Question On Notice No. 3291 asked in the Legislative Council on 11 August 2015 by Hon Lynn Maclaren
Question Directed to the: Minister for Mental Health representing the Minister for Planning
Parliament: 39 Session: 1
Question
(1) With reference to tabled paper 2620, which states "whilst there are further weed control actions required it is my view that the weed infestations at Stakehill are well within controllable limits, and further short term actions should eradicate the pampas grass, scotch thistle and cotton bush outbreaks in total.", I ask:
(a) with some years on, why have the weeds not yet been eradicated in total as claimed; and
(b) will the Minister request that a qualified independent consultant review this action item?
(2) Will the Minister instigate an independent assessment of weeds and weed management at the Stakehill Wetland?
(3) Will the Minister undertake an overall review of the Stakehill Swamp environmental management plan; including its implementation, focusing on use, fencing, signage and degradation of the site?
Answered on 15 September 2015
(1)-(2) As part of the ongoing management of Stakehill Swamp, the Department of Planning engaged an independent environmental consultant, who provided an environmental weed map for the site in May 2015. The weed map will be used to develop an action plan to be implemented over several years, aimed at reducing the incidence of pampas grass, scotch thistle and cotton bush as far as possible within the wetland areas and adjacent to Stakehill Swamp.
This needs to be balanced with the potential impacts of weed control on fragile existing vegetation and needs to be supported by the efforts of residents around Stakehill Swamp. Information on weed management is provided by the Department of Planning Field Management team to Stakehill Swamp neighbours to assist in this project.
(3) The current Environmental Management Plan is still a relevant and applicable document.