Northern Plains Region Pest Management Strategy · This Pest Management Strategy outlines how the...

Northern Plains Region

Pest Management Strategy

2003 - 2006

N S WNATIONALPARKS ANDWILDLIFESERVICE

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, 2003.This work is copyright. Apart from any use as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968, no partmay be reproduced without prior written permission from NPWS.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service43 Bridge Street(PO Box 1967)Hurstville NSW 2220Telephone: 02 9585 6444www.npws.nsw.gov.au

For further information contact:Pest Management Officer Pest Management OfficerNarrabri Area Coonabarabran AreaNorthern Plains Region Northern Plains RegionWestern Directorate Western DirectorateNSW National Parks & Wildlife Service NSW National Parks & Wildlife ServicePO Box 72 PO Box 39Narrabri NSW 2390 Coonabarabran NSW 2357Telephone: 02 6792 7300 Telephone: 02 6842 1311

Cover image: Spraying a Sweet Briar infestation in the central valley of the WarrumbungleNational Park.

Photograph by NSW NPWS.

This plan should be cited as follows:

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service. (2003). Northern Plains Region Pest ManagementStrategy 2003-2006. NPWS, Hurstville, NSW.

ISBN 0 7313 6694 8

http://www.npws.nsw.gov.au/

Regional Pest Management Strategies

Foreword

Pest animals and weeds are the targets of the five regional pest management strategies forcentral and western NSW. The strategies are an initiative of the National Parks and WildlifeService (NPWS) and have been released by the Western Directorate for public information.The release of the pest management strategies follows a two-month public exhibition of draftstrategies during August and September 2002, which provided an opportunity for thecommunity to have their say in how they were developed.

These strategies recognise that pest species are a problem across the landscape and theyaim to maximise the effectiveness of pest control programs, particularly through cooperativeprograms with neighbours and others.

The NPWS is committed to a regional approach to pest management where the programs aredeveloped and often undertaken in collaboration with neighbours, other governmentagencies, rural lands protection boards, local government councils, regional pest committees,CSIRO, universities and community groups such as Landcare, and Bushcare volunteers.

These documents identify the major pest populations within the regions, and establish prioritycontrol programs. The aim is to apply best practice, humane, cost effective methods, whichwill have minimal impacts on the environment. In general this requires careful planning, toensure an integrated approach is adopted using a range of techniques at critical times of theyear, and often, the targeting of more than one species.

The pest management strategies establish direction for pest management activities within theNPWS' western regions until 2006. The year to year focus of control activities will vary withclimatic conditions and available funding. The annual work programs will be set out inRegional operation plans. For further information on these details I encourage you to contactthe Regional Manager in your Region.

TERRY KORNDIRECTOR WESTERN

Table of Contents

1 Background....................................................................................................................... 1

1.1 Introduction................................................................................................................. 1

1.2 Northern Plains Region.............................................................................................. 1

1.3 Legislation and Policy................................................................................................ 31.3.1 National Parks and Wildlife (NPW) Act 1974 ................................................................... 31.3.2 Threatened Species Conservation (TSC) Act 1995 ......................................................... 31.3.3 Rural Lands Protection (RLP) Act 1998 ........................................................................... 31.3.4 Noxious Weeds Act 1993 ................................................................................................. 41.3.5 Wild Dog Destruction (WDD) Act 1921 ............................................................................ 41.3.6 Other Relevant Legislation ............................................................................................... 41.3.7 NPWS Field Management Policies .................................................................................. 4

2 Management Strategy ...................................................................................................... 5

3 Objectives of Pest Control Programs............................................................................. 5

4 Pest Programs and Threatened Species ........................................................................ 6

4.1 Past Pest Management .............................................................................................. 64.1.1 Pest Animals .................................................................................................................... 64.1.2 Weeds .............................................................................................................................. 7

4.2 Threatened Species.................................................................................................... 9

5 Regional Priorities ............................................................................................................ 9

5.1 Criteria for Prioritising Pests..................................................................................... 9

5.2 Regional Assessment .............................................................................................. 10

6 Programs ......................................................................................................................... 12

6.1 Pest Animal Species................................................................................................. 126.1.1 Feral Pig - Sus scrofa ..................................................................................................... 126.1.2 Feral Goat- Capra hircus ................................................................................................ 136.1.3 European Red Fox - Vulpes vulpes................................................................................ 146.1.4 European Wild Rabbit - Oryctolagus cuniculus .............................................................. 156.1.5 Wild Dogs - Canis familiaris ........................................................................................... 166.1.6 Feral Cat - Felis catus .................................................................................................... 16

6.2 Weed Species............................................................................................................ 176.2.1 Sweet Briar - Rosa rubiginosa........................................................................................ 176.2.2 Green Cestrum - Cestrum parqui ................................................................................... 186.2.3 Lippia - Phyla nodiflora ................................................................................................... 186.2.4 Golden Dodder - Cuscuta campestris ............................................................................ 196.2.5 Spiny Burr Grass – Cenchrus incertus ........................................................................... 196.2.6 St John’s Wort – Hypericum perforatum ........................................................................ 206.2.7 African Boxthorn - Lycium ferocissimum ........................................................................ 216.2.8 Blackberry - Rubus fruiticosus........................................................................................ 216.2.9 Bathurst Burr & Noogoora Burr - Xanthium spp. ............................................................ 226.2.10 Khaki Weed – Alternanthera pungens ........................................................................... 226.2.11 Castor Oil Plant - Ricinus communis .............................................................................. 236.2.12 Prickly Pears - Opuntia spp. ........................................................................................... 236.2.13 Mother-of-Millions - Bryophllum delagoense .................................................................. 246.2.14 Blue Heliotrope - Heliotropium amplexicaule.................................................................. 246.2.15 Paterson’s Curse - Echium plantagineum ...................................................................... 25

7 Conclusion ...................................................................................................................... 25

8 Acknowledgements ........................................................................................................ 26

9 Further Reading .............................................................................................................. 26

Index of Figures

Figure 1: Map of Northern Plains Region showing NPWS estate. ...................................... 2

Index of Tables

Table 1: Distribution of weeds and pest animals on NPWS estate in Northern PlainsRegion................................................................................................................................. 8

Table 2: Threatened species protection programs in Northern Plains Region.. ............... 9

Table 3: Priority classes for pest species............................................................................ 10

Table 4: Pest species priority classes for Northern Plains Region. ................................. 11

Appendices

Appendix 1: Timing of Pest Control Programs .................................................................... 28

Appendix 2: Noxious Weeds of the Northern Plains Region.............................................. 30

Appendix 3: Emerging Pest Issues ....................................................................................... 31

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1 Background

1.1 IntroductionIntroduced pest species can seriouslyimpact upon the biodiversity of reservedareas by modifying species richness,abundance and ecosystem function. Theycan also have significant impacts on theeconomic and social values ofneighbouring areas.

This Pest Management Strategy is areview of the 1995 Narrabri Districtstrategy and establishes the strategicdirection for pest management activitieswithin lands managed by the NationalParks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) in theNorthern Plains Region over the period2003 - 2006. Priorities and programs forrecent additions to the NPWS estate arestill being finalised and will be included insubsequent revisions of the strategies.

This strategy incorporates furtherinformation collated from Region-wideweed mapping, neighbour liaison, fieldsurvey work and information receivedfrom key stakeholders. The strategy alsoincludes pest planning for the recent newadditions to NPWS managed lands and thechanges to the regional boundaries.

The aim of this strategy is to maximise theeffectiveness of pest control programs. Itidentifies the major pest speciespopulations within the Region, andestablishes criteria for prioritising controlprograms. The strategy provides a briefsummary of control programs to beundertaken. Specific details of individualprograms are addressed in operational pestcontrol plans.

It is envisaged that this review of thestrategy will continue to improve thedevelopment, co-ordination andimplementation of pest speciesmanagement within Northern PlainsRegion.

This Pest Management Strategy outlineshow the NPWS manages pest species. Inthis strategy, the term “pest species” refersto introduced species of weeds and pestanimals.

1.2 Northern PlainsRegion

The Northern Plains Region covers anarea of about 100,000 square kilometres.It coincides with 10 local governmentareas, including Coolah, Coonabarabran,Coonamble, Gilgandra, Gunnedah, MoreePlains, Narrabri, Walgett, Warren andYalleroi.

The Region currently manages 17conservation reserves, including twonational parks and fifteen nature reserves.The total area managed is 180,106hectares.

The Warrumbungle National Park andMount Kaputar National Park annuallyattract over 90,000 visitors. These parksare an important focus for tourism in theCoonabarabran and Narrabri communities.

The largest reserve in the Region is thePilliga Nature Reserve, with 85,000hectares reserved. It presents the Servicewith significant challenges in fire and pestmanagement.

Two nature reserves have been identifiedas wetlands of international significance.These are the Macquarie Marshes NatureReserve and the Narran Lake NatureReserve.

Regional programs are specifically aimedat protecting native species, such asground-nesting birds in the Narran Lakeand Macquarie Marshes Nature Reservesfrom pigs and foxes, reducing the impactof feral goats on a population of Brush-tailed Rock-wallabies in theWarrumbungle and Mt Kaputar NationalParks, and the impact of feral animals onthe Region’s reserves in general.

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The Region’s programs also aim atreducing the effect and spread of weeds inthe national parks and nature reserves ingeneral.

Control techniques employed in theNorthern Plains Region are thosepromoted by NSW Agriculture, inparticular the Vertebrate Pest ResearchUnit, and carried out under the ModelCode of Practice for the Welfare ofAnimals. Extensive evaluation of controltechniques has been carried out to ensurethe most appropriate methods are beingused in each area.

