As truckloads of feed come into the region from all over Australia – including Western Australia and Tasmania – Russel Smith from the New England Weeds Authority has urged farmers to be aware of the weeds risk.
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“Although feed movement is a necessary risk there are a number of strategies we can put in place to help ensure this difficult period is not compounded by years of costly and labour intensive weed control into the future,” Mr Smith said.
“A local rural merchandiser was discussing the movement of stock feed with our Biosecurity Officers and he mentioned that they have been sourcing feed from South Australia and Far North Queensland. Unfortunately these stocks are quickly running out and they are now in discussions with suppliers in Western Australia.
“From a weed perspective, this means we may be importing weeds from anywhere on the Australian mainland.”
Mr Smith said there were a number of strategies to cut the risk of contamination, including using sacrifice paddocks.
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“Where possible feed out imported stock feeds in the same location,” he said. “If we are introducing weeds in stock feed, particularly hay, it is best we limit the area over which these weeds are spread. If there are few feeding locations it is easier to be on the lookout for the growth of unfamiliar species when conditions improve.
Vehicle hygiene was also important.
“Be mindful of how clean these vehicles are when they enter your property and again be observant for new species in places these vehicles have been.
“The best way to control the introduction of weeds to a property is by having a healthy pasture with good ground coverage. Unfortunately that is not always possible.”
Mr Smith said the New England Weeds Authority was aware of the stresses caused by drought and will limit property inspections until conditions improve.
“Also, it is not ideal to undertake herbicide application while plants are under such water stress,” he said.
“Remember that most of the weeds we currently control in the New England were introduced through stock feed and vehicle movements. Vigilance now may well have a great impact on the weeds we have to control in the future.”
For help with weed identification and management call 6770 3602, or drop into the Armidale office.
