Agriculture Victoria is encouraging landholders to prepare for a higher risk of Australian plague locust activity in parts of north-west Victoria this spring, with its network of Locust Champions helping communities monitor and respond to potential outbreaks.
The Locust Champions program connects landholders with local Agriculture Victoria staff who can provide information, advice and regional insights on locust activity and management.
Agriculture Victoria Seasonal Risk Agronomist and Echuca-based Locust Champion, Dale Boyd said favourable seasonal conditions had increased the risk of locust activity across parts of Victoria.
‘There is a moderate to high chance of high locust numbers in the Mallee this spring, with hatching expected from mid-September.
‘In the Wimmera, there is a low to moderate chance of high locust numbers, with hatching expected from late September.
‘Good rainfall, increased egg laying and high locust numbers in New South Wales and South Australia have increased the likelihood of locust activity in Victoria,’ Mr Boyd said.
Agriculture Victoria worked with the Australian Plague Locust Commission to survey north-west Victoria in May following reports of high locust activity. Surveys found consistent numbers of adult locusts across the region, with some areas recording higher than usual activity.
Mr Boyd said now was the time for landholders to prepare for spring hatchings.
‘Australian plague locusts can cause serious damage to pasture, crops and horticulture, so reporting is essential.’
‘Early reporting helps support an effective response and reduces the risk of widespread impacts.’
‘We encourage landholders to check paddocks, roadsides and grassed areas for egg beds, learn what young locusts look like and make sure their chemical management plans are ready.’
‘Spraying is most effective around 2 weeks after hatching, when young locusts are on the ground and begin to band together, before they can fly’ he said.
The Locust Champions program helps improve locust preparedness across Victoria by providing local knowledge, technical advice and coordination for landholders seeking further support.
Landholders who see locusts or locust activity should report it to Agriculture Victoria as soon as possible to help monitor locust populations and movement.
To find your local Locust Champion and to report locust activity, visit Australian plague locust