Where necessary, regional programs arecarried out in conjunction with local Rural

Lands Protection Boards and otherGovernment agencies, such as NSWAgriculture, Local Councils and adjoiningNPWS Regions. Neighbours are includedin nearly all regional programs.

The Region cooperates and liases withNSW Agriculture, CSIRO Division ofWildlife and Ecology, the Co-operativeResearch Centre for Weed ManagementSystems and Research Centre forBiological Control of Vertebrate Pests,and the Zoological Parks Board of NSW.

The Region is serviced by two PestControl Officers, one located in theNarrabri Area Office and the other atCoonabarabran.

Figure 1: Map of Northern Plains Region showing NPWS estate.

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MoreeWarialda

Narrabri

Walgett

Gunnedah

Coonabarabran

Coolah

Gilgandra

Coonamble

Warren

Mount Kaputar NP

Gamilaroi NR

PlanchonellaHill NR

Careunga NR

Midkin NR

Kirramingly NR

Brigalow NRClaremont NR

NarranLake NR

Boronga NRBoomi West NR

Boomi NR

Pilliga NR

Binnaway NR

Weetalibah NR

Warrumbungle NP

MacquarieMarshes NR

Northern Plains Regionshowing Shire boundaries

0 50 100 150 200 Kilometers

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1.3 Legislation andPolicy

The NPWS has a number of statutoryresponsibilities in relation to pest speciesmanagement, and has also adopted anumber of related policies.

1.3.1 National Parks and Wildlife(NPW) Act 1974

This Act vests the care, control andmanagement of National Parks, NatureReserves, Historic Sites and AboriginalAreas with the Director-General of theNPWS. Key management objectivesinclude conservation, provision ofappropriate scientific and educationalopportunities, and management of fire andpest species. These are achieved throughthe preparation and implementation ofplans of management for each reserve,which identify pest species present,control strategies and priorities for thatreserve. This pest management strategyincorporates actions identified in plans ofmanagement that have been completedwithin the Northern Plains Region.

1.3.2 Threatened SpeciesConservation (TSC) Act 1995

The main objective of the TSC Act is toconserve biological diversity. The Actprovides for the listing of threatenedspecies, populations and ecologicalcommunities. The Act also provides forthe preparation and implementation ofrecovery plans for threatened species,populations and ecological communitiesand the designation of areas as habitatcritical to the survival of those listed asendangered. The Act provides for theidentification of key threateningprocesses, and the amelioration of thesethrough the preparation andimplementation of threat abatement plans.

One of the major features of the Act is theintegration of the conservation ofthreatened species into the development

control processes under the EnvironmentalPlanning and Assessment Act 1979. Thus,proponents are required to assess thelikely impact of a development or activityon threatened species, populations orecological communities or their habitats.

1.3.3 Rural Lands Protection (RLP)Act 1998

The pest animal provisions of the RLP Actcommenced on 28 September 2001. TheRLP Act sets out the conditions underwhich “animals, birds and insects” canbecome "declared" pests and provides forthe control of such pest species.

Gazettal of pest species occurs throughPest Control Orders [s.143] which allowthe Minister for Agriculture to specifywhich species are pests, either on astatewide or local basis, and the conditionsor factors that apply to the control of eachpest. Rabbits, wild Dogs and feral Pigshave been declared pest animalsthroughout NSW.

The RLP Act binds the Crown for thecontrol of pest animals declared under theAct [s.142]. Public land managers such asthe NPWS are required to eradicate(continuously suppress and destroy) pestanimals "…to the extent necessary tominimise the risk of the pest causingdamage to any land" using any lawfulmethod or, if the Order specifies a methodto be used, by the method specified[s.156(1)]. The Minister for Agriculturemust consult with the Service beforemaking a Pest Control Order that appliesto lands managed by the NPWS [s.147].

Fauna listed under Schedule 1 or 2 of theThreatened Species Conservation Act1995 cannot be declared as pests[s.143(5)]. The Minister for theEnvironment must be consulted before anynative fauna is declared a pest [s.144(2)].

The Pest Control Order for wild Dogs,gazetted on 2 October 2001, provides forthe general destruction obligation forlands listed in Schedule 2 of the Order

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will be satisfied through a wild dogmanagement plan [s.156(4)] that addressesboth control and conservation objectivesand has been approved by the relevantRLP Board for that District. Schedule 2lists 254 reserves considered to containhigh quality Dingo habitat on landsmanaged by the NPWS, State Forests ofNSW, Sydney Catchment Authority andunoccupied Crown land managed by theDepartment of Land and WaterConservation.

1.3.4 Noxious Weeds Act 1993

Under this Act the Minister forAgriculture has the power to make Ordersdeclaring plants as “noxious weeds”(listed in Schedule 1 of the Act). Weedscan be declared “noxious” if they pose athreat to agriculture, the environment orcommunity health, and there is a publicbenefit from such declaration. A numberof environmental weeds have now beendeclared under this Act, for example, bitoubush in all coastal councils and gorse in anumber of tablelands and coastal councils.Noxious weeds are classified into fourcategories with different controlrequirements.

1.3.5 Wild Dog Destruction (WDD)Act 1921

The WWD Act requires landholders andoccupiers in the Western Division todestroy all wild dogs upon such land andfor the maintenance of the wild dog fencealong the north-western parts of theNSW/Queensland and NSW/SouthAustralian borders. The WDD Act doesnot bind the Crown.

1.3.6 Other Relevant Legislation

� Environment Protection andBiodiversity Conservation Act 1999

� Agricultural and VeterinaryChemicals Code Act 1994

� Occupational Health and Safety Act2000

� Environmental Planning andAssessment Act 1979

� Firearms Act 1996 and the Firearms(General Regulation) 1997

� Heritage Act 1977

� Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act1979

� Pesticides Act 1999

� Occupational Health and Safety Act1998

� Wilderness Act 1987

� Native Vegetation Conservation Act1997

1.3.7 NPWS Field ManagementPolicies

A number of field management policiesare relevant to this strategy.

Policy 1.9 Exotic Plant Species givespriority for control programs to exoticplants that are increasing in abundanceand distribution, or displacing native floraand fauna, or where NPWS reservesadjoin land not infested or agriculturalland. Programs that are practical andinvolve techniques with little harmful orresidual environmental impact havepreference.

Policy 2.3 states that Introduced Animals(with limited exceptions) shall not beallowed to remain on NPWS reserves asthey may prey on native fauna or haveother adverse impacts on vegetation, soilsand water quality.

Policy 2.6 Wild Dogs acknowledges thecomplexities inherent in the need toconserve dingoes together with the need tocontrol wild dogs. Baiting programs areonly undertaken on NPWS reserves wherethere is adequate evidence of wild dogs

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coming from those reserves and killing ormaiming stock.

The Firearms Policy sets out proceduresto ensure firearms are safely managed andused by NPWS staff in accordance withthe relevant legislation.

2 ManagementStrategy

The National Parks & Wildlife Service iscommitted to a regional/catchmentapproach to pest management where theprograms are developed and oftenundertaken in collaboration withneighbours, other government agencies,rural lands protection boards, localgovernment councils, regional pestcommittees, CSIRO, universities andcommunity groups such as Landcare,Bushcare and Green Corp volunteers, andlocal Aboriginal Land Councils.

The Service aims to manage populationsof pest animals and weeds to minimisetheir adverse impacts. Many of theService’s weed control programs focus onenvironmental weeds because of the needto reduce the adverse impacts of thesespecies on biodiversity conservation.However, to protect neighbouringproperties, the NPWS also undertakesnumerous programs targeting noxiousagricultural weeds e.g. Serrated Tussock,Bathurst Burr, Noogoora Burr, JohnsonGrass, Giant Parramatta Grass and ScotchThistle. There is a clear recognition thatthe eradication of introduced pests overlarge areas is rarely, if ever, possible andresources must be directed to thosespecies/localities where the benefits ofcontrol are likely to be greatest.

Wherever possible a strategic approach topest management is adopted and thereader is referred to the pest managementpublications by the Bureau of ResourceSciences for greater detail on pest animals(see Further Reading list) or to variousreferences for weeds (see Further Readinglist).

The Service employs a large number ofspecialist staff to develop and implementeffective pest management programs. Theaim is to apply best practice, cost-effectivemethods that will have minimal impactson the environment. In general, thisrequires careful planning to ensure anintegrated approach is adopted using arange of techniques at critical times of theyear, and often, the targeting of more thanone species (e.g. foxes and wild dogs).

Integrated pest management is likely toresult in the most effective long-termreduction in pest populations and avoidselection for bait shy pest animals, orherbicide resistant weeds. Biologicalcontrol is incorporated into programswhere effective agents are available, but inmost cases biocontrol must besupplemented with conventional controltechniques. The pest managementapproach adopted by the Service reflects abalance between the desire to use the mosteffective control technique (such as 1080baiting for many animal pests) with arequirement to minimise non-targetimpacts and animal suffering.

As the lead conservation agency in NSWthe Service has a duty to ensure its ownactivities comply with the law and areenvironmentally sound. All pest controlactivities proposed on NPWS land requirean appropriate level of assessment of theirenvironmental impacts. The level ofassessment undertaken relates to theprobable degree of impact and can rangefrom an initial analysis, to a Review ofEnvironmental Factors, to anEnvironmental Impact Statement.

3 Objectives of PestControl Programs

The overriding objective of NPWS pestcontrol programs is to conservebiodiversity and cultural heritage.

