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Aquatic Weed Control Strategic Plan
BURNETT - KOLAN - BAFFLE -
ELLIOTT - GREGORY - ISIS CATCHMENTS
2010
AQUATIC WEED MANAGEMENT STRATEGIC PLAN – Burnett, Kolan, Baffle, Isis and Gregory Catchments July 2010
This strategic plan was developed through consultation with the following members of Burnett / Kolan / Baffle Catchments Aquatic Weed Working Group: Burnett Mary Regional Group
• Nora Brandli – Regional Weeds and Pest Management Coordinator Bundaberg Regional Council
• Eric Dyke – Land Protection Coordinator Gladstone Regional Council
• Darryl Saw – Coordinator Rural Lands Protection • Brett Cawthray – Rural Lands Protection Officer
North Burnett Regional Council
• Lee Dorahy – Natural Resources Officer South Burnett Regional Council
• Leanne Petersen – Manager of Natural Resource Management Sun Water
• Michelle Wegner – Senior Environmental Officer National Aquatic Weed Management Group
• Phillip Moran – Vice President Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation
• Bernie Shore – Biosecurity Officer • Jodie Sippel – Biosecurity Officer
Burnett Catchment Care Association
• Paul Davis – Water Coordinator • Peter Brightwell – Aquatic weed harvester operator
Department of Environment and Resource Management
• Duncan Limpus Components prepared under contract by Boyds Bay Environmental Services Pty Ltd
• John Bruun • Luke Marshall • Alisha Ousby
Funded through
AQUATIC WEED MANAGEMENT STRATEGIC PLAN – Burnett, Kolan, Baffle, Isis and Gregory Catchments July 2010
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................... 1
2. PURPOSE ......................................................................................................................................... 1
3. MISSION STATEMENT .................................................................................................................... 1
4. OBJECTIVES .................................................................................................................................... 1
5. CATCHMENT INFORMATION .......................................................................................................... 2
6. SUPPORT AND RESOURCES ......................................................................................................... 3
7. LEGISLATIVE REQUIREMENTS ..................................................................................................... 4
8. TARGET SPECIES ........................................................................................................................... 6
8.1 TOP PRIORITY DECLARED SPECIES .................................................................................................................................6 8.2 ALERT SPECIES ............................................................................................................................................................7
9. AQUATIC WEED MANAGEMENT OPTIONS .................................................................................. 8
9.1 BIOLOGICAL CONTROL ..................................................................................................................................................8 9.2 MECHANICAL CONTROL .................................................................................................................................................8 9.3 PHYSICAL CONTROL .....................................................................................................................................................9 9.4 CHEMICAL CONTROL ...................................................................................................................................................10 9.5 SPREAD PREVENTION .................................................................................................................................................10
10. PRIORITISATION OF WORKS ....................................................................................................... 10
11. STRATEGIC ACTION PLAN ........................................................................................................... 12
11.1 TO ENSURE ONGOING COLLABORATION BETWEEN STAKEHOLDERS .................................................................................12 11.2 TO IMPLEMENT BEST PRACTICE AQUATIC WEED CONTROL .............................................................................................13 11.3 TO IMPLEMENT RAPID RESPONSE FOR INCURSIONS OF NEW AQUATIC WEED SPECIES AND NEW OUTBREAKS OF SPECIES
CURRENTLY WITHIN THE CATCHMENT ...........................................................................................................................14 11.4 TO PROMOTE COMMUNITY AWARENESS AND OWNERSHIP OF AQUATIC WEED ISSUES .......................................................15 11.5 TO CONDUCT ONGOING MONITORING & EVALUATION .....................................................................................................16
12. APPENDIX ...................................................................................................................................... 17
12.1 PROGRAM STAKEHOLDERS .........................................................................................................................................17 12.2 MAP OF BURNETT, KOLAN, BAFFLE, ELLIOTT, GREGORY & ISIS CATCHMENTS ...............................................................18 12.3 SOURCES OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION .......................................................................................................................19
AQUATIC WEED MANAGEMENT STRATEGIC PLAN – Burnett, Kolan, Baffle, Isis and Gregory Catchments July 2010
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1. Introduction The catchments of the Burnett, Kolan and Baffle waterways intersect the boundaries of Gladstone, North
Burnett, Bundaberg, South Burnett, Western Downs and Gympie Regional Councils.
