FED: Threat of locust plague prompts action plan

AAP General News (Australia)
08-01-2008
FED: Threat of locust plague prompts action plan

SYDNEY, Aug 1 AAP - Farmers and government departments are gearing up for the locust
season with plans to control the pests before they hatch in south-eastern Australia.

Landholders already plagued by drought have reported significant locust egg laying
in the NSW Riverina area and central-north area of Victoria.

The Australian Plague Locust Commission (APLC) is working with the NSW and Victorian
departments of primary industries to head off a disaster.

"The result could be a significant hatching of plague locusts in October and early
November, which could add another threat to crops and pastures that have just survived
on limited rainfall in these areas," APLC director Chris Adriaansen said in a statement
today.

The plan will include aerial surveillance, ground-based control of the hatchlings and
aerial spraying.

Landholders are urged to help the operation by taking their own ground-based actions
to head off a plague.

AAP vpm/evt/goc/cdh

KEYWORD: LOCUSTS

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