The Otago Regional Council is urging the public to destroy the most damaging climbing plant introduced to the country.

Old Man’s Beard smothers plants and threatens Otago’s biodiversity.

The council said the plant, which has small white flowers, should be dug out from the roots and then treated with herbicide.

It is currently inspecting properties around Dunedin and North Otago for the pest plant.

The council has also awarded two University of Otago students a scholarship to carry out inspections and get on-the-job training.

Both students and council staff have legal authorisation to inspect properties.