Current Situation
Following the major Australian plague locust outbreak that occurred in Victoria and other Australian states in 2010 and early 2011, locust numbers have returned to near normal levels in most areas.
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DPI staff collect locust hopper samples at Red Cliffs in 2010 |
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Locust spraying in spring 2010 near Patchewollock |
Victorian landholders mounted a tremendous response to the emergence of locust hoppers across large parts of the state in spring 2010, and continued their treatment efforts into the summer and autumn of 2011.
This widespread treatment, coupled later in the season with some natural factors, has resulted in a dramatic fall in locust numbers.
But landholders should be aware that locusts can have an impact on Victorian agriculture in any given season, but usually on a more localised scale.
Years of major plagues are rare, and are mainly influenced by particular weather conditions similar to those experienced in 2010, particularly in the home breeding areas in north-west New South Wales and south-west Queensland.
More detailed information is available on this website including advice on how to monitor your property for locusts, how to treat locust hoppers and what impact they may have on particular agricultural businesses.
Further information about the forecast locust situation can be found on the Australian Plague Locust Commission website.
Locust Updates
Locust updated will be activated on an as needs basis. You can sign up for future locust e-newsletters or SMS messages.
Read previous updates below:
