Council targeting African Lovegrass

Wellington Shire Council is conducting roadside African Lovegrass control as part of Council’s ongoing annual Roadside Weed and Pest Control Program, including continuing control in the ‘Protecting Our Ponds’ project area of the Providence Ponds and Perry River catchment.

These new works will build on previous investment by Council and other agencies, including the West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority, to control African Lovegrass in the region.

The control program along Council roadsides will assist in the reduction of the spread of African Lovegrass into adjacent farmland and the endangered Red Gum Grassy Woodland vegetation whilst protecting the unique chain of ponds system with the Providence Ponds and Perry River catchment.

Wellington Shire Council General Manager Built and Natural Environment Chris Hastie said, “Council will continue to work closely with partner agencies to improve control of this weed on roadsides within the shire. Council has an extensive African Lovegrass control program to manage the significant threat of this weed to agricultural and environmental values and looks forward to continuing to work with stakeholders and partners in this important area.”

African Lovegrass control is being implemented in accordance with Wellington Shire Council’s Roadside Weeds and Pests Program Control Plan and in accordance with the Providence Ponds and Perry River Catchment Strategic Directions Statement.

The ‘Protecting Our Ponds’ project was supported by Wellington Shire Council through funding from West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority and the Victorian Government’s Our Catchments, Our Communities program.

For more information on Council’s roadside weed control program or African Lovegrass contact Council’s Land & Natural Resource Coordinator on 1300 366 244.