: News Article

Waterweeds cull in Ross River

24/05/2001

A bold course of action by NQ Water, in conjunction with Townsville and Thuringowa councils, to mechanically cull floating waterweeds on Ross River, is designed to have positive environmental outcomes and make the river more user-friendly.

Weeding the river from the Ross River Dam spillway to Aplins Weir is expected to begin by the end of May or early June, using a custom designed aquatic weed harvester watercraft and a conveyer belt to get the weeds ashore.

Environmental scientists are currently producing an environmental management plan to ensure that activities will meet Department of Natural Resources requirements.

NQ Water Chairman Ian Hamilton said no chemicals will be used in the project which will bring under control the nationally declared weeds salvinia, water hyacinth and water lettuce.

"None of these waterweeds are natural to the river and they are multiplying at an alarming rate. Water hyacinth for example can double its surface area in a week, especially in Townsville's climate, which is favorable to waterweed growth

"The flowers produced by some weeds may look attractive and catch the eye, but their appearance contradicts the damage the weeds are doing as they starve the water of oxygen to the detriment of fish and other forms of water life.

"With the river becoming increasingly popular for recreation, the spreading weeds are also causing more and more hindrance to the public.

"Once culled the weeds will be made into mulch by the councils under strictly controlled conditions to kill the seeds and eliminate the prospect of them growing elsewhere," Mr Hamilton said.

"Inland waterway consultants, Townsville firm Enviro-Quatic has been contracted by NQ Water to do the job, starting with the sections of Ross River where weed growth is most dense. Clearing the whole length of river is expected to take one to two months.

"NQ Water proposes to instigate on-going waterweed control in the future and will consider a similar program at Ross River Dam where waterweeds are also becoming a problem in some parts," Mr Hamilton said.

More information:
Ian Hamilton
telephone: 4726 0000
Mobile: 0418 777 284

Media contact:
Harry Landman
Telephone: 4779 6619
Mobile: 0418 743 376

© 2004 NQ Water