The Burnett River, Kolan River and Baffle Creek catchments plus several smaller associated tributaries cover
an area of approximately 42,500 km²; with the length of the main rivers and creeks stretching
approximately 8,600 km. There are over 74 creeks and rivers flowing into the three main rivers of the
system with each of these fed by many other smaller tributaries.
Aquatic weed infestations cause a number of detrimental impacts on economic development, social
wellbeing and environmental processes; impacts include:
• Reducing water quality
• Reducing aquatic biodiversity
• Limiting fisheries and agricultural production
• Limiting recreational activities
• Creating disease vectors
• Reduction of water quantity through increased evaporation
• Damage to infrastructure
• Increased vegetative mass and nutrient loads in marine environments
• Reduced aesthetic value
This strategic plan has been developed based on consultations with members of the Burnett, Kolan, Baffle
Aquatic Weed Working Group, discussions and site inspections with the operational works team and
detailed review of government and industry research.
2. Purpose The aquatic weed strategic plan provides direction for the coordinated management of aquatic weeds in
the Burnett, Kolan and Baffle catchments. It identifies key stakeholders and priority actions to be
undertaken over the next five (5) years to achieve the project objectives.
The aquatic weed strategic plan builds on previous activities initiated through the joint efforts of members
of the Burnett, Kolan, Baffle Aquatic Weed Working Group.
3. Mission Statement To enhance the ecological, economic and social values within the Burnett, Kolan and Baffle catchments, by
reducing the number of outbreaks and size of infestations of aquatic weeds.
4. Objectives To achieve the goals for the strategic plan the following objectives have been identified:
• To ensure ongoing collaboration between stakeholders
• To implement best practice aquatic weed control
• To implement rapid response for incursions of new aquatic weed species and new outbreaks of
species currently within the catchment
• To promote community awareness and ownership of aquatic weed issues
• To conduct ongoing monitoring & evaluation
• Background
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5. Catchment information The occurrence of aquatic weeds in the Burnett, Kolan and Baffle catchments is a major concern which
continues to impact ecosystems, water quality, economic growth and the aesthetic appeal of the region’s
waterways.
The date when aquatic weed infestations were introduced into the river systems within the Burnett Mary
region is unknown. A Queensland Government Fact Sheet from 1973, entitled “Salvinia is a Plant to Watch”
makes reference to Salvinia being located from Julatten in North Queensland to the New South Wales
border. From this it is thought Salvinia at least, was probably in the Burnett area prior to 1973.
The first release of Salvinia weevils into the area took place around 1984-85 in the Kolan River, and
continued with spray programmes in the Lower Burnett and Kolan.
Salvinia, Water hyacinth and Water lettuce were present in the Bundaberg area prior to the construction of
any dams according to local knowledge.
Jeff Cummings advised that water weeds were recorded in Brisbane as early as 1896, and Salvinia was
declared in 1978, and Water Hyacinth was declared in 1973 for Waggamba and Fitzroy Shires, and then
declared state-wide in 1986. He advised that Water Hyacinth and Salvinia would have been in these river
systems during the earlier years.
Best management practices were developed in the late 1990’s to manage these heavy infestations through
a top-of-the-catchment-down approach within the local government area/s.
All the major aquatic weeds within the strategy area are either Class 1 or Class 2 declared species with
responsibility for their control resting with landowners (more details in section 7 on Legislative
Requirements page Error! Bookmark not defined.). There are many difficulties associated with the uptake
of control by the landholders:
• the mobility of most of the species
• difficulties associated with access (e.g. steep, heavily vegetated banks and snags)
• the infestation size and difficulty of management (e.g. the need for specialised equipment)
• lack of landholder understanding of their responsibilities.
The latter is particularly relevant given the issue of aquatic weed mobility: what is one landholder’s
responsibility today may move overnight due to flooding to be another landholder’s responsibility
tomorrow. Additionally, the harvester can’t always be used because the creeks are too small, shallow or
too many barriers and snags.
Table 1 Subcatchments in which weed infestations have to date been recorded by members of the working group
Subcatchment Species present Comments
Auburn River Nil known
Baffle Creek Alligator weed
Cabomba
Salvinia
Water hyacinth
Alligator Weed and Cabomba found, controlled
and area under constant surveillance in Miriam
Vale Showgrounds dam.
Salvinia and Water hyacinth scattered along
Baffle Creek, heaviest in Three Mile and Lagoon
Creeks.
Barambah Creek Salvinia
Water hyacinth
Salvinia is in the Murgon Weir, however very
small infestations have appeared in other parts
of the creek from time to time.
