23 May 2016

Residents of Maun and the surrounding areas have been advised to be aware of the Salvania Molesta weed, which was recently discovered at Matlapaneng Ward along Thamalakane River. 

In an interview recently, water affairs regional manager, Mr Kutlo Kgobero, said the greenish weed with yellow like flowers blocked oxygen from dissolving in water thus stopping the circulation of water.

He also said the weed dried up the river as it closed some water channels along the river.

The weed was found at pools of water with its roots suspended in water.

He also noted that just like other weeds, the Salvania weed can be treated in three ways being biological, physical and chemical treatment.

 He said in biological treatment, the department breeds weevils and insects that will once they are ready to feed, be taken to the affected area to feed on weed until its completion.

Mr Kgobero also said in physical treatment, the weed is being uprooted from the river and later burnt down after drying up. He also added that the use of chemical treatment is prohibited as chemicals can affect other plants in the river as well as contaminating water.

He has however said the weed is not edible and can be carried easily from one place to another by hippopotamus, boat and domestic animals when sticking to them.

Moreover, Mr Kgobero has advised residents of Maun to raise alarm once they discover this weed adding that they have engaged temporary employees to divest the discovered weed. ENDS