Look for locusts around Narromine/Peak Hill as hatchings start

Rangers in the Central West Livestock Health and Pest Authority are asking landholders in the Narromine/Peak Hill area to closely monitor their properties for locust activity following reports of hatchings.

Central West LHPA senior ranger, Lisa Thomas says that reports of hatchings locusts are coming from around Dandaloo, Tullamore, Narromine and along the Harvey Ranges.

"Timely action from landholders in reporting any sightings to their local LHPA office will be essential to minimise the impact of plague locusts in the area," said Ms Thomas.

"The most effective time to treat locusts is about two weeks after they hatch, during the banding stage. This is why we need all landholders to continue to monitor their properties and immediately report any egg beds, hatchings or banding locusts to their local ranger.

"All landholders should be on the lookout for locusts while driving around their properties. If you can identify where the locusts settled previously this will be a good indication of where the egg beds are and we can monitor that area," Ms Thomas said.

By contacting your local LHPA ranger, chemical can be made available for the treatment of bands on properties where locusts have been confirmed.

To report locust activity on your property, contact your local LHPA ranger in the Dubbo office on 6882 2133 or Forbes on 6852 1688.

Media contact: Kylie Dunn 6391 3720 / 0428 465 378