Programs also have the following specificgoals:

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• Increase community understanding ofthe adverse impacts of pests onbiodiversity and Aboriginal andhistoric cultural heritage

• Manage pest populations to minimisetheir movement into NPWS estate, oronto adjoining properties where theyimpact on agricultural production

• Satisfy legislative responsibilities e.g.Rural Lands Protection Act 1998,Noxious Weeds Act 1993 andThreatened Species Conservation Act1995

• Support cooperative approaches topest management with other agenciesand the community

• Foster community support.

4 Pest Programs andThreatened Species

4.1 Past PestManagement

Prior to 1995, pest programs in NorthernPlains Region were restricted to controlprograms carried out in an ad hoc manner.Many of these programs were reactive innature. These included:

• Aerial shooting throughout the Regionwas carried primarily in response toneighbour complaints or when moneywas available;

• Weed control was carried out on an adhoc basis depending on theavailability of funds;

• Fox control was carried outoccasionally, but in an uncoordinatedmanner; and

• Joint control programs with outsideagencies were not carried out to theirfull potential, and little planning wentinto many of the programs.

Since that time, Northern Plains Regionhas adopted a more strategic approach topest control management incorporatingprograms that were identified as highpriorities in the 1995 Pest Strategy. Thisincludes weed mapping, integrated controltechniques, the development of short/longterm coordinated strategies, environmentalassessment, and monitoring andevaluation. The Northern Plains Regionhas also increased the number ofcooperative neighbour pest programs.

Pest management priorities and programsfor recent additions to the NPWS estateare still being finalised and will beincluded in subsequent revisions of thisstrategy.

4.1.1 Pest Animals

Pest animal programs are undertakenthroughout the Region and cover a numberof species (Table 1).

Major control programs have been carriedout for feral pigs throughout the Region,particularly aerial control programs in theMacquarie Marshes, Narran Lake,Planchonella, and Brigalow Park NatureReserves. Aerial control programsundertaken primarily for goats in MountKaputar NP and the Warrumbungle NPalso accounted for a number of pigs.

A Judas Pig project was commenced in2001 to aid in locating mobile pigpopulations within and around Mt KaputarNP. The project involves placing radiocollars on captured feral pigs within andadjoining Mt Kaputar NP. The pigs arethen periodically tracked via a radioreceiver attached to a helicopter todetermine actual locations. When doneover a period of time, this tracking willgive clues as to where and when are themost appropriate locations and times toimplement trapping programs.

During 2001/2002 extensive operationswere conducted to remove goats from MtKaputar and Warrumbungle NPs.Mustering is not a control option in these

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parks as the terrain is very steep andaccess is limited. Aerial shootingoperations accounted for large numbers ofgoats and these programs have beenassessed as very effective followingmonitoring programs. In Mt Kaputar NP aJudas Goat program has continuedsuccessfully since its establishment in1996. Program evaluation, involvinganalysis of results gathered to date, andplanning of future strategies is currentlyunderway. Observations indicate that theJudas Goats aid in the detection of goatsthat would have otherwise beenoverlooked.

Foxes have been listed as a keythreatening process under the ThreatenedSpecies Conservation Act 1995 and theNPWS has prepared a threat abatementplan (TAP) for foxes (NSW NPWS2001a). This plan has direct implicationsfor fox control programs in the NorthernPlains Region, in that additional fundshave been provided to protect Brush-tailedRock-wallabies in the Warrumbungle NP,Black-striped Wallabies in the BrigalowPark Nature Reserve, and ground-nestingbirds in the Macquarie Marshes and theNarran Lake Nature Reserves. Forexample, a co-operative fox baitingprogram between the NPWS,Warrumbungle Landcare andWarrumbungle NP neighbours has beencarried out to provide a 5km buffer ofreduced fox densities around Brush-tailedRock-wallaby colonies in and around theWarrumbungle National Park.

Not all fox control programs undertakenNPWS are funded by the Fox TAP. Forexample, co-operative fox baiting has alsobeen occurring in the Pilliga since 1996with the establishment of the Pilliga FoxControl Committee. The committee ismade up of representatives from NPWS,SFNSW, RLPBs and private landholdersand aims to protect threatened species,such as the Pilliga Mouse, from foxpredation and to increase lambing rates onadjacent grazing lands.

Cats are a major threat to wildlife in theRegion’s National Parks and Nature

Reserves. The NPWS undertakes catcontrol programs, however the success ofthese programs is limited because cats areextremely difficult to control. No poisonbaits are registered for control of cats(although 1080 may be possible understrict permit conditions). Cats areinstinctively wary of traps, and trappingprograms therefore have limited success.Dumping of cats is a problem that may beeffectively addressed by extensiveeducation campaigns.

Wild dogs are a relatively minor problemwithin the Northern Plains Region, withvery few reports received in recent years.All reports are followed up, and baitingprograms implemented in conjunctionwith neighbours and RLPBs. Forexample, a cooperative baiting program isbeing conducted with neighbours on thenorthern side of Warrumbungle NP whohave lost sheep to attacks by wild dogs.The trapping of a wild dog within theWarrumbungle NP seems to haveameliorated the problem for the timebeing, however the situation is continuingto be monitored.

4.1.2 Weeds

Weed species targeted vary according tothe location of the reserve. Key weedcontrol programs for the financial year2001/2002 are summarised below:

Mt Kaputar NP – Monitoring of previouscontrol works on Sweet Briar, Mother-of-Millions, Prickly Pear, Golden Dodderand Green Cestrum are being undertakenon relevant reserves by NPWS staff.Monitoring of weeds on Park boundariesby the local council has noted good resultsof previous works undertaken by NPWS.Planning for the next spring weed controlperiod is currently being undertaken, and aweeds spraying contractor has beenappointed for weed control over the nexttwo years. A new spray-rig has recentlybeen purchased.

Warrumbungle NP – Control works werecarried out on St John’s Wort, involving

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spraying and hand removal, and onBlackberry along creek systems.Cooperative work with a neighbourremoved Willows from a commonboundary. A similar program for GreenCestrum was carried out. Spraying forSpiny Burr Grass and Noogoora Burr alsotook place. Prickly Pear bio-controls havealso been distributed throughout the Park.

Narran Lake NR – Large-scale control ofGolden Dodder was undertakenthroughout 2000 and 2001. The dryconditions experienced throughout most of2002 has negated the need for control inrecent times. The are will be monitored todetermine the level of germination whenthe season improves.

Monitoring and control of previous weedspraying activities took place on thefollowing reserves during 2001/2002:Boomi, Boomi West, Boronga andKirramingley NRs. Results have beenfactored into budgets for weed control inthe Region.

The list of weeds in this strategy (Table 1)is not an exhaustive list of speciesoccurring within Northern Plains Region.A number of other weeds occur on NPWSmanaged lands but are of less importancein natural areas and, therefore, have notbeen included in this pest strategy.Noxious weeds recorded in NorthernPlains Region are listed in Appendix 2.

Species LocationPEST ANIMALSFeral Pig All reserves.Feral Goat Mt Kaputar NP, Warrumbungle NP, Macquarie Marshes NR,

Narran Lake NR, Brigalow Park & Claremont NRs, PlanchonellaNR, Pilliga NR, Weetalibah NR.

Fox All reserves.Rabbit Scattered populations in Midkin & Narran Lake NRs and Mt

Kaputar NP, Warrumbungle NP, Pilliga NRWild Dog Isolated reports throughout the Region.Feral Cat Scattered populations in all areasFeral Horse Pilliga NRFeral Cattle Pilliga NR

WEEDSSweet Briar Mt Kaputar NP, Warrumbungle NPGreen Cestrum Mt Kaputar NP, Warrumbungle NPLippia Macquarie Marshes, Midkin & Boomi West NRsGolden Dodder Macquarie Marshes NR, Narran Lake NR, Mt Kaputar NPSpiny Burr Grass Warrumbungles NP, Boomi, Boomi West, Boronga and Pilliga

NRsSt John’s Wort Warrumbungles NPAfrican Boxthorn Kirramingly & Careunga NRs, Midkin NRBlackberry Warrumbungle NP, Mt Kaputar NPBathurst Burr & Noogoora Burr Mt Kaputar NP, Warrumbungles NP, Macquarie Marshes NR,

Narran Lake NR, Brigalow Park & Claremont NRs, Boomi,Boomi West & Boronga NRs, Midkin & Careunga NRs,Planchonella & Gamilaroi NRs, Pilliga NR

Khaki Weed Warrumbungles NPCastor Oil Plant Kirramingly & Boomi West NRsPrickly Pear Mt Kaputar NP, Warrumbungles NP, Macquarie Marshes NR,

Narran Lake NR, Brigalow Park & Claremont NRs, Boomi,Boomi West & Boronga NRs, Midkin & Careunga NRs,Planchonella & Gamilaroi NRs, Pilliga NR.

Mother-of-Millions Mt Kaputar NPBlue Heliotrope Warrumbungle NP.Paterson’s Curse Warrumbungle NP.

Table 1: Distribution of weeds and pest animals on NPWS estate in Northern Plains Region.

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4.2 Threatened SpeciesThe conservation of threatened species isof the upmost importance whenconsidering pest management programs.Every effort is made to minimise anyimpacts to species, populations andcommunities when planning pestmanagement programs within theNorthern Plains Region, on and off park.

Pest control programs are undertaken inthe Northern Plains Region by NPWS to

protect those threatened species listed inTable 2.