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Water hyacinth is present in small, scattered
infestations, and in some private dams.
Barker Creek Nil known
Baywulla Creek Nil known
Boonara Creek Nil known
Boyne River Nil known
Burnett River Hymenachne
Salvinia
Water hyacinth
Water lettuce
Hymenachne is mainly within the central and
upper reaches of the Burnett however there are
still scattered infestation within the Lower
Burnett.
Salvinia and Water Hyacinth scattered
throughout, with Salvinia being the most
widespread.
Water Lettuce is in found Ned Churchwood Weir
in isolated infestations.
Cadarga Creek Nil known
Cherwell Creek Salvinia Scattered infestations
Degilbo Creek Salvinia Salvinia is also present in Paradise, Tawah and
Yarrabil Creeks.
Elliott River Salvinia Present in scattered infestations along the length
of the River.
Gin Gin Creek
Salvinia
Water hyacinth
Infestations of both species have only occurred
in the lower reaches near the confluence of the
Kolan River.
Gregory River Salvinia Present in scattered infestations along the length
of the River.
Isis River Salvinia Present in scattered infestations along the length
of the River.
Kolan River
Water hyacinth
Water lettuce
Salvinia
All three species are present downstream from
Monduran Dam.
Nogo River Nil known Reid Creek Nil known St John Creek Nil known Stuart River Salvinia Salvinia is present halfway between the
Gordonbrook Dam and the Stuart River crossing
on the Chinchilla/Wondai road. Populations are
periodically reduced through river runs and
continuous release of the biocontrol weevil.
Three Moon Creek Nil known
6. Support and resources The control of aquatic weeds within the catchments has been coordinated and funded in the past through
collaborated actions between state and local government, Burnett Catchment Care Association (BCCA),
SunWater and the community with financial support from Burnett Mary Regional Group (BMRG), the
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Commonwealth Government’s Natural Heritage Trust, the Queensland Government and SunWater. The
collaborated weed management activities have achieved effective results within the catchment areas with
measurable reductions to infestation size, frequency and associated impacts.
Resources for the management of aquatic weeds in the region include an aquatic weed harvester, a wash-
down trailer and six boats which can be equipped with spray units. This equipment is currently housed and
managed by Bundaberg, Gladstone, North Burnett and South Burnett Regional Councils and SunWater. .
The wash down trailer is available for recreational and community events within the catchment area to
help remove water weeds from boats and trailers and reduce the spread of weeds through contamination
between water bodies.
The harvester craft and two of the spray boats were purchased by BCCA with funding from SunWater, the
Queensland State Government’s Burnett Program of Actions, Natural Heritage Trust and BMRG. The
operation including employment of an operator and coordinators was managed through the Councils (pre-
amalgamation) and BCCA with ongoing assistance and support from Biosecurity Queensland Officers. In
2009 BCCA handed the harvester over to the Bundaberg Regional Council. Current plans are to sell the
harvester and purchase a Truxor with the proceeds. See page 9 for information on the Truxor.
Breeding facilities for Cyrtobagous salviniae (Salvinia weevil) have been established in Bundaberg, Miriam
Vale and Gympie with temporary in-stream facilities utilised within the South Burnett. Prior to the
establishment of these facilities, weevils were obtained from Brisbane City Council.
To promote community awareness of aquatic weeds interpretative signage has been erected at Grey’s
Waterhole, Claude Wharton Weir boat ramp, Jones Weir, Fred Haigh Dam, Paradise Dam, Mingo Crossing
and Sandy Hook.
7. Legislative Requirements The priorities of the strategic plan must align with the principles and objectives of a number of legislative
acts, management strategies and planning documents.
Table 2 Acts, Plans and Strategies
Acts / Legislation Details/examples of relevance
Land Protection (Pest and Stock
Route Management) Act 2002
Development of local government pest management plans;
classification of declared species
Local Government Act 1993 Local declaration of pest species
Vegetation Management Act 1999 Permits for clearing native vegetation to control weeds
Nature Conservation Act 1992 Protection of native wildlife and conservation areas
Water Act 2000 Management activities in watercourses
Environmental Protection and
Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999
Protection of species listed within the Act (i.e. lungfish
Neoceratodus fosteri)
Agricultural and Veterinary
Chemicals (Queensland) Act 1994
Correct use of pesticides
Plans and Strategies Details/examples of relevance
Regional statutory plans These are statutory plans that include regulatory processes where
required, as set out in the new Sustainable Planning Act 2009 which
has replaced the Integrated Planning Act 1997. Their legal nature
ensures that they are more effective than other local plans, policies,
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schemes and non-statutory plans. An example of regional statutory
plans is the South East Queensland regional plan 2009–2031. The
Wide Bay Burnett Regional Plan is under development as at June
2010. NOTE: Regional NRM Group Plans sit under these Statutory Plans
but are not statutory in their own right.
