Talking weeds in Taradale – Weed ID and Control Workshop
Posted on 17 October, 2024 by Lori
On Sunday 13 October, Connecting Country partnered with North Central Catchment Management Authority, to host a Weed ID and Control Workshop in Taradale.
Connecting Country’s Bonnie Humphreys teamed up with natural resource management expert, former Connecting Country staff and local farmer Jarrod Coote, to bring a suite of information on some of our local weeds. Specimens of noxious and environmental weeds were on display and participants were invited to delve into the biology of weeds in order to understand the best timeframe and course of action for management. When thinking about controlling a particular species, participants were encouraged to research:
- When is the active growth cycle?
- When does it seed?
- How are the seeds distributed?
- How does the plant reproduce (i.e. does it regrow from stems, does it have bulbs, or a tap root)?
An understanding of the biology of a weedy plant will help participants to undertake control methods more effectively and efficiently.
The workshop also covered legislation around noxious weeds, and responsibilities for landholders, weed control techniques and planning for weed control. Participants also had the opportunity to see a practical demonstration of an Eco Blade destroying gorse!
Photos by Carmen Bunting
“…I know I expressed my appreciation on the day, but this is just to reinforce how much the weeds day at Taradale was appreciated. It was well organised. The speakers were realistic, informed & practical in their presentations and contributions. The field component was accessible and, again, very practical – thoroughly worthwhile day…” (David Cheal)
More information on local weed control is available in Connecting Country’s Healthy Landscape Guide which is available electronically on the website or in hard copy for $15 through the Connecting Country office or at Stall #625 at The Mill.
This workshop was the first in a series of events that is part of Connecting Country’s new Partnerships Against Pests project funded by Agriculture Victoria in 2024-25, and was also supported by the North Central Catchment Management Authority.
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