Fireweed is a highly invasive and opportunistic weed which can quickly colonise overgrazed areas and disturb pastures.

The weed can reduce the grazing capacity of a property, decrease pasture potential, reduce livestock growth rates and incur high control costs.

Council noxious weeds manager Ian Borrowdale said locals must familiarise themselves with the control requirements of the area and follow control orders.

“With the recent rains and the onset of the cooler weather fireweed has begun germinating throughout the area,” he said.

“Category three areas include Kangaroo Valley and areas of southern Shoalhaven.

“Other local areas are designated category four. This is termed the management area and still requires continuous control work by property owners to ensure the weed does not spread.”

Control methods include slashing, spraying, cultivation or using grazing animals including goats or sheep to prevent the plant from setting seed and spreading to other areas.

Council inspectors are checking properties.

To report an infestation of Fireweed in the control zone or to obtain further information about noxious weeds call council’s noxious weeds office on 4429 3832.