Stop pests and weeds from having a holiday!

December 2018

Kylie Challen, Biosecurity Coordinator

Many pests and weeds are most active in the warmer seasons, taking advantage of all the increased movement of people, mail, cargo and vehicles both across the state and around the country. If we are not observant, we could be offering pests and weeds a free ride, or even a new home.

Whether you are travelling or receiving visitors, here are a few tips to reduce the likelihood of transporting a pest/weed or introducing a new biosecurity threat to your neighbourhood:

• clean your car (inside and out) before you depart and before you return from your trip
• ensure all footwear is clean and free of dirt, plant material or other biological matter
• close your suitcase when not in use
• refrain from bringing home biological items such as shells, plant material (including cuttings, fruit/vegetables), and animal products. Note: there are restrictions on what you can take as you cross state and quarantine borders within Australia.
• if taking sporting equipment, fishing gear or camping equipment ensure it’s clean before you leave and also before you depart.
• if travelling with pets please make sure their fur, any housing or equipment is clean and free of plant material (such as seed), soil, dirt or faeces.

We encourage all land managers to have a farm biosecurity sign at their front gate, this raises awareness of the importance of farm biosecurity and can help protect your property. Signs area available to purchase from your nearest Local Land Services office.

Not sure what you can bring back to NSW? Here are some helpful websites:

Domestic quarantine: www.interstatequarantine.org.au

International biosecurity: http://www.agriculture.gov.au

Here at the South East Local Land Services, we would appreciate your assistance with two priority pests (currently listed in our South East Regional Strategic Pest Animal Management Plan

1. American corn snakes: Reptiles are most active in the warmer months, so please be on the lookout for the exotic pest. And report any sightings to either your nearest Local Land Services office, or online to the NSW Department of Industry
2. Carp: The National Carp Control Plan (NCCP) has launched CARPMAP This is an online survey tool to support community surveillance of carp aggregations.

Understanding when and where carp aggregate is imperative for developing an effective approach to carp control. So, if you know where 10 or more carp school together, please use the link above and provide that information to the NCCP.

Photo: American Corn Snake (NSW DPI)