WEED cutting has returned to Lake Wendouree.Weed harvesting is currently taking place on the lake’s eastern and southern sides, about 20 metres from shore.Ballarat City’s Growth and Development Councillor Judy Verlin said it follows a similar weed cutting program carried out in February and March this year.“The machine currently being used will be able to efficiently cut the water ribbons, water milfoil and tall spike rush close to the lakebed,” Cr Verlin said.The weed cutter will be on the lake for several weeks, with a full weed cutting program to resume in spring before the summer boating season.Council is currently calling for expressions of interest for a permanent weed cutting contract, with applications closing on May 11.At the moment, the lake is full of water ribbon weed, which usually grows in swampy conditions, but it is expected the natural milfoil weed will take over in the coming months.“Water milfoil is easier to harvest, navigate watercraft through and is easier to use for composting and mulching in gardens,” Cr Verlin said.The harvested weed will be made available to the public for composting or garden mulch from early next week. It can be picked up from opposite the Gillies Street transfer station.