Removal of invasive aquatic weed at Waterlily Park

Published on 24 July 2024

An aquatic weed harvester is on the lake at Waterlily Park at Ocean Shores this week, removing the invasive Salvinia molesta and parrot’s feather (Myriophyllum aquaticum) weeds.

The Salvinia, which spreads very quickly, had formed a thick mat over the surface of the lake, and the parrot’s feather was also well established.

Salvinia is a recurrent problem at Waterlily Park and Council normally uses special weevils, bred by the NSW Department of Primary Industries, to control the weed.

“The Salvinia weevil has been used successfully at Waterlily Park on several occasions, but it does not like the cold weather,” Mr Erskine said.

“The weevils, which are about 2mm long, perform well in hot weather, and stop breeding when the mercury drops to below 17 degrees.

“The weed is so thick at the moment that something needed to done so the aquatic harvester has been brought in to get rid of as much weed as possible,” Mr Erskine said.

The Salvinia and parrot’s feather is being stockpiled on-site for several weeks and will be covered with black plastic so it can start to decompose.

It will then be taken to Council’s Resource Recovery Centre.