Business owners are supporting, educating and motivating landowners to take part in a region-wide arum lily eradication program.
Now in its third year, the Arum Lily Blitz is once again bringing together local and State Government agencies, environmental organisations and private landholders for a coordinated control effort right across the Margaret River region.
Nature Conservation Margaret River Region Project Officer Genevieve Hanran-Smith said businesses had proved key players in getting people motivated north of Margaret River and was grateful for business owners' help in maintaining a coordinated approach.
"We've got businesses like Vasse General Store and Dunsborough Rural that have been amazing at motivating and educating people on why arum lily control is so important," she said.
Vasse General Store and Dunsborough Rural serve as distribution points for herbicide, which is being given out for free as part of the program.
Dunsborough Rural has a consistent local clientele selling products and services relating to landscaping, gardening, water supplies, animal health and more, but owner Kate Candy said she had seen a raft of new faces coming through the doors since getting involved in the Blitz.
"I think it goes to show that people are taking more notice and wanting to get involved," she said.
"It's great that people are recognising this is a problem and doing something about it."
Vasse General Store Owner and long-time local Gloria MacDonald also believes awareness is increasing among locals.
"Over the last 20 years or so, arum lilies have increased a lot in certain areas," she said.
"People's' attitudes are changing though and I think most people want to do something."
Both stores have free herbicide for collection as well as resources on when and how to apply.
Ms Hanran-Smith said the free herbicide was also available from the Nature Conservation office in Margaret River.
"By having distribution points for free herbicides, easy-to-access resources and the support of landholders and businesses alike, we're now really starting to see the fruits of our labours," she said.
"It's very encouraging and motivating to see as we enter year three of the Blitz."
The Blitz is funded by the WA Government's State Natural Resource Management Program.
To get involved and to gain access to information, resources and free herbicide, register at www.natureconservation.org.au.
Dunsborough Rural can be contacted at 97567899.
