Spring warning over garden waste dumping in The Hills
RESIDENTS are being warned that illegally dumping seemingly harmless garden waste could be spreading invasive weeds throughout The Hills Shire and causing long-term damage to local bushland.
The Western Sydney Weeds Authority (WSWA) has issued the warning as spring gardening activity increases, saying dumped lawn clippings, plants and other green waste can contain seeds and root fragments from invasive species.
The Hills Shire Council recorded 38 illegal dumping incidents involving garden organics in the 12 months to July, with authorities concerned numbers could rise during spring.
WSWA General Manager Chris Dewhurst said roadsides, parks and reserves were common dumping locations across Western Sydney.
“Dumping what looks like harmless garden waste can trigger serious weed outbreaks, with wind and rain spreading the seeds and root fragments into nearby bushland,” Mr Dewhurst said.
Lawn clippings are among the most commonly dumped materials and can contain weeds. WSWA regularly identifies more than 10 invasive species in dumped garden waste, including Yucca, Agapanthus, Agave, Spider Plant, Mother of Millions and Opuntia.
Once established in bushland, invasive weeds can overwhelm native vegetation, reduce wildlife habitat, harbour pests and increase bushfire risks.
Fertilised grass clippings can also release excess nutrients into the soil, encouraging further weed growth and damaging native plants.
Mother of Millions and Opuntia are classified as priority weeds in NSW and can be particularly difficult and costly to eradicate once established.
Hills Shire Mayor Dr Michelle Byrne urged residents to use approved disposal services.
“When garden material is disposed of properly, it can be recovered and processed into compost and mulch, rather than ending up in landfill,” Mayor Byrne said.
“It also helps prevent the spread of weeds, pests and plant diseases that can impact local parks, bushland and natural areas.”
Penalties for illegal garden waste dumping can range from $5,000 to $5M or up to seven years’ imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offence.
WSWA recommends residents follow its “four Ds”: Destroy priority weeds by sealing them in black plastic bags and placing them in the sun; Deposit appropriate garden waste in green organics bins and priority weeds in general waste; Decontaminate tools, machinery and boots; and Deliver larger loads to approved green waste facilities.
The Hills Shire Council also offers residents two free bulky garden organics collections each year through its on-demand Bulky Waste Clean-Up Service.
Residents can identify priority weeds through the NSW WeedWise service and report illegal dumping through Snap Send Solve.
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