Efforts to control the salvinia outbreak in Springfield Lakes have made significant progress, but recent reports show that regrowth remains an ongoing challenge in certain areas.
Initial Progress on Salvinia Removal
In early April 2025, Stockland Springfield Rise confirmed major progress in the management of Salvinia molesta across Springfield Lakes. Following weeks of mechanical harvesting, approximately 99 percent of the weed had been cleared from the main lakes. Local official Charis Mullen reported a notable improvement, with clear waters returning at Spring Lake and plans underway to reinstate regular spraying schedules.
Salvinia, a highly invasive aquatic fern, can double in size within days under ideal conditions. Its presence in Springfield Lakes had prompted concern from residents about water quality, mosquito breeding, and environmental health.
Recent Developments: Regrowth Observed at Regatta Lake
Despite the clearance efforts, new observations from Springfield Lakes Nature Care Inc. on 17 April 2025 confirmed that salvinia remains active at Regatta Lake. Photographs taken from the observation deck showed the weed spreading from the bridge at Lakeside Avenue up past the bend, nearing 55 Promenade.
Coverage at Regatta Lake had increased to approximately 25 percent compared to previous reports on 22 March. The group noted that the weed continues to grow despite cooler temperatures, moving with windy conditions and forming thicker mats on the water surface.
Photo Credit: Springfield Lakes Nature Care Inc./Facebook
Reports, supported by photographic evidence, have been submitted to Biosecurity Queensland, Ipswich City Council, Stockland Springfield Rise, and city official Charis Mullen.
Understanding the Ongoing Challenge
Salvinia molesta thrives in nutrient-rich, slow-moving waters and remains resilient even after major removal efforts. It spreads rapidly, blocks sunlight, reduces oxygen levels in the water, and disrupts aquatic ecosystems.
While mechanical removal provides immediate visual improvements, residual fragments or reintroduction through rain events can quickly spark regrowth. Regular spraying, biological controls, and upstream management are key to containing outbreaks over the long term.
Community Observations and Next Steps
Local community groups and residents continue to monitor salvinia growth across the Springfield Lakes network. The recent report from Springfield Lakes Nature Care Inc. highlights the need for sustained action, particularly at Regatta Lake.
Stockland Springfield Rise has indicated that reinstated spraying programs will begin as soon as possible to control regrowth. Ongoing collaboration between local authorities, residents, and environmental organisations remains critical.
Ongoing Monitoring Essential for Springfield Lakes
While Springfield Lakes has achieved significant salvinia removal, continued vigilance and management are required. New growth at Regatta Lake illustrates the persistent nature of the weed and the importance of long-term control measures to protect the local waterways.
Biosecurity Queensland encourages all residents to report sightings of invasive pests such as Salvinia molesta. Community members who suspect salvinia infestations are advised to report directly to Biosecurity Queensland by calling 13 25 23, or through their online reporting system.
If further investigation is required, a biosecurity officer may follow up. The Department of Primary Industries stresses that managing the spread of invasive species is a shared responsibility, and reporting plays a key role in early intervention.
Published 30-Apr-2025
