Sydney Airport – Integrated Vegetation Management (IVM) Program 2022 – Ongoing

The IVM Group is partnering with Sydney Airport to deliver a targeted Integrated Vegetation Management (IVM) Program focused on improving airside safety and operational efficiency in high-risk grassed areas surrounding the Third Runway.

The engagement commenced with a comprehensive grassland survey and vegetation management assessment, followed by the development of a long-term IVM strategy tailored to the site’s operational and ecological conditions.

Now entering its second year of implementation, the program focuses on delivering measurable improvements in vegetation quality, wildlife hazard reduction, and site-specific risk mitigation.

Key objectives and outcomes include:

• • Reduction in bird and wildlife activity near critical runway infrastructure
  • Suppression of food sources such as seeds and insects that attract hazardous species
  • Decreased mowing frequency and reduced post-mowing debris (FOD), supporting safer airside operations
  • Improved cost efficiency and sustainability of vegetation management practices

A key focus in the current phase of the program is the planned implementation of a trial targeting African Lovegrass (ALG) — a persistent and invasive species that poses dual risks:

• • Wildlife hazard due to its height and seed load
  • Significant fire risk due to its flammability and dense growth pattern

The trial will assess the effectiveness of integrated control methods and inform a broader treatment strategy for priority areas across the airfield. The IVM Group continues to work closely with Sydney Airport to adapt and refine the program using on-ground performance data and stakeholder input.

This proactive approach supports the airport’s commitment to long-term airside risk reduction, compliance, and operational resilience.