September 2010 edition
Locust – What are the potential impacts in the North East
Victoria is facing what could potentially be the biggest locust plague for 75 years. During April this year adult locust population levels increased in northern Victoria. Dense swarms and egg-laying activity occurred in the Northwest of the state and along the Murray River to Yarrawonga. It is important to note that were only isolated locust sightings and no reports of egg laying in the North East this Autumn.
Plague locusts are a serious threat to pastures, crops and horticulture once hatching begins. The best time to treat locusts is in the period after the eggs hatch and before they are able to fly. This is the best stage for spraying with insecticides, with the period about 10 days to two weeks after hatching the most effective and cost efficient. DPI have announced a Locust Insecticide Rebate Scheme for selected shires – none of which are in the North East of Victoria – to assist landholders in controlling the young locust. DPI will not be undertaking any crop protection work by spraying adult locusts as it has a low level of effectiveness and posses’ significant risks.
If adult locusts do ‘fly’ in to your property you can treat them to protect high value crops and pastures however be aware that this will not prevent new swarms landing on your property. A decision on the type of chemical to be applied will need to be made by the landholder or land manager in consultation with an agronomist or chemical reseller.
All Victorians, are encouraged to report sighting of locusts to the DPI Locusts Hotline on 1300 135 559 or the DPI website so we can monitor locust populations and movement, and be in a better position to alert the broader community of the need to respond. The DPI website www.dpi.vic.gov.au/locustshas a large range of information on the locust control program and fact sheets for a number of different industries. If you would like further information please see the website or contact Nathan Shannon on 0417 141 023.
