What are the Councils responsibilities regarding weeds?
Under the Weed Management Act 1999 , Weed Management Plans have been prepared for all declared weeds. These plans specify municipal areas where the weed must be eradicated and where the weed must at least be contained. Weed Management Plans provide the legal framework by which weed law enforcement can occur. The Weed Management Plans in the Waratah-Wynyard municipal area lists the priority plants for eradication or control as being Ragwort, Broom. Pampas Grass, Slender Thistle, Crack Willow and Gorse. A number of councils have prepared Weed Management Strategies that detail specific approaches to weed management within the municipality. There may also be an appointed weed inspector within council. Council’s Weed Management Strategy details its specific approach to weed management within the municipal area. {link to Weed Management Strategy on website} Councils have some obligations under Section 39 of the Local Government (Highways) Act 1982 to keep roadsides clear of vegetation that m