Founding member of Friends of Yass Gorge, Ross Webster, has recently shared some encouraging photos that show how much progress is being made in the ongoing fight against woody weeds at the Yass Gorge.
Working closely with Yass Valley Council, the Yass Gorge Committee has achieved some impressive results. Several lucerne trees (Chamaecytisus proliferus) have been successfully sprayed and killed, helping to reduce competition with native vegetation. On top of that, more than two hundred Box Elder trees (Acer negundo) have been cut and painted along the river - a major step forward in riparian restoration.
Effective control of Tree Lucerne at Yass Gorge
Why is controlling these weeds important? Lucerne trees spread aggressively. They produce large volumes of seed, thrive in disturbed sites and can alter soil fertility in ways that disadvantage native plants. Box Elder, on the other hand, is a fast‑growing and highly invasive along riparian areas. Once established, it can crowd out native vegetation and degrade waterways through shading, erosion and oxygen depletion when their leaves drop in autumn.
A young Box Elder plant freshly cut and painted
The weed work doesn’t stop there. Recent control efforts have also targeted the long-term and persistent species such as blackberry, wild plum and cotoneaster, all of which can quickly overrun native plants if left unchecked.
There’s good news for visitors too. Thanks to the help of Tom O’Dea, the main path entrances to this much‑loved recreational area have been trimmed and cleared, improving visibility and access for walkers and visitors.
It’s a reminder that caring for Yass Gorge is very much a team effort. Every sprayed weed and cleared path reflects hours of dedication from volunteers and partner organisations who care for this special place. Next time you visit the Gorge, take a moment to notice the changes.
Written by Erin Brinkley, YAN Project Officer