State agency pest management
plans
Includes Queensland Weeds Strategy are plans under the Land
Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act that assist in the
management of declared pests on state-controlled land. These plans
provide the basis for the development of locally or regionally
relevant state agency implementation plans. These plans can also
provide valuable input to the development of a Local Government
Pest Management Plan.
Regional vegetation management
plans
These plans provide for the management of vegetation at a
bioregional level, and include statutory codes for assessment.
Relevance to aquatic weed control in relation to the removal of
riparian vegetation to reduce Salvinia proliferation or to gain access
for chemical control.
Regional pest management plans
These are non-statutory plans prepared by some regional pest
management groups. These plans provide a communication forum,
standardise activities and enable the sharing of resources (e.g. the
Fitzroy Basin Weed Management Strategy and the Coopers Creek
and Georgina Cross-catchments Weed Initiative).
Regional natural resource
management (NRM) plans
These are non-statutory plans prepared by regional stakeholders
including regional bodies and councils, state agencies, community
and industry groups. They cover natural resource management
issues, sit under the Regional Statutory Plans but are not statutory
in their own right.
National Strategies & Manuals Details/examples of relevance
National Cabomba (Cabomba
caroliniana) Strategic Plan
National Hymenachne Strategy
National Salvinia (Salvinia molesta)
Strategic Plan (National)
National Weeds Strategy
Queensland Weed Spread
Prevention Strategy
Queensland Weeds Strategy 2002-
2006
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8. Target Species 8.1 Top priority declared species
The strategic plan targets the following aquatic weed species which have been identified within the
Burnett, Kolan and Baffle catchments:
Eichhornia crassipes (Water Hyacinth) - Declared Class 2 (QLD)
Hymenachne amplexicaulis (Hymenachne) - Declared Class 2
(QLD) & Weed of National Significance (WONS)
Pistia stratiotes (Water Lettuce) - Declared Class 2 (QLD)
Salvinia molesta (Salvinia) - Declared Class 2 (QLD) & WONS
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8.2 Alert species
The strategic plan also targets the following ‘alert’ aquatic weed species. These aquatic weeds are either
not currently present or have only been found (and controlled) as isolated infestations within the Burnett,
Kolan or Baffle Catchments.
Alternanthera philoxeroides (Alligator Weed) – Declared Class 1 (QLD) &
WONS
Isolated outbreak found and controlled in the Miriam Vale area.
Cabomba spp. (Cabomba) – All Species Declared Class 2 (QLD) & WONS
Hygrophila costata (Glush Weed) – Declared Class 1 (QLD)
Present in the neighbouring Mary catchment
Myriophyllum spicatum (Eurasian Milfoil) – Declared Class 1 (QLD)
Egeria densa (Dense Waterweed) – Not declared under QLD legislation,
but control is recommended for environmental purposes.
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9. Aquatic Weed Management Options A range of management options is available to control aquatic weeds found within the strategy area.
Aquatic weed management is best achieved through implementing a combination of control options.
Ongoing monitoring and follow-up control play an essential role in the long-term reduction of aquatic weed
infestations
Technology is not static, and as new innovations become available these new techniques should be
incorporated where appropriate.
9.1 Biological control
Salvinia
The Salvinia weevil (Cyrtobagous salviniae) has proven to be the most cost and result effective control
option for Salvinia, particularly in the warmer months. It is the prominent control method for Salvinia used
by Bundaberg, Gladstone, North Burnett and South Burnett Regional Councils and SunWater. The
effectiveness of biocontrol is sometimes limited by low winter water temperatures and dense riparian
shading. Information on the best management practice of the Salvinia weevil control is available through
each of the biocontrol facilities or their managing Regional Council.
Bundaberg, Gladstone and Gympie Regional Councils manage the breeding facilities at Bundaberg, Miriam
Vale and Gympie respectively, to produce the large volume of weevils for release when the climatic
conditions are suitable (warmer). In addition to their own use, the three Regional Councils also make
Salvinia weevils available to landholders.
