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2015-01-12 General Committee Agenda Attachment 1 to Item 7 Pest Management Plan 2015-2019
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to Item 7
General Committee Agenda
12 January 2015
Noosa Local Government
Area Pest Management
Plan 2015-2019
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Section 2
© Noosa Council 2015 www.noosa.qld.gov.au General Enquiries: 8.15 am - 5.00 pm Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) By telephone: (07) 5329 6500 (including After Hours emergencies) By email: [email protected] Fax: (07) 5329 6501 Street Address: 9 Pelican Street, TEWANTIN Postal address: PO Box 141, TEWANTIN QLD 4565 Acknowledgements Council wishes to thank all interested stakeholders who have taken the time and energy to help guide the development of this strategy. Disclaimer This document has been developed by Noosa Council’s Department of Planning & Infrastructure. Information contained in this document is based on available information at the time of writing. All figures and diagrams are indicative only and should be referred to as such. This is a strategic document which deals with technical matters in a summary way only. Council or its officers accept no responsibility for any loss occasioned to any person acting or refraining from acting in reliance upon any material contained in this document
Section 3
Table of Contents
1. Executive Summary ............................................................................................................ 2
2. Introduction ....................................................................................................................... 3
2.1. Background ........................................................................................................................ 3
2.2. Purpose of the Pest Management Plan ............................................................................... 3
2.3. Commencement and duration............................................................................................ 4
2.4. Scope ................................................................................................................................. 4
3. Pest impacts in Noosa ......................................................................................................... 6
4. Challenges to effective pest management ........................................................................ 10
5. Policy context ................................................................................................................... 10
6. Declared Pests .................................................................................................................. 14
7. Pest Management Planning .............................................................................................. 14
7.1. The pest management planning framework ..................................................................... 14
7.2. Principles of pest management ........................................................................................ 15
7.3. Desired outcomes ............................................................................................................ 15
8. The pest management planning process ........................................................................... 17
8.1. Plan development ............................................................................................................ 17
8.2. Consultation..................................................................................................................... 18
9. Implementation of the plan .............................................................................................. 18
10. Environmentally Significant Areas ..................................................................................... 22
11. Communication and education ......................................................................................... 24
12. Objectives......................................................................................................................... 24
13. Strategic Action Plan ......................................................................................................... 24
14. Noosa’s Priority Pest Species ............................................................................................ 34
15. Pest Species List................................................................................................................ 36
16. Glossary............................................................................................................................ 41
17. Acronyms ......................................................................................................................... 42
18. Reference List ................................................................................................................... 42
1
Section 4
1. Executive Summary
Noosa Council recognises weeds and pest animals as one of the most significant threats to
biodiversity in the Shire. They degrade natural ecosystems and agricultural landscapes,
threaten biodiversity and interfere with human health and recreation.
Combating the threat posed by weeds and pest animals will require a clear commitment and
combined effort from industry, the community, state government and Council. To guide this
effort, and in accordance with the requirements of the Land Protection (Pest and Stock
Route Management) Act 2002, a Noosa Local Government Area Pest Management Plan
(the Plan) has been prepared.
However, this plan is not simply a statement of Noosa Council’s pest management
responsibilities. It is a plan of attack that acknowledges the roles of a wide range of
organisations, groups and individuals that all have a stake in the fight against the invasion of
Noosa Shire by weeds and pest animals.
The plan establishes local priorities, strategies and actions to address the impacts of weeds
and pest animals, identifies stakeholders and recognises their roles and responsibilities. It
also incorporates mechanisms for monitoring, evaluating and reporting on the Plan’s
effectiveness.
The Plan applies to all land within the boundaries of the Noosa Shire and targets pest
species that are declared pests under the Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route
Management) Act 2002 as well as certain non-declared species that have been determined
to be locally significant pests. The Plan identifies a set of objectives and strategic actions,
which are directed towards achieving the desired outcomes set by the Queensland weed
and pest animal management strategies. The Strategic Action Plan identifies who is
responsible for delivering actions, sets timeframes and identifies measures of success
against which the Plan will be evaluated.
The Plan has a four year timeframe as prescribed under the Land Protection (Pest and
Stock Route Management) Act 2002. The Plan and Strategic Action Plan will be reviewed
annually with a full review being undertaken prior to its expiry.
The Biosecurity Act 2014 was enacted by Queensland Parliament in March 2014 and will
come into effect in 2016. Under the new act, local governments are required to have a
biosecurity plan for invasive biosecurity matter. Under the act a Local Government Pest
Management Plan may be regarded as a Biosecurity Plan and therefore the Noosa Council
Pest Management Plan will be Noosa’s Biosecurity Plan until it is updated in 2019.
Blue morning glory (Ipomoea indica)
2
Section 5
2. Introduction
2.1.Background
Weeds and pest animals degrade natural ecosystems and agricultural landscapes, threaten
biodiversity and interfere with human health and recreation. Once pests become established,
significant resources are required to control them and rehabilitate impacted ecosystems.
Noosa Council recognises weeds and pest animals as one of the most significant threats to
biodiversity in the Shire. Combating this threat will require a clear commitment and combined
effort from industry, the community, state government and Council.
The Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act 2002 (the Land Protection
Act) charges all Queensland councils with the development of a pest management plan for
managing declared pests within their local government area. The Noosa Local Government
Area Pest Management Plan (the Plan) has been prepared to fulfil this requirement.
However, this plan is not simply a statement of the Noosa Council’s pest management
responsibilities. It is a community plan developed through consultation with key
stakeholders, residents and visitors to Noosa.
Large Leaf Privot Ligustrum lucidum
2.2.Purpose of the Pest Management Plan
The purpose of the Plan is to establish a foundation for the cooperative management of
weeds and pest animals in Noosa Shire.
It establishes local priorities and sets strategies and actions that address the environmental,
economic and social impacts of weeds and pest animals. It identifies stakeholders and
defines their roles and responsibilities for managing weeds and pest animals, and will assist
in developing and maintaining partnerships between those stakeholders.
The Plan provides a means of ensuring that resources are targeted at the highest priority
activities and those that are most likely to succeed. It also incorporates mechanisms for
monitoring, evaluating and reporting on the effectiveness of the pest management actions
identified.
3
Section 6
2.3.Commencement and duration
The Sunshine Coast Local Government Area Pest Management Plan commenced in 2014
after its endorsement by the Minister for Primary Industries and Fisheries, and the final Plan
adopted by Council on behalf of the Sunshine Coast community. After the de-amalgamation
of Noosa Council from the Sunshine Coast Council, the Noosa component of the plan was
excised and developed into the Noosa Council Local Government Area Pest Management
Plan 2015-2019.
In accordance with section 31 of the Land Protection Act, the Plan is a four year plan and will
remain in force until four years from the commencement date, unless it is reviewed and
renewed at an earlier date.
Queensland Umbrella Tree (Schefflera actinopylla)
2.4.Scope
The Plan applies to all land and waterways within the boundaries of the Noosa local
government area, including land owned or controlled by the State, Council and individuals.
For the purpose of the Plan, ‘pests’ include plants and animals that are exotic species or
native species found outside their natural range where these species cause (or have the
potential to cause) environmental, agricultural and/ or social impacts. Targeted pest species
include declared pests under the Land Protection Act and certain non-declared species that
have been determined, through consultation, to be locally significant pests. Target species
are listed in Section 14.
The Plan does not consider endemic native species protected under the Nature
Conservation Act 1992 that can be a problem species to some people. Examples include
flying foxes, magpies, plovers, brush turkeys, ibis, snakes, native ants and insects.
The Plan does not consider domestic or public health pests such as vermin, mosquitoes,
biting midges, and cockroaches. Nor does the Plan consider pathogens of humans,
domestic animals, livestock or plants. Although these pests and pathogens are outside the
scope of this plan, it should be noted that Biosecurity Queensland coordinates the
4
Section 7
Queensland Government efforts to prevent, respond to, and recover from pests and
diseases that threaten the economy and environment. Noosa Council supports Biosecurity
Queensland in managing these types of pests and pathogens across the region. For
example in 2011 Biosecurity Queensland and Council responded to dealing with myrtle rust
(Uredo rangelii), a serious fungal diseases that infects certain native plants such as bottle
brush, tea trees and callistemons.
Noosa Shire Map
5
Section 8
3. Pest impacts in Noosa
Pests of our waterways
Aquarium and pond weeds have been introduced into waterways in a number of ways
(including from human activities). For example aquatic weeds can be introduced to a new
water body via vessels, trailers and fishing equipment. Introduced weeds continue to spread
as a result of flooding, movement of water fowl and water based activities.
Of particular concern in Noosa waterways are salvinia (Salvinia spp.), cabomba (Cabomba
caroliniana), dense waterweed (Egeria densa), yellow waterlily (Nymphaea mexicana) and
hygrophila (Hygrophila costata). These weeds grow aggressively and can dramatically alter
environmental and physicochemical conditions and interfere with ecological processes. This
can have devastating effects on native flora and fauna such as the Australian lungfish,
platypus and freshwater turtles.
