Weed control of German ivy along the Bluff foreshore

Environment Southland will be carrying out weed control along the Bluff foreshore over the next two to three years, with the aim of eradicating German ivy. This will involve herbicide spraying of affected areas in stages, followed by the planting of native shrubs. The dead vegetation will look unattractive for a while, but the longer-term plan is to beautify the area.

What’s the problem?

German ivy grows rapidly and can smother other plants. It is difficult to control – the best way is to control the affected foreshore area with herbicide in order to remove all weeds, under which German ivy may be hiding.

What’s happening when, and how will I be informed?

Weed control will begin in January 2020, starting at the southern-most end of Marine Parade, with follow-up work in autumn 2020. Subsequent control of the northern area will begin in summer 2020/21.

The work will be done by an approved contractor on a day of favourable weather. We recommend not walking through the area for 24 hours after herbicide application. Temporary signs will be placed at either end of the area to remind people not to access the foreshore during this time. Those living in the immediate area will be notified by letter before the spraying begins.

How can I help?

The Invercargill City Council is supplying eco-sourced lowgrowing native plants to beautify the area after the control work has been carried out. We look forward to working together with the Bluff community to organise planting days in 2020/21 and 2021/22.

We would also like to remind residents not to dump garden waste along the foreshore area to prevent the establishment of weeds.

Who do I contact if I have questions?

For questions regarding this project, please get in contact with the biosecurity team at Environment Southland, phone 0800 76 88 45.