Spraying as a solution

Abstract

When invasive aquatic weeds establish in a lake, they usually result in detrimental effects on native biodiversity, amenity and utility values. Once a weed species or weed issue has been recognised control options are often sought to protect amenity and utility functions of aquatic systems. There is also a growing desire to control invasive plants to support the restoration of lakes, improving biodiversity and habitat values. The tools or methods that can be utilised for the control of invasive aquatic plants can be broadly described by the following categories; habitat manipulation; biological, chemical, mechanical and manual, and integrated weed control. The selection of which tool to use is primarily determined by the target weed, characteristics of the lake or waterbody and the management goals or desired outcome. Herbicides can be used to provide effective, selective and targeted weed control. This paper describes the products available, how they work and the environmental benefits that can be achieved with their use.