Water weeds can affect the environment by:
- impeding waterflow and increase flooding and erosion
- reducing water quality, creating health hazards
- displacing natural vegetation and destroy aquatic life
- preventing recreational activities
- reducing fish habitat
- blocking channels and irrigation equipment
- preventing stock access to water
There are a number of precautions we can all take to protect our waterways from the threat of water weeds:
- carefully consider what plants to buy for ponds and aquariums
- purchase plants from accredited nurseries and sellers
- don’t dispose of unwanted plants in or near water
- help control new infestations early, before they take over
- clean equipment such as boats, trailers, vehicles and earth moving machinery when moving between sites
- report suspicious weeds to your local council weeds officer or DPI on 1800 680 244 or email weeds@dpi.nsw.gov.au