Water Hyacinth
Two weevil species, Neochetina eichhorniae (favouring warmer temperatures) and Neochetina bruchi
(favouring cooler temperatures) have been released within the Burnett, Kolan and Baffle catchments. They
are considered to have achieved limited success in reducing infestations through inhibiting the plants’
flowering ability. Both weevils remain within the Burnett. As it is believed that maximum results are being
achieved, the current populations are thought to be ample. While they are not high achievers, they are
seen as being beneficial, provided there is no major cost involved. This form of control needs to be used in
conjunction with other methods of control.
Water Lettuce
Biological control using two weevils, Neohydromonus pulchellus and Orchetina bruchi, has proved the most
successful option in reducing Water Lettuce infestations in the Burnett, Kolan and Baffle. These agents
were introduced in the late 1980’s and quickly established viable, self-generating populations which
continue to offer suitable control. Periodic increases in Water Lettuce occurrences are normally quickly
reduced by the weevils without the need of any other form of control.
9.2 Mechanical control
Harvester
A harvester is an aquatic vehicle equipped with elevators to mechanically remove and load aquatic weeds.
Its advantage is that its impact is immediate, however it must be used in conjunction with other control
methods, such as chemical or other mechanical methods. If it is used to remove anchored species such as
Hymenachne which can reproduce vegetatively, plant sections will almost certainly escape capture and
float away to propagate in another area.
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It’s an efficient option for removal of non-anchored species if removal and dumping take place in close
proximity.
The harvester provides effective physical weed removal in areas where infestations occur in deep broad
waters and where access and dumping areas are available. The harvester is limited in its use due to its
requirements for suitable access to watercourses and water depth, its running costs and the time required
removing infestations. There is some thinking that smaller, more mobile vehicles would be more efficient
in time, costs and results.
Truxor
The Truxor is an amphibious machine which operates on tracks. It has a diverse range of applications, with
the ability to physically remove aquatic weeds using either a scoop or a screen, or provide a platform for
portable spray equipment. The Truxor enables access to areas inaccessible with traditional boats or
vehicles.
The use of a Truxor for aquatic weed management activities within the Burnett, Kolan and Baffle
catchments is restricted to hire of the machine from private contractors. The need to consider use of a
larger aquatic vehicle without the limitations of the existing harvester may make the Truxor a
consideration. Daily hire rates have been expensive, however purchase costs are also high.
Excavators
Excavators can be used for physical removal of aquatic weeds where access from the banks of water bodies
is possible. An expensive option if utilised for large scale removal, better applied to property dams and
smaller water bodies to reduce weed biomass prior to spray operations.
The excavator may be used in conjunction with a harvester or two boats dragging a rope or booms
between them to move the weed mass within reach of the excavator.
9.3 Physical control
Floating booms
Floating booms can be used to contain aquatic weeds within one section of a water body to prevent spread
of weeds and allow control activities to be focused within a smaller contained area. Booms are not as
effective in streams as they are in still water bodies and are time consuming to install and maintain. Flood
events can result in flow over booms or boom damage. Booms can also be used to create in situ biocontrol
breeding ‘farms’. Permits to install booms may also be required.
Hand Removal
Physical removal by hand can be effective for controlling small infestations where access by other means is
not possible such as along the edges of waterways and in shallow waters. This method can be difficult and
labour intensive and is best utilised in coordination with other aquatic weed control activities. Physical
removal is a good hands-on educational activity to raise community awareness and engage community
involvement in aquatic weed management.
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9.4 Chemical control
Boat with Spray Unit
Spray boats enable the application of herbicides at a close range to spray aquatic weed within waterways
and along vegetated edges where harvesters and bank spraying are not possible. Their use can be limited
at times by shallow water, heavy infestations, snags, overhanging vegetation and steep embankments
where launching is unsafe. Spray techniques from boats will use edge or strip spraying to limit the extent
of weed biomass decay in waterways at one time and hence usually require repeat applications.
4WD with Spray Unit
4WD vehicles provide an optional method of access where spray boats and harvesters have restricted or no
access. A long hose may allow the best method of accessing infestations through timbered or rough
riparian areas. It is also the most used method of control where access is easy and the watercourse is
narrow and/or shallow. The unit can be utilised in coordination with boat spraying activities.
Aerial Spraying
It is an expensive form of chemical application with inherent difficulties. As the majority of aquatic weeds
accumulate along the edges of the waterways, access to allow correct flying height and application rates
can be difficult. Overspray and drift of chemicals onto native riparian vegetation are additional problems
with this application method. Aerial spraying of aquatic weeds has been trialled within the Burnett and the
Kolan catchments with mixed results. The only chemical registered for aerial spraying in an aquatic
situation was considered at that time to be less effective than other chemical control applications.
