Summary

Water hyacinth is an invasive aquatic weed introduced into the Fitzroy River in Central Queensland as an ornamental plant. However, once hyacinth enters waterways its long-term impact is significant due to the rate of growth, density of biomass and seed life.

This project will seek to identify and evaluate methods for the beneficial reuse of water hyacinth in the Fitzroy River, including as a vector for the removal of nutrients from the waterway to improve water quality flowing to the Great Barrier Reef.

Expected outcomes

• Improved water quality / ecosystem condition through reduction of invasive aquatic weed in the Fitzroy River
• Recycling of the aquatic weed biomass as a soil ameliorant
• Reduction of imported soil ameliorant to the Lower Fitzroy
• Reduction in the net nutrient levels in the Lower Fitzroy
• Increased adoption of recycle / reuse principles in the Lower Fitzroy
• Reduced weed management costs for land managers and Councils in the region.
• Cost benefit analysis of the harvest to each beneficial product