Bitou bush is one of the most aggressive weeds threatening coastal ecosystems, and bitou bush will be tackled in three areas of Ballina Shire by Rous County Council (RCC) with an $85,000 NSW government grant.
The project will support RCC in targeting priority weeds at the Lennox Head Sport and Recreation Centre, Skennars Head, and Black Head.
‘If left unchecked, bitou bush displaces native vegetation, alters soil nutrients, and diminishes habitat quality for native wildlife,’ said Rhett Patrick, Weed Biosecurity Team Leader at RCC.
‘Controlling this invasive species is crucial to preserving the ecological integrity of our coastal reserves.’
This project follows the recent success of Bitou bush management by RCC in Byron Shire.
‘The removal of Bitou bush and other invasive weeds is expected to significantly reduce the seed bank in the affected areas, enabling native species to regenerate more effectively. This natural regeneration will help suppress future weed growth and improve habitat quality for local fauna,’ said Patrick.
‘The project will also bolster the ongoing work of dedicated local volunteer groups involved in bush regeneration efforts beyond.’
The project is funded through the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund Program (CRIF) which provides essential financial support for the maintenance, improvement, and development of Crown reserves across NSW.
‘This funding allows us to enhance the resilience of our reserves and support community-led conservation – it’s a win for both biodiversity and the local community,’ said RCC General Manager, Phillip Rudd.
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