A SHIRE council has warned feral pig hunters they must not dispose of carcasses in public areas, after illegal dumping at a truck stop.
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Liverpool Plains’ regulatory and property services manager Steve Ryder said improper disposal of the carcasses could have “significant impacts on environmental, human and animal health”.
Mr Ryder said there was one shire-managed property where the carcasses could be dumped and there were “severe penalties” for doing the wrong thing.
“The only landfill where we have the capability to take dead animals is Quirindi: it has the capability of excavating and disposing of the carcasses.”
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A local community advisory group raised concerns with the councils about dead feral pigs being dumped illegally at the Caroona truck rest stop off 4D Road.
One local resident told The Leader she had “seen a couple” there but had assumed they’d been hit by vehicles.
“There are no houses or anything close by there, but the truckies have got to pull up there and sleep,” she said.
The Australian Pig Doggers and Hunters Association code of practice encourages members to dispose of carcasses “as requested by the landholder”.
“Under no circumstances are carcasses to be dumped along public roads, on public land or at council tips, unless at specific dead animal facilities.”
Mr Ryder said improper disposal could contaminate soil, groundwater, waterways, and stock and domestic water supplies.
“Access to poorly disposed carcasses can also allow for significant disease spread through scavengers, mosquitoes and vermin, leading to public health risks.
“There are several diseases that require particular consideration when disposing of carcasses.
“These diseases can pose considerable threats to human and/or animal health and include hendra virus, anthrax and botulism.”
Mr Ryder said people could consult with the NSW Environmental Protection Agency or the council on the best way to dispose of carcasses.
“Considering the health risks illegal dumping of carcasses can cause, members of the community are asked to report suspicious behaviour or sites where illegal dumps are found to LPSC on 6746 1755,” he said.