Work is currently being undertaken to control African Love Grass along roadsides in the Providence Ponds/Perry River catchment areas.

Wellington Shire Council’s horticulture staff have been working with West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority, with funding from Victorian Government’s Our Catchments, Our Communities Program.

Wellington Shire Mayor Carolyn Crossley said it was important to control African Love Grass because it was an introduced species and spread relatively easily.

“African Love Grass competes with native grasses and pasture grass species and reduces feed palatability for stock,” she said.

“In addition to the work being done in the Providence Ponds and Perry River catchment area, Council is also working with and encouraging neighbouring landholders to implement African Love Grass control on their own properties.”

African Love Grass control being undertaken in accordance with Wellington’s strategic roadside weed control plan and overlaps areas included in the Providence Ponds & Perry River Catchment Strategic Directions Statement.

African Love Grass control in these areas will help the condition of wetland habitats, endangered Red Gum Grassy Woodland vegetation on council roadsides and reduce the threat of African Love Grass invasion to farm properties.