Action plan for locusts a priority
Rural Lands Protection Boards (RLPBs) are investigating light to moderate swarms of locusts in the central and southern parts of the state as part of a comprehensive action plan to effectively tackle anticipated spring hatchings
Rangers are busily compiling data on all locust activity and egg bed locations which will also help tailor training and refresher courses for farmers on best control measures and ensure adequate supplies of chemical are on hand.
State Council of Rural Lands Protection Boards Pest Animal Manager, Tim Seears, said locust activity was reported in parts of the Forbes, Wagga, Hume, Narrandera, Murray, Young, Gundagai, and Riverina board regions.
These follow reports earlier in the year of activity further north in small parts of the Northern Slopes, Moree, Tamworth and Nyngan boards.
These are only low to medium density swarms and the autumn weather will limit further locust activity. However we need to be as prepared as possible when spring hatching occurs to avoid major damage to crops and pasture,” Tim Seears said.
The data compiled by rangers will form a vital part of a locust action plan currently being drafted by The NSW Department of Primary Industries and RLPBs in consultation with NSW Farmers.
RLPBs will play an integral role in forecasting chemical requirements and coordinating distribution to ensure that spraying programs occur before young locusts can take flight.
Training courses and information sessions for farmers are also in the pipeline.
Tim Seears said he urged all landholders to remain vigilant and report locust activity no matter how small or insignificant to their local RLPB.
We would also like to encourage farmers who were affected by plague locusts during 2004 and 2005 to monitor their properties as locusts often lay eggs in the same locations.
All of this information is crucial in equipping us with the knowledge and resources required to respond quickly and accurately,” Tim Seears said.
Chemical is available through your local board provided locust activity meets certain criteria. For further information and to report locust activity contact your local Rural Lands Protection Board.