Project Update: Cacti Eradication in the Oldfield River Corridor
Project Start Date: April 1, 2024
Estimated Completion Date: July 31, 2026
The Southern Biosecurity Group is pleased to provide an update on the continuing efforts to eradicate the invasive drooping prickly pear (Opuntia monacantha) from the Oldfield River corridor in the Shire of Ravensthorpe.
According to the project funding agreement with the State Natural Resource Management (NRM) Community Stewardship Grants, payments towards the project are made in installments, following the successful completion of set milestones. The project is structured into seven milestones, each indicating our progress and facilitating the timely release of grant installment payments.
We are currently progressing through Milestone 2, which focuses on on-ground activities and the control of Opuntia monacantha. This phase includes a combination of traditional herbicide applications, manual removal, and the use of cochineal insects for biological control. The due completion date for this milestone is May 24, 2025.
Key Milestone 2 Activities:
- Continued manual removal and treatment of prickly pear within the designated 38 hectares of the Oldfield River corridor.
- Application of herbicides to treat larger clusters of Opuntia.
- Spread and monitoring of cochineal insects as a biological control agent.
- Engagement of local indigenous community members, who contribute to the on-ground activities and monitoring efforts.
- Mapping of control activities to ensure comprehensive coverage and to support the natural habitat’s restoration.
This project is crucial to maintaining the river system’s ecological balance, preventing further spread of the invasive species, and protecting the region’s biodiversity and cultural sites. We appreciate the community’s continued support and engagement as we work towards our goals.
We will continue to keep you updated on our progress as we move through the remaining milestones. Thank you for your ongoing support and commitment to preserving our natural environment.
For further information or to get involved, please contact us.
