21-Mar-2011

Weed infestations, soil erosion and pasture degradation are costly problems for rural landholders whether they run commercial enterprises or simply want to enjoy the rural lifestyle.

Advice and information on how to reduce these problems and at the same time enhance the environmental values and productive capacity of their properties will be provided during the ‘Creeks, Weeds and Cows’ workshops to be held at The Centre, Brisbane Street, Beaudesert on Friday 1st and Saturday 2nd April.

The event will consist of a number of short workshops on various land management topics and extension officers from Scenic Rim and Logan City Councils and the Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation will be available to provide one-on-one advice.

One issue that affects many rural landholders is that of managing weed infestations and the ‘What weed is this?’ workshop session will offer advice on best practice control measures for problem weeds in the district, including fireweed and giant rat’s tail grass.

Landholders will also be able to bring along samples of weeds and grasses found on their properties to have them identified.

Another session will discuss management strategies to help increase pasture utilisation and productivity in grazing systems which can also help control weed infestations and provide soil health benefits.

The equine industry is a growing and unique community in the region. The ‘Sustainable Horse Management’ workshop session will provide advice on property management strategies which can help horse owners save time and money and also have benefits for the environment.

Recent flooding has caused severe erosion in local creeks and waterways. The ‘Keeping your creek healthy’ workshop session will present strategies to stabilise creek banks and prevent further erosion. Landholders will also be able to bring along photos of erosion on their land for advice on options to mitigate its impact.

Other topics that will be covered during the two day workshop program include fire management, enhancing biodiversity on your property and Property Management Planning.

The event is being organised by SEQ Catchments through support from Scenic Rim Regional Council, Logan City Council, Seqwater and the Australian Government’s Caring for our Country.

“The ‘Creeks, Weeds and Cows’ program offers workshops on a variety of topics of interest to rural landholders. Landholders can register to attend as many of the sessions as they like or they can simply drop in and visit the information displays that will be set up at the venue”, said Regional Landcare Facilitator and event organiser Kit Krause.