REPORTS from concerned community members about an increase in the number of water plants seen floating on the surface of the water and accumulating at the edges of Victoria Park Lake are being investigated by the Greater Shepparton City Council.
The native aquatic plant has been found to be Vallisneria Spiralis, commonly known as Tape Grass/Ribbon Weed. Vallisneria Spiralis is not a noxious weed and is beneficial to the lake’s ecosystem by acting as a nutrient filter, improving water quality and is an important habitat and food for the lake’s wildlife.
Vallisneria Spiralis grows submerged on the lake floor and has a small root system, which means it can be easily dislodged, for example by birds grazing. Council does, however, recognise that there is likely another cause due to the scale of dislodged grasses.
Greater Shepparton City Council director infrastructure, Gary Randhawa said, “Victoria Park Lake provides social, recreational and aesthetic benefits for the community and is an important ecosystem for our native flora and fauna.”
“Rest assured, Council is investigating the issue and seeking advice on any remedial action that can be taken.”
