LHPAs coordinate aerial spraying of locusts

More than 4200 hectares across the Coonamble and Trangie areas were treated for locust activity late last week thanks to the efforts of local Livestock Health and Pest Authorities (LHPAs).

Working with the Department of Primary Industries, LHPAs coordinated aerial spraying across three properties on Friday and Saturday and are continuing to assess further hotspots for possible treatment.

LHPA Pest Animal and Insect Manager, Tim Seears, said LHPAs were moving swiftly to help treat affected areas and assess other affected properties as locusts started to swarm.

“We have seen a marked increase in locust reports as winter crops have emerged and we are working with landholders and mobilising our resources to help minimise the damage and plan for future activity.

“LHPA rangers and field staff are on the ground visiting affected properties, providing chemical and assisting with control methods.

“If locust activity meets stringent area and density criteria then LHPAs will coordinate aerial spraying and prepare all the necessary documentation to allow it to occur as quickly as possible,” Tim Seears said.

LHPAs are continuing to assess a further nine properties for possible aerial spraying in the Trangie, Coonamble and Nyngan areas.

“It is incredibly important that landholders continue to report all locust activity, no matter how small, to their local Livestock Health and Pest Authority.

“Landholders are also reminded that as well as reporting it is a requirement under the Rural Lands Protection Act to carry out appropriate control measures on their property.

“Recent survey work undertaken by LHPA rangers shows that females are carrying eggs and laying and its vital we know exactly where that is occurring to effectively treat, monitor and forecast,” Tim Seears said.

Report all locust activity including egg beds, hatchings, banding and swarming to your local Livestock Health and Pest Authority.

FURTHER INFORMATION: Visit our website www.lhpa.org.au

MEDIA CONTACT: Kelly Ingham or Helen Gosper (02) 6391 3242