Now is the time to attack flowering ragwort
Published on 22 November 2024
Corangamite Shire Council is battling ragwort on all Council-managed roadsides with two separate treatments between November and January.
A contractor will be treating ragwort in December and January on 346 km of Council-managed roadsides and Council land in the South of the Shire.
The other battlefront is on farms and Mayor Kate Makin has called on landowners to do their bit in the war on the invasive weed.
“Ragwort is an issue for both agricultural productivity and the environment,” Cr Makin said.
“It’s poisonous to grazing animals and out competes more desirable plants, reducing pasture productivity and the value of agricultural land. It also displaces native vegetation on our roadsides and reserves.
“With the importance of dairy in our region, it’s essential to eradicate ragwort before it sets seed as it causes liver damage in cattle and taints their milk.
“Everyone playing their part will make a huge difference.”
Although ragwort can be treated year-round, it is most notable during late Spring and through Summer when it is in flower, with bright yellow daisy-like flowers.
“Spring and early summer is a great time to control ragwort before it starts setting seed. Controlling it now can help stop it spreading.”
Recommended measures include applying a registered herbicide, cultivation and physical removal.
Ragwort seeds can remain in the ground for about seven years, so annual follow-up control will be required.
In Corangamite Shire, ragwort is most prolific south of Cobden and around Timboon.
Landowners with ragwort on their property are encouraged to seek advice from their local chemical/farm supplier on methods and herbicides fit for their purpose and region.
Agriculture Victoria provides information on weeds and weed control at www.agriculture.vic.gov.au
For more information on Council’s weed control program, please call 5593 7100 or go to corangamite.vic.gov.au/weeds
Landowners and land managers are responsible under the Catchment & Land Protection (CALP) Act 1994 to control ragwort and other state prohibited weeds on their land. Agricultural Victoria is responsible in ensuring they comply.
To report ragwort on Council-managed roadsides (not including arterial roads managed by VicRoads) call 55937100 or email shire@corangamite.vic.gov.au