9.5 Spread prevention
Wash down facilities
Although not a direct control option the prevention of weed spread (via seed or vegetation), wash down
facilities play an integral role in the prevention of reinfestation via boats and machinery. Washdown
facilities, permanent or mobile, can be used to remove seed and vegetation material from both work and
recreational equipment.
10. Prioritisation of works Prioritising aquatic weed control activities needs to be based on recognised ecological management
principles featuring a top of catchment down approach. When prioritising control activities, a number of
factors need to be considered, including:
• Existing infestations of declared aquatic weeds
• Location of infestations within the catchment
• Size of infestations
• Potential for further spread and infestation
• Season/timing for efficient control
• Access to the waterway
• Access within the waterway
• Landholder participation and contributions
• Locations with community/recreational access
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• Slow moving and ponded streams
• Nutrient loads
• Availability of resources, staff/financial and in-kind
Figure 1 (below) is an example of how identified ecological factors and the knowledge of local and state
government technical and operational staff can be implemented to identify priorities for aquatic weed
management within the catchment.
Figure 1: Allocation of priority
Increasing risk of infestation
Limited community
access to stream,
Moderate community
access (bridge
crossings, parks, boat
ramps) and use of
streams.
High community access
to and use of stream
(bridge crossings, parks
boat ramps, irrigation
pumps)
Incr
ea
sin
g r
isk o
f e
sta
blish
me
nt
Fast flowing
Few if any ponded
areas.
Low priority Low priority Medium priority
Slow moving and
ponded streams
Moderately degraded
streams
Low priority Medium priority High priority
Highly degraded
streams
High nutrient loads
Slow moving and
ponded
Medium priority High priority High priority
AQUATIC WEED MANAGEMENT STRATEGIC PLAN – Burnett, Kolan, Baffle, Isis and Gregory Catchments July 2010
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11. Strategic Action Plan 11.1 To ensure ongoing collaboration between stakeholders
ACTION RESPONSIBILITIES TIMING SUCCESS INDICATORS PRIORITY Endorsement of the Burnett, Kolan, Baffle
Catchment Aquatic Weed Management
Strategic Plan
− Biosecurity Queensland
− BMRG
− Regional Councils
− SunWater
August 2010 Endorsement from Gladstone,
Bundaberg, North Burnett and South
Burnett Regional Councils, SunWater,
BMRG, Biosecurity Queensland.
High
Establishment and maintenance of the
Burnett, Kolan, Baffle Catchment Aquatic
Weed Management Group
− Biosecurity Queensland
− Regional Councils
− BMRG
− SunWater
Established
September
2010.
Maintenance
ongoing
Group formed
Inaugural meeting held
Regular meetings held
High
Conduct annual reviews of this plan − The Working Group October
annually
Review carried out
Revised plan developed if required.
High
Linkages initiated between this plan and
Regional Pest Management Plan and Wide
Bay Burnett NRM Plan
− Regional Councils
− BMRG
July 2011 Actions identified in this plan are
incorporated into Regional Council Pest
Management Plans and the Wide Bay
Burnett NRM Plan.
High
Coordinate the strategic prioritisation of
locations and timing of aquatic weed
control works between the participating
stakeholders.
− Burnett, Kolan, Baffle
Aquatic Weed
Management Working
Group
− Biosecurity Queensland
Ongoing A coordinated response to prioritise &
implement aquatic weed control
activities has been achieved
High
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11.2 To implement best practice aquatic weed control
ACTION RESPONSIBILITIES TIMING SUCCESS INDICATORS PRIORITY
Capture and record data of aquatic weed
infestations; spatial data, presence,
extents and control
− Regional Councils
− Biosecurity Queensland
− SunWater
− BMRG
Ongoing A standard data collection format and
database has been developed (Pest
Central)
Data has been collected and
integrated into a central database
Data is accessible by all stakeholders
High
Use the networked central database (Pest
Central) for storage and analysis of data
− Regional Councils
− Biosecurity Queensland
− BMRG
Ongoing On going and effective use of the
central database program
High
Source up to date aquatic weed
management information and
technological advances.