Aquatic weeds can detrimentally affect recreational and aesthetic values of water bodies.
Heavy infestations make boating and swimming difficult and can also be dangerous to
children and animals if the weeds look like solid ground. In addition submerged aquatic
weeds such as cabomba (Cabomba caroliniana) can cause swimmers to become entangled
in the stems of the weed. Management of infestations in constructed water bodies requires a
regular maintenance program including the use of bulk aquatic weed harvesters at
considerable cost to asset managers. In many instances, once infestation occurs eradication
is almost impossible.
Aquatic pest animals, such as the red-eared slider turtle (Trachemys scripta elegans), can
aggressively out-compete native species for food, basking and nesting sites. They prey on
native species such as aquatic reptiles, frogs, fish, crustaceans and insects and have the
potential to carry diseases and parasites that can infect native fauna.
Salvinia (Salvinia molesta)
6
Section 9
Pests of our coastal ecosystems
Noosa is celebrated for its stunning beaches and, as a result, coastal ecosystems are under
immense pressure from residential and tourist development. Native species have been
overlooked by landscapers in favour of low maintenance ‘tropical’ gardens filled with exotic
palms. The encroachment of development into coastal areas has meant that garden
escapees such as asparagus fern (Asparagus spp.), glory lily (Gloriosa superba), Singapore
daisy (Sphagneticola trilobata), cocos palm (Syagrus romanzoffiana) and coastal morning
glory (Ipomoea cairica) have become prevalent in many coastal environments.
European foxes (Vulpes vulpes) prey upon small native animals and are a domestic
nuisance as they scavenge in bins and backyard compost heaps and cause domestic dogs
to bark. Foxes are a particular problem in coastal areas because they dig up turtle nests to
eat the eggs and they are linked to the decline of endangered and vulnerable marine turtle
populations throughout Australia.
Singapore daisy (Sphagneticola trilobata)
Pests of our rural areas
Many pest species that are of particular concern in rural areas cause illness and injury to
livestock and degrade pasture in addition to their impacts on natural ecosystems. Groundsel
bush (Baccharis halimifolia) and giant rat’s tail grass (Sporobolus spp.) cause loss of
production and degradation of pasture by out-competing desirable pasture species. As well
as impacting on productivity annual ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia) can aggravate asthma
and hay fever and fireweed (Senecio madagascariensis) is poisonous to livestock.
Wild dogs are a major concern to many landholders. Attacks by wild dogs on livestock,
wildlife and pets are not uncommon and these can be very traumatic for witnesses. There is
also growing concern that people, particularly children, are at risk of attack. Wild dogs are
known to carry zoonotic diseases such as hydatid disease and the risk of these diseases
being transmitted to domestic animals and humans is also of concern in rural and rural
residential areas. As development has encroached on rural areas more situations arise
where the dingo/wild dog population comes into contact and, therefore, conflict with people.
Wild dogs are a problem throughout rural, rural residential and urban areas of Noosa.
7
Section 10
Several populations of red, rusa, and fallow deer are currently established within the region.
Deer pose a serious threat to the region, hence their declared status under state legislation
and the subsequent requirement of land managers to take reasonable steps to ensure
numbers are managed accordingly. As well as providing competition for both domestic
livestock and natives species, deer present many other impacts, including traffic hazards to
motorists; they are implicated in the spread of declared plant species as well as exotic
diseases such as Foot and Mouth disease; destroy property infrastructure, such as fences;
and can quickly degrade pristine areas through intensive activity, leading to erosion and
sediment transport and damaged vegetation.
Camphor laurel (Cinnamomoum camphora)
Pests of our hinterland ranges
Vines such as blue morning glory (Ipomoea indica), thunbergia (Thunbergia spp.), cat’s claw
creeper (Macfadyena unguis-cati) and madeira vine (Anredera cordifolia) are ubiquitous
weeds of hinterland areas. They smother native vegetation with dense blankets of growth
that can kill trees. Another problem vine, dutchman’s pipe (Aristolochia elegans) is closely
related to the native Pararistolochia praevenosa, the larval food plant of the Richmond
birdwing butterfly (Ornithoptera richmondii). Adult butterflies mistakenly lay their eggs on the
exotic vine, which is poisonous to the caterpillars. This has had devastating effects on local
populations of Richmond birdwing butterflies.
Pests of our urban areas
The urban-bushland interface is an area of intense pressure from environmental weeds and
residential gardens are the source of many of them. People dumping garden waste over the
back fence or in environmental reserves introduce substantial weed loads to bushland
reserves. Other garden plants such as mock orange (Murraya paniculata), duranta (Duranta
spp.), Mickey Mouse bush (Ochna serrulata) and Queensland umbrella tree (Schefflera
actinophylla) that are popular with gardeners for the brightly coloured fruits they produce are
also popular with birds who eat the fruit and transport the seeds into bushland areas.
Our pets can also cause major impacts in urban bushland parks. Domestic cats allowed to
roam are known to hunt and kill native fauna such as birds, lizards and frogs, while domestic
dogs that are not properly restrained at night are recognised as a key threat to koala
populations. The highly modified urban environment has also provided suitable habitat for
certain introduced species, such as the Common myna bird (Acridotheres tristis), to
8
Section 11
proliferate. While not yet as prevalent in Noosa as they are elsewhere in Australia, Common
mynas are known for their aggressive competition for nesting hollows and can displace
hollow dependent native fauna.
Case Study
Community partnerships in delivering a wild dog control program
Wild dogs are a significant problem across rural, rural residential and urban areas of Noosa.
They are responsible for killing and maiming stock and pets, preying on native wildlife,
damaging equipment, spreading disease and threatening people. Under the Land
Protection Act 2002, landholders have an obligation to control declared pests on their land.
Outside urban brigade areas, a landholder or authorised person may destroy a wild dog
that is a threat to stock. Noosa rural and urban brigade area maps can be accessed on
Council’s website www.noosa.qld.gov.au through the public interactive map system.
Over time Noosa has grown and urban development encroached on rural areas, traditional
methods of baiting have become increasingly difficult to implement. More than ever,
effective baiting programs can only be run with the cooperation and collaboration of the
community. The baiting program that is now operating began in 2002 as a trial involving a
single group of 6 land owners. The program has now grown to include 40 landholders
across the Noosa Shire.
Baiting programs are targeted towards areas where there is most to gain in terms of
environmental and economic outcomes. For example baiting in known koala habitat areas
helps safeguard local koala populations. At the same time foxes and feral cats which also
impact on fauna may be identified for baiting as well. A significant increase in wild dog
activity can impact on stock, and may be a target for a baiting program. The wild dog baiting
program is delivered through local area coordination groups consisting of property owners
and individuals working together to reduce the impacts of wild dogs in their areas. These
groups are also supported by government land owners who manage land parcels within
these areas.
Strict rules govern the administration and operation of the baiting programs and all aspects
are well documented. All residents within two kilometres of any bait station must be advised
in writing. Placement of baits must comply with stringent criteria: no baits may be laid within
five kilometres of a town (unless otherwise authorised to do so), within 500 meters of a
dwelling that is not part of the program, within 20 metres of a water body or within 50
metres of the centre-line of a declared road.
On baiting day, Council prepares the baits with 1080 and distributes the baits to landholder
groups. Boneless meat is used for baits and when they are set they must be buried and
tied. Participants must record the fate of all baits they lay and, where possible, indicate
what animal took the bait. Any bait not taken after seven days is retrieved and destroyed.
Cameras and sand traps are used to monitor the effectiveness of baiting programs. For
example in 2013/2014, one baiting program revealed that 23 baits were taken by foxes and
18 by wild dogs. Baits were also taken by 2 feral pigs and 2 goannas, but the baits did not
have sufficient strength to affect these species.
9
Section 12
4. Challenges to effective pest management
Pest and land managers face significant challenges if efficient and effective control of pests
is to be achieved. These challenges are as follows:
The high cost and effort required to control established pests.
Providing adequate support and resources for community environment groups.
Implementing efficient and effective control methods.
Public acceptance of pest control practices.
Dedicating resources to preventing the establishment of new pest species that are
difficult to detect.
Incomplete data about pest distributions and population dynamics.
The variability of stakeholder’s priorities and resources.
Uncontrolled pest sources on neighbouring properties.
Improving communication and coordination between landholders, community and
local and state bodies and ensuring cooperative programs across boundaries (both
property and council boundaries).
5. Policy context
The Noosa Local Government Area Pest Management Plan has been developed to align
with and complement relevant federal and state policies and strategies as listed in Table 1.
