Maroochydore environmental buffer

Client: Sodexo
Scope:
The project required Verterra to develop and implement a strategy to recover a coastal lowland vegetation buffer area that had been overgrown by invasive grasses.

Verterra's approach was to engage its UAV helicopter to aerial spray the site followed by onground works to reduce grass cover. The low lying site is often wet.
Challenge:
The Maroochydore environmental buffer site had become overgrown and the benefits of the original planting works were at risk.

Access to the site was limited due to wet conditions. Careful selection of herbicides and adoption of a UAV application method provided UNitywater with a timely response and removed risk for onground field crews.
Solution:
Verterra's knowledge of herbicides allowed invasive grasses to be controlled without impacting on embedded native seedlings. Verterra's use of UAV technology provides clients with a new cost effective approach to difficult worksites.
Benefit to Client:
The innovative UAV aerial application approach allowed the site to be treated in a timely manner. At the end of the 12 month maintenance period the successful works will allow Unitywater to close out a compliance requirement with local government.
Market Sector: Municipal and Urban
Capabilities:
- General land, water and vegetation technical services
- Natural resource management and environmental economics
- Vegetation and weed management
Location: Queensland
Year: 2015