Site inspection 17-11-2019

A quick look over of the site in order to prioritize some projects to work on over the next few weeks. It is good to see those spots where weed removal has paid off and natives are coming back but unfortunately the weeds still dominate this site.

First stop was the creek just above the First waterfall. Cassia/Senna stumpts still need to be removed and maybe even a little more difficult than that is the privet stump I left behind about six months ago. I have had a few half-hearted attempts at this stump but have never actually got it out to date. Unfortunately it has shown itself to be a true stayer, as expected. It’s time is coming to an end…

It’s back again. As expected unfortunately.
Broad leaved privet – for reference
Broad leaved privet – for reference

It was nice to see some ferns holding their ground against the fishbone fern.

I noticed this Prickly Rasp Fern (?) trying to take on the Fishbone Fern about a month ago. I gave it some space and it now appears to be going strong…
West side of the bank still clear from invasives with Bracken Fern going well.
The spot at the top of First Falls is always a target for Mist Flower and Fishbone Fern so I am happy this Bracken Fern now seems to be holding its own

It is a shame that some of the larger trees in the middle of the gully are invasives. There are some large privet trees which will need to go at some point. I intend on confirming they are indeed privet trees before hitting them with herbicide.

Privet tree in center, behind the Tree Fern
White flowers make Privet identification much easier at present
Similar image at different orientation

There was a few other visible weeds I could see from the top of First Fall which will be dealt with soon. A ‘tree of heaven’ that I tried to remove last year has bounced back and there are privet trees and Camphor Laurels that are coming up at present. Best to get to them before they get bigger and tougher. Balloon vine is also showing up more at present unfortunately.

Balloon vine is appearing in more spots
I have failed to accurately identify this one. I thought camphor laurel at first but not so according to google
This tree of heaven is in quite an awkward spot. I had thought I had already dealt with it last year but here it is again…
Tree of heaven – for reference
Same tree at different angle…

Lots of work to be done…