Policy context for local government area pest management plan development
Resource Management Pest Management Pest Species
Caring for Our Country 2013-2018 Australian Weeds Strategy Strategies for Weeds of National
Significance
Australia’s Biodiversity Australian Pest Animal Strategy
Federal
Conservation Strategy 2010-2030 Threat Abatement Plans
National Environmental Alert List
Queensland Biosecurity Strategy Queensland Wild Dog
2009-2014 Management Strategy 2011-2016
Queensland Weeds Strategy 2002- Pest management guidelines
2006
State
Queensland Pest Animal Strategy
2002-2006
State agency pest management
plans
Regional Vegetation Management Pest Management Planning
Regional / Plans Guidelines
Catchment SEQ NRM Plan Mary River Aquatic Weeds
Strategy
Noosa planning scheme Noosa Local Government Area
Local Pest Management
Noosa Council Local Laws
Property Property management plans Property pest management plans
10
Section 13
Federal policies and legislation
Australia’s Biodiversity Conservation Strategy 2010-2030 recognises that invasive species
continue to be a major cause of pressure and that climate change is already increasing the
impact of invasive species on biodiversity. The strategy identifies building ecosystem
resilience as a priority for change.
The Australian Weeds Strategy and the Australian Pest Animal Strategy identify national
priorities for pest management with the aim of minimising impacts on Australia’s
environmental, economic and social assets. They provide national leadership for all
Australians to work together against the serious impact of weeds and pest animals.
Under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Act 1999 the Australian Government can
list Key Threatening Processes and develop and implement Threat Abatement and
Recovery Plans.
Key threatening processes involving introduced and/or invasive species
Competition and land degradation by rabbits*
Competition and land degradation by unmanaged goats*
Dieback caused by the root-rot fungus (Phytophthora cinnamomi)*
Invasion of northern Australia by gamba grass and other introduced grasses
Loss and degradation of native plant and animal habitat by invasion of escaped
garden plants, including aquatic plants
Loss of biodiversity and ecosystem integrity following invasion by the yellow crazy
ant (Anoplolepis gracilipes) on Christmas Island, India Ocean
Predation by European Red Fox*
Predation by exotic rats on Australian offshore islands of less than 1000km2
(100,000 ha)
Predation by feral cats*
Predation, habitat degradation, competition and disease transmission by feral pigs*
The biological effects, including lethal toxic ingestion, caused by cane toads (Bufo
marinus)*
The reduction in the biodiversity of Australian native fauna and flora due to the red
imported fire ant (Solenopsis invicta).
*Key Threatening Processes for which a Threat Abatement Plan has been prepared
11
Section 14
There are a number of recognised lists of weeds of national interest. Twenty Weeds of
National Significance (WONS) have been identified because of their invasiveness, impacts
on primary production and the environment, potential for spread and socioeconomic impacts.
Each WONS has a strategic plan that outlines strategies and actions required to control the
weed and identifies responsibilities for each action. The National Environmental Alert List
(the Alert List) for environmental weeds identifies 28 plant species that are in the early
stages of establishment and have the potential to become a significant threat to biodiversity
if they are not managed.
Weeds of National Significance (WONS):
African boxthorn (Lycium ferocissimum)
Alligator Weed (Alternanthera philoxeroides)
Athel Pine (Tamarix aphylla)
Asperagus weeds (Asparagus aethiopicus**, Asparagus africanus**, Asparagus
asparagoides** Western cape form, Asparagus declinatus, Asparagus plumosus**,
Asparagus scandens**)
Bellyache bush (Jatropha gossypiifolia)
Bitou Bush/Boneseed** (Chrysanthemoides monilifera subsp. monilifera and rotundata)
Blackberry** (Rubus fruticosus aggregate)
Brooms (Cytissus scoparius, Genista monspessulana, Genista linifolia)
Cabomba* (Cabomba caroliniana)
Cat’s Claw Creeper (Macfadyena unguis-cati**)
Chilean Needle Grass (Nassella neesiana)
Fireweed (Senecio madagascariensis**)
Gamba Grass (Andropogon gayanus)
Gorse** (Ulex europaeus)
Hymenachne** (Hymenachne amplexicaulis)
Lantana** (Lantana camara)
Madeira Vine (Anredera cordifolia**)
Mesquite (Prosopis spp.)
Mimosa (Mimosa pigra)
Opuntioid cacti (Opuntia aurantiaca**, Opuntia stricta**, Opuntia tomentose**, Cylindropuntia
fulgida var. mamillata, Cylindropuntia imbricate, Cylindropuntia rosea)
Parkinsonia (Parkinsonia aculeata)
Parthenium Weed** (Parthenium hysterophorus)
Pond Apple** (Annona glabra)
Prickly Acacia (Acacia nilotica)
Rubber Vine** (Cryptostegia grandiflora)
Sagittaria** (Sagittaria platyphylla**)
Salvinia** (Salvinia molesta)
12
Section 15
Serrated Tussock (Nassella trichotoma)
Silverleaf Nightshade (Solanum elaeagnifolium)
Water Hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes**)
Willows ** (Salix spp. except S.babylonica, S.x calodendron & S.x reichardtij)
** species known to occur in the region
State policy and legislation
The Queensland Biosecurity Strategy 2009-2014 sets the vision that Queensland will be
protected from the risks and impacts of pests and diseases through the collaborative efforts
of all Queenslanders. It identifies a suite of actions that focus on improving biosecurity
systems and building biosecurity capability and capacity.
Queensland Biosecurity Strategy
The Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act 2002 establishes a legislative
basis for the management of weeds, pest animals and stock routes throughout Queensland.
It establishes a set of principles to guide pest management, provides a framework for pest
management planning and prescribes certain species as being declared pests.
The Act charges councils with the development of a pest management plan for their local
government area, the purpose of which is to bring together all sectors of the community to
provide for the integrated management of pest plants and animals.
The management of pest plants and animals is also provided for in various legislation
including the Fisheries Act 1994 (noxious and exotic fishes), Plant Protection Act 1989 (plant
pests and diseases) and Nature Conservation Act 1992 (prohibited wildlife).
The Queensland Weeds Strategy 2002-2006 and the Queensland Pest Animal Strategy
2002-2006 establish a state-wide planning framework to provide clear direction to
government, community, industry and individuals for the management of weeds and pest
and problem animals across the state.
13
Section 16
A number of pest management guidelines for declared pests and pest animal species
strategies have been developed to establish a collaborative approach to the management of
these pests.
The Biosecurity Act 2014 was enacted by Queensland Parliament in March 2014. It is
planned to commence in 2016 when the regulations are finalised. Under the new act, local
governments are required to have a biosecurity plan for invasive biosecurity matter. The
biosecurity plan will be developed after the expiration of the Noosa Council Pest
Management Plan in 2019.
6. Declared Pests
Some animal and plant species have been declared as pest species under the Land
Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act 2002 and are categorised into Class 1,
2, and 3 species.
Class 1 Pests: Not commonly present or established in Queensland and has the potential to
cause impacts to whole or part of the State. Introduction, keeping, releasing and supplying
(including supplying things containing reproductive material of this pest) is not possible
without a permit, for special purposes, issued by Biosecurity Queensland. Landholders must
take reasonable steps to keep land free of Class 1 pests.
Class 2 Pests: Taking for commercial use, introduction, keeping, releasing and supplying
(including supplying things containing reproductive material of this pest) is prohibited without
a permit issued by Biosecurity Queensland. Landholders are required to control declared
pests on their properties.
Class 3 Pests: Supply or sale is prohibited. A landowner may be given a pest control notice
if this pest is or could impact an environmentally significant area.
In addition Council may identify other species of pests that are locally significant, but not
declared under the Act.
A listing of declared and other pest species is provided Section 15.
7. Pest Management Planning
7.1.The pest management planning framework
The Land Protection Act charges all Queensland councils with the development of a pest
management plan for their local government area, the purpose of which is to bring together
all sectors of the community to provide for the integrated management of pest plants and
animals. It establishes a framework for pest management planning and requires that the
local government area pest management plan be consistent with the principles of pest
management, the state government pest management strategies and the guidelines for pest
management.
14
Section 17
7.2.Principles of pest management
The eight principles of pest management as stated in the Land Protection Act are:
Integration Planning
Pest management is an integral part of Pest management planning must be
managing natural resources and agricultural consistent at local, regional, State and
systems. national levels to ensure resources target
priorities for pest management at each level.
Public awareness Prevention
Public awareness and knowledge of pests Preventative pest management is achieved
must be raised to increase the capacity and by preventing the spread of pests and viable
willingness of individuals to manage pests. parts of pests, especially by human activity,
and early detection and intervention to
control pests.
Commitment Best practice
Effective pest management requires a long- Pest management must be based on
term commitment to pest management by ecologically and socially responsible pest
the community, industry groups and management practices that protect the
government entities. environment and the productive capacity of
natural resources.
Consultation and partnership Improvement
Consultation and partnership arrangements Research about pests, and regular
between local communities, industry groups, monitoring and evaluation of pest control
State government agencies and local activities, is necessary to improve pest
governments must be established to achieve management practices.
a collaborative approach to pest
management.
7.3.Desired outcomes
The Queensland Weeds Strategy 2002-2006 and the Queensland Pest Animal Strategy
2002-2006 established a suite of desired outcomes and associated issues that provide the
overall direction for the development of a Strategic Action Plan. Pest management efforts
under the Plan are directed towards achieving the following desired outcomes.
