Crime Stoppers SA has partnered with Green Adelaide and PIRSA to tackle the illegal trade of the aquatic weeds water hyacinth and salvinia species.
Water hyacinth is a major pest in rivers, creeks and dams, while salvinia can choke waterbodies by floating on still or slow-moving water and covering the water surface with a thick mat of vegetation.
Crime Stoppers SA chief executive officer Nigel Smart, said it is an offence to sell either noxious weed types in SA, and called on the community to help protect the state's waterways.
Mr Smart urged the community to share any information they have about people who trade the weeds online and in markets.
"These floating weed varieties are most commonly found in backyard ponds because they are hardy and grow quick, but when they are dumped or allowed to spread into our waterways they pose serious harm to our native fish, plants and animals," Mr Smart said.
"Salvinia spp and water hyacinth will block waterways and reduce water quality, which ultimately impacts on outdoor pleasures of South Australians who enjoy getting out into the great outdoors for boating, fishing and swimming. The only people who win are those who are illegally selling them in the first place," he said.
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"People may not know that these floating weeds for sale at their local market or online are actually illegal to sell or trade so this campaign helps people to identify both varieties and encourages them to share what they know with Crime Stoppers, because stopping the trade is critical to minimising the devastating impact these weeds cause."
Mr Smart said it was community action was crucial in the fight against the weeds.
"It may be that friends provide a cutting to you because it's thrived in their own pond at home - but that's all it takes to put our environment, economy and community at risk. It may not be an offence to have these weeds at home, but if they're found on private property they can still be seized and destroyed by authorities."
"If you know or suspect someone is selling these prohibited plants we encourage people to take a photo if possible and share that image and any additional information by going to www.crimestopperssa.com.au."
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