"I think we need to commit to reducing pesticides," said Hawkesbury Councillor Danielle Wheeler at last week's open council meeting.
Her comments came during discussion on council's draft Pesticide Notification Plan, which was endorsed and placed on 28 days public display.
The council, in accordance with NSW regulations, must inform the public of the use of pesticides in its public spaces.
In moving the motion, Cr Wheeler also called for a full list of the types and quantities of pesticides used by Hawkesbury Council and its agencies, as well as seek a list of those used by Hawkesbury River County Council and Hawkesbury Sports Council.
She also called for a costing for 2019 and 2020.
Cr Wheeler asked whether council was exploring alternatives to pesticides.
A council officer said that the council was indeed trying to reduce pesticide use where possible and had instead increased whipper-snipping in some areas.
Cr Wheeler said the council needed to explore a new strategy when it came to bindies and "cat's eyes", because "what we're doing is not working, they're getting in dog's feet and bicycle tyres".
Matt Lawrence
My passion is providing news that matters to the community of which I serve. I have been doing so now for more than 25 years and my dedication remains as fresh as it was when starting out in the industry.
My passion is providing news that matters to the community of which I serve. I have been doing so now for more than 25 years and my dedication remains as fresh as it was when starting out in the industry.
