Wetlands expert Geoff Sainty said that he predicted the current outbreak of Alligator Weed a decade ago

Mr Sainty, who was awarded an Order of Australia medal for his work and knowledge in local water systems, emphasised how dangerous and toxic the weed can be.

"I've had a lifetime experience with it, and I know that you have to treat it when you can or you wont get another opportunity," he said.

"If there's a plant that stuffs up ecology, that's it. It's a plant to be scared of."

Mr Sainty forecasted the issues currently plaguing the swamp a decade ago, even going so far as to offer his expertise in early intervention. He explained that he approached Griffith City Council at the time to highlight the potential hazard but was brushed off.

"I can go back 10 years, I saw the powers that be fluff around with it and it's not something that can be fluffed around with. A decade ago, I said that if it was left, then we wouldn't be able to control it and now..."

"Getting truthful, it needs to be put front and centre as an issue. It spreads so fast and it's effect on water quality is substantial."

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While the wetlands aren't in a good position right now, Mr Sainty explained what could be done. He said that herbicides pose issues as so much of the plant grows underwater.

Poisoning the plant in those conditions risks poisoning the water with toxins, as well as presenting problems of accessing the plant to begin with.

Despite the grim outlook, he says there is room for positivity.

"The whole thing is doable but only by people who have their marbles together and are ready to do it. It's not impossible."

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