Stock feed carries parthenium weed risk

As the dry conditions continue across many areas of Queensland, landholders are being warned about the potential for parthenium weed seeds to lurk within their stock feed.

Minister for Natural Resources and Water Craig Wallace said parthenium weed seeds could contaminate stock feeds.

“With the dry spell continuing, landholders are being forced to source stock food from numerous areas cross the State, particularly from Central Queensland where parthenium weed is abundant,” Mr Wallace said.

Member for Fitzroy Jim Pearce said anyone purchasing feed should be aware that it increased the potential for parthenium weed to appear on your block.

NRW national coordinator for parthenium weed Peter Austin said the use of weed hygiene declarations by landholders was crucial to preventing the weed from infesting other parts of Queensland.

The weed hygiene declaration meets the legislative requirements of a written notice under the Land Protection Act 2002.

Under this Act, written notice is required before supplying anything that is, or could be, contaminated with parthenium weed seeds.

“Failure to supply a written notice can incur a penalty of up to $30,000,” Mr Austin said.

While a weed hygiene declaration provides valuable information on whether a thing is contaminated, prevention through responsible pasture management and property hygiene practices is still the best management approach.

Mr Austin said one last tip for landowners was to always feed stock in the same area, so it is easy to spot the plants, and regularly monitor these sites for several seasons.

For further information contact Rachael McDonald on (07) 4938 4373 or email rachael.mcdonald@nrw.qld.gov.au

Minister’s office: Paul Childs, Craig Wallace’s office, on 0407 692 654.