Murrindindi Shire residents are being asked to be vigilant when it comes to reporting locusts.

While the threat of plague locusts appears to be minimal in our region, Murrindindi Shire Council and the Department of Primary Industries are asking people, particularly landholders, to monitor and report locust sightings and egg beds.

Chair of the Murrindindi Drought and Sustainability Committee Cr John Walsh said the state was facing its worst locust plague in 75 years.

“While we are not expected to feel the full brunt of locust numbers in our shire, it is important that we do our utmost to remain vigilant and report any egg beds and locust activity,” Cr Walsh said.  “It is important that we do all we can to support the war on locusts.”

The Department of Primary Industries has developed an interactive map that provides extensive information on locust movements and sightings.

“If the DPI knows where locust activity is, they can target information to those areas to help reduce the damage caused by locusts this spring – and reduce the future threat from more egg-laying,” Cr Walsh said.  “DPI scientists have determined the areas of greatest egg bed concentration are in the North, North Western, and Central parts of Victoria.  The department is concentrating its efforts on reducing as much as possible the number of plague locusts that survive to full maturity.  Their aim is to reduce the threat of plague locusts this spring and summer because once plague locusts reach maturity they are able to travel long distances including southern Victoria, however at that stage, it is much more difficult to undertake effective spraying.  The Department of Primary Industries website is one of the best ways to obtain up to date and detailed information about locust activity and people’s obligations in reporting eggs and outbreaks. I would encourage people to be across this issue as it could have major ramifications for our agricultural industry,” Cr Walsh said.  “The website provides a range of information on what people need to look for in terms of egg beds, how they can obtain chemicals and regular updates on hatching times.”

To access the reporting maps, locust identification and up to date information go to: www.dpi.vic.gov.au/locusts or call the DPI Locust Hotline 1300 13 5559.