Locust reported: Locust detections in Victoria could pose a serious threat to crops
Australian plague locusts have been detected in Victoria, threatening pastures, crops and horticulture. Here’s how to manage the pests.
CLUSTERS of Australian plague locusts have been discovered in west and north west Victoria, following favourable weather conditions in the first weeks of this month.
According to Agriculture Victoria, the Australian native insect locust could pose a serious threat to pastures, crops and horticulture in the country, if left uncontrolled.
Clusters have been reported in Carwarp, Charlton, Haven, Hopetoun, Horsham, Inglewood, Jeparit, Lake Hindmarsh Mirranatwa, Mockinya, Ouyen, Rainbow, Speed and St Arnaud.
Agriculture Victoria indicated the higher-than-average rainfall in eastern Australia, caused by the La Niña, produced an abundance of green feed, which has contributed to the high survival rates of hatchlings from the overwintering eggs laid in the autumn.
La Niña is expected to continue until at least March next year, with higher-than-average rainfall predicted again, contributing to a “larger than average” summer generation of locusts.
Control of the current spring generation and forthcoming summer generation is important to managing the risk of heavy egg laying in autumn, Agriculture Victoria said, and the potential for a large population build up leading into the 2021 — 2022 season.
Landholders are responsible for reporting and controlling locusts on their land.
Cutting crops for hay or windrowing them in preparation for harvest can minimise locust damage or eliminate the need for chemical control.
Baling or silaging crops and pastures before locusts hatch is another management tool, Agriculture Victoria said.
If growers see locusts – egg laying, hoppers or adults – they are encouraged to notify Agriculture Victoria as soon as possible.
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