FURTHER WEED CATEGORISATION

PROHIBITED MATTER - Biosecurity matter listed in Schedule 2, Part 1 of the NSW Biosecurity Act 2015 for the purpose of preventing entry of that matter into NSW or a part of NSW. Prohibited matter includes weeds nationally targeted for eradication and presently not in NSW.

CONTROL ORDER - Establishes one or more control zones and related measures to prevent, eliminate, minimise or manage a biosecurity risk or impact. Control orders are for managing weeds under approved eradication programs and last for five years (or can be renewed for longer-term eradication programs).

BIOSECURITY ZONE - A biosecurity zone may be used for the long-term management of an ongoing key biosecurity risk or impact. It is a specific geographic area where certain weed control actions must be taken under the Biosecurity Act 2015. Biosecurity zones are used when complete eradication of biosecurity matter is not feasible, but the risk is still high so regulatory actions for ongoing prevention, elimination and minimisation of impacts are necessary. In our region, Bitou bush is the only weed with a biosecurity zone.

Prevent This Weed

These are the region’s highest priority weeds and must be reported to Rous County Council. These species are either not known to be present in the Far North Coast region or have been sighted and eliminated. The goal for weeds in this category is to prevent them from arriving and/or establishing in the region. Familiarise yourself with weeds in this category so you can recognise them when you see them. Call Rous County Council’s Weed Biosecurity team immediately on (02) 6623 3800 if you think you have seen these weeds.

Eradicate This Weed

These are the region’s second-highest priority weeds and must be reported to Rous County Council. These species are either not present or present to a limited extent in the Far North Coast region. Legislation for weeds in this category states that we must completely eradicate them by destroying all known infestations. Carrying out good weed hygiene practices is crucial for weeds in this category. Call Rous County Council’s Weed Biosecurity team immediately on (02) 6623 3800 if you think you have seen these weeds. We will assist you with information on best practice control methods to help you get rid of the weed.

Contain This Weed

These weeds can be common in most areas across the Far North Coast and are not reportable to Rous County Council. The goal for weeds in this category is to contain them by reducing/ minimising the ongoing spread of these species. Landowners must contain weeds in this category, by controlling infestations on their property and carrying out good weed hygiene practices to stop these weeds from spreading further. Refer to the information at the top of weed profiles for weeds in this category, for information on best practice control techniques.