Strategic management of weeds, including vines and aquatic weeds, to reduce their impact on farms, waterways and native vegetation.
Why it is Important?
Disturbance from previous cyclones has resulted in an increase in the growth of vines in native vegetation. Keeping existing vegetation/forest free of weeds and invasive vines is the most cost effective approach to habitat protection. It is much easier to protect an existing tree than to grow a new one. Aquatic weeds are also a problem in the Douglas area, and can reduce water flow and contribute to flooding and water diversion.
Examples of Local Action
- Conduct control of vines in areas previously affected by cyclones.
- Control aquatic weeds, such as hymenachne, which can cause reduced water flow, diversion of waterways and erosion of banks.
- Conduct control of weeds like navua sedge, which cause problems on farm land and disturbed areas.