Monday 5 December 2016

Help stop the spread of Chilean Needle Grass

Environment Canterbury today reminded farmers that the spread of the invasive pest plant Chilean needle grass (CNG) is a potential problem for all parts of the region.

Laurence Smith, Environment Canterbury Principal Resource Management Advisor Biosecurity, said last season’s discovery of CNG in West Melton near Christchurch meant farmers everywhere need to be vigilant.

“The seeding season is now upon us,” Mr Smith said. “We need to stop the spread to protect our agricultural industry and environment. Managing on-farm biosecurity is critical for prevention. You can help by checking for Chilean needle grass this summer. Identifying an infestation early will make containing and controlling the pest less expensive and more manageable.”

Chilean needle grass is an invasive pasture pest that reduces crop yields, causes animal welfare issues and places trade restrictions on infested farms.

About 350 hectares of Canterbury land is infested. Known sites were confined to North Canterbury until last year, when an infestation was identified in West Melton.

Half of the region is susceptible. Fifteen million hectares of land across New Zealand are suitable habitat for growth.

Chilean needle grass is easiest to identify in spring and early summer, when distinctive purple seed heads become visible. The seeds are dart like, with a sharp seed head and a long, kinked tail.

It is most likely to be found where there is less competition from desirable pasture species, such as dry hard hill country, areas with light soil, heavily grazed pasture and bare ground.

Chilean needle grass can be spread by movement on contaminated machinery, vehicles, feed and stock. To prevent spread, only allow clean vehicles and machinery on to your property, and make sure any stock or feed brought on to your farm haven’t come from an infested property.

If you suspect you have found Chilean needle grass, contact Environment Canterbury immediately. More information including identifiers:www.facebook.com/Chileanneedlegrass

A public meeting on the topic will be held on Thursday 8 December (7pm) at the West Melton Tavern. All welcome.

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