In NSW, the threat abatement planningprocess is an excellent mechanism fordelivering strategic statewide initiatives toprotect threatened species. To date, athreat abatement plan has been finalisedfor foxes, with others in preparation, e.g.feral cats, bitou bush and plague minnow

.Threatened species Pest Program Reserve

Brush-tailed Rock-wallabyPetrogale penicillata

FoxGoat

Y Warrumbungle NP

Black-striped WallabyMacropus dorsalis

Fox Y Brigalow Park & ClaremontNRs

BrolgaGrus rubicundus

FoxPig

Y Narran Lake & MacquarieMarshes NRs

Australasian BitternBotaurus poiciloptilus

FoxPig

Y Narran Lake & MacquarieMarshes NRs

Pilliga MousePseudomys pilligaensis

Fox Y Pilliga NR

MalleefowlLeipoa ocellata

Fox Y Pilliga NR

Table 2: Threatened species protection programs in Northern Plains Region.

5 Regional Priorities

5.1 Criteria forPrioritising Pests

The following criteria reflect the keyresponsibilities and impacts that areconsidered by the NPWS when settingregional priorities for pest management.The availability of suitable technology andresources (financial, human and physical)also influences which programs areimplemented.

A. A pest for which a national orstate emergency control program has beendeveloped (e.g. feral animals implicated inany exotic disease outbreak).

B. Any relevant action specified in athreat abatement plan developed for a pestspecies which has been listed as a key

threatening process under the ThreatenedSpecies Conservation Act 1995.

C. Actions identified in recoveryplans for threatened species.

D. A pest that the community hasidentified as a high priority for action (thisincludes, but is not restricted to, pestsdeclared under the Noxious Weeds Act1993 or the Rural Lands Protection Act1998). Priority will generally be given tothose pests for which state or regionalmanagement strategies have beendeveloped, or where there is support for acollaborative program.

E. A pest which threatens theconservation, cultural heritage orrecreational values of an area.

F. A pest population of limiteddistribution but known to be an importantproblem in other parks, or in other statesor overseas.

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G. A pest for which continuedmanagement is necessary to maintainbenefits gained from previous controlprograms.

H. A pest for which a window ofopportunity occurs to undertake controlactivities (e.g. where an effectivebiocontrol agent is available, or feral pigcontrol during floods or droughts).

I. A pest which must becontrolled/contained to allow another highpriority management program to beeffective.

J. Other factors: For weeds, locationof the infestation (i.e. within a watercatchment or ease of access) and thepotential of an area to regeneratenaturally, will influence the priority givento a program (natural regeneration is morecost effective, reduces maintenance andmaintains the genetic integrity of plantcommunities).

The pest species in Northern PlainsRegion are prioritised for control based onthe extent to which they satisfy the abovecriteria, and on the probability of practicalsuccess of a control operation. The latteris determined by:

� the existence of an effective means ofcontrolling the pest species;

� the availability of resources toundertake effective control;

� the likely availability of resources inthe medium to long-term to maintaincontrol efforts.

5.2 Regional AssessmentTable 3 illustrates how the criteria andprobability of success are cross-referencedin order to group pest species into threepriority classes.

Extent to which criteria satisfiedHigh Med Low

High 1 1 2Med 1 2 3

Prob

abili

tyof

suc

cess

Low 2 3 3Table 3: Priority classes for pest species.

Table 4 shows the application of thecriteria to reserves and pest species inNorthern Plains Region, and the resultantpriority classes.

The appropriate timing for pest controlactivities is given in Appendix 1.

Although the focus of NPWS pestmanagement is the priority pest species,monitoring for emerging pest problems isundertaken on an ongoing basis. NPWSwill continue to work with the PestAnimal Council, NSW Agriculture,RLPBs and local councils to addressproblems as they arise (e.g. outbreaks ofCategory W1 weeds). Appendix 3 listsemerging pest species for the NorthernPlains Region.

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Table 4: Pest species priority classes for Northern Plains Region.

Pest Species Criteria Reserve Prob. ofsuccess

Priority

Pest Animals A B C D E F G H I JFeral Pig * * * * * Mt Kaputar NP,

WarrumbunglesNP, MacquarieMarshes NR,Narran Lake NR,Brigalow Park &Claremont NRs,Boomi, Boomi West& Boronga NRs,Midkin & CareungaNRs, Planchonella& Gamilaroi NRs,Pilliga NR,Binnaway NR,Weetalibah NR.

M 1

Wild Dog * * * Warrumbungle NP,Mt Kaputar

H 1

Fox * * * * * * * All reserves. M 1Rabbit * * * Scattered

populations inMidkin, Narran Lake& Pilliga NRs andMt Kaputar andWarrumbungle NP.

M 2

Feral Cat * * All reserves L 2Feral Goat * * Mt Kaputar NP,

WarrumbunglesNP, MacquarieMarshes NR,Narran Lake NR,Brigalow Park &Claremont NRs,Planchonella NR,Pilliga NR,Weetalibah NR.

M 2

Feral Cattle * * Pilliga NR M/H 1Feral Horse * Pilliga NR M 3Weed SpeciesSweet Briar * * * * Mt Kaputar NP,

Warrumbungle NP.H 1

Green Cestrum * * * * * Mt Kaputar &Warrumbungle NPs

H 1

Lippia * * * * MacquarieMarshes, Midkin &Boomi West NRs

L 1

Golden Dodder * * * * * * Macquarie MarshesNR, Narran LakeNR, Mt Kaputar NP.

M 2

Spiny BurrGrass

* * * * * Warrumbungle NP,Boomi, Boomi West& Boronga NRsPilliga NR.

H

H

1

2St John’s Wort * * * * Warrumbungle NP. M 1AfricanBoxthorn

* * * * Kirramingly &Careunga NRs,Midkin NR.

M 2

Blackberry * * * * * Mt Kaputar &Warrumbungle NPs

M 1

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Pest Species Criteria Reserve Prob. ofsuccess

Priority

Pest Animals A B C D E F G H I JBathurst/Noogoora Burr

* * * Mt Kaputar NP,Warrumbungle NP,Macquarie MarshesNR, Narran LakeNR, Brigalow Park& Claremont NRs,Boomi, Boomi West& Boronga NRs,Midkin & CareungaNRs, Planchonella& Gamilaroi NRs,Pilliga NR.

M 2

Khaki Weed * * * Warrumbungle NP. M 2Castor Oil Plant * * * * Kirramingly &

Boomi West NRs.M 3

Prickly Pears * * * * Mt Kaputar NP,Warrumbungle NP,Macquarie MarshesNR, Narran LakeNR, Brigalow Park& Claremont NRs,Boomi, Boomi West& Boronga NRs,Midkin & CareungaNRs, Planchonella& Gamilaroi NRs,Pilliga NR.

M 2

Mother-of-Millions

* * * * * Mt Kaputar NP. H 2

Blue Heliotrope * * Warrumbungle NP L 3Paterson’sCurse

* * Warrumbungle NP L 3

6 ProgramsThe following sections summarise thecontrol programs to be undertaken in theNorthern Plains Region, based on thepriorities established in Section 5.

6.1 Pest Animal SpeciesHIGH PRIORITY

6.1.1 Feral Pig - Sus scrofa

Distribution

Major populations occur in and around theNarran Lake, Macquarie Marshes andPlanchonella NRs. Moderate populationsoccur in and around Mt Kaputar NP,Warrumbungle NP, Pilliga NR, Boomiand Boomi West NRs, Brigalow Park and

Claremont NRs. Minor populations occurin all other Nature Reserves.

Impacts

Feral pigs can cause severe environmentaldegradation by:

• selective feeding on plantcommunities;

• creation of drainage channels inswamps;

• soil erosion and fouling of wateringpoints by their habit of wallowing androoting;

• direct predation on frogs, reptiles,ground-nesting birds and smallmammals;

• aggressive competition for food withsome species; and

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• as an agent for the spread of weeds,particularly Noogoora and BathurstBurrs.

Feral pigs can kill and eat lambs undertwo weeks of age, and as such can have anadverse impact on sheep breedingenterprises. They also compete withdomestic livestock for pasture forbs,damage cereal crops and introducedpastures, and damage fences.

Pigs are a major potential host of anumber of exotic diseases such as Footand Mouth, African Swine Fever andRinderpest, as well as viruses to whichhumans are susceptible, such as MurrayValley Encephalitis and Ross River Fever.

Control Methods

Control methods include:

� 1080 baiting

� live panel trapping (utilised onreserves and loaned to neighbours)

� aerial shooting

� ground shooting.

In Mt Kaputar NP, the Judas pig programis used to help determine the mostappropriate locations and times toimplement control programs.

Management Strategy

1. Continue to monitor pig distributionsand populations, using groundinspections and comments fromneighbours.

2. Continue with existing aerial shootingprograms in Narran Lakes, MacquarieMarshes, Boomi, Boomi West andPlanchonella NRs, and with groundshooting and trapping programs in MtKaptar NP, Warrumbungle NP andPilliga NR.

3. Maintain cooperation andcommunication with adjoining

landholders undertaking feral pigcontrol.

4. Continue monitoring and evaluation ofthe effectiveness of control programsand migration rates post control inidentified priority reserves. In MtKaputar NP the Judas Pig Program isused. Results from this program arestill being collated. It is hoped thatthis program will aid in determiningbetter logistical placement of traps andtiming of trapping programs. Pre andpost control counts are also used in MtKaputar NP and Narran Lake NR. Inother reserves a combination of aerialsurveys and neighbours’ commentsare used for monitoring.

Performance Measures

Pre and post counts, evaluations of controlprograms, and results from groundinspections of reserves indicating areduction in pig activity.

Comments from neighbours and visitors.

6.1.2 Feral Goat- Capra hircus

Distribution

Major populations occur in Mt KaputarNP, Warrumbungle NP and parts of thePilliga and Narran Lake NRs. A smallpopulation was on one occasion located inBrigalow Park NR (and was subsequentlyshot from a helicopter), and similar smallpopulations have been seen inPlanchonella and Weetalibah NRs and theMacquarie Marshes NR.

