Macquarie Valley & Lachlan Valley

On the hunt for Water Lettuce

Residents living on river systems in north west NSW are urged to look out for a highly invasive aquatic weed, after flood waters washed large quantities of the plant over the Cunnamulla weir just north of the NSW and Queensland border.
Industry & Investment NSW, State Noxious Weeds Coordinator, Syd Lisle said a water lettuce infestation above the Cunnamulla weir on the Warrego River in south west Queensland was washed downstream by floodwaters.
“Water lettuce is a free-floating aquatic weed that has the potential to spread quickly and form a dense mat covering an entire body of water,” Mr Lisle said.
“Large amounts of the weed escaped the weir at Cunnamulla during the recent floods.
“Water lettuce outbreaks can have serious impacts on native aquatic animals and plants, as well as interfere with irrigation, boating and water sport activities.
“As a state prohibited weed it is important that any outbreaks in NSW are reported immediately.
“We are urging all residents living on the Warrego River, Cuttaburra Channel or Basin and the Paroo River to keep watch for any signs of this serious aquatic weed.
“The Darling River system is largely free of aquatic weeds and we would like to keep it this way.”
Bourke Shire Council’s Senior Weeds Officer, Don Mackenzie said the Council is working closely with Industry & Investment NSW and the Western Catchment Management Authority to ensure the escaped infestation does not enter the Darling River.
“An initial aerial survey has been conducted over the Paroo and Warrego Rivers which resulted in no sightings of the weed,” Mr Mackenzie said.
“We are also working with the Queensland government to establish a working party that will aim to keep water lettuce out of western NSW.”
For more information on water lettuce visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/weeds.
If you suspect an infestation contact Don Mackenzie at Bourke Shire Council on 6830 8000 or contact the Weeds Hotline on 1800 680 244 or email weeds@industry.nsw.gov.au