Prevent weed spread: industry and recreation

If you work in the fodder industry there are things you can do in the Northern Territory (NT) to prevent the spread of weeds.

The NT produces large amounts of hay for export.

Livestock fodder is also used by small scale cattle ventures and horses in the NT and there is a small market for mulch hay.

Without proper management weed seeds can spread in contaminated hay, fodder or mulch.

How to prevent weed spread during hay and fodder production

• map locations and densities of declared weeds by carrying out a dedicated weed survey and send it to a Weed Management Branch
• use weed mapping data to develop an annual property weed management plan
• make sure that your staff can identify relevant weeds in the area
• manage weeds prior to harvesting to avoid bailing them
• clean down your machines when moving them between paddocks
• keep access tracks free from weeds
• cover your load when transporting hay or fodder
• seek advice from the Weed Management Branch before introducing new pasture species.

How to avoid weeds when using hay or fodder

Buyers should insist fodder is provided weed-free.

Feed hay in quarantine paddocks, or near infrastructure points, that can easily monitored.

Be suspicious of any unfamiliar plants that germinate in the areas where hay has been introduced.

What you're not allowed to do

You must not do any of the following when producing hay or fodder:

• deliberately sow or plant any declared weeds
• buy or sell contaminated hay or fodder
• cut or mow an infested area for hay production
• transport contaminated hay.