Environmental and Agricultural Drone Use & Controlling Long-leaf Willow Primrose

Join Garth Short from Hunter Precision Agriculture for a demonstration of weed control techniques using drone technology and a discussion on the control of Ludwigia longifolia. Garth is a pioneer in the use of this emerging technology in Australian agricultural and environmental contexts. On the day we will cover:

• How drones can be used in the management of environmental and agricultural land
• A demonstration of the use of drones for spraying, seeding and surveying
• Safe and effective use of new technologies in land management
• How to identify and control Long-leaf willow primrose 
• The importance of being vigilant about emerging weeds
• A free light lunch will be provided for all attendees

What is Long-leaf Willow Primrose? Long-leaf Willow Primrose (Ludwigia longifolia) is an aquatic weed that threatens to invade large areas of NSW waterways and wetlands. It is an ecosystem transformer which forms dense colonies in slow moving waterways, disrupting the ecological processes of our natural creeks and river systems. Water weeds like Ludwigia longifolia are notoriously difficult to access and control using traditional methods, making drone control an exciting prospect for the future. 

Originally from South America, Ludwigia longifolia can blend in with other wetland species in its early stages of growth. Long thin stalkless leaves are reddish to green and are arranged alternately along the stems. The obvious giveaway is the Yellow flowers which form in the leaf axil in summer and develop into seed pods containing millions of tiny seeds. These seeds can be spread by wind, water and birds, as well as in soil on vehicles, farm machinery, footwear and clothing. It can also spread rapidly from small fragments of vegetative material. Ludwigia longifolia has only recently arrived on the mid-north coast so it is critical we take action on it before it spreads.

This event is made possible with funding from NSW North Coast Local Land Services. LLS is supporting the recovery of fire-affected regions by strengthening the resilience of surrounding ecosystems. We will be following NSW Covid Safe Guidelines. Bookings essential.

Any Questions? Please contact ayager@bellingerlandcare.org.au