Tackling weeds in Warkworth

Warkworth Weedbusters were targeting the edge of Mill Stream and the Mahurangi River recently.

A particular focus was the small park opposite the Bridgehouse. The main weeds were pampas, privet and some Phoenix palms.

An organiser Patte Williams said each frond of the palms was carefully cut, pasted and then placed over the fence for collection. The bush privet was given the same treatment.

She said the pampas grass clumps took a lot longer to be removed as every leaf was like a sawblade when touched. 

Meanwhile, a weed amnesty was held at the Warkworth Showgrounds on March 26.

Despite the weather, trailer loads of invasive pest plants were delivered.

Lending a hand were Rodney Councillor Greg Sayers and Forest & Bird area chair Sally Richardson.

“The skips had plenty of agapanthus and wild ginger in them so some locals have been doing a great job for Warkworth,” Patte says. “A big thank you from the Warkworth Weedbusters.”

The next Weed Amnesty will be held on May 7, again at the showgrounds, from 10am to 2pm.