Desired outcomes
Desired outcome Issues Specific outcomes
Awareness and education
Stakeholders are informed, Public awareness Increase community, industry,
knowledgeable and have agribusiness and government
15
Section 18
Desired outcome Issues Specific outcomes
ownership of weed and pest awareness of pests and their
animal management impacts
Education and Training Enhance stakeholder
knowledge of pest impacts and
improve skills in pest
management
Availability of information Make information accessible to
all stakeholders
Commitment and partnerships
All stakeholders are committed Long term commitment Establish long term shared
to and undertake coordinated stakeholder commitment to
management of weeds and pest address weed and pest animal
animals issues
Roles and responsibilities Establish roles and
responsibilities for pest
management that are accepted
by landholders, community,
industry and government
Compliance and enforcement Ensure compliance with
legislative requirements for
control of weeds and pest
animals
Informed decision making
Reliable information is available Data collection and assessment Collect, use and make available
as a basis for decision-making data relevant to pest
management
Biology and impacts Further the understanding of the
biology, ecology, and impacts of
weeds and pest animals
Community attitudes Further the understanding of
community attitudes to weeds
and pest animal management
Strategic directions
Strategic directions are Planning Create and maintain regional
established, maintained and planning framework for weed
owned by all stakeholders and pest animal management
Strategy management and Implement, monitor, evaluate
coordination and review integrated weed and
pest animal management
16
Section 19
Desired outcome Issues Specific outcomes
Resources Efficiently and adequately
resource weed and pest animal
management
Holistic management Integrate pest management
planning with other planning
processes
Prevention, eradication and containment
Introduction, spread and Prevention of introduction Prevent the introduction of new
establishment of weeds and weeds and pest animals
pest animals is prevented
Early detection and eradication Prevent the local establishment
of new weeds and pest animals
Containment Minimise the spread of weeds
and pest animals to new areas
Integrated management
Integrated systems for Development of management Develop new and improve
managing the impacts of practices existing management practices
established weeds and pest
animals are developed and Adoption of management Adopt and promote best
widely implemented practices practice management
Management incentives Offer incentives for practicing
pest management
Population and impact Reduce pest populations an
management impacts
Environmentally significant Protect environmentally
areas significant areas from impact of
pests
8. The pest management planning process
8.1.Plan development
Development of a local government area pest management plan is a statutory requirement
under the Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act 2002 and certain
aspects of the planning process are dictated by the Act. The planning process was also
guided by the Guidelines for Local Government Area Pest Management Plans (Biosecurity
Queensland, 2009).
Key statutory requirements of the planning process included the establishment of a
stakeholder group, the provision of a public submission period and certain aspects of the
approval process.
17
Section 20
8.2.Consultation
Under the Land Protection (Stock Route and Rural Land) Act 2002, a Local Government
must establish a stakeholder group to provide advice in development of the pest
management plan. In August 2014, a wide cross section of stakeholders, including
community groups, industry, state government and Council, met to review the existing
Sunshine Coast Local Government Pest Management Plan 2012-2016, which includes
Noosa, and recommend the way forward for developing a Noosa Local Government Area
Pest Management Plan. Organisations that had representation at the workshops and/or
provided input into Plan development are listed below:
Organisation
Australian Veterinary Association
Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (Biosecurity Queensland)
Department of National Parks, Recreation, Sports and Racing (National Parks)
Department of Transport and Main Roads
Energex
Gympie Regional Council
Mary River Catchment Coordinating Committee
Noosa and District Landcare Group
Noosa Council
Noosa Integrated Catchment Association
Noosa Parks Association
Queensland Rail
Queensland Transport and Main Roads
SEQ Catchments
SEQ Water
Sunshine Coast Council
Also under the Act, the Draft Plan must undergo a 28 day public consultation period, before
final approval by Biosecurity Qld and Council.
9. Implementation of the plan
The Pest Management Stakeholder Review Group
Under the Land Protection (Stock Route and Rural Land) Act 2002, Council must review the
Plan, on annual basis, three months before end of financial year. Council officers involved
with pest management, will be seeking feedback from the original Pest Management
Stakeholder Group members, as to the effectiveness of the Plan. Any proposed changes to
the Plan must be endorsed by Biosecurity Qld.
Stakeholder roles and responsibilities
Stakeholders in pest management are extremely varied and include government, industry,
community groups and individuals and all have an important role to play.
Everyone is a stakeholder to a certain degree and have certain obligations under the Land
Protection Act:
18
Section 21
All individuals, including businesses and organisations, must comply with
requirements to ensure that their activities don't introduce or spread declared pests.
This includes actions such as keeping declared pests and moving vehicles containing
soil or organic material likely to contain pest plant reproductive material on roads.
For land managers, including Council, State Government, developers etc. these
obligations include controlling declared pests on their own land, being vigilant for new
pest species and responding rapidly in an appropriate manner.
More specifically under the Land Protection Act declared pests are categorised into
three classes. Land managers must take reasonable steps to keep land free of Class
1 and 2 declared pests. Land managers are not required to control Class 3 pests
under the Act unless their land is adjacent to an environmentally significant area (see
section 3). Species not declared under the Land Protection Act may still be declared
at a local government level under local laws as a declared ‘local’ pest and are to be
controlled by land managers.
For industry, particularly rural, horticultural, nursery and landscaping industries, there
are obligations restricting the commercial use of declared pest plants, supplying
declared pests and supplying things such as fodder, mulch, water or machinery
containing the reproductive material of declared pest plants.
Noosa Council has obligations in addition to its responsibilities as a land manager.
Council is responsible for ensuring that declared pests are controlled within its area
by complying with the Land Protection Act and undertaking enforcement activities as
required. Council is also required to prepare and implement a local government area
pest management plan.
The Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation (Biosecurity
Queensland) is responsible for providing guidance and leadership on pest
management issues through state pest management strategies and guidelines and
providing research, technical and management information and training, and
ensuring compliance with pest control obligations by government.
In addition to these statutory obligations, this Plan highlights a variety of non-statutory roles
and responsibilities for stakeholders.
Landcare, catchment care and other community groups represent a crucial resource in the
management of weeds and pest animals. The members of these groups volunteer their time
and efforts to undertake important rehabilitation work in degraded natural areas.
The management and control of non-declared pest species is the responsibility of all
stakeholders. This Plan advocates for individuals, businesses and government alike to
conduct their activities responsibly and to assist in achieving its objectives.
19
Section 22
The framework for implementing the PMP
Desired outcomes and objectives guides the implementation of the pest management action
plan in Figure 2.
Figure 2: Implementation Plan Framework
Objectives
Action
Desired Outcomes
1. Management coordination Plan
2. Education &
communication
3. Improved capacity
4. Compliance
5. Research
6. Priorities
7. Information systems
The Strategic Action Plan reflects the cooperative management of weeds and pest animals
and includes actions to be undertaken by all stakeholders.
The Strategic Action Plan highlights priorities within a four year implementation timeframe.
Each action identifies stakeholder/s responsible for delivering actions, set timeframes and
indicators of success against which the Plan will be evaluated. The majority of the actions
identified in the plan are underway as part of existing duties and/or project.
Funding/resources
The majority of actions highlighted within the Plan may be carried out as part of existing
programs and projects and through the very active community volunteer work. However it
should be noted that to enhance current programs/activities further funding may be required.
Funding for pest management actions can sought through programs such Caring for our
Country – an Australian Government initiative that funds environmental management
activities. Noosa Council has Community Grants and Partnerships Programs for non for
profit organisations. In addition funding is allocated by Noosa Council for specific pest
management projects.
20
Section 23
Case Study
Cat’s Claw Creeper/Tingid Bug
Background
Council has initiated a control program aimed at reducing the infestation levels of Macfadyena unguis-cati or cat’s
claw creeper (CCC) occurring in the Kin Kin Creek sub-catchment of the Noosa River. This control program
follows Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles to manage pest damage by the most economical means,
and with the least possible hazard to people, property, and the environment. The control program initiated in the
Kin Kin sub-catchment for the control of CCC uses chemical control and the biocontrol, Carvalhotingis visenda
(the tingid bug) to treat the targeted species.
CCC is a major environmental weed in coastal and sub-coastal areas of Queensland and New South Wales.
Control of this weed by non-biological means is both difficult and expensive, and biocontrol appears the most
suitable method.
Partnerships
This was a partnership project involving Noosa Council, the Alan Fletcher Research Station (AFRS) and the
Noosa and District Landcare Group (NDLG). The program has been funded and directed by Council. NDLG has
conducted the on ground operations and monitoring activities. AFRS has provided field support and supplied the
program with insects from their rearing facility.