− Regional Councils
− Biosecurity Queensland
− BMRG
− SunWater
Ongoing State of the art technologies and
management strategies are utilised to
control aquatic weed invasion
High
Conduct expertise training for operational
staff to capitalise on passive surveillance
opportunities
− BMRG
− Regional Councils
− Biosecurity Queensland
− SunWater
Ongoing Training provided to relevant staff
High
Conduct on ground trials to determine
better operational outcomes and
improved control/treatment regimes
− Regional Councils
− Biosecurity Queensland
Ongoing Trials/research programs undertaken
Improved success rates in control
programs
Medium
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11.3 To implement rapid response for incursions of new aquatic weed species and new outbreaks of species currently within the catchment
ACTION RESPONSIBILITIES TIMING SUCCESS INDICATORS PRIORITY Instigate immediate spread prevention and
control activities
− Regional Councils
− Biosecurity Queensland
− SunWater
Ongoing Neighbouring councils informed
Control carried out
Monitoring for additional outbreaks
undertaken
Public Awareness campaign carried out
High
Upgrade and maintain biological control
facilities
Bundaberg, Gladstone and
Gympie Regional Councils
August 2009 -
Ongoing
The facilities are fully operational and
have adequate stock to meet demands.
High
Maintain effective communication methods − Regional Councils
− Biosecurity Queensland
− SunWater
− BMRG
July 2010 -
Ongoing
Communication has been clear and
effective
Medium
AQUATIC WEED MANAGEMENT STRATEGIC PLAN – Burnett, Kolan, Baffle, Isis and Gregory Catchments July 2010
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11.4 To promote community awareness and ownership of aquatic weed issues
ACTION RESPONSIBILITIES TIMING SUCCESS INDICATORS PRIORITY Ensure up to date information is available for
distribution to the community and is suitable
for use at recreational and community events.
− Regional Councils
− Biosecurity Queensland
− BMRG
October 2009
and ongoing Attendance at the designated
community events
High.
Conduct education programs targeted at
landholders and community groups.
− Regional Councils
− Biosecurity Queensland
− BMRG
August 2009 -
Ongoing Educational programs undertaken
Number of attendees has been
recorded
Medium
Develop and conduct field days and working
bees.
− Regional Councils
− Biosecurity Queensland
− BMRG
August 2009 -
Ongoing Field days have been held
Working bees have been conducted
Medium
Construct permanent information signage at
major recreational water bodies
− Regional Councils
− Biosecurity Queensland
− BMRG
− SunWater
August 2009 /
2011 Signs have been constructed at the
major recreational water bodies.
Medium
Develop and promote aquatic weed control
information on the existing web sites
− Regional Councils
− Biosecurity Queensland
− BMRG
August 2009 -
Ongoing Increased hits on web sites and
associated links
Medium
Investigate the potential to include an aquatic
weed information in addition to the current
information provided on SunWater’s website
for recreational storages
− SunWater December
2010 SunWater to investigate supplying
weed information on the web site.
Medium
Utilise the incentive programs and compliance
laws
− Regional Councils
− Biosecurity Queensland
Agreed action
if funding
available
Increased community participation in
incentive programs and recordings of
compliance issues
Medium
Approach schools to include a program on the
impacts of aquatic weeds
− Regional Councils
− Biosecurity Queensland
− BMRG
Agreed action
if funding
available
Participation from schools in programs
such as Weed Warriors
Medium
AQUATIC WEED MANAGEMENT STRATEGIC PLAN – Burnett, Kolan, Baffle, Isis and Gregory Catchments July 2010
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11.5 To conduct ongoing monitoring & evaluation
ACTION RESPONSIBILITIES TIMING SUCCESS INDICATORS PRIORITY Design an easily interpreted monitoring
form for community use for inclusion on
the existing BMRG and Regional Council
websites
− Regional Councils
− BMRG
Agreed action
if funding
available
A tick and submit computer based
monitoring form has been developed
and is accessible through the existing
websites
Low
Engage community groups and landholders
to assist in monitoring
− Regional Councils
− Biosecurity Queensland
− BMRG
August 2009 -
Ongoing
Increased participation from a number
of community groups and landholders
Low
Conduct annual reviews of the
effectiveness of control activities on
infestation extent
The Working Group October
annually from
2010
Review carried out
Report developed and distributed to
stakeholders.
