Weeds pose a serious threat to local food and fibre production and the environment and there are over 1600 plant species that have been identified as weeds in New South Wales.
"These species compete with native plants and can harm animals, natural landscapes, water catchments, agriculture and can impact the economy, human health and recreational activities," Carolina Merriman said.
"Locally, established weeds like serrated tussock and blackberry and new weeds like Chilean needle grass and African love grass are becoming a significant threat to food and fibre production at the environment."
Ms Merriman is the chair of the Yass branch of NSW Farmers and in response to landholders concerns, the NSW Farmers Yass Branch is hosting a free weeds forum for all farmers, big and small, on Thursday June 27 June at Yass memorial Hall, starting at 9am.
"We have invited representatives from the Yass and Hilltops Councils, Local Land Services, Landcare and are hoping the new Minister for Primary Industries, Adam Marshall, will accept an invitation to speak," Ms Merriman said.
"The forum will feature guest speakers and a Q&A session with the aim if inspiring a community wide and land tenure neutral approach to weed management.
"Together, we can address the challenges and move forward with an action plan in managing established and new weeds."
- Please contact local NSW Farmers Chair Carolina Merriman on 0423 481 597