A project driven by Landcare members and landholders along Mosquito Creek is the eradication of Prickly Pear.
Sunday 14 September 2014 saw 12 dedicated Landcarers come together to take on another Prickly Pear Attack along Mosquito Creek. Thanks to local landholders allowing access to their land, for the second year we started at the Axedale-Kimbolton Road Bridge and worked south along the creek.
Armed with mattocks, pitchforks and shovels we strategically worked our way upstream along the creek hunting and collecting all segments of Prickly Pear present. As with any weed control site, follow up is the most important element to ensure your previous efforts are maximised.
Any plant discovered was carefully removed and placed into bags or nearby trailer ensuring that every segment was collected. Prickly Pear is in the cactus family and can successfully spread via two methods: by seed and by branch segments.
Birds, foxes and other animals consume the fruit and disperse seed across the region, creating new infestations.  Prickly Pear branch segments can simply break off and take root around the parent plant forming impenetrable clumps or fall into water; float around in our creeks and rivers and subsequently disperse to new locations.
Our mighty team worked solidly for 2 hours, gathering a trailer load of Prickly Pear. This effort was rewarded by a well-earned cold drink and BBQ whilst enjoying great company and a few laughs in the glorious spring sunshine.
For more information on Erect or Drooping Prickly Pear visit:
http://www.dpi.vic.gov.au/agriculture/pests-diseases-and-weeds/weeds/other-declared-weeds/prickly-pear-drooping
http://www.dpi.vic.gov.au/agriculture/pests-diseases-and-weeds/weeds/other-declared-weeds/prickly-pear-erect