Tingid bug damage on Cat’sClaw creeper at Kin Kin
Biocontrol Agent
The biocontrol used for this program is the tingid bug or Carvalhotingis visenda. Host specificity trials conducted in
Australia supplement and support South African studies, which indicate that the tingid bug is a highly host specific
biocontrol agent, which does not pose risk to any non-target plants in Australia. The tingid can lay eggs and
complete nymphal development only on the target weed M. unguis-cati. It was recommended that C. visenda be
used as a biocontrol agent as it has the potential to play an important role in the control of M. unguis-cati while
posing no threat to any non-target plants.
Method
Advice from AFRS, which is supported by the activity of populations in previous releases in Gympie, shows that
field hardened tingids develop a resilience to cold, and hence releases of tingids will occur throughout the year.
Monthly injections over 12 months of NDLG-reared tingid bugs will be made into established release sites. This
action will maintain the levels of the existing populations, which fluctuates due to changing environmental
conditions. Monitoring is a component of the program and this information will be delivered to Council and
AFRS.
21
Section 24
10. Environmentally Significant Areas
The designation of Environmentally Significant Areas (ESA) under the Land Protection Act
provides an added protection against weeds and pest animals for areas of ecological
importance.
The owner of land where a class 3 pest is causing (or likely to cause) adverse economic,
environmental or social impacts on an adjacent ESA (or on the owner’s land if it is within or
adjacent to an ESA) may be issued with a pest control notice requiring them to take action
against the pest. The notice may also be extended to apply to a species that is not a
declared pest if it is considered to threaten the survival of native wildlife in the area or if it
affects the area’s capacity to sustain natural processes.
In practice, the issue of a pest control notice would usually only be considered as a last
resort. A preferable outcome would be the establishment of a local partnership of land
managers that would work together to control pests.
The term ‘adjacent’ is not defined in the Land Protection Act. When determining adjacency
for this purpose, consideration needs to be given to the biological characteristics of the pest
species in question. For highly mobile or dispersible pest species, ‘adjacent’ might be taken
to include a greater area than for less mobile or dispersible pest species.
Declared Environmentally Significant Areas
Section 78(7) of the Land Protection Act defines an ESA as any of the following:
(a) a protected area;
(b) land dedicated as a reserve for environmental purposes under the Land Act, section
31;
(c) a world heritage area listed under the World Heritage Convention;
(d) an area supporting a critically endangered or endangered ecological community in
the list established under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation
Act 1999 (Cwlth), section 181;
(e) a declared Ramsar wetland under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity
Conservation Act 1999 (Cwlth);
(f) an area of high nature conservation value under the Vegetation Management Act
1999;
(g) an area, other than State-controlled land, identified in a local government's pest
management plan as an area that has special environmental significance for native
wildlife; or
(h) a wild river area.
Part (g) of this definition provides for the inclusion of areas of local ecological significance as
designated ESAs.
Additional ESAs identified by this plan under section 78(7)(g) of the Land Protection Act
include all land owned by the Noosa Council that is managed for conservation purposes (this
includes any land added to the NSC conservation estate after this Plan takes effect).
22
Section 25
Map of State and Council controlled Environmentally Significant Areas (ESAs)
Subsequent reviews of this Plan may identify additional areas for possible inclusion as
designated ESAs. These areas will be assessed on their individual merits and consideration
given to biodiversity values, ecological condition of the land, willingness of land owner to
proactively manage the land, degree of local community support for pest management
activities, potential for pest impacts to be a significant threatening process, and capacity for
resources to accommodate management of additional ESAs. Land that is managed by the
community or private landowners for biodiversity conservation purposes may be considered
for inclusion.
23
Section 26
11. Communication and education
Key to the implementation of the Pest Management Plan is the development of a
Communication and Education Plan. This plan will identify pest management stakeholders
and the process of communication with all people concerned. The Communication and
Education Plan will include the following:
Stakeholder list
Education and awareness programs
Priority pest species for control
Communication media: Webpage, Email Newsletters, attendance at events and
forums
Access to pest management resource publications
The purpose of the Communication and Education Plan is to provide clear and consistent
messaging on pest management to all stakeholders concerned. Increasing awareness
improves community capacity to control pests and also avoid potential new incursions. The
Communication and Education Plan can be jointly managed with other programs such as
Land for Wildlife, LandCare, Bushland Care and Government initiatives.
12. Objectives
Seven overarching objectives have been identified for Noosa pest management. These are:
1. Pest management is planned, coordinated, managed and implemented
2. Strengthen pest management education and communication programs with stakeholders
and the community
3. Improve stakeholder and community capacity to manage pests
4. Develop and implement compliance procedures and programs
5. Conduct research to improve our understanding and knowledge of pests and their
control
6. Develop a priority listing of pest species for targeted management
7. Develop information systems to record data, information and maps on pest species
The Strategic Action Plan in Section 13 provides the measures to achieve these objectives.
13. Strategic Action Plan
The Strategic Action Plan reflects the cooperative management of weeds and pest animals
and includes actions to be undertaken by all stakeholders. The desired outcomes of the
Queensland Weeds Strategy 2002-2006 and the Queensland Pest Animal Strategy 2002-
2006 provide the overall direction for the development of Actions in the Plan. The
Implementation Plan highlights actions within a four year implementation timeframe. Each
action identifies stakeholders responsible for delivering actions, set timeframes and
indicators of success against which the Plan will be evaluated.
24
Section 27
Priority Pest Species
The Pest Management Stakeholder Group has identified the Top 10 Class 1 & 2 pest weed
species and the Top 10 Class 3 weeds, and the Top 7 pest animals. It is not possible to
manage all pest species at one time, and identifying priority pest species provides a focus
for pest management activities. This approach does not exclude other pest species for
management and the list will be reviewed annually and on advice from the Pest
Management Stakeholder Group. The priority listing is shown below.
Priority Pest Species List Common Name Class WON
S
Top 10 Class 1 & 2 pest plants
Ambrosia artemisiifolia Annual ragweed C2
Baccharis halimifolia Groundsel bush C2
Bryophyllum ssp Mother of millions C2
Chrysanthemoides monilifera subsp. rotundata Bitou bush C1
Eichhornia crassipes Water hyacinth C2 WON
S
Hygrophila costata Glush weed C1
Salvinia molesta Salvinia C2 WON
S
Senecio madagascariensis Fireweed C2
Sporobolus natalensis and pyramidalis Giant rats tail C2
Thunbergia laurifolia Laurel clock vine C1
Top 10 Class 3 and other environmental
pest plants
Anredera cordifolia Madeira vine C3 WON
S
Asparagus aethiopicus cv. sprengeri Basket asparagus C3 WON
S
Asparagus africanus Climbing asparagus C3 WON
S
Cinnamomum camphora Camphor laurel C3
Ipomoea indica Morning Glory Env
weed
Lantana camara var. camara Lantana C3 WON
S
Macfadyena unguis-cati Cats claw creeper C3 WON
S
Schinus terebinthifolius Broad leaf pepper C3
Sphagneticola trilobata Singapore daisy C3
Tecoma stans Yellow bells C3
Top 7 Class 2 & 3 and other environmental
pest animals
Acridotheres tristis Common Myna Env
25
Section 28
pest
Canis familiaris Dog, other than C2
domestic dog
Cervus elaphus Feral Red Deer C3
Cervus timorensis Feral Rusa Deer C2
Felis catus Cat, other than domestic C2
cat
Sus scrofa Feral Pig C2
Vulpes vulpes European Fox C2
Operational objectives for pest management are different for different pest species and
generally fall into the following categories:
Early detection
Eradication
Containment
Reduction
Operational objectives for each of the priority pest species is shown in Section 14.
26
Section 29
Noosa Local Government Area Pest Management Plan
Ref Strategic Actions Success indicator Responsibilities Time frame Resourcing Status
# Note: Absorbed
= May be carried
out as part of an
existing officer’s
duties
Objective 1: Pest management is planned, coordinated, managed and implemented
Desired outcome: Strategic directions
1.1 Establish a stakeholder group to prepare the The PMP is reviewed Council March 2015 Council Not started
PMP and provide advice to Council on the by Council on an absorbed 2
ongoing effectiveness of the Plan. annual basis and days per
feedback is sought annum.
from the Stakeholder The annual
Review Group on the review of the
Plans effectiveness PMP is a
requirement of
the Act and to
be undertaken
as part of
existing officer
duties.
Objective 2: Strengthen pest management education and communication programs with stakeholders, landholders and the community
Desired Outcome: Awareness and education
Integrated management
2.1 Develop a PMP Communication and Delivery of actions Council March 2015 Absorbed and Not started but
Education Plan, including: identified in the grant funded. existing
Target markets Communication and NRM and programs
Council pest reporting hotline Education Plan. Environment include Land
Raising community pest awareness General feedback from groups already for Wildlife,
Stakeholder lists including stakeholders on the delivering. For Landcare and
environment groups success of the plan. Council, will Council’s Pest
Sources of pest publications largely be Survey
Webpage and links to State/ electronic program
Commonwealth pest resources media. This
Joint events & forums project is part of
a program to
Early detection
27
Section 30
Ref Strategic Actions Success indicator Responsibilities Time frame Resourcing Status
# Note: Absorbed
= May be carried
out as part of an
existing officer’s
duties
update
communication
processes for
the Bushland
Care and VCA
and LFW
programs. 4
week project for
Council officer
2.2 Deliver education programs to raise Education programs Council and Education Absorbed. Ongoing
awareness of pest management controls to are delivered to key stakeholders identified in programs are To be
key stakeholders on: stakeholders as per Communication and currently being undertaken as
Pest identification Communication and Education Plan delivered by part of existing
Priority pest species Education Plan. Environmental program
Control measures and NRM delivery for
Revegetation techniques Groups and Environment
Council Pest Groups, NRM
Survey Groups and
program and Council Pest
through Land programs.
for Wildlife
program. Other
target markets
TBA.