Impacts

Feral goats compete with native animalsfor water, food and shelter. They are amajor contributor to soil erosion, and canhave substantial impacts on vegetationstructure through overgrazing, and oncultural heritage sites. They may alsocarry exotic disease, especially Footrotand Ovine Johnes Disease (OJD).

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Control Methods


� Judas Goat program

� aerial control programs

� ground shooting.

Management Strategy

1. Monitor feral goat distribution andpopulations on NPWS managed lands.

2. Undertake Judas Goat program andaerial culling in cooperation withneighbours and governmentdepartments, and some groundshooting in Mt Kaputar NP and theWarrumbungle NP.

3. Undertake aerial culling and groundshooting in Narran Lake and PilligaNRs.

4. Monitor goat populations in areaswhere control activities are beingundertaken. Observations of goatnumbers and movements byneighbours, as well as on-groundassessments of damage caused bygoats are utilised.


Reduced goat populations as indicated byoccasional index-removal-index or morefrequent on-ground monitoring programs.Scat counts are undertaken around Brush-tailed Rock-wallaby colonies in theWarrumbungle NP.

Visual assessments indicatingregeneration of native vegetationsusceptible to impacts attributed to feralgoats, and reduced soil damage (e.g. goatpads).

Ongoing evaluation of the Judas Goatprogram and aerial control programs.

Comments from neighbours and visitorsregarding feral goat sightings.

6.1.3 European Red Fox - Vulpesvulpes

Distribution

Widespread throughout the NorthernPlains Region. They are a particularproblem in the Narran Lake NR andMacquarie Marshes NR where ground-nesting birds are found in large numberson occasions. They are also a problemaround Careunga, Brigalow Park,Claremont, Kirramingly, Boomi West,Planchonella and Pilliga NRs,Warrumbungle and Mt Kaputar NPs andwhere neighbours have sheep breedingenterprises.

Further work is to be carried out inrelation to scat analysis, the results fromwhich may raise the priority for foxcontrol within the Northern Plains Region.Key recommendations from the FoxThreat Abatement Plan will aid indetermining priorities in regard to foxcontrol programs and where they shouldtake place.

Impacts

Fox predation is a major threat to nativeanimal populations, including threatenedspecies, and can have a serious impact onfarm livestock. Foxes are an agent for thedispersal of noxious weeds and are apotential carrier of disease.

The Fox TAP highlights the threat fromfoxes to the Brush-tailed Rock-wallabypopulation in Warrumbungle NP, Black-striped Wallabies in Claremont andBrigalow Park NRs, Brolgas at NarranLakes, and Brolgas and AustralasianBitterns at the Macquarie Marshes (NSWNPWS 2001a).

Control Methods

Fox control should be undertaken in thepeak dispersal period (Autumn) but morefrequently in relation to predation onthreatened species (NSW NPWS 2001a).

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Methods include:

� ground baiting with 1080, using bestpractice;

� trapping; and

� opportunistic shooting (underendorsed shooting plans).

Management Strategy

Fox management will occur in accordancewith management models proposed withinthe Fox Threat Abatement Plan (NSWNPWS 2001a). Management activitiesinclude:

1. Monitor fox populations Region-wide.

2. Undertake coordinated programs incooperation with other agencies andimmediate neighbours andstakeholders (e.g. landcare groups andfox control committees) to protectthreatened and other native species (asper Threat Abatement Plan, NSWNPWS 2001a and recovery plans, e.gBrush-tailed Rock-wallaby population,NSW NPWS 2002). Strategic 1080baiting programs are carried out on allestate along with ground shooting.Priorities are during waterbirdbreeding events at Narran Lake andthe Macquarie Marshes NRs, aroundthe Brush-tailed Rock-wallabycolonies in Warrumbungle NP, andduring lambing periods.

3. Undertake monitoring in all areaswhere fox control programs areundertaken.


Increased recovery of threatened speciesas per high priority programs identified inthe Fox Threat Abatement Plan.

Short-term reduction in fox numbers asindicated by bait uptake (all programs),and spotlight surveys (e.g. Narran LakeNR). These techniques are used to

monitor the population of animals that willtake baits.

Comments from neighbours.

MEDIUM PRIORITY

6.1.4 European Wild Rabbit -Oryctolagus cuniculus

Distribution

Rabbits occur in scattered populationsthroughout the Region. Rabbitpopulations vary throughout all NPWSmanaged lands and are more common inareas of disturbance or on areas adjacentto agricultural lands. The largestpopulations occur within theWarrumbungle NP. Small populations arepresent in Narran Lake and Pilliga NRsand Mt Kaputar NP.

Impacts

Rabbits cause environmental damage inthe following ways:

• soil erosion;

• grazing on native vegetation &reducing regeneration;

• competition with native animals forsuitable habitat; and

� impacts on historic sites throughfoundation disturbance.

Control Methods

Rabbit control uses a combination ofcontrol techniques, mainly warrendestruction and fumigation, but alsoincluding baiting, trapping, shooting andbiological controls. For example,European Flea was established in theWarrumbungle NP populations aboutseven years ago, and assists with thespread of myxomatosis, which isreintroduced each year. Myxomatosis wasalso released at the Narran Lake NR in1996.

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Programs also make use of naturaloutbreaks of myxomatosis and calicivirusto further suppress populations.

Ground shooting is the principal techniqueused in Northern Plains Region.

Management Strategy

1. Monitor rabbit activity and evaluatetheir impact in NPWS reserves, usingspotlight surveys, ground inspections,and comments from neighbours.

2. Undertake ground shooting programsfor small populations.

3. Continue with warren ripping and bio-control in Warrumbungle NP andPilliga NR.


A reduction in rabbit activity as indicatedby spotlight surveys and groundinspections.


6.1.5 Wild Dogs - Canis familiaris

Distribution

There have been very few reports of wilddogs in the Northern Plains Region. Inrecent years one report was made each forthe Warrumbungle and Mt Kaputar NPs(see section 4.1.1). The NPWS hasresponded to each of these incidents,undertaking control programs inconjunction with neighbours and RLPBs.

Impacts

Wild dogs prey on domestic stock andnative fauna. They can act as a vectorspreading disease to native fauna. Wilddogs can also hybridise with dingoes.

Control Methods

Wild dog control methods include:

• 1080 baiting;

• trapping;

• shooting; and

• fencing.

Effective wild dog control requirescooperative control with neighbours.Prompt notification to the local RLPBsand adjoining neighbours of an issue canresult in the development of a coordinatedprogram to address particular concerns.

Management Strategy

1. Increase community awareness ofresponsible dog ownership in urbanareas in conjunction with localgovernment.

2. Improve communication andcooperation with adjoininglandholders.

3. Maintain a regional database ofreports/complaints by reserve tomonitor wild dog activity.

4. Undertake 1080 baiting andopportunistic shooting wherenecessary.


Increased neighbour participation inidentifying where wild dogs are observed.

Increased neighbour participation incontrol of isolated wild dog incidents.

Reduced incidence of wild dog problems,as indicated by a reduction in the numberof reports/complaints.

6.1.6 Feral Cat - Felis catus

Distribution

Known to occur throughout the Regionbut abundance unknown.

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Impacts

Feral cats predate on native reptiles, frogs,small mammals and bird species, competefor food and act as a reservoir for diseasesand parasites which can be transferred tonative fauna, domestic stock and humans.

Control Methods

No pesticide is currently licensed for useon cats. Other control methods includetrapping, opportunistic shooting andfencing, however they are largelyineffective. Feral cats are a difficult pestanimal to control, and major advances intheir control will depend on furtherprogress with the cat-specific toxin andbaiting system currently being developed.

Management Strategy

1. Develop a database of cat sightings torecord the distribution/abundance offeral cats on NPWS reserves.

2. Encourage NPWS staff and thecommunity to contribute to thedatabase.

3. Increase community awareness ofresponsible cat ownership inconjunction with local government,NPWS newsletters etc.

4. Undertake cat trapping when requiredfor problem animals.


Increased community awareness asindicated by community contribution tothe cat sightings database.

Better understanding of abundance anddistribution of cats.

Removal of identified problem cats usingavailable techniques.

6.2 Weed SpeciesHIGH PRIORITY

6.2.1 Sweet Briar - Rosa rubiginosa

Distribution

Sweet Briar is found in the lower altitudedisturbed areas of the Warrumbungle NPand of Mt Kaputar NP, along the HortonRiver on the eastern boundary. Also alongthe Horsearm Creek around the historicScutt’s Hut. Major control works werecompleted in 1994/95 however this willrequire a large follow up program.Vigilance will need to be maintained asplants in near proximity to the easternedge of the park present a possible sourceof infestation.

Impacts

Sweet Briar is an invasive weed thatcompetes with native species. It occurs ondisturbed areas, growing densely if leftunchecked, and can harbour noxiousanimals such as rabbits and pigs.

Control Methods

Application of registered herbicidesaccording to label directions:

• basal bark application for bushes up to5cm diameter, with stems saturated upto 30cm from ground level;

• cut and paint method: fully maturedbushes are cut off close to groundlevel and the stump is treatedimmediately;

• broad spraying of foliage withherbicide.

Management Strategy

Apply registered herbicides atrecommended rates in priority areas,particularly riparian zones.

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Monitor and control spread from nearbyinfestations.


Ground inspections indicating a reductionin the degree of infestation, both in areaand plant density.

Comments from neighbours and parkvisitors.

