Right time for ragwort control

Landholders across the West Gippsland catchment are reminded that now is the time to undertake ragwort control before plants mature, flower and set seed.

Biosecurity officer Alex Pattinson said early season ragwort control is the most effective way to stop ragwort from seeding and spreading across the landscape.

“Ragwort is a declared regionally controlled weed in West Gippsland under the Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994, and all land managers have a responsibility to prevent its growth and spread to ensure they don’t adversely affect agricultural production and the environment.

“There are a number of prescribed measures for ragwort control including the application of a registered herbicide, soil cultivation and physical removal,” she said.

Ragwort seeds are spread by wind, water, animals, farm implements, agricultural produce including hay, on clothing and other equipment. Seeds are known to become airborne and travel for long distances.

Ragwort seeds can remain viable in the soil for eight to 16 years.

“It is imperative that all landowners work together to treat ragwort simultaneously to minimise seed set and the risk of seed spread across adjoining properties.” Ms Pattinson said

Penalties of up to $39,000 can apply where landowners fail to comply with a notice issued for the control of a regionally controlled weed under the under the Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994.

For more information about ragwort visit the Agriculture Victoria website at www.agriculture.vic.gov.au or call our Customer Service Centre on 136 186.