Over the last week of January and the first week of February, don't be surprised to see volunteers from Landcare groups, rural fire brigades (if they are free), friends groups, and farmers removing ragwort from roadsides. The annual Ragwort Raid, run by Tamar NRM, is in its 23rd year and aims to control the spread of the declared agricultural and environmental weed, Ragwort (Jacobaea vulgaris).
Over the last 23 years, the Ragwort Raids have gone from collecting truck-loads to bag loads. This volunteer event does a splendid job preventing ragwort from getting a major foothold in the region.
Regular "ragwort raider" and this year's Ragwort Raid Coordinator Kay Bailey said, "I am looking forward to working with the community and the three Tamar councils on this practical on-ground project. If you can help out on this year's ragwort raids you will be provided with all the required instruction on ragwort identification and removal."
Tamar NRM wants landholders, no matter how big or small, to do whatever they can to reduce ragwort on their properties. Ms Bailey said, "join us on one of the dedicated ragwort days, or, importantly, just deal with any infestations you have. By doing that you will be adding value to the volunteer roadside ragwort control, adding value to your property, and helping control the spread of this insidious weed that can invade natural and agricultural areas and is toxic to livestock."
Tamar NRM's integrated weed program, the Tamar Valley Weed Strategy, will also use the Raids to monitor for the presence of biological control agents in ragwort infestations. Tasmanian releases of various host-specific insects include the Ragwort Flea Beetle, the Stem, and Crown Boring Moth and the Ragwort Plume Moth.
"These agents are another weed management tool, particularly useful for control in difficult terrain where access is problematic," Ms Bailey said.
The four dedicated "ragwort raiding" days are: East Tamar – Saturday 22nd January at the Pipers River Fire Station; West Tamar – Sunday 23rd January at Winkleigh Hall, Blessington – Tuesday 25th January at the Blessington Hall Nunamara – Saturday 29th January at the Nunamara Hall.
Meet for all the Raids at 9.00 am and join in the sausage sizzle after (at about noon).
