spread of buffel grass.

“Before and after driving, check the tyres, foot wells and underside of your vehicles for seeds and extra debris. It’s also important to avoid slashing, mowing or driving through buffel grass, as this can break up and spread seeds into new areas.” Hannah added.

Anyone who thinks they have seen buffel grass is encouraged to photograph it, note the exact location and report the sighting to the Murraylands and Riverland Landscape Board on 8580 1800 or via email at mr.landscapeboard@sa.gov.au.

Landholders are required to remove buffel grass where it occurs on their property. The landscape board can provide advice and support on appropriate control methods.