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RAND WATER EDITORIAL

Alien invasive plants after extraction

Physical extraction using a front-end loader Wet biomass of alien invasive plants after extraction

from sewerage, the aquatic weed grew biocontrol agents and technical support “This has definitely been a group
exponentially and totally out of control. in order to introduce weevils and hoppers success story, where working closely with
Rand Water is continuing with the which help to eradicate the invasive alien all parties has resulted in the outcome we
implementation of the control plan plants. see today. However, we have not yet won
issued by both the above-mentioned Rand Water has been awarded an order the war, since we aren’t sure what this
departments, which includes an for the physical removal of 60 hectares coming summer will bring. Nevertheless,
integrated approach of physical of alien invasive plants. This, together we are now in a far better position to be
extraction, curtaining, biocontrol and with Omnia’s contribution and the ahead of the game in controlling the alien
the use of herbicides to halt the out-of- communities’ own self-funded efforts, invasive aquatic weed narrative”, says Dr
control growth. means that by the end of July 2024, there Leslie Hoy of Rand Water.
Rhodes University Centre for Biocontrol should be little to no more aquatic weeds
assisted with aspects such as mapping, in the Vaal River Barrage. Dr L Hoy Lhoy@randwater.co.za n

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