Zone to tackle noxious weed

A blackberry containment zone has been erected on the Coalfields Highway to stem the infestation in a bid to protect the native environment.

Blackberry is a weed of national significance and is considered to be one of the nation's most destructive weed species, with the most serious infestations to occur in the South West, according to the South West Catchments Council.

The Blackberry Containment Zone is a 10km-wide buffer zone to prevent the hybridisation of two species which would make the weed more difficult to remove.

The South West Catchments Council, the Leschenault Catchments Council, Department of Agriculture and Food, WA and BHP Billiton Worsley Alumina are working together to eradicate the pervasive weed.

A large sign has been erected to mark the entrance to the containment zone.

South West Catchments Council project officer Jodie Deeley said it was important to be vigilant and keep a look out for the presence of the American blackberry and break-outs to stop the spread of the noxious weed.

We're hoping this sign will make community members aware of the severity of the blackberry issue and serve as a reminder for the people to keep a lookout in their area for the presence of American blackberry and report sightings, she said.

The South West Catchments Council said American blackberries can be identified by the timing of their flowers and berries.

American blackberries can be flowering until November and will have berries until Christmas, unlike the European blackberry which is a later bloomer with the white flowers appearing in December and fruit forming following Christmas.