Lake Benmore weed spraying complete

27 March 2003

Land Information New Zealand completed aerial spraying of lagarosiphon weed in Lake Benmore this afternoon.

Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) contractors, Landward Management, report that spraying was completed ahead of schedule due to good weather conditions.  The effects of the spraying should start to become evident in three to four weeks. 

"We are pleased that we were able to act quickly to control the outbreak of the weed in Lake Benmore," says Paul Jackson, LINZ Manager, Crown Property.

"LINZ will undertake ongoing monitoring of Lake Benmore and its tributaries.  This should enable early identification of lagarosiphon and enable us to plan any further control work on the lake."

The weed was sprayed with a compound called Aquagel, which contains the herbicide diquat as the active ingredient.

"The herbicide has used safely in North Island and South Island lakes for more than 20 years," says Paul Jackson.

"LINZ is actively managing the lakes with our contractors.  Other agencies such as Meridian Energy, Fish and Game and regional councils are also involved.  If the public notice anything, particularly weed in areas where it has not previously been, they can contact us on a free-call number, 0508 244746. The lakes cover huge areas and any information on new sites can be acted upon quickly, as was the case with Lake Benmore."

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