Weed control at Lake Wiritoa - Thursday 23 January 2025

To keep Lake Wiritoa accessible for swimmers and boaties and to keep native fauna healthy, our contractors will be controlling the invasive Hornwort (Ceratophyllum demersum) this week as part of a two-year cycle.

The herbicide treatment will take place on Thursday, 23 January 2025 in the public swimming area and water skiing lane. This work is being done as Hornwort can quickly spread, smothering native plant life and reducing habitat for local fish and other wildlife. It also makes it harder to enjoy recreational activities in the lake.

Important notice:

• For 10 days, avoid using the water for overhead irrigation.
• For 24 hours after treatment, do not swim or bathe in, use or draw water for human or animal consumption, or for fish farming.

Warning signs will be placed at the public swimming area gate and the water ski club for visibility and affected properties have been advised.

Reglone (Diquat) herbicide will be applied as a gel, sinking down to target the weeds. It’s safe for fish and most other aquatic life and breaks down quickly in water.

Thanks for your understanding while this important work is done.