2.3 Best practice guidelines are developed to Best practice Council and key Part of annual Absorbed. Not started
support the implementation of the PMP, guidelines are stakeholders review of the On a needs
consistent with State and Commonwealth developed on a case PMP. only basis.
policy and guidelines by case basis to assist
stakeholders to
implement pest
management controls.
28
Section 31
Ref Strategic Actions Success indicator Responsibilities Time frame Resourcing Status
# Note: Absorbed
= May be carried
out as part of an
existing officer’s
duties
2.4 Provide education on responsible pet Education is provided Council, environment Ongoing Education on Ongoing
ownership and illegal pets to residents to residents and groups, residents responsible pet
visitors ownership is
currently
provided by
Council’s local
laws officers
Objective 3: Improve stakeholder, landholder and community capacity to manage pests
Desired outcome: Commitment and partnerships
Integrated management
3.1 Participate in SEQ Pest Advisory Forum Attendance at forum Local and State Once every 4 Absorbed. Ongoing
(SEQPAF) and attend meetings Government, specialists months
3.2 Source grants and funding to support pest An up to date list is Commonwealth, State Review grant Absorbed. Ongoing
management programs through: maintained on and Local Government, funding each Environment
Subscribing to grant programs available grant funding Environment Groups, quarter and and NRM
Disseminating grant information to and information shared landholders report to Groups
stakeholders with stakeholders. stakeholders. currently keep a
Cooperative grant submissions and Stakeholders are watching brief
program delivery successful in securing on available
grants and funding grants and
when available. funding.
Council has
arrangements
with Council’s
Community
Grants and
Partnership
Officer and
keeps in
communications
with
29
Section 32
Ref Strategic Actions Success indicator Responsibilities Time frame Resourcing Status
# Note: Absorbed
= May be carried
out as part of an
existing officer’s
duties
Environment
and NRM
Groups.
3.3 Pest management resources and incentives Landholders and Council, Biosecurity Qld, Review of Absorbed, grant Ongoing
are provided to landholders and environment environment groups landholders, SEQ Water, resourcing funding,
groups to manage pests on a case by case are provided with Environment Groups capabilities Council, SEQ
basis and subject to priorities. resources and June 2015 Water and
incentives to manage Biosecurity Qld
pests where required. project funding.
On a needs
only basis and
subject to
priorities.
Objective 4: Develop and implement compliance procedures and programs with landholders
Desired outcomes: Commitment and partnerships
Prevention, eradication and containment
4.1 Landholder pest surveys are conducted Pest Surveys are Council, Biosecurity Qld November Council Currently
annually across the Shire completed, property and Landholders State 2014 absorbed. underway
pest management Government Agencies The pest
plans developed and surveys are part
regulatory notices of Council’s
served where required. pest
management
program and
commenced in
30
Section 33
Ref Strategic Actions Success indicator Responsibilities Time frame Resourcing Status
# Note: Absorbed
= May be carried
out as part of an
existing officer’s
duties
2014.
4.2 A database is kept on pest surveys, property Database is maintained Council and State Ongoing Council Currently
pest management plans and regulatory Government Agencies absorbed. underway
actions. Existing
processes to
continue.
4.3 Domestic animals such as cats and dogs that Regulation of Local Council, Biosecurity Qld, Ongoing Council Ongoing
may impact on native fauna are controlled Laws residents absorbed.
through local law regulatory services and Part of local
compliance actions implemented for illegal laws duties.
pets.
Objective 5: Conduct research to improve our understanding and knowledge of pests and their control
Desired outcome: Informed decision making
5.1 Conduct targeted research for specific pest Research is completed Biosecurity Qld As required Biosecurity Qld, Ongoing
species consistent with State research and recommendations supported by Council, grants,
priorities made for specific pest QPWS, Environment University
species Groups, Universities and Research
landholders programs
5.2 Controls are trialled and literature produced Trials are conducted on Council, Biosecurity Qld. As required Government Ongoing
for key pest management issues. a case by case basis Environment Groups, funding and
identified by Council landholders grants
and key stakeholders
31
Section 34
Ref Strategic Actions Success indicator Responsibilities Time frame Resourcing Status
# Note: Absorbed
= May be carried
out as part of an
existing officer’s
duties
Objective 6: Develop a priority listing of pest species and locations for targeted pest management
Desired outcomes: Strategic directions
Prevention, eradication and containment
6.1 Develop a Top 10 priority list for Class 1,2 List is endorsed by the Council and in December Absorbed. List Not started
and 3 and other pest species to provide a PMP Stakeholder consultation with all key 2014 is included in
focus for pest management activities. Group and included in stakeholders draft PMP.
Consider WONS and other existing priority the PMP.
lists in this process.
6.2 Develop and implement specific pest species Pest species Council, landholders and One pest Absorbed and Targeted pest
animal control plans for dogs, foxes, deer, management plans are neighbouring Councils. species control subject to animal control
cats, pigs, common minors and other species reviewed by the PMP plan document program is ongoing.
that impact on Noosa's biodiversity and Stakeholder Group per year priorities. Development
threatened species. of formal
control plans
have started.
6.3 Identify local priority areas for pest Priority areas are Council, stakeholders, March 2015 Absorbed and Not started
management activities in consultation with identified on private landholders, subject to
landholders and environment groups in lands and public areas environment groups program
consideration of: and are targeted for priorities
Weeds in upper catchments pest management.
causing downstream impacts
Areas of high transmission such as
land fill sites, road reserves and
boat ramps
Controls being achievable and
controllable
6.4 Identify potential new incursion threats and A list of potential new Council and information March 2015 Absorbed and Not yet started.
undertake early detection and rapid response incursions is developed supplied to Early detection subject to Early detection
programs, consistent with Commonwealth and an early detection stakeholders/landholders program will be program program will be
and State alerts. and response program part of priorities part of
is implemented. Communication Communication
32
Section 35
Ref Strategic Actions Success indicator Responsibilities Time frame Resourcing Status
# Note: Absorbed
= May be carried
out as part of an
existing officer’s
duties
and Education and Education
Plan Plan
Objective 7: Develop information systems to record data, information and maps on pest species
Desired outcome: Informed decision making
Integrated management
7.1 Maintain current pest information systems New pest management Biosecurity Qld, March 2015 Absorbed. Ongoing
and software, and implement upgrades when information systems Council When new
available. are reviewed each year information are
and assessed for available.
effectiveness.
7.2 Review Environmentally Significant Areas Existing Council, National Parks, June 2015 Absorbed. Not started
within the region including identifying Environmentally other State Agencies Part of current
additional areas for possible inclusion as Significant Areas are and Utilities biodiversity
designated ESA’s reviewed and mapped. mapping
Additional areas for projects.
inclusion are
considered.
33
Section 36
14. Noosa’s Priority Pest Species
Priority Pest Species List-Strategic Action 6.1 Common Name Class WONS Operational Objective
Top 10 Class 1 & 2 pest plants
Ambrosia artemisiifolia Annual ragweed C2 Containment and reduction
Baccharis halimifolia Groundsel bush C2 Containment and reduction
Bryophyllum ssp Mother of millions C2 Containment and reduction
Chrysanthemoides monilifera subsp. rotundata Bitou bush C1 Early detection and eradication
Eichhornia crassipes Water hyacinth C2 WONS Containment and reduction
Hygrophila costata Glush weed C1 Eradication
Salvinia molesta Salvinia C2 WONS Containment and reduction
Senecio madagascariensis Fireweed C2 Eradication
Sporobolus natalensis and pyramidalis Giant rats tail C2 Containment and reduction
Thunbergia laurifolia Laurel clock vine C1 Eradication
Top 10 Class 3 and other environmental pest
plants
Anredera cordifolia Madeira vine C3 WONS Containment and reduction
Asparagus aethiopicus cv. sprengeri Basket asparagus C3 WONS Containment and reduction
Asparagus africanus Climbing asparagus C3 WONS Containment and reduction
Cinnamomum camphora Camphor laurel C3 Containment and reduction
Ipomoea indica Morning Glory Env Containment and reduction
weed
Lantana camara var. camara Lantana C3 WONS Containment and reduction
Macfadyena unguis-cati Cats claw creeper C3 WONS Containment and reduction
Schinus terebinthifolius Broad leaf pepper C3 Containment and reduction
Sphagneticola trilobata Singapore daisy C3 Containment and reduction
Tecoma stans Yellow bells C3 Containment and reduction
34
Section 37
Top 7 Class 2 & 3 and other environmental pest
animals
Acridotheres tristis Common Myna Env Containment and reduction
pest
Canis familiaris Dog, other than domestic C2 Containment and reduction
dog
Cervus elaphus Feral Red Deer C3 Containment and reduction
Cervus timorensis Feral Rusa Deer C2 Containment and reduction
Felis catus Cat, other than domestic C2 Containment and reduction
cat
Sus scrofa Feral Pig C2 Containment and reduction
Vulpes vulpes European Fox C2 Containment and reduction
35
Section 38
15. Pest Species List
Class 1 Plant Species
Acacia species (all non-indigenous species including Acaciella species,
Mariosousa species, Senegalia species and Vachellia species, except Vachellia
nilotica (Class 2) and Vachellia farnesiana).
