Council is reminding North Queenslanders to take simple precautions to help stop the spread of weeds and pest animals after the recent flooding event.
Councillor Kate Milton, Chair of the Environment Sub Group said, “locals and travellers alike should heed warnings about the possible spread of biosecurity matters including dirt, plants and building materials. Weed seeds can be spread easily, but so can invasive pests such as Yellow Crazy Ants.”
“The floods were a devastating natural disaster, but if we are not careful, we might be faced with a natural disaster of a different kind – an increase and spread of weed infestations and the introduction of new pests,” Cr Milton advised.
“During the clean up and rebuilding operation, it is possible that vehicles and machinery coming from within or from other shires could have been in contact with weeds, ants and diseases. I am urging everyone involved in the recovery operations to undertake preventative activities to reduce any spread.”
Council advises owners of cars, trailers, caravans, and machinery to thoroughly wash their vehicles before leaving identified weed areas, ensuring all mud, seeds, and plant material are removed. Travellers should also be aware of weed risks, stick to formed roads, and clean their vehicles regularly to help prevent the spread of pests and diseases.
While Council acknowledges everyone is busy with the clean up, it is also important that all landholders remain vigilant for any new infestations that might take hold as a result of the floods and take action early if they see anything new on recently disturbed parts of their properties.
For assistance with identifying pest weeds or further information regarding control measures, please contact Council’s Natural Assets team on 4776 4607.
Image: Yellow Crazy Ant.
Image: Siam Weed.