Our beautiful region is being overrun by a toxic and aggressive invader, but we have a plan to restore harmony and we need your help.

Backed by more than $340,000 in funding over three years from the WA Government’s State Natural Resource Management Program, Nature Conservation Margaret River Region and the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions are spearheading the biggest arum lily control program this region has ever seen. The ARUM LILY BLITZ will involve coordinated activities across all land tenures; comprehensive monitoring and control programs; free herbicide, training and resources for landholders; and a widespread awareness campaign.

Most importantly, it will involve you.

One of the big issues we’re up against is – well, let’s face it – it’s pretty. Many have become accustomed to seeing this introduced species; some have even grown to like it. But we’re of the mentality that real beauty is in healthy ecosystems and biodiversity. That’s the mentality this blitz will be encouraging.

The other major challenge has historically been a lack of coordination in control activities. Since 2012, Nature Conservation has worked with 300-odd landholders to control arum lily across 3500 hectares. This has been in addition to separate Government-driven activities on Crown land. However, without coordinated, concerted and sustained efforts across the region, it has proven near-impossible to snuff out this fast-growing, easily spread weed.

In 2018, Nature Conservation partnered with DBCA in developing the Arum Lily Management Plan for the Margaret River Region, which offers clear direction, a coordinated approach and outlines priorities for the 2018-28 period. The Shire of Augusta-Margaret River, City of Busselton, Lower Blackwood LCDC, Yallingup LCDC and the Margaret River Busselton Tourism Association have also signed onto the blitz. But there is one critical piece of the puzzle remaining: You.

Whether you own a massive rural property, rent a modest suburban 4×2 or are only passing through for a season, we’re inviting everyone to get involved. We are asking you to register as a participant in the blitz so we can let you know about assistance, keep you informed on progress, and so we can track where arum lily control is being undertaken. This will allow us to recruit other properties in your area, improving efficiency and reducing the risk of reinfestation. It also demonstrates participant numbers to our funding bodies, helping our chances of future funding for ongoing work.

REGISTER TO JOIN THE ARUM LILY BLITZ