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Arum lily blitz to help landholders tackle toxic weed

Landholders from Byford to Leschenault have the chance to grab some free herbicide and learn how to tackle one of WA’s most damaging environmental weeds this July through a series of Arum Lily Blitz workshops hosted by Peel Harvey Biosecurity Group (PHBG).


Featuring guest presenter Ben Howell from Green Room Conservation, the workshops will provide practical, best-practice advice on managing arum lily on private property.

Also known as death lily, arum lily is a declared weed that invades wetlands, waterways, bushland and agricultural land throughout the region. Dense infestations can smother native vegetation and reduce habitat for wildlife. The plant is also toxic to livestock, pets and people, as every part contains calcium oxalate.

PHBG Executive Officer Rachel Rand said winter offered the best opportunity for communities to work together against the weed.

"The more arum lily we control this season, the fewer plants we'll be dealing with next year," Ms Rand said.

"A single property can make a difference, but when entire communities take action at the same time, we can dramatically reduce the amount of seed entering the environment and slow the spread of this weed across the region."

"Effective control benefits both agricultural production and the health of our natural environment."

Arum lily is currently under consideration for classification as a Weed of National Significance (WoNS), reflecting increasing recognition of its environmental and economic impacts.

Workshop presenter Ben Howell said even small actions by community members could help reduce the spread of the weed.

"People often think weed control requires specialist equipment or large-scale programs, but there are simple actions everyone can take," Mr Howell said.

"Even snipping off arum lily flower heads can prevent plants from producing seed that season. Small actions taken across many properties can have a significant impact."

The workshops will cover weed identification, control options, timing of treatments and practical management strategies suitable for local conditions. Attendees will be able to take home a small container of free herbicide.

For workshop details and registrations, visit: https://forms.gle/nPdXhpjQ9bTCSLvY9. 

About Peel Harvey Biosecurity Group

Peel Harvey Biosecurity Group is a Recognised Biosecurity Group that works with the community to reduce the impact of invasive species across the Peel-Harvey region through coordinated action, education and support.

ENDS

PHBG media enquiries: media@phbg.org (Mon & Tues)

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