For the first time in the Tweed, the NSW Nationals in the state government will use a scent detector dog to uncover parthenium weed.
Nationals member for Tweed Geoff Provest said the weed was suspected of growing in Palmvale, but had been difficult to find, and Connor the Springer Spaniel was now on the case.
“Parthenium can still grow in the warmer parts of the state, like the Tweed, through Autumn into Winter and it’s vitally import we find these plants before they flourish and set seed in summer,” he said.
“This weed can spread rapidly, be dangerous to grazing animals and reduce crop values so it’s critical we get on top of this issue, which is why the NSW Government has launched this program in collaboration with its other management programs.
“Last month Connor successfully sniffed out parthenium weed seedlings in the Upper Hunter, so we know this is a proven method of supporting our landholders,” he said.
Mr Provest encouraged anyone who suspects parthenium weed to call the NSW DPI Biosecurity Helpline 1800 680 244 or their local council, who will be able to identify any suspected sightings of the weed and help in its management.
Strategic surveillance, investigations and tracing, vigilance, increased awareness and calls from the public have led to the detection of 30 parthenium weed infestations across NSW since 1 April 2020, as government bodies, industries, farmers and the community work to eradicate the weed.
Information about parthenium weed is available at weeds.dpi.nsw.gov.au/weeds/partheniumweed.
