MRCCC Invasive Weed Projects
MRCCC’s weed projects focus on controlling invasive vine weeds that threaten native habitats by smothering and killing vegetation along creeks and rivers in the Mary River catchment. The catchment supports pockets of critically endangered lowland subtropical rainforest and provides habitat for a rich variety of wildlife, including numerous threatened and endangered species.
Vines weeds are a direct threat to the health of these important ecosystems and species. Degradation of vital riparian zones, through the loss of established trees and riverbank vegetation, significantly increases the risk of streambank erosion. As a result, there can be serious impacts on riparian and aquatic habitats, productive land, water quality, and downstream ecosystems, including the Great Barrier Reef. By treating and managing these vine weeds we reduce this risk significantly, and help to prevent streambank erosion and maintain healthy ecosystems both at a catchment level as well as in downstream marine environments.
Currently working across more than 50 properties with multiple local partner organisations and contractors, MRCCC is strategically managing invasive vine weeds from the headwaters of the Mary River near Conondale, downstream to Gympie, targeting the two worst species – cats claw creeper (Dolichandra unguis-cati) and Madeira vine (Anredera cordifolia).
Upper Mary River Vine Weed Project
This project was started by Hinterland Bush Links over ten years ago and has engaged over 1000 labour-hours across 34 properties throughout the upper Mary river catchment. Hinterland Bush Links has handed over this project to MRCCC, which now builds on more than a decade of strong management and on-ground works.
Last year an updated strategic report was developed by Matt Bateman. This in depth document shows the details of where and when infestations have been identified and managed across the upper catchment as well a strategic plan outlining how to treat and manage these vine weeds with details of what to prioritise, where and when to undertake works and budgets. This document can be viewed here: