Drone used to combat weeds in Eli Waters waterway

Fraser Coast Regional Council has taken to the skies to manage an invasive weed in a waterway in Eli Waters, with a drone used for the first time to make the process more efficient and eco-friendly.

Cr Lachlan Cosgrove said a local contractor had successfully completed Salvinia weed spraying of the Endeavour Way waterway in Eli Waters, covering an area of 4.06 hectares.

“Salvinia molesta is an invasive aquatic fern that forms dense mats on water surfaces, disrupting ecosystems and water flow,” he said.

“Previous treatment has been sprayed from a boat which took Council workers over 40 hours and used around 130 litres of herbicide.

“This year, we used a drone for the spraying, which took just three hours and required only 36 litres of herbicide.”

Cr Cosgrove said this approach was more efficient, eliminated chemical exposure risks to staff, and was more environmentally friendly.

“The control of Salvinia molesta is a high priority for Council as identified in our Biosecurity Plan,” he said.

“As part of our control program, Council will also introduce Salvinia weevils in Eli Waters and other areas around Hervey Bay and Maryborough to assist in managing the weed alongside spraying efforts.

“The Salvinia weevil is a small beetle that feeds on the invasive aquatic fern, helping to control its spread by damaging the plant's structure and reducing its growth.

“Council has secured a Biosecurity Queensland grant to establish a Salvinia weevil breeding facility, which includes four poly-tanks set up at the Oakhurst depot for growing Salvinia.

“In October, we will introduce Salvinia weevils to these tanks and allow their population to grow until we have sufficient numbers to release into affected waterbodies around November, depending on their breeding rate.

“Council is committed to maintaining our open spaces by using sustainable practices that preserve the environment and enhance community enjoyment.”

For more information on Council’s Biosecurity Plan, head to https://www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/downloads/file/1618/biosecurity-plan-2022