Council has a responsibility to control noxious weeds found on its lands and this is undertaken using integrated weed management techniques wherever possible. Sometimes this includes the use of herbicides/pesticides and this decision is based on the size of the infestation, type of weed, topography, access and potential environmental and health risks.
The use of pesticides in NSW is regulated by the Pesticides Act 1999, which is administered by the Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water.
The object of the Act is to ensure that:
- pesticides are only used for the purpose described on the product label
- all directions on the product label are followed
- reasonable care is taken to protect your health and that of others when you are using pesticides. This includes using protective clothing, notification that you are using pesticides, reducing spray drift and run off onto sensitive areas and reducing harm to endangered or protected species.
Council applies herbicides/pesticides in accordance with the Pesticides Act 1999. In pursuing chemical weed management, Council also adopts the following measures:
- maintains detailed records of pesticide application
- fully trains Noxious Weeds Inspectors in pesticide application techniques
- implements a Noxious Weeds Unit - Pesticide Use Notification Plan and Pesticide Use Notification Plan (General)
- complies with Occupational Health and Safety requirements relating to hazardous substances
- observes the Dangerous Goods Regulation requirements for documentation and storage of chemicals
- disposes of empty chemical containers and unused chemicals in an environmentally responsible manner
For further information about herbicide/pesticide use please phone Council’s Noxious Weeds Inspectors on (02) 6767 5555.