With the valuable help of volunteers, this project will map and treat weed infestations on all Eurobodalla beaches.

The project is expected to run for the next three years.

The time-frame allows for a strategic approach to weed eradication, keeping our beaches in the relatively amazing condition they are famous for.

The mapping is done using a handheld GPS device.

This nifty piece of equipment records the exact location, weed species and the approximate density of infestation.

The resulting maps can then be used by volunteers and contractors to locate and treat the weed areas.  

The project has a specific focus on a number of beach weeds that are starting to appear more abundantly throughout the Eurobodalla shire.

The aim of the project is to try and eradicate these weed species before they become naturalized.

Once a weed is naturalized it can only realistically be controlled rather than eradicated. 

All weeds will be mapped, however, the main focus is on Coastal Gladiolus, Marram Grass, Sea Spurge, African Pelargonium, Gazania, Beach Daisy and African Daisy.

So far, volunteers from the Durras and Long Beach areas have been very active and dedicated.

The volunteers provide valuable insight and local knowledge, as they know their local beaches intimately.

Each locality has different problems in terms of weed composition.

As a result, organisers are developing a customized plan with volunteers for each area.

This project is funded through the NSW Environmental Trust and Eurobodalla Shire Council.

For more information contact council on 4474 1000.

In Tilba, resident Robert Dunn hopes to fight fireweed on rural properties, by winning the hearts and minds of others in the area.

He has formed a new Landcare group for the Tilba and Southern Narooma area to begin a concerted picking program.

The toxic weed is a scourge for livestock owners. Mr Dunn can be contacted on 44 73 7853.