Grain growers urged to prepare for locust plague risk

Grain Producers Australia is urging growers across South Australia, New South Wales and Victoria to remain alert as the risk of Australian plague locust activity increases heading into spring.

The Australian Plague Locust Commission has identified a moderate to high likelihood of widespread infestations, with medium to high-density nymphs and bands expected to begin hatching in parts of south-eastern Australia from mid-September.

GPA Chair Matthew Madden says locust populations increased substantially across inland eastern Australia following heavy autumn rainfall and favourable breeding conditions.

He says a significant outbreak could cause serious damage to crops and pastures, with coordinated monitoring and response needed across state borders.

Activity has increased in South Australia’s eastern Mallee and northern pastoral regions, while Victoria’s Mallee also faces a moderate to high chance of high locust numbers.

GPA says growers should regularly monitor crops, pastures and likely egg-laying areas, report locust activity promptly and prepare equipment and management plans before hatching begins.