Plague locusts

During the current Plague Locust season, there has been heavy locust activity in the dairy regions centred around the Riverina in southern NSW and northern Victoria. Farmers in these areas now need to be vigilant to control a second generation of locusts. Adults swarms from the north are now likely to head to south west Victoria and Gippsland and start laying eggs.

Dairy Australia and dairy industry organisations are working closely with government agencies to monitor the situation, provide relevant information to support farmers and focus on the potential exposure of the dairy supply chain to chemical sprays.

What you need to do

As second generation egg laying is now occurring, remain vigilant. If you know where egg beds are on your property, monitor their progress, report hatchings to the relevant Government agency and be prepared to commence spraying once hoppers start to band together.

A number of chemicals are allowed to be used to control locusts in pasture. Follow the label directions for these products, particularly application rates, withholding periods etc to ensure residues cannot contaminate milk or meat. Farmers are advised to obtain specific product information and advice on the appropriate product from their local government department or at the point of sale for chemicals.

Learn more about managing locusts on dairy farms

Avoiding residues in milk and meat is critical

Remember to follow all label instructions and observe the withhold periods. If you intend to send chopper cows to the abattoir, the withholds relating to Export Slaughter Intervals, Export Grazing Intervals and/or Export Animal Feed Intervals must be met.

Government residue testing programs are likely to include additional targeted testing for meat and milk throughout the season. This testing will help assure consumers and export markets that Australian dairy and meat products remain safe and of the same high standard of quality and integrity.

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