MidCoast Council is asking landowners to keep their eyes peeled for parthenium weed.
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Council's strategic weeds biosecurity officer Terry Inkson says while the weed is yet to be found in the Mid Coast local government area, it has been found in the Hunter and neighbouring regions and is a major concern.
"It's one of the highest priority weeds around the State," Mr Inkson said.
"The message from council is to have people familiarise themselves with it and report any suspected sightings."
Mr Inkson said parthenium weed was of particular concern because it posed a health risk to both humans and animals.
According to NSW WeedWise, parthenium weed can cause respiratory problems and severe dermatitis in humans.
It can also cause serious allergies, although these might not occur straightaway.
"Once a reaction to parthenium weed develops, some people go on to develop allergies to related plants such as sunflowers," the website warned.
"This reaction can be so severe that people with the allergy may need to move away from parthenium weed infested areas."
Pets can also have an allergic reaction to the plant.
While livestock don't usually eat parthenium weed, they will eat it if no other feed is available and this can cause kidney damage.
Young cattle are particularly susceptible to dying from parthenium poisoning.
Parthenium weed is described as a fast-growing plant with small white flowers.
It is pale green and its lower leaves are between 5-20 cm long and deeply divided, while its upper leaves are smaller and less divided.
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It is widespread in Central Queensland and has also been found on road sides and farms in NSW.
It has also been found as a contaminant in animal feed.
It out-competes degraded or drought-affected pastures and also competes with crop seedlings, leading to a reduction in crop yields.
If you suspect you have seen parthenium weed, report it to the NSW DPI Biosecurity Helpline on 1800 680 244.
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