Animal and Weed Pest Control
General Advice on Weed Control
Weed control in a farming area is more of a co-operative one than in the city due to the ability of weeds to become established on an uncared-for block and to then spread over on to a neighbour’s block.
Accordingly, the Society controls weeds in the 3 following ways:
- Kraig Steiner (farm lessee) controls weeds on the farm area;
- Kraig and other helpful Society Members control weeds on the Communal areas; and
- Individual Members control weeds on their own Lots (with particular responsibility for those Lots that contain covenanted native reserves).
As advised earlier, the Northland Regional Council, through the Community Pest Control Area (“CPCA”) scheme, has completed its obligations in respect of initial weed eradication/control (except for Giant Reed). The NRC is continuing to provide sprays, poison baits etc as part of the scheme, but the labour now falls to the Society.
So, Members are now responsible for ensuring that their individual Lots do not become a ‘nursery’ for weeds.
To assist in the identification and control of the most common and obnoxious weeds we have prepared a laminated reference sheet (enclosed).
That sheet sets out the methods for control, some of which are labour intensive. Spraying is less labour intensive but you must always ensure that you are well protected.
If spraying – You Should Wear:
- Long trousers and shirt;
- Gloves;
- Large hat; and
- Breathing mask.
Spraying is a very effective method of control, but………….you must ensure that it is the weeds that suffer!
Additional Resources
Argentine Ants
Several properties at Takahoa have reported these and they are recognised as being invasive and hard to kill. This article from DOC gives information on identification and management.
https://www.doc.govt.nz/nature/pests-and-threats/animal-pests/argentine-ants/