Wellington is introducing a new scheme to prevent three species of damaging plants from taking hold.
From left, nassella tussock, alligator weed and Chilean needle grass. Photo: Supplied / Greater Wellington Regional Council
The Greater Wellington Regional Council's biosecurity team will run a 10-year programme to stop Chilean needle grass, nassella tussock and alligator weed from entering and establishing in the region.
Pest Plant team leader Gary Sue is concerned about the economic, environmental and cultural impact they could have on the local area.
"We've witnessed the immense devastation these harmful plants have had on other regions," Sue said.
The three weeds pose an especially significant threat to rural communities, including reducing farmland, clogging waterways, and decreasing farm animal health.
The programme includes building community awareness about the pest plants and the damage they can do.
The council will work with landowners to help them identify and manage them if found on their property.
The Surveillance Programme is one of several strategies to ensure the protection of Wellington's biodiversity and economic well-being.
