Don't let this weed get away in Marlborough

Vineyard contractors and seasonal workers, lifestyle block owners, farmers and road maintenance crews all need to understand the threat that is posed by Chilean Needlegrass and the role they can play in stopping its movement around Marlborough

Chilean Needlegrass is a pervasive threat to Marlborough pasture grasses and currently is spread over 2,778 hectares of the district and the flowering season for this pest has just begun.

The weed reduces pasture productivity and its very sharp seed heads are easily caught in the wool of sheep and hides of cows, downgrading carcass quality. It can cause blindness in lambs as the seeds are easily caught in the animals’ eyes.

Economic loss of grazing production is estimated to be in the range of $100 to $200 per hectare where the weed is present.

Council Environmental Science and Monitoring manager Alan Johnson is making a plea for everyone in the rural sector of Marlborough to understand the extent of the threat.

“We all share responsibility for limiting the future threat that this pest plant poses to our local economy and the environment and many parties have an opportunity to do something. Landowners, the general public and rural service organisations all need to be aware of the spreading potential of this pest plant. If we are all vigilant, collectively we can make a difference in reducing the spread,” he said.

The weed is easily spread by moving stock or machinery through affected areas, or by people carrying the seed heads on their footwear or clothing.

“It’s important that pastoral farmers, vineyard owners, contractors that either own land infested with CNG or work in infested areas always ensure that stock and all machinery and equipment is checked and cleaned of any plant or seed fragments and soil particles before movement,” said Mr Johnson.

Marlborough landowners who currently have no infestations of Chilean Needlegrass also have a part to play in ensuring that they maintain good biosecurity hygiene at their farm gate, he said.

“They should check machinery, stock and animal food to see that it is clean before they allow access to their property. Some landowners don’t want to bother with this kind of effort but they need to understand the risk to their own property,” said Mr Johnson.

Mr Johnson says members of the public should contact the biosecurity section at Council if they find Chilean Needlegrass growing anywhere in Marlborough.

The District Council can provide advice to landowners on reducing the risk of spreading CNG, identification or techniques for managing infestations. A new herbicide that controls this weed is now available.

Note: Chilean Needlegrass is a containment control pest plant in the Marlborough District Council’s Regional Pest Management Strategy so landowners are required to destroy all plants on fringe properties and maintain a clear boundary margin on core properties. Land owners are responsible for ensuring the weed is not transmitted from infected properties to clear areas.

Further information: MDC Environmental Science and Monitoring manager, Alan Johnson, Ph: 03 520 7400.