Palm Beach Dune Restoration
This project focused on removal of weeds and planting native tune stock. From our services we reduced weed density from over 80% to less…
Palm Beach Dune Restoration
This project focused on removal of weeds and planting native tune stock. From our services we reduced weed density from over 80% to less than 20% and less than 5% in some areas.
Assessment of site
Our team conducted a site assessment which identified:
- The presence and abundance of weeds
- The priority for control
- Native plant abundance
On completion of the site assessment we made recommendations in order to control the extensive weed infestation on-site in a short time frame. The most predominant weed species on site were Asparagus Fern (Asparagus aethiopicus) and Lantana (Lantana camara).
The focus of these works was to treat weeds present and to restore the three remnant vegetation communities on site which included:
- Beach Spinifex Grassland
- Coastal Fore Dune Wattle Scrub
- Coastal Tea-tree Banksia Scrub
Our team developed two main stages to complete the ecological restoration of the North Palm Beach Dunes.
Primary stage
The primary stage involved extensive weeding that primarily targeted the most abundant weed species on site. In order to treat the Asparagus fern and Lantana widespread we carried out careful manual removal around all native vegetation coupled with herbicide spraying. After several weeks the site had shown a significant level of die-back of the treated weeds. The non-propagative remains of the treated weeds were mulched using a slasher then spread on the bare soil in preparation for planting.
Secondary stage
The secondary stage of the project involved the planting of native tube stock into the mulched areas. The planting was undertaken in stages with consistent irrigation. Furthermore, regular maintenance was carried out on site throughout this time and primarily consisted of manual weed removal as well as herbicide application in select areas.
Results
The treatment and control of Asparagus aethiopicus and Lantana camara was successful throughout the site with many portions of the site now having little to no weed presence. Weed density was reduced from over 80% to less than 20% and less than 5% in some areas. The three coastal communities will need continued maintenance to control herbaceous weeds and exotic grasses now that mature weeds have been removed. It is vital that these works are undertaken for an extended period of time for the overall success of the dunes.

