Landholders are being called on to look out for locusts this spring and report any sighting to the Local Land Services (LLS) immediately.
Leading the call, Minister for Agriculture, Adam Marshall said locust outbreaks could affect very large areas of crops and pasture and could cause significant economic loss to farmers if not controlled.
“Local Land Services (LLS) biosecurity staff are trained in locust identification and control options, so if you think you’ve found signs of activity, reach out immediately,” Mr Marshall said.
He said that adult plague locusts usually laid eggs in harder loamy red soils, especially on compact roads next to crops, tree lines and farm buildings.
Plague Locust Commissioner for NSW, Scott Charlton said while fewer reports of locusts had been received recently than in previous years, landholders west of the ranges should still be vigilant and expect sporadic outbreaks.
“Despite warmer weather and high rainfall forecast across much of the State this spring, we have received very few reports to date of locust activity,” Mr Charlton said.
“We are still encouraging landowners in the upper Western and far Northwest to monitor for any activity, as this will help control teams with their response efforts and limit further spread of locusts,” he said.
“Locust hatching is still expected in the northwest of the State throughout September as temperatures increase, while outbreaks throughout the lower western Riverina may not occur until October.”
Mr Charlton said on-ground treatment by landholders once locusts began to ‘band’ was by far the best and most effective treatment option and would help limit new swarms.
The Commissioner said people who sighted Australian Plague Locusts should contact their nearest LLS office on 1300 795 299.
Further information on plague locusts can be accessed at this PS News link.