6.2.2 Green Cestrum - Cestrumparqui

Distribution

Green Cestrum occurs only as a moderatepopulation in the northern boundary ofWarrumbungle NP and along the westernboundary of Mt Kaputar NP (Ningadooarea). It is quite common on severalproperties neighbouring Mt Kaputar NP.Although these populations have beenbrought under control continuedmonitoring is vital if this weed is not to re-establish.

Impacts

Green Cestrum is an invasive weed that isalso poisonous to stock. It produces alarge seedbank, from which it readily re-establishes following treatment.

Control Methods

Green Cestrum can be controlled withherbicides or by manual removal.Herbicides effective in killing GreenCestrum are applied as an overall spray,thoroughly wetting the plants in the activegrowth stage before flowering. Flowersare produced over several months throughsummer and autumn.

Management Strategy

Apply herbicides at recommended rates inpriority areas along waterways (e.g.Barradine Creek in Warrumbungle NP)and along boundaries, to preventinfestation of private land where stock arepresent.

Physical removal of isolated plants isundertaken in tributary headwaters withinWarrumbungle NP.

Monitor for emergence of new plants, andcontrol.

Continue cooperative programs withneighbours.


Ground inspections indicating a reductionin abundance and requirements for followup treatments.

Re-establishment prevented.


6.2.3 Lippia - Phyla nodiflora

Distribution

Located in the Macquarie Marshes NRand as isolated patches in Boomi WestNR. Recently found in Midkin NR.

Impacts

A very invasive weed which competeswith native plant species. Alleopathic(poisons the soil and prevents emergenceof other plant species). Also contributesto erosion: roots grow down to 1 metrecausing cracks to open and allowing rainand floodwater to penetrate and wash soilaway.

Plant segments break off and float away inflood waters, resulting in establishment ofinfestations distant from the source.

Control Methods

Some chemical control possible, howevereffective control options are limited inproximity to crops and waterways.

Management Strategy

Trial control options and assess efficacyand surrounding impacts.

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On the basis of trial results, implement aneffective control technique, monitoringspread. The Boomi West infestation haspresent priority given the small area ofinfestation, affordable cost of treatment,and isolation from crops.

Keep up to date on latest developments forLippia control. Liase with MurrayDarling Lippia Management Committee.



Spread is controlled.

6.2.4 Golden Dodder - Cuscutacampestris

Distribution

Golden Dodder has established itselfthroughout a large proportion of theNarran Lake NR (initial aerial mappingwas undertaken in 1996). It has alsorecently been detected along the BullawaCreek area of Mount Kaputar NP. Anisolated population also occurs in theMacquarie Marshes NR.

Impacts

Dodder is a parasitic weed that isattacking Lignum in the Narran Lake NR.It is degenerating the Lignum in areaswhere it is used by water birds for nesting.Along the Bullawa Creek the weed hasbeen observed on native and exoticgrasses.

Seeds float away in flood waters, resultingin establishment of infestations distantfrom the source.

Control Methods

Golden Dodder can be controlled withherbicides, however the parasitic nature ofthis species necessitates that the host plantis also killed.

Management Strategy

Aerial and ground spraying in the springor when conditions permit (good soilmoisture, healthy growing plants).


Pre and post control aerial transectsindicating a reduction in the degree ofinfestation, both in area and plant density.

Regular ground monitoring.


6.2.5 Spiny Burr Grass – Cenchrusincertus

Distribution

Spiny Burr Grass was identified on thesandy ridges on the western side ofBoronga Nature Reserve, and occurs inareas near the Narran Lake NR. It is alsodistributed throughout reserves within theCoonabarabran Area.

Impacts

Spiny Burr Grass is an invasive weed thathas the ability to spread rapidly into densewidespread infestations and compete withnative species. Stock will graze on earlygrowth but the burrs on mature plantscause health problems in stock, dogs andhumans. The sharp rigid barbed spinesmeans that the burrs are a major woolcontaminant and their presence candegrade visitor areas.

Each plant can yield up to 1000 seeds, andthese can lay dormant for as long as threeyears. Spiny Burr Grass can germinate atany time of the year if moisture is present.

Control Methods

Several herbicides are effective for thecontrol of Spiny Burr Grass. These areapplied to actively growing plants for non-selective control. This weed is generallysprayed in the summer.

20

To reduce spread of this weed vehiclemovements are restricted to roads andlimited to service access only.

Management Strategy

Apply registered herbicides atrecommended rates. All infestations areof equal priority.

Monitor and control spread from nearbyinfestations.




6.2.6 St John’s Wort – Hypericumperforatum

Distribution

This weed has been identified in areasoutside of Mt Kaputar NP and as isolatedpatches in some open disturbed areaswithin the Warrumbungle NP.

Impacts

Invades disturbed areas with the capacityto move into open forest and alongcreeklines. It is considered to be a seriousagricultural weed.

This noxious weed is poisonous to stockand native fauna, and can cause exposedskin to become photosensitive in manyspecies. It also has the potential to causeirritation to humans.

St John’s Wort competes with other plantspecies for light and nutrients throughoutthe year, and can outcompete almost allother understorey plant species. It spreadsby seeds and lateral roots, and can formdense infestations of up to 250 stems persquare metre.

Control Methods

Effective biological control agents (e.g.Chrysolina insect) are available subject toapproval.

Strategic use of herbicides. The optimumstage of growth for spraying occurs inspring when plants are about 45cm talland are actively growing. However, thisvaries with the herbicide being used (e.g.pre-flowering stage, or flowering stage).

Physical removal of isolated plants canalso be employed.

Management Strategy

1. Treat St John’s Wort in highlyaccessible and/or recreational areas.Continue to treat infestations alongroad and track edges to prevent furtherspread.

2. Continue existing targeted programsfor all infestation areas within theRegion’s protected area network (ie.spot spraying and hand removal ofisolated patches).

3. Implement control and strategicherbicide application to isolatedinfestations in coordination with otherweed management control projects asthey are identified.

4. Liaise with Macquarie CountyCouncil and NSW Agricultureregarding release of biological controlagents.

5. Investigate the potential effectivenessand the practicality for strategicrelease of biological control agentsthroughout the Region subject toappropriate approval andenvironmental impact determinationprocess.


Ground inspections and comments fromneighbours indicating the successful

21

control of infestations, and the eradicationof small isolated infestations.

Prevention of spread and establishment ofnew infestations.

6.2.7 African Boxthorn - Lyciumferocissimum

Distribution

Moderate populations of Boxthorn occurin Midkin, Careunga and KirraminglyNRs. Minor populations also occur inPlanchonella, Claremont and Narran LakeNRs. Many of these populations havebeen chemically treated, however followup spraying of regrowth is required eachyear.

Impacts

Can be an aggressive invader in areaswhere soil disturbance occurs. High soilreserves of dormant seed can germinateunder ideal conditions.

Occurs mostly in watercourses andprovides ideal cover for feral pigs, rabbitsand cats. Smothers and outcompetesnative vegetation and threatens theconservation and recreational values ofservice estate.

Control Methods

Basal bark application of registeredherbicide-diesel mix is used inconjunction with physical removal oflarge plants, such as stump grubbing. Sixmonths after physical removal, stumps,small bushes and regrowth are treated withan appropriate herbicide

Management Strategy

Continue an integrated approach usingchemical and mechanical controlmeasures.

Reduce plant numbers in all areas via highvolume and basal bark spraying.

Monitor plants treated for regrowth, andfor newly germinated seeds.

Encourage neighbour participation insimilar control programs.




6.2.8 Blackberry - Rubus fruiticosus

Distribution

Blackberry is a declared noxious weed inNSW and is often restricted to disturbedareas. Blackberry occurs in smallpopulations in the Warrumbungle and MtKaputar NPs.

Impacts

Rapidly invades disturbed areas fromunderground suckers and has the capacityto move into open forest and alongcreeklines.

Blackberry forms dense thickets, therebyexcluding light from the soil surface andreducing the area of ground available tonative species. This enables it to seriouslyimpede the regeneration of native species.It is highly visible to the public andprovides shelter and foraging habitats forferal animals.

Control Methods

Strategic herbicide application is the mosteffective, efficient and cost effectivemethod to control populations ofBlackberry. Dead shrubs are subsequentlyburnt in some areas to allow any newgrowth to be accessed and treated.

A biological control agent, Rust Fungusexists, but is not used in NPR.

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Management Strategy

1. Identify and map Blackberryinfestations on NPWS managed lands.

2. Treatment of Blackberry by staff andcontractors with subsequent follow-upas per annual works programs.

3. Annual monitoring of treatment sites.

4. Increase public awareness throughinvolvement with local governmentand Noxious Weeds AdvisoryCommittee.


Reduction in isolated infestations, both inarea and plant density, of Blackberryacross the Region, as indicated by annualmonitoring.

6.2.9 Bathurst Burr & NoogooraBurr - Xanthium spp.

Distribution

These weeds occur in isolated patchesthroughout the Region. The MacquarieMarshes and Narran Lake NRs have attimes major populations. The problem ofregular inundation makes these specieshard to control in the wetlands. Theextended dry periods that occur in theNarran Lake NR make the weed less of aproblem in that reserve.

Impacts

Designated as a noxious weed primarilydue to its spoiling effect on wool. It isprevalent in disturbed locations, such asalong roadside drains, around natural andman-made water points and floodoutareas.

Each burr contains two seeds, one ofwhich may not germinate for severalseasons after the first seed has germinated.Mature burrs are readily dispersed byanimals and flowing water.

