CONTROL OF NASSELLA

Press, Volume CI, Issue 29799, 16 April 1962, Page 15

CONTROL OF NASSELLA

Circulation Of Description "One of the principal aims of the department is to impress upon the people generally the fact that in rrassella tussock we have a most dangerous weed, and that ability to recognise it can be an important factor in restricting the spread of nassella.” says the field superintendent of the Department of Agriculture in Christchurch (Mr A. R. Dingwall), commenting on a letter from “Arpie” on nassella tussock infestation. “Arpie” says: “The article by Mr H. W. Fawcett on Saturday raises an interesting aspect of nassella tussock infestation. Apart from farmers and others directly concerned, most of the population, I suggest, are quite unaware of the appearance of this noxious weed. Many would, however, not be averse to reporting occurrences of it should they observe the plants in the field. Might I suggest that an exhibit of nassella and of desirable species of tussocks be displayed in a suitable place, e.g., Canterbury Museum, or in a large store window, together with some placards pointing out the means of differentiating them? In Canterbury there are many thousands of persons who, belonging to tramping or mountaineering clubs, would be in a position to notice outbreaks of nassella especially where these are in relatively out-of-the-way sites. Latent danger areas could be recognised more rapidly in this way. A direct approach to such clubs would probably not be unwelcome to their members.’’

Mr Dingwall replies: “This is done by such means as radio talks, newspaper articles, illustrated talks to farmers’ organisations students, and field staff of Government departments and local bodies, as well as articles in the ‘Journal of Agriculture.’ The April issue of the ‘Journal of Agriculture’ will, in fact, contain a colour-illustrated article on nassella identification and arrangements have been made for extra copies to be printed for distribution to organisations such as tramping and mountaineering clubs in the hope of enlisting their help. Should any organisation desire additional advice on identification the department would gladly co-operate. ‘‘Photographs and printed descriptions are of value in identification, but the most effective means is to study specimens of plants themselves. Many enclosed specimens have therefore been prepared for use by field staff of Government departments. Exhibits have been erected in various towns and at agricultural and pastoral association shows. Making a tour of South Island shows this season is quite an elaborate exhibit of nassella identification. This exhibit will be on display at the New Zeeland weed control conference in

Christchurch in July, and when its tour of shows is completed the exhibit will be available for use in other places requiring it.” <