Port Stephens Council has successfully managed the region’s first infestation of prohibited aquatic plant Frogbit, ensuring the protection of local wetlands and drainage systems.
Early identification by Council’s Environmental Operations Team during routine biosecurity monitoring on an Anna Bay property has enabled staff to quickly manage the high-risk infestation. Over a 20-day coordinated operation, spanning 25 properties, the team treated and cleared the aquatic weed, treating over 9,000 square metres of water surface and safely removing over 100 tonnes of the prohibited plant matter.
The aquatic weed Frogbit is classified as ‘Prohibited’ by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development due to its high biosecurity risk in natural water systems. While it has previously been detected in other parts of New South Wales, this is the first detection of the species in Port Stephens. Strict biosecurity rules are in place across the State, including Port Stephens, making it illegal to buy, sell, trade or move this species within or into NSW.
Frogbit can have severe impacts on native aquatic life, livestock water access and on drainage function. The weed also disguises deep waterways as firm ground, posing a danger to people, pets and livestock. It is unclear how the infestation established in Port Stephens; however, it is likely to have been mistakenly disposed of from an aquarium.
Mayor Leah Anderson said protecting the natural environment remains a central priority for Council and the community, who are being asked to help report sightings of priority weeds like Frogbit.
“Our pristine local waterways and unique natural environments are what makes Port Stephens such a beautiful place to live and protecting them is an absolute priority for both Council and our community,” Mayor Anderson said.
Environmental Operations Team Leader Brayden Luke explained the rapid response mitigated the risk of the plant becoming established in the local environment.
“As soon as our routine monitoring identified the weed, our Environmental Operations Team took immediate action. Because of this decisive intervention, we have successfully prevented Frogbit from establishing itself in our Port Stephens waterways,” said Mr Luke.
“Working with multiple landowners, the team treated the infestation using a combination of approved herbicide controls and mechanical removal. All known sites have been successfully treated and cleared, but we will need to continue to monitor the area closely to ensure it remains free of this weed,” Mr Luke added.
“I’m incredibly proud of how quickly our team moved to handle this biosecurity matter before it caused widespread, long-term damage to our local ecosystems. But we must continue to remove any new growth before it takes hold, which is why we are asking residents to report any possible sightings to Council,” Mayor Anderson added.
Residents can help protect local waterways by keeping an eye out for Frogbit’s distinct small, round, glossy green leaves and tiny white flowers.
