Community urged to report post-flood weeds along the River Murray
The Murraylands and Riverland Landscape Board is undertaking work to identify and control targeted pest weeds that emerged after the 2022-23 River Murray flood through its three-year River to Recovery project.
The distribution and abundance of these weeds have increased significantly following the flood, threatening environmental and cultural values, disrupting the operation of critical infrastructure, and impacting the community’s enjoyment of the river.
Regional Project and Policy Officer Josh Rosser said the project is a collaborative effort involving landholders, First Nations, local councils, community groups, irrigation trusts, SA Water and National Parks and Wildlife Service.
“Collaboration is the key to the success of this project,” Josh said. “By working together we’re building a clearer understanding of the post-flood impacts along the river. This work doesn’t end when the project does – managing pest weeds is a long-term game plan, and we’ll continue that effort through our regional pest management strategy.”
As part of building this picture, the landscape board is calling on the community to report any sightings of targeted weed species. Signs featuring images of the target weeds have been installed across the region at boat ramps, caravan parks, and other key sites in the flood footprint to encourage quick and easy reporting.
“With so many people spending time on the river this summer, we’re encouraging locals and visitors to report any sightings of these pests,” Josh said. “Every report helps us to protect the river corridor.”
For more information about the River to Recovery project, the target pest species, and how to report sightings, go to landscape.sa.gov.au/mr/projects/pest-plants/river-to-recovery-stopping-the-flow-of-post-flood-pests
This project is supported by the Murraylands and Riverland Landscape Board with funding from the South Australian Government’s Landscape Priorities Fund.
