Landholders in northern NSW are being urged to be on the lookout for signs of the Fall Armyworm (FAW), as the pest is expected to travel south from Queensland.
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FAW were first detected in the Torres Strait in late January 2020 and on mainland Australia shortly afterwards.
It is currently established in parts of Queensland, Northern Territory and Western Australia.
The most southern detection of FAW in eastern Australia is at Bundaberg. The pest is expected to continue southwards.
FAW has the potential to be very destructive to the agricultural industry as its larvae can feed on many crop species including maize, sorghum, pulses, winter cereals, sugar cane, rice and cotton.
It has a high preference for maize crops and can be particularly destructive when not controlled.
The North West LLS have been collaborating with the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Plant Biosecurity team in the monitoring of FAW.
North West LLS mixed farming officer Kate Pearce started surveillance work for FAW by setting traps in late summer crops earlier this year.
"Six sites were set up along the border and around Moree and fortunately had no positive FAW samples come back. Findings included mostly native armyworm," Kate said.
"We will continue to monitor the upcoming summer crops with surveillance starting again in late September.
"The importance of this work is to ensure potentially affected industries are prepared and providing crucial support for industries regarding insect diagnostic and permits for chemical management options."
The FAW is a migratory species that utilises prevailing winds and can also be spread by humans or on infested plant materials. It has become resistant to many chemical treatments.
Confirmed detections by Australian biosecurity organisations have determined it unfeasible to eradicate the pest.
North West LLS advises that the best way to minimise the spread and impact of FAW is to identify signs of infestation early.
An Integrated Pest Management program which combines a careful selection of insecticides with natural enemy conservation and good agronomic practises, is the best management approach for landholders.
Eggs, larvae and moths should be reported immediately to the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881. More information can be found on the DPI's website www.dpi.nsw.gov.au.
North West LLS and DPI will host a FAW webinar on Wednesday, September 9 at 10am.
The webinar will be providing information on the current FAW surveillance and monitoring; the identification and life cycle of the FAW; and the chemical use and available permits.
Registrations for the webinar can be completed at the link https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/306462887023626763 or for more information in the FAW webinar please contact Kate Pearce on 0429 900329.
