The new STEAM AGE
A global change of attitude towards environmental and human health has been challenging our councils to relook at how weeds are controlled in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Some of our more progressive councils have been expanding their practices to include innovative safer technologies. Hydrothermal treatments have been showing very promising results, with ‘wet’ steam or hot water foam being successfully used by Auckland, Carterton and Christchurch councils.
PAST EXPERIENCE
The basic concept of killing a plant with boiling water was first patented during the 1880s. Early commercial use in the 1930s included weed control along US railroad lines, but expense and fast regrowth led to the practice being stopped when pesticides (including herbicides) became widely available in the 1940s.
Hydrothermal weed control is safe for operators and the public, and has minimal impact on ecosystems.