Alligator weed (Alternanthera philoxeroides)
Anchored water hyacinth (Eichhornia azurea)
Badhara bush (Gmelina elliptica)
Bitou bush (Chrysanthemoides monilifera sub sp. rotundata)
Bridal creeper (Asparagus asparagoides)
Candleberry myrth (Myrica faya)
Chilean needle grass (Nassella neesiana)
Cholla cactus (Cylindropuntia spp. and their hybrids, other than C. spinosior, C.
fulgida and C. imbricata)
Christ's thorn (Ziziphus spina-christi)
Eurasian water milfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum)
Fanwort (Cabomba spp. other than C. caroliniana)
Floating water chestnuts (Trapa spp.)
Gorse (Ulex europaeus)
Honey locust (Gleditsia spp. including cultivars and varieties)
Horsetails (Equisetum spp.)
Hygrophila (Hygrophila costata)
Kochia (Bassia scoparia syn. Kochia scoparia)
Koster's curse (Clidemia hirta)
Lagarosiphon (Lagarosiphon major)
Limnocharis or yellow burrhead (Limnocharis flava)
Madras thorn (Pithecellobium dulce)
Mexican bean tree (all Cecropia spp.)
Mexican feather grass (Nassella tenuissima)
Miconia (Miconia spp.)
Mikania vine (Mikania spp.)
Mimosa pigra (Mimosa pigra)
Peruvian primrose bush (Ludwigia peruviana)
Red sesbania (Sesbania punicea)
Senegal tea (Gymnocoronis spilanthoides)
Serrated tussock (Nassella trichotoma)
Siam weed (Chromolaena spp.)
Spiked pepper (Piper aduncum)
Thunbergia
o Annual thunbergia (Thunbergia annua)
o Fragrant thunbergia (T. fragrans)
o Laurel clockvine (T. laurifolia)
Water mimosa (Neptunia oleracea and N. plena)
Water soldiers (Stratiotes aloides)
Willow (Salix spp. other than S. babylonica, S. humboldtiana (syn. S. chilensis),
S. matsudana, S. x calodendron and S. x reichardtii)
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Witch weeds (Striga spp. other than native species)
Yellow ginger (Hedychium flavescens)
Class 2 Plant Species
African boxthorn (Lycium ferocissimum)
Annual ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia)
Bellyache bush (Jatropha gossypiifolia and hybrids)
Cabomba (Cabomba caroliniana)
Chinee apple (Ziziphus mauritiana)
Cholla cactus
o Coral cactus (Cylindropuntia fulgida)
o Devil´s rope pear (C. imbricata)
o Snake cactus (C. spinosior)
Fireweed (Senecio madagascariensis)
Gamba grass (Andropogon gayanus)
Giant sensitive plant (Mimosa diplotricha var. diplotricha)
Groundsel bush (Baccharis halimifolia)
Harrisia cactus (Harrisia martinii syn. Eriocereus martinii, H. tortuosa and H.
pomanensis syn. Cereus pomanensis)
Hymenachne or Olive hymenachne (Hymenachne amplexicaulis)
Kudzu (Pueraria montana var. lobata, syn. P. lobata, P. triloba) other than in the
Torres Strait Islands
Mesquites (Prosopis glandulosa, P. pallida and P. velutina)
Mother-of-millions (Bryophyllum delagoense syn. B. tubiflorum, Kalanchoe
delagoensis)
Mother-of-millions hybrid (Bryophyllum x houghtonii (syn. B. daigremontianum x
B. delagoense, Kalanchoe x houghtonii)
Parkinsonia (Parkinsonia aculeata)
Parthenium (Parthenium hysterophorus)
Pond apple (Annona glabra)
Prickly acacia (Vachellia nilotica)
Prickly pear
o Common pest pear, spiny pest pear (O. stricta; syn. O. inermis)
o Tiger pear (O. aurantiaca)
o Westwood pear (O. streptacantha)
o Tree pears:
Drooping tree pear (O. monacantha syn. O. vulgaris)
Velvety tree pear (O. tomentosa)
Rat´s tail grasses
o American rat's tail grass (Sporobolus jacquemontii)
o Giant Parramatta grass (Sporobolus fertilis)
o Giant rat's tail grass (Sporobolus pyramidalis and S. natalensis)
o Parramatta grass (Sporobolus africanus)
Rubber vine (Cryptostegia grandiflora)
Salvinia (Salvinia molesta)
Sicklepods
o Sicklepod (Senna obtusifolia)
o Foetid cassia (Senna tora)
o Hairy cassia (Senna hirsuta)
Telegraph weed (Heterotheca grandiflora)
Thunbergia or blue thunbergia (Thunbergia grandiflora)
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Tobacco weed (Elephantopus mollis)
Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes)
Water lettuce (Pistia stratiotes)
Class 3 Plant Species
African fountain grass (Pennisetum setaceum)
African tulip tree (Spathodea campanulata)
Aristolochia or Dutchman's pipe (Aristolochia spp. other than native species)
Athel pine (Tamarix aphylla)
Balloon vine (Cardiospermum grandiflorum)
Basket asparagus fern (Asparagus aethiopicus)
Blackberry (Rubus anglocandicans, Rubus fruticosus agg.)
Broadleaved pepper tree (Schinus terebinthifolius)
Camphor laurel (Cinnamomum camphora)
Captain Cook tree or yellow oleander (Cascabela thevetia syn. Thevetia
peruviana)
Cat's claw creeper (Macfadyena unguis-cati)
Chinese celtis (Celtis sinensis)
Harungana (Harungana madagascariensis)
Kahili ginger (Hedychium gardnerianum)
Lantana or common lantana (Lantana camara)
Creeping lantana (L. montevidensis)
Madeira vine (Anredera cordifolia)
Broad leaf privet or tree privet (Ligustrum lucidum)
Small leaf privet or Chinese privet (L. sinense)
Purple or ornamental rubber vine (Cryptostegia madagascariensis)
Singapore daisy (Sphagneticola trilobata; syn. Wedelia trilobata)
White ginger (Hedychium coronarium)
Willows
o Pencil willow (Salix humboldtiana syn. S. chilensis)
o Tortured willow (Salix matsudana)
Yellow bells (Tecoma stans)
Other local pest plant species
Abrus precatorius subsp. Africanus gidee-gidee
Agave americana century plant
Ageratina riparia mistflower
Ageratum houstonianum blue billygoat weed
Andropogon virginicus whisky grass
Araujia sericifera moth vine
Ardisia crenata
Ardisia humilis
Ardisia crispa
coral berry
Arundinaria spp. running bamboo
Asparagus aethiopicus ‘Sprengeri’ asparagus fern (ground, basket) c
Asparagus africanus
Asparagus plumosus
climbing asparagus fern C3
Bidens pilosa cobbler’s pegs
Bryophyllum pinnatum resurrection plant
Buddleja madagascariensis buddleja
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Section 41
Bufo marinus cane toad
Caesalpinia decapetala thorny poinciana
Canna indica canna lily
Cardiospermum grandiflorum balloon vine C3
Catharanthus roseus pink periwinkle
Celtis sinensis Chinese celtis C3
Cenchrus echinatus Mossman river grass
Cestrum nocturnum night jessamine
Cestrum parqui green cestrum
Cinnamomum camphora camphor laurel C3
Commelina benghalensis hairy wandering jew
Cortaderia selloana pampas grass
Corymbia torelliana cadaghi
Cotoneaster pannosus cotoneaster
Cryptostegia madagascariensis purple rubber vine C3
Cuscuta spp. other than C. campestris dodder
Cyperus papyrus nana dwarf papyrus
Desmodium uncinatum silverleaf desmodium
Dioscorea bulbifera air potato
Duranta repens
Duranta erecta
duranta
Eragrostis curvula African lovegrass
Erythrina crista-galli cockspur coral tree
Erythrina x skyesii coral tree
Eugenia uniflora Brazilian cherry
Euphorbia cyathophora painted spurge
Felis catus domestic cats
Ficus elastica rubber tree
Fraxinus grifithii mountain ash
Hedychium coronarium white ginger C3
Hedychium gardnerianum ginger lily, kahili ginger C3ntific name Common name Status
Hypoestes phyllostachya polka-dot plant
Impatiens walleriana balsam
Ipomoea alba moon flower
Ipomoea cairica coastal morning glory, mile a minute
Jacaranda mimosifolia jacaranda
Koelreuteria elegans Chinese rain tree
Lantana camara lantana C3
Lantana montevidensis creeping lantana C3
Lilium formosanum Taiwan lily
Lonicera japonica Japanese honeysuckle
Macroptilium atropurpureum siratro
Macrotyloma axillare perennial horse gram
Megathryrsus maximus guinea grass, green panic
Melinis minutiflora molasses grass
Mimosa pudica common sensitive plant
Myriophyllum aquaticum parrot’s feather
Neonotonia wightii glycine
Nephrolepis cordifolia fishbone fern
Nicotiana glauca tobacco tree
Ochna serrulata ochna, Mickey Mouse bush
Oenothera drummondii subsp. drummondii beach evening primrose
Paspalum dilatatum paspalum
Paspalum mandiocanum broad leaf paspalum
Passiflora edulis passionfruit
Passiflora foetida stinking passionflower
Passiflora suberosa corky passionflower
Passiflora subpeltata white passionflower
Pennisetum purpureum elephant grass, bana grass, cane grass
