Weed Control

Based on the Northern Tablelands High Risk Pathways Management Plan and the Tenterfield Shire Council regional priority weeds; Council has outlined a 12-month weed management schedule.

This plan aligns with the region’s goals of preventing, eradicating, and containing high-risk weed species and managing pathways through which they spread.

12-Month Weed Management Schedule

Key Focus Areas:

• Regional Priority Weeds (e.g., Serrated Tussock, African Boxthorn, Blackberry) https://www.tenterfield.nsw.gov.au/services/weeds/weeds-education-resources/regional-priority-weeds
• High Risk Pathways (e.g., roadsides, waterways, stock routes)
• High Risk Sites (e.g., parks, gravel pits, saleyards, markets, national parks)

Recurring Activities (Monthly)

• Roadside inspections (targeting 600 km of high-risk roads annually)
• Waterway inspections (target 80 per year across 12 months)
• High-risk site inspections (e.g., parks, quarries, saleyards — target ~12 per month)
• Community education and extension (e.g., newsletter articles, events, Website)
• Weed surveillance during major events/tourist season

Month-by-Month Schedule

January

• Inspect waterways for aquatic weeds (e.g., Sagittaria, Alligator Weed)
• Patrol camping/fishing areas

February

• Roadside inspections
• Inspect Council’s wastewater and water treatment sites

March

• Conduct inspections of high-risk private properties near borders or transport corridors
• Inspect area around the Dam

April

• Highlight weed awareness before winter
• Begin planning winter weed control programs

May

• Target Serrated Tussock with early treatment
• Slashing/mowing of invasive grass species

June

• Inspect saleyards
• Plan spring treatment schedule

July

• Review mapping data from inspections
• Conduct follow-up on known infestations

August

• Target emerging species (e.g., Coolatai Grass)
• Waterway inspections resume post-winter

September

• Spring roadside inspections
• Engage in community weed education campaigns

October

• Monitor transport corridors
• Plan summer treatment schedule

November

• Treat aquatic weeds in waterways
• Treat open spaces and recreation parks

December

• Weed hygiene checks on equipment/machinery pre-holiday
• Inspect all Council depots

Quarterly Deliverables

• Quarterly Report on inspection outcomes, species sightings, and control efficacy.
• Updates to Regional Weed Mapping.
• Stakeholder coordination meetings

Contact

Council’s Weeds Officer, Mr Chris Battersby on 0402 210 102