High
AQUATIC WEED MANAGEMENT STRATEGIC PLAN – Burnett, Kolan, Baffle, Isis and Gregory Catchments July 2010
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12. Appendix 12.1 Program Stakeholders
Bundaberg Regional Council
Burnett Catchment Care Association (BCCA)
Burnett Mary Regional Group (BMRG)
Western Downs Regional Council
Department of Employment, Economic Development & Innovation (DEEDI)
Department of Environment and Resource Management
Gladstone Regional Council
Gympie Regional Council
Landowners
North Burnett Regional Council
South Burnett Regional Council
SunWater
AQUATIC WEED MANAGEMENT STRATEGIC PLAN – Burnett, Kolan, Baffle, Isis and Gregory CatchmentsJuly 2010
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12.2 Map of Burnett, Kolan, Baffle, Elliott, Gregory & Isis Catchments
Burnett, Kolan, Baffle, Isis and Gregory Catchments
Map of Burnett, Kolan, Baffle, Elliott, Gregory & Isis Catchments
Map of Burnett, Kolan, Baffle, Elliott, Gregory & Isis Catchments
AQUATIC WEED MANAGEMENT STRATEGIC PLAN – Burnett, Kolan, Baffle, Isis and Gregory Catchments July 2010
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12.3 Sources of additional information
BCCA Water Weeds Steering Committee, 2005, ‘Strategic Plan; Burnett Catchment Care Association Water
Weeds Initiative, ‘BCCA Water Weeds Steering Committee.
Burnett Mary Regional Group for Natural Resource Management Inc, 10
th February 2009, ‘Activity
Agreement A09031.2, Review and update of aquatic weed strategy plan for the Burnett/Kolan catchment;
Burnett Mary Regional Group for Natural Management Inc and Boyds Bay Environmental Services’, Burnett
Mary Regional Group for Natural Resource Management Inc.
Commonwealth of Australia and the National Weeds Strategy Executive Committee, 2000, ‘Weeds of
National Significance; Salvinia (Salvinia molesta) Strategic Plan’, National Weeds Strategy Executive
Committee, Launceston.
CRC Weed Management, 2003, ‘Weed Management Guide; Hymenachne or Olive Hymenachne-
Hymenachne amplexicaulis, ‘Department of Environment and Heritage.
Department of Natural Resources and Water, 2006, ‘Cabomba distribution 2006 South East Region’, Pest
Information Management, Land Protection Section.
Department of Natural Resources and Water, 2006, ‘Hymenachne distribution 2006 South East Region’,
Pest Information Management, Land Protection Section.
Department of Natural Resources and Water, 2006, ‘Salvinia distribution 2006 South East Region’, Pest
Information Management, Land Protection Section.
Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries, March 2009, ‘Declared plants of Queensland’, Invasive
plants and animals fact sheet, Biosecurity Queensland.
Land Protection, 2001, ‘Pest Series; Water Hyacinth - Eichhornia crassipes’,
Queensland Government Natural Resources and Mines.
Land Protection (Invasive Plants and Animals), 2007, ‘Fact Sheet; Water Lettuce-Pistia stratiotes’,
Queensland Government Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries.
Mary River Pest Management Group, July 2007,’Strategic Action Plan Mary River Catchment waterweeds
project, ‘Mary Local Government Strategic Direction Group.
National Aquatic Weeds Management Group, 27th
March 2009, ‘Hymenachne (Hymenachne amplexicaulis)
weed spread and management actions 2009,’National Aquatic Weeds Management Group.
National Hymenachne Management Group, 2006, ‘Control methods and case study; Hymenachne
amplexicaulis, ‘Department of Natural Resources, Mines and Water.
Natural Resource Management Ministerial Council, April 2003, ‘National framework for natural resource
management standards and targets’, Natural Resource Management Ministerial Council.
New South Wales Department of Primary Industries, November 2008, ‘Aquatic weed management in
waterways and dams’, Prime facts 30.
AQUATIC WEED MANAGEMENT STRATEGIC PLAN – Burnett, Kolan, Baffle, Isis and Gregory Catchments July 2010
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Noosa and District Landcare Group Inc, n.d ‘Conservation and Sustainability’, Noosa Landcare (Brochure).
Noosa and District Landcare Group, n.d, ‘A photographic guide to identification of aquatic plants in South
East Queensland,’ Queensland Department of Primary Industries (Brochure).
Price, C, Haigh, S & Kelly, A 2008, ‘Burnett/Mary wetland inventory; wetland inventory and prioritisation in
the Burnett Mary Region project’, Wetland Care Australia.
Stephens, K 2006, ‘Benchmark sites for riparian vegetation in the Burnett River Catchment, ‘Queensland
Herbarium.
Waterwatch Sunshine Coast, n.d, ‘Waterwatch on the Sunshine Coast’, Waterwatch Sunshine Coast
(Brochure).