Monday, May 13, 2002

Waging War on Weeds

According to the Environment News Service, the Australian government has just pledged $3 million dollars ($5.6 Australian dollars) to fight 5 of their top 20 worst weeds. The weeds to be targeted, all non-native introductions, are: Blackberry (Rubus fruticosus), Chilean needle grass (Nassella neesiana), Gorse (Ulex europaeus), Lantana (Lantana camara), and Serrated tussock (Nassella trichotoma). Australia has always been at the forefront of invasive species management and research. Unfortunately, the extent of these invasions means they are fighting an uphill battle.

Note to news services everywhere: let's get some scientific names in these articles! "Blackberry" doesn't give me nearly enough information.

No comments: