PIRSA moves to clean up patch of invasive seaweed

Thursday 8 May 2008

Primary Industries and Resources SA is taking action to remove a patch of the invasive seaweed Caulerpa taxifolia from an area within the North Haven marina near the public boat ramp.

The Director of Fisheries, Will Zacharin said it was likely the weed had been caught in boat anchors or other equipment and transferred from the Port River.

The operation - where divers will suction up the weed – will begin on Monday 12 May and is likely to take a few weeks. They will operate from a small punt moored just off the boat ramp. As divers will be operating in the vicinity of the boat ramp, people are asked to show care in boating operations in this area.

Mr Zacharin urged people who use the Port River for fishing, boating or other aquatic activities to continue efforts to keep Caulerpa taxifolia contained.

“To help stop the spread, it is important that if the weed is caught on boat anchors, fishing lines, diving equipment, that the weed is removed and not returned to the water,” Mr Zacharin said. “Just one small piece of weed can start a new infestation.”

The North Haven infestation was discovered by a worker involved in sand dredging and recognising the importance of reporting the weed, rang Fishwatch.

“I wish to thank him for his community spirit and diligence, Mr Zacharin said. “If anyone suspects they have seen the weed outside of known areas, please contact Fishwatch on 1800 065 522.”

More information about Caulerpa taxifolia is on the PIRSA website: www.pir.sa.gov.au/weeds

BACKGROUND
Caulerpa taxifolia was first discovered in 2002 in West Lakes and the upper reaches of the Port River. The weed was successfully eradicated from West Lakes using freshwater.

In the Port River, despite concerted eradication efforts using salt, chlorine and suction devices, the weed spread downstream with infestations including around the old Quarantine Station, around Garden Island and into Eastern Passage, North Arm and the southern end of Barker Inlet.

The State Government has continued containment measures – including anchor bans in some areas of the Port River - throughout this time.