biosecurity
BIO MATTERS
vegetablesWA is spearheading the fight against biosecurity risks with a video series and roadshow throughout Western Australia.
Words Chi Nguyen, vegetablesWA RDO
How Vigilent are You?
Review your farm’s current biosecurity measures. Identify which pathways you are controlling well and which may require more management. If you are managing all pathways well, create a farm biosecurity plan for your property. If you need support in developing a biosecurity plan, staff training, workshops, access to pest and disease resources, biosecurity toolkit, farm biosecurity signage and diagnostics, contact RDOs Chi Nguyen on 0457 457 559 or email chi.nguyen@vegetableswa.com.au or Katrina Hill on 0427 373 037 or email katrina.hill@vegetableswa.com.au.
FARM walks, surveys and a workshop were held in Geraldton and Carnarvon recently. These events were aimed at enhancing biosecurity awareness and promoting responsible farming practices. While in the area, sticky traps were checked and surveys were conducted for early detection of two pests – the serpentine leafminer and fall armyworm.
The workshops, bringing together 60 growers and 20 industry stakeholders, addressed Integrated Pest Management (IPM), emphasising a holistic approach that incorporates pest and disease identification, biological controls, cultural and physical measures, and the responsible chemical use.
Growers were provided with tools and resources, such as biosecurity signs, sticky traps and materials on pest and disease management. New pests, such as the serpentine leafminer and fall armyworm, were a focus of presentations, as was the use of parasitoid wasps in biological pest control. We learned that Australia has many parasitoid wasp species, which contribute to the natural control of leafminers.
Growers also had a chance to review their understanding of chemical labels. Proper usage of chemicals is crucial for effective biosecurity; incorrect usage can cause toxic residues, harm to nontarget species, adverse effects on ecosystems and the emergence of resistance in pests, pathogens and invasive species. A holistic, integrated approach not only enhances biosecurity efforts, but also avoids wastage and unnecessary expenses associated with ineffective treatments.
Thank you to the Vietnamese community in Carnarvon, vegetablesWA, AUSVEG, DPIRD, DAF Queensland, VegNet and NT Farmers for helping to make the Carnarvon workshop a success.