First Hand Experiences in Managing Different ... - Weeds Australia

Grubbing became the preferred method for controlling matureWestern Cape bridal creeperareas are also sometimes infested with gorse orblackberry, prickly weeds that create difficultconditions for the detailed searching required.Approach to managementTrials were undertaken early to identify the bestcontrol approach. Grubbing was selected tocontrol mature plants, as it was a far more effectivethan spraying. While plants were suppressed andprevented from fruiting the following season,the herbicide did not kill these plants andthey eventually re-established. Seedlings weresuccessfully controlled using glyphosate (450 g/kg)at a rate of 1:100 water, plus wetting agent.The initial cost for grubbing is expensive but it isfar more efficient in the longer term. Masses ofseedlings germinate after removal of mature tubersand these are spot sprayed. This combination ofgrubbing mature plants and spot spraying seedlingsis a more targeted approach that reduces the risk ofoff-target damage to native lilies and orchids, whichare active at the same time of year as the controlprogram. To further manage this risk, specialisedbushcare contractors are engaged.Natural Resources AMLR works closely with theCity of Tea Tree Gully and Adelaide Hills Councils.Many volunteer groups, such as the Friends ofAnstey Hill and North East Hills EnvironmentalConservation Association, also contributesignificantly to control in public areas. The AMLRNRM Board successfully secured funding via theAustralian Government Caring for our Countryinitiative for Natural Resources AMLR staff toimplement this high priority program. These fundsOne of many dense infestations of Western Cape bridal creepergrowing in the AMLR region, prior to controlwere used to employ specialised contractors toconduct on-ground works. Public awarenessactivities are also part of the program and are veryimportant for private landholders.‘It is vital to have community input and support anda committee has been formed to facilitate this.’Key challenges and successesOccasional new outlying plants are still beinglocated, but these are usually single plants ratherthan established sites.In this region, Western Cape bridal creeperthreatens an area of 1400 ha and over 150 privateproperties. Natural Resources AMLR surveys thearea annually and controls all plants. Due to theeradication status of this weed, and the importanceof finding and removing every plant, these servicesare offered to landowners free of charge. Liaisonwith landowners to gain access and carry out ongroundworks is intensive.In 2007, 15 tonnes of tubers were grubbed fromthe area and disposed of by deep burial. In 2011and 2012, close to two tonnes of tubers wereremoved, as the thickest, densest and easiest to findinfestations were removed early in the program.‘Remaining plants are now harder to find andmuch more on-ground searching is involved,especially in the more difficult to access terrain.’The program is clearly getting closer to eradicatingWestern Cape bridal creeper from the AMLR region,but a continued, long-term effort must be sustained.96