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Pennisetum setaceum African fountain grass C3
Phyllostachys pubescens running bamboo
Pinus elliottii slash pine
Pinus taeda loblolly pine
Pinus caribaea Caribbean pine
Pinus patula Mexican weeping pine
Pyrostegia venusta flame vineentific name Common name Status
Ricinus communis castor oil plant
Rivina humilis coral berry
Rubus anglocandicans syn. Rubus fruticosus agg. blackberry C3
Rubus ellipticus yellowberry
Sansevieria trifasciata mother-in-law’s tongue
Schefflera actinophylla Queensland umbrella tree
Schinus terebinthifolius broad-leaved pepper tree C3
Senna pendula var. glabrata easter cassia
Senna septemtrionalis arsenic bush
Setaria palmifolia palm leaf setaria
Setaria sphacelata South African pigeon grass
Solanum erianthum tobacco bush
Solanum hispidum giant devil’s fig
Solanum seaforthianum Brazilian nightshade
Spathodea campanulata African tulip tree C3
Syagrus romanzoffiana cocos palm
Tecoma stans yellow bells C3
Thevetia peruviana Captain Cook tree C3
Thunbergia alata black eyed susan
Tipuana tipu tipuana, rosewood
Tradescantia zebrina zebrina
Urochloa mutica syn. Brachiaria mutica para grass
Xanthium spinosum Bathurst burr
Class 1 animals:
Crazy ants (Anoplolepis gracilipes)
All mammals, reptiles and amphibians except:
o Class 2 declared pest animals
o Class 3 declared pest animals
o Mammals, reptiles and amphibians indigenous to Australia, including
marine mammals
o 28 non-declared animals.
Class 2 animals:
Australian plague locust (Chortoicetus terminifera)
Cat, other than a domestic cat (Felis catus)
Dingo (Canis familiaris dingo)
Dog, other than a domestic dog (Canis familiaris)
European fox (Vulpes vulpes)
European rabbit - domestic and wild breeds (Oryctolagus cuniculus)
Feral pig (Sus scrofa)
Feral chital deer (Axis axis)
Feral rusa deer (Cervus timorensis)
Goat, other than a domestic goat (Capra hircus)
Migratory locust (Locusta migratoria)
Spur-throated locust (Austracris guttulosa)
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Class 3 animals:
Feral fallow deer (Dama dama)
Feral red deer (Cervus elaphus)
16. Glossary
Biodiversity Biodiversity is the variety of all life forms (plants, animals, microorganisms,
the genes they contain and the ecosystems they form part of.
Climate Change Is the change in climate attributed directly or indirectly to human activity
that alters the composition of global atmosphere and that is, in addition to
natural climate variability over comparable time periods.
Ecological processes The interactions and connections between living and non-living systems,
including movement of energy, nutrient cycling and other chemical
substances such as carbon, organisms and propagules.
Ecosystem A natural unit consisting of all plants, animals and microorganisms in an
area, functioning together with all the non-living physical factors, including
soil, rocks, mineral, water sources and the local atmosphere.
Environmentally Environmentally Significant Areas are designated under the Land Protection
Significant Areas (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act 2002 to provide added protection
against weeds and pest animals for areas of ecological importance.
Declared pests A declared pest is a plant or animal that is listed Class 1, 2 or 3 in the Land
(plants and animals) Protection Regulation 2003. Declared pests pose a threat to Queensland’s
industries, natural resources, environment and human welfare.
Land Protection (Pest Queensland Government legislation for the management of weeds, pest
and Stock Route animals and stock routes throughout Queensland. It establishes a set of
Management) Act principles to guide pest management, provides a framework to pest
2002 management planning and prescribes certain species as being declared
pests.
Non-declared pests Pest plants and animals in the Noosa Shire that are not listed as a declared
(as defined in this pest under the Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act
plan) 2002.
Pests (as defined in Plants and animals that are exotic species or native species found outside
this plan) their natural range where these species cause (or have the potential to
cause) environment, agricultural and/or social impacts.
Sleeper weeds Plants that appear benign for many years, but which may suddenly spread
rapidly following certain natural events such as flood, fire, drought, climate
change, or change in land or water management.
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Section 44
17. Acronyms
BQ Biosecurity Queensland
C1 Class 1 declared pest
C2 Class 2 declared pest
C3 Class 3 declared pest
DMP Damage mitigation permit
ESA Environmentally Significant Areas
GRC Gympie Regional Council
GIS Geographic Information System
LFW Land for Wildlife
MRC Moreton Bay Regional Council
NRM Natural resource management bodies (e.g Burnett Mary Regional Group, SEQ
Catchments)
NSC Noosa Shire Council
DNPRSP Department of National Parks, Recreation, Sports & Racing
SCC Sunshine Coast Council
WON Weeds of National significance
18. Reference List
Australian Government, 2007. National Environmental Alert List.
http://www.weeds.gov.au/weeds/lists/alert.html
Australian Government, 2000. National Action Plan for Salinity and Water Quality.
http://www.napswq.gov.au/publications.html
Australian Government Department of Sustainability, Water, Population and Communities,
2010. Australian Biodiversity Conservation Strategy.
http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/strategy/draft-strategy.html
Australian Government, Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Populations and
Communities, 2010. Threat Abatement Plans.
http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/threatened/tap.html
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Section 45
Australian Government, Natural Resource Management Ministerial Council, 2007. Australian
Pest Animal Strategy. http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/invasive
/publications/pubs/pest-animal-strategy.pdf
Australian Weeds Committee, 2006. Australian Weeds Strategy.
http://www.weeds.org.au/aws.htm
Caloundra City Council, 2007. Draft Caloundra City Pest Management Plan.
Dhileepan K, Trevino M and Snow L, 2006. Application to release the leaf-sucking bug
arvalhotingis visenda (Hemiptera: Tingidae), a potential biological control agent for cat’s claw
creeper Macfadyena unguis-cati (Bignoniaceae).
Maroochy Shire Council, 2006. Maroochy Pest Management Plan 2006-2010
Mary River Pest Management Group, 2009. Mary River Aquatic Weeds Strategy 2010-2014.
http://www.bmrg.org.au/downloads/Mary_River_Aquatic_Weed_ Management_Strategy.pdf
Noosa Shire Council, 2006. Noosa Shire Pest Management Plan 2005-2008.
Queensland Government Department of Employment, Economic Development and
Innovation, 2010. Weeds, pest animals and ants. http://www.dpi.qld.gov.au/27_4823.htm
Queensland Government Department of Employment, Economic Development and
Innovation, 2009. Guidelines for Local Government Area Pest Management Plans.
http://www.dpi.qld.gov.au/4790_6692.htm
Queensland Government Department of Employment, Economic Development and
Innovation, 2009. Queensland Biosecurity Strategy 2009-2014.
http://www.dpi.qld.gov.au/4790_12541.htm
Queensland Government Office of the Queensland Parliamentary Counsel, 2010.
Queensland Legislation. http://www.dpi.qld.gov.au/4790_6692.htm
Queensland Government, Department of Employment, Economic Development and
Innovation, 2002. Queensland Weeds Strategy 2002-2006.
http://www.dpi.qld.gov.au/4790_6686.htm
Queensland Government, Department of Employment, Economic Development and
Innovation, 2002 Queensland Pest Animal Strategy 2002-2006.
http://www.dpi.qld.gov.au/documents/Biosecurity_EnvironmentalPests/IPA-Qld-Animal-
Strategy.pdf
Queensland Government, Department of Employment, Economic Development and
Innovation, 2010. Wild Dog Management Strategy 2010-2015.
http://www.dpi.qld.gov.au/4790_18743.htm
43