Noogoora Burr is highly invasive in floodprone areas on a range of soils from sandyclay loams to heavy self mulching clays.Masses of seedlings establish after latespring of summer flooding, crowding outother species of plants. It is a vigorouscompetitor against all native pasturespecies.

Control Methods


• hoeing and manual removal (handremoval) of small outbreaks;

• selective herbicide application usingspot spraying.

Management Strategy

All known Bathurst and Noogoora Burrinfestations will be treated with annualfollow up.

Contain current areas of infestation andmonitor areas for new outbreaks. Treat alloutbreaks as they occur and before theyset seed.



6.2.10 Khaki Weed – Alternantherapungens

Distribution

Warrumbungles NP and around somedisturbed areas in Mt Kaputar NP.

Impacts

Khaki Weed readily invades disturbedsoils and is poisonous to animals. Its mostobjectionable feature is its prickly burrswhich adhere to rubber tyres, footwear,clothing and animals, which may help it tospread.

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Control Methods

Application of herbicides prior to seeding.

Management Strategy

Apply registered herbicides atrecommended rates in priorityconservation areas e.g. campsite areas,high visitation areas, walking trails, androadsides.


Ground inspections and comments byvisitors indicating a reduction in thedegree of infestation, both in area andplant density. Specifically, management isaimed at control within high visitationareas, eradication of small isolated patchesand preventing spread of this weed.

6.2.11 Castor Oil Plant - Ricinuscommunis

Distribution

Castor Oil Plants have been identified inthe Boomi West Nature Reserve and are amajor cause of concern to theneighbouring landholders. A minorpopulation also exists in Mt Kaputar NP.These infestations occur in disturbed areason old farmland sites. Chemical control ofthis weed in Boomi West seems to haveeliminated this weed from the reserve.

Impacts

Outcompetes native plant species.

Seeds of the Castor Oil Plant are known tocontain toxins that can cause gastro-intestinal upsets, dermatitis, conjunctivitisand bronchial irritation in humans. It isalso suspected of poisoning stock, andmay cause poisoning of native animals.

Control Methods

Dig out and burn single plants. Herbicidesare effective on larger colonies. Overallsprays are applied when the plants areactively growing, thoroughly wetting

leaves and stems. With very large plantsslash and immediately paint the cutstumps.

Physical removal of mature plants inisolated patches. Foliar spraying ofseedlings.

Management Strategy

Apply registered herbicides atrecommended rates.


Ground inspections indicating a reductionin the degree of infestation, both in areaand plant density. Long-term managementinvolves eradication of infestations fromthese disturbed sites.


6.2.12 Prickly Pears - Opuntia spp.

Distribution

Prickly Pear is located throughout MtKaputar NP in variable densities. Highnumbers of this plant are present atBoronga, Boomi, and Boomi West NRs.Moderate to low populations exist in mostother reserves. Tiger Pear is located inMidkin NR in moderate numbers. PricklyPear has been treated with herbicide in allnorthern reserves and follow up sprayingin these areas is required. This follow upwork has been ongoing for a number ofyears. Prickly Pear has been treated withherbicides treated in the Narran Lake NRalso and this area also requires follow upspraying.

Impacts

This plant is particularly invasive, and assuch poses a threat to native plants. Newplants grow from seed, or when a segmentbreaks off, takes root and becomesestablished.

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Control Measures

Biological agents (Cactoblastis or PricklyPear Moth) are relied on to control thisplant. In some areas the plant is beingsprayed with Garlon and diesel.

Management Strategy

Distribute caterpillars of Cactoblastismoth.

Apply registered herbicides atrecommended rates in areas wheremechanical spread of the cactus hasoccurred (e.g. alongside vehicular accesstracks).




6.2.13 Mother-of-Millions -Bryophllum delagoense

Distribution

This weed is located around an old hutfound within the boundaries of MtKaputar National Park in the Spring Creekarea. Access is gained to this site throughthe property ‘Evansdale’.

Impacts

Mother-of-millions is toxic, however thechemical nature of the toxin is not known.It is known to have caused cattle deaths,and is apparently toxic to humans.

Control Measures

Repeated application of registeredherbicide using a hand gun and knapsackspray will be used to control this smallinfestation. Thorough coverage of leavesand plantlets is necessary, and a wettingagent is needed to penetrate the cuticle.

Management Strategy

Apply registered herbicides atrecommended rates.


Ground inspections and comments fromneighbours to ensure eradication.

6.2.14 Blue Heliotrope -Heliotropium amplexicaule

Distribution

Blue Heliotrope is predominantly found inthe Central Valley of the WarrumbungleNP. It occurs along roadsides and oldcultivation and pasture areas. Populationsalso occur on grazing areas adjacent to thePilliga NR.

Impacts

Blue Heliotrope out-competes morepalatable species grazed by nativeherbivores. Its domination of the CentralValley is linked to excessive grazingpressure by the heavy concentration ofEastern Grey Kangaroos. Anexperimental kangaroo exclosure has beenestablished in the middle of the CentralValley. Within this 70 ha exclosure, thekangaroo population is controlled atapproximately 1 per hectare. This controlhas resulted in a reduction in weedspecies, in particular Blue Heliotrope andan increase in the coverage of nativegrasses. Blue Heliotrope is a declarednoxious weed and can cause liver toxicityin livestock although this has not beenshown to occur in macropods.

Control Measures

Herbicide

Biological control

Reduced grazing pressure

25

Management Strategy

Revegetation of the central cleared areasof the Warrumbungle NP to shade out theweed.

Strategic spraying along fire trails andpark boundaries to prevent further spread.

Maintenance of existing kangarooexclosure and further fencing of selectedareas to control kangaroo populations.

Investigation of other methods ofcontrolling kangaroo populations.

Continued monitoring of changes in thedensity of Blue Heliotrope in the mainkangaroo exclosure.

Continued co-operation with BlueHeliotrope Action Committee in therelease of Blue Heliotrope leaf beetle.


Prevent spread and establishment of newinfestations.

6.2.15 Paterson’s Curse - Echiumplantagineum

Distribution

Paterson’s Curse is predominantly foundin the Central Valley of theWarrumbungle NP. It occurs alongroadsides and old cultivation and pastureareas.

Impacts

Although not as aggressive and resilient asBlue Heliotrope, Paterson’s Curse out-competes more palatable species grazedby native herbivores. Its domination ofthe Central Valley is linked to excessivegrazing pressure by the heavyconcentration of Eastern Grey Kangaroos.

Control Measures

Herbicide

Biological control

Reduced grazing pressure

Management Strategies

Revegetation of the central cleared areasof the Warrumbungle NP to shade out theweed.

Strategic spraying along fire trails andpark boundaries to prevent further spread.

Manual spreading of the biological controlagents through strategic placement of theshadecloth enclosures.

Spot spraying in high visual and high useareas such as the turf at Camp Blackmanand around the visitor centre.

Slashing at camp grounds and picnic areasto prevent the weed seeding.


Prevention of spread and establishment ofnew infestations.

7 ConclusionPest management programs have beenundertaken throughout Northern PlainsRegion based on priorities andrecommendations in the previous regionalplan. This review of the 1995 PestManagement Strategies will assist in thecontinuation of works programs for 2003-2006 and highlight planning needs.

Setting priorities is only the beginning ofpest management. Once regionalpriorities are established, the planning,implementation of programs, monitoringand evaluation begins.

Successful pest management takes time.Programs are successful if they are wellplanned ensuring the appropriate control

26

techniques are used and follow-up isundertaken. Programs are also moreeffective if neighbours are encouraged tobecome actively involved in the overallimplementation of the programs across thelandscape.

This management strategy is only a tool toestablish pest priorities and establishbroad management guidelines. Moredetailed plans for individual pests orreserves have been prepared or requirepreparation as companions to this strategy.

The Northern Plains Region Pest SpeciesManagement Plan will be reviewedannually.

8 AcknowledgementsThe following National Parks & WildlifeService staff provided assistance in thepreparation of this plan: Melissa Schroder,Andrew Leys, Michael Fleming, KerryHolmes, Jim Balnaves, Dan Hough, JasonNeville and Heath Cull.

Report Prepared by:

Darren Pitt & Scott Filmer

Northern Plains Region.

9 Further ReadingBlood, K. (2001). Environmental weeds:a field guide for SE Australia. CRC WeedManagement Systems. CH Jerram &Associates – Science Publishers, MtWaverley.

Braysher, M. (1993). ManagingVertebrate Pests: Principles andStrategies. Bureau of Resource Sciences,Australian Government PublishingService: Canberra.

Choquenot, D., McIlroy, J. and Korn, T.(1996). Managing Vertebrate Pests:Feral Pigs. Bureau of Resource Sciences,Australian Government PublishingService: Canberra.

Ensbey, R. (ed). (2001). Noxious andenvironmental weed control handbook –2001/2002. NSW Agriculture: Orange.

Fleming, P., Corbett, L., Harden, R. andThomson, P. (2001). Managing theImpacts of Dingoes and Other Wild Dogs.Bureau of Rural Sciences, AustralianGovernment Publishing Service:Canberra.

Low, T. (2000). Feral Future – Theuntold story of Australia’s ExoticInvaders. Viking.

NSW Agriculture. (1993). NSW NoxiousWeed Legislation. Agnote.

NSW Agriculture. (1996). VertebratePest Control Manual. NSW Agriculture:Orange.

NSW Agriculture. (Sept 1999). NSWNoxious Weeds List. Agnote.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.(2001a). Threat Abatement Plan forPredation by the Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes).NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.Hurstville.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.(2001b). Operational Plan – NorthernPlains Region. NSW National Parks andWildlife Service. Unpublished report.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.(2002). Warrumbungle Brush-tailedRock-wallaby Endangered PopulationRecovery Plan. NSW National Parks andWildlife Service, Hurstville NSW.

