LOCUST HATCHING BEGINS IN NORTHERN MALLEE

Agriculture Victoria is urging landholders and managers in the northern Mallee to increase surveillance, after locust egg hatching began in parts of the region.

Incident Controller Alex Perera says landholders who detect hatching should assess their properties and begin preparing to treat affected areas with registered chemicals suitable for their specific needs.

“Spraying will be most effective around 2 weeks after hatching, when young locusts are on the ground and banding together but not yet flying.”

Seven local government areas have been identified as priority areas following surveys in May, with forecasts indicating a moderate to high chance of high locust numbers in the Mallee.

Agriculture Victoria will continue surveillance, collect reports and identify where management activities, including ground spraying, may be needed throughout September and October.

Ms Perera says early reporting will help provide accurate advice and reduce the risk of widespread impacts, with landholders reminded to ensure any insecticide used is approved for Australian Plague Locusts.