Buffel Grass Discovered in Arno Bay Town for First Time

Six patches of buffel grass, an invasive weed, were discovered on council land at Arno Bay on South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula. This marks the first time buffel grass has been identified within the town itself, though it had previously been documented one kilometer away on a highway.

"This marks the first time buffel grass has been identified within the town itself."

Discovery and Spread

The grass seeds are suspected to have been introduced to Arno Bay inadvertently by tourists' vehicles. Significant rainfall, typically at least 20mm, triggers the plant's germination. Liam Anderson from the Eyre Peninsula Landscape Board stated that recent rains over three to four weeks caused extensive germination.

Response and Containment

Anderson found the buffel grass during a routine patrol following the rainfall. As buffel grass is a declared notifiable weed in South Australia, a chemical mixture containing glyphosate, flupropanate, and pine oil was applied to suppress the plant's seeds.

Risk and Prevention

Experts consider buffel grass to be the top priority weed on the Eyre Peninsula due to its invasive potential. If it spreads further into the town, it could destroy nature strips, lawns, and gardens. The Eyre Peninsula Landscape Board is concerned about the possibility of residents inadvertently mowing buffel grass, which can further spread its seeds. The Board is working with residents, local businesses, and the council to advise them to check their properties for the weed.

Experts consider buffel grass to be the top priority weed on the Eyre Peninsula due to its invasive potential.

Key Prevention Rules

To prevent the spread of buffel grass, residents and visitors should adhere to these key rules:

• Checking property after heavy rain.
• Avoiding the movement of plants or soil from affected sites.
• Not mowing buffel grass.
• Reporting all sightings of buffel grass to the local landscape board.