Background
Narrow leaf cotton bush (Gomphocarpus fruticosus) is a concern for many landholders and is declared under the Biosecurity and Agriculture Management Act 2007 (BAM Act). It is in the C3 management category, which requires landholders to control to minimise its spread.
Management of cotton bush is best achieved through a community coordinated approach. The Department of Agriculture and Food, Western Australia (DAFWA) is working with community to develop operational plans that include community expectations, responsibilities and compliance measures. The Peel-Harvey and Leschenault biosecurity groups are raising awareness and engaging community for actions to control cotton bush.
DAFWA is supporting biosecurity groups and has identified high priority areas for compliance.
DAFWA has prepared a compliance strategy which is being implemented over the coming summer months. DAFWA staff are currently undertaking inspections for cotton bush compliance in the Peel-Harvey and Leschenault catchment areas.
The department will undertake compliance processes in a way that supports a community coordinated approach for control and management of widespread and established declared pests.
The compliance process includes remedial action and prosecution where appropriate.
Cotton bush compliance timeline
DAFWA will continue to engage with stakeholders to promote and support the adoption of a community coordinated approach as the most effective way to manage cotton bush.
The department will support biosecurity groups in the management of cotton bush by assisting with raising awareness and practice adoption through engagement within the community, as well as undertaking regulatory action where required.
- August: community groups send letters to landholders
- September: negotiate target areas for compliance with groups
- Early October: inspections
- Late October: non-compliance warning letters issued
- November: Pest Control Notices issued
- Early December: contractors engaged when required.
Further information
For further information on cotton bush or other declared plants in WA, including control methods, search the DAFWA website, or contact the Pest and Disease Information Service.