24 March 2011

Media release

Call for submissions on biocontrol for Chilean needlegrass

The Environmental Risk Management Authority is seeking submissions on an application to release a biological agent to control Chilean needlegrass.

The Marlborough District Council has applied to release the rust fungus Uromyces pencanus to attack Chilean needlegrass.

In its application, the council says Chilean needlegrass is a significant weed which forms dense clumps in pastureland.

Landcare Research, the science partner for the council, has undertaken host range safety testing and considers Uromyces pencanus will successfully attack and reproduce on Chilean needlegrass without harming non-target species.

Public submissions are now being sought on the application.

Submissions form an important part of the information presented to the Authority's decision-making committee.

Submissions close on 9 May, 2011.

To read the full application as well as a discussion document prepared by ERMA New Zealand staff, click here.

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