Horizons Regional Council are appealing for the public's help in locating alligator weed in the Mangaone Stream and the lower Manawatū catchment. This area includes the stream area north of Colyton through Palmerston North to the Manawatū River, and down to Foxton Beach. Alligator weed grows on land and in water and is easily spread by flood events. Pasture and livestock are severely affected, and if the weed reaches Foxton, it will destroy the bird breeding habitat in the internationally significant wetland at the estuary.

Just a fragment of a stem that has root material attached to it can hide away in pasture grass that's put into hay, or taken away on dirt and machinery, cultivation machinery or diggers. Farmers and gardeners can help by being aware of where things like stock feed and garden manure comes from. Horizons ask anyone who suspects they've seen alligator weed to leave it alone and call them, even if they're not sure. The 24 hour free call number is 0508 800 800. Click this link for more information.

Photo: New Zealand Herald Local Focus. Read the article here.