The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) has launched its annual Biosecurity Blitz which this year puts the emphasis on the protection of the State’s trees.
Senior Development Officer at the DPIRD, Rosalie McCauley said the TREEmendous Biosecurity Blitz aimed to protect Western Australia’s trees from an increasing number of exotic threats.
“Whether you work in horticulture or forestry, like to bushwalk, have trees in your backyard, in the local park or on your street, you can help protect our trees by checking them for pests and diseases and reporting any you find, Dr McCauley (pictured (r) with Plant Disease Epidemiologist, Peter Scott) said.
“The TREEmendous Biosecurity Blitz runs from 24 September to 24 October — that’s 30 days to look for, take a photo and send in a report, using the DPIRD’s MyPestGuide reporter app, of every tree pest and disease in your neighbourhood.”
She said the blitz was an important part of the DPIRD’s collaboration with industry and the community to increase pest and disease surveillance.
“Every report helps to increase the likelihood that serious pests and diseases will be detected early, giving us a better chance to eradicate or contain them,” Dr McCauley said.
“Negative reports also support our access to valuable export markets by contributing to evidence that WA is free from serious pests and diseases.”
Readers who wish to register for the blitz can do so at this PS News link.
