Lake Benmore weed control set to go ahead this week

26 March 2003

Land Information New Zealand plans to begin its weed control programme in Lake Benmore this week.

Given the right weather and lake conditions, aerial spraying of lagarosiphon weed with Aquagel (which contains the herbicide diquat as the active ingredient) will take place on Thursday and Friday, says Paul Jackson, Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) Manager, Crown Property.

"Environment Canterbury has given us permission to use Aquagel to control the weed. The application of Aquagel needs clear, still conditions and at the moment the forecast is for fine weather on Thursday.

LINZ considers that Aquagel is the best method of control for the weed. The active ingredient in Aquagel has been used safely in New Zealand for more than 20 years in North Island and South Island lakes."

LINZ will let the public know if there are any changes to the timetable, Paul Jackson says.

"Radio advertisements on Timaru Port FM began yesterday. There will be warning signs and staff at boat ramps, a free-call number (0508 244746) and notification on LINZ's website at www.linz.govt.nz. The best way to check is through the website."

LINZ is pleased that Meridian Energy is making a financial contribution to help LINZ with the weed control work.

"We are grateful for Meridian's input. It just shows the commitment of all agencies to control the weed in Lake Benmore."

LINZ administers a number of lakes in the North and South Islands. Paul Jackson says the public has an important role to play in helping to control the spread of noxious weeds.

"It's possible that the lagarosiphon was accidentally transported into Lake Benmore by a boat owner. What we're asking boaties to do is to check to see that there's nothing caught up in the motor or hanging off the anchor or pulled out with the trailer. If people can do that, it helps to control the spread of the weed."

For further information please contact:

Paul Jackson
Manager, Crown Property
Land Information New Zealand
Private Box 5501
WELLINGTON
PH: 04 460 0158
FAX: 04 460 0590
EMAIL: pjackson@linz.govt.nz

LINZ media liaison:

Michael Mead
Senior Communications Adviser
Land Information New Zealand
Private Box 5501
WELLINGTON
PH: (04) 498 3516
FAX: (04) 472 1864
EMAIL: mmead@linz.govt.nz