Reporting and applying control measures quickly have averted the spread of the virulent Mexican feathergrass (Nassella tenuissima) in the Limestone Coast.

An observant member of the public alerted the Limestone Coast Landscape Board to the suspicious looking grass.

It is a weed the Limestone Coast Landscape Board aims to eradicate from the region and prevent further incursions.

From first inspection, the Limestone Coast Landscape Board staff have put control measures in place within 48 hours, from having the weed positively identified by State Herbarium of South Australia’s Weeds Botanist Chris Brodie, to applying the control measure to eradicate the infestation.

“Mexican feathergrass is a problematic weed in that it could thrive in most agricultural zones of South Australia if left unchecked,” Limestone Coast Landscape Board Landscape Team Leader Deb Lang said.

“It is a perennial tussock grass native to central and south America introduced into Australia as an ornamental plant through hardware chains.

“We put control measures in place for this infestation within 48 hours, because we were so concerned about the impact of this weed on pasture and the environment and needing to stop its spread.

“We would like to thank the community member for their vigilance and action to notify us.

“It just goes to show that being proactive on what might be seen as a small thing, can achieve so much to protect the economy and environment.”

Property owners are encouraged to check their gardens and properties in case it has been accidentally planted and report any tussock grasses by contacting their local Landscape Officer on 8735 1177 or visit www.landscape.sa.gov.au/lc.