Olsen, P. (1998). Australia's PestAnimals: New Solutions to Old Problems.Bureau of Resource Sciences andKangaroo Press: East Roseville.

Parkes, J., Henzell, R. and Pickles, G.(1996). Managing Vertebrate Pests:Feral Goats. Bureau of Resource Science.Australian Government PublishingService: Canberra.

27

Parsons, W. T. and Cuthbertson, E. G.(1992). Noxious Weeds of Australia.Inkata Press: Melbourne.

Pitt, D. (2001). Pest Control Guidelines -Northern Plains, Narrabri Area. NSWNational Parks and Wildlife Service.Unpublished report.

Pitt, D. (2001). Pest Strategy - NarrabriArea. NSW National Parks and WildlifeService. Unpublished report.

Saunders, G., Coman, B., Kinnear, J. andBraysher, M. (1995). Managingvertebrate Pests: Foxes. Bureau ofResource Sciences. AustralianGovernment Publishing Service:Canberra.

Sindel, B. M. (ed). (2000) AustralianWeed Management Systems. (R. G. and F.J. Richardson, Melbourne). 506pp.

Williams, K., Parer, I., Coman, J.B.,Burley, J. and Braysher, M. (1995).Managing Vertebrate Pests: Rabbits.Bureau of Resource Science. AustralianGovernment Publishing Service:Canberra.

Personal Communication:

Leys, Andrew Dr (2001). CoordinatorPest Management, NPWS Head OfficeSydney.

Fleming, Mike (2001). Manager OSCU,NPWS Dubbo.

28

Appendix 1: Timing of Pest Control Programs

The NPWS tries to adopt a strategic approach to pest animal control, whilst also allowingsufficient flexibility to capitalise on windows of opportunity which arise, (such as floods,droughts, fire). Similarly, some opportunistic weed control is undertaken in response to localevents (e.g. control of mass germinations following flooding or rainfall events). Timing ofcontrol activities varies with the method used. For pest animal control activities, the timingsindicated are general in nature and are influenced by factors such as varying seasonal conditions.Factors that determine timing of herbicide application include growth stage of the plant, time ofyear, herbicide used, mode of application and weather conditions. The following table outlinesthe best time for control or key pest species in the Northern Plains Region. Timing for weedspecies refer to herbicide treatment only.

Pest Control Method Summer Autumn Winter Spring

Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov

Goat Aerial shooting Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

Ground shooting Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

Pig Aerial shooting Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y


1080 baiting Y Y Y

Trapping Y Y Y Y Y Y

Fox 1080 baiting Y Y Y Y Y


Cat Trapping Y Y Y Y Y Y


Rabbit 1080 baiting Y Y Y

Ripping Y Y Y

Fumigation Y Y Y


Sweet Briar Herbicide treatment Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

Green Cestrum Herbicide treatment Y Y Y

Salvinia Herbicide treatment Y Y Y

Lippia Herbicide treatment

Golden Dodder Herbicide treatment Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

Spiny Burr Grass Herbicide treatment Y Y Y

St John’s Wort Herbicide treatment Y Y Y

African Boxthorn Herbicide treatment Y Y Y Y Y

Water Hyacinth Herbicide treatment Y Y Y Y Y Y

Bathurst Burr Herbicide treatment Y Y Y Y

Chipping Y Y Y Y

Noogoora Burr Herbicide treatment Y Y Y Y

Chipping Y Y Y Y

29

Pest Control Method Summer Autumn Winter Spring

Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov

Khaki Weed Herbicide treatment Y Y Y

Castor Oil Plant Herbicide treatment Y Y Y

Prickly Pears Herbicide treatment Y Y Y

Biological agent Y Y Y Y Y Y

Mother-of-Millions Herbicide treatment Y Y Y

Devil’s Claw Herbicide treatment Y Y Y

Parthenium Weed Herbicide treatment Y Y Y

Mexican Poppy Herbicide treatment Y Y Y

30

Appendix 2: Noxious Weeds of the Northern Plains Region

Common name Botanical name

Bre

war

rina

Cas

tlere

agh/

Mac

quar

ieC

ount

y C

ounc

il

Gun

neda

h

Mor

ree

Plai

ns

Nar

arbr

i

Nor

th W

est

Cou

nty

Cou

ncil

African Boxthorn Lycium ferocissium W2 W2 W3 W3 W3 W3Alligator Weed Alternanthera

philoxeroidesW1 W1 W1 W1 W1 W1

Bathurst Burr/ NoogooraBurr.

Xanthium spp. W3 W3 W3 W3 W3 W3

Blackberry Rubus fruiticosus W2 W3 W3 W3Black Knapweed Centaurea nigra W1 W1 W1 W1 W1 W1Blue Heliotrope Heliotropum

amplexicauleW2 W2 W3

Broomrape Orobanche spp. W1 W1 W1 W1 W1 W1Cabomba Cabomba spp. W4g W4g W4g W4g W4g W4gColumbas Grass Sorghum x almum W2 W2 W3 W3 W3 W3Dodder Cuscuta spp. W2 W2 W2 W2 W2 W2Galvanised Burr Sclerolaena birchii W3 W2 W3 W3 W2Giant Parramatta Grass Sporobulus indicus var.

majorW2 W2

Green Cestrum Cestrum parqui W2 W2 W2 W2 W2 W2Harrisia Harrisia cactus W4f W4f W4f W4f W4f W4fHawkeweeds Hieracium spp. W1 W1 W1 W1 W1 W1Hemlock Conium maculatum W3 W3 W3 W3Horsetail Equisetum spp. W1 W1 W1 W1 W1 W1Johnson Grass Sorghum halepense W2 W2 W3 W3 W3 W3Karoo Thorn Acacia karroo W1 W1 W1 W1 W1 W1Kochia Kochia scoparia W1 W1 W1 W1 W1 W1Lagarosiphon Lagarosiphon major W1 W1 W1 W1 W1 W1Lippia Phyla spp. W4c W4cLongstyle Feather Grass Pennisetum villosum W3 W3 W3Mesquite Prosopis spp. W1 W1 W1 W1Mexican Feather Grass Nassella tenuissima syn

StipaW1 W1 W1 W1 W1 W1

Miconia Miconia spp. W1 W1 W1 W1 W1Mintweed Salvia reflexa W3 W3Mother-of-Millions Bryophyllum delagoense W3 W4c W3Nodding Thistle Carduus nutans W2 W2Parthenium Weed Parthenium

hysterophorusW1 W1 W1 W1 W1 W1

Pampas Grass Cortaderia selloana W2 W2 W2 W2 W2Paterson’s Curse Echium spp. W3 W3 W3Perennial Ragweed Ambrosia psilostachya W2Prickly Acacia Acacia nilotica W1 W1 W1 W1 W1Prickly Pear Opuntia spp. W4f W4f W4f W4f W4f W4fRhus Tree Toxicodendron

succedaneumW2 W2 W2 W2 W2 W2

Salvinia Salvinia molesta W1 W1 W1 W1 W1 W1Senegal Tea Plant Gymnocoronis

spilanthoidesW1 W1 W1 W1 W1 W1

Serrated Tussock Nassella trichotoma W2 W2Siam weed Chromolaena odorata W1 W1 W1 W1 W1 W1Silverleaf Nightshade Solanum elaeagnifolium W2 W2 W2 W2 W2Spiny Burr Grass Cenchrus sp. W2 W3 W2 W2 W3 W2Spotted Knapweed Centaurea maculosa W1 W1 W1 W1 W1 W1St John’s Wort Hypericum perforatum W2 W2 W2 W2 W2

31

Common name Botanical name

Bre

war

rina

Cas

tlere

agh/

Mac

quar

ieC

ount

y C

ounc

il

Gun

neda

h

Mor

ree

Plai

ns

Nar

arbr

i

Nor

th W

est

Cou

nty

Cou

ncil

Sweet Briar Rosa rubignosa W3 W3Tree of Heaven Ailanthus altissima W2Water Hyacinth Eichhornia crasspipes W1 W1 W1 W1 W1 W1Water Lettuce Pistia stratiotes W1 W1 W1 W1 W1 W1Willows Salix spp. except S.

babylonica, S. reichardtiiand S. calodendron

W4g W4g W4g W4g W4g W4g

Table of Explanation:W1 The presence of the weed on land must be notified to the local control authority, and the weed must be fullyand continually suppressed and destroyed.W2 The weed must be fully & continually suppressed and destroyed.W3 The weed must be prevented from spreading & its numbers and distribution reduced.W4 Various actions according to the following categories:(c) The weed must not be sold, propagated or knowingly distributed, and the weed must be prevented from spreading toan adjoining property.(f) The weed must not be sold, propagated or knowingly distributed. Any biological control or other control programdirected by a local control authority must be implemented.(g) The weed must not be sold, propagated or knowingly distributed.

Appendix 3: Emerging Pest Issues

Weed or pest animals which currently either do not occur or are suspected to occur on NPWSmanaged lands in Northern Plains Region and are a known problem in other natural areas. Thesespecies will be monitored and control programs developed where necessary.

Pest Locations

Deer Weetalibah NR, Warrumbungle NP

Feral Cattle Narran Lake NR

Salvinia Macquarie Marshes NR, Narran Lake NR

Water Hyacinth Macquarie Marshes NR, Narran Lake NR

Parthenium Weed All estate. Localised infestations have been found on major roadsin NSW. Continual vigilance is required by all land managers toprevent spread of new outbreaks.

NSWNATIONALPARKS ANDWILDLIFESERVICE

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