Graziers from across North Queensland attended Pest Advisory Forums last month, to voice their concerns about management affecting them.
The seminars were held at Pentland, Ravenswood and the Spygrass Beef Research Station with experts informing grazers about new and better pest control methods available.
The event focused on local issues including the Biosecurity Act update, Wild dog coordination, 1080, PAPP and CPE information and Wild dog trapping; while receiving input from local government, industry and landcare representatives.
Program Manager, Brett King, said the workshops were held with a primary focus on integrated wild dog controls, specifically at available trapping and baiting techniques and new technologies.
“It is important to note that the choice of control methods is based on an understanding of wild dog behavior, social structure, habitats and food preferences, with effective control involving a combination of techniques,” Mr King said.
“The choice is also influenced by concerns for animal welfare and the impact on non target species, public safety, occupational health and safety issues, and by legislative and practical restrictions on applying some techniques.
“Effective control requires an assessment of each individual situation. As with most pest problems, no single 'quick and easy' method will solve all problems.”
Additionally, there were presentations and discussions on the use and application of the Hog Hopper as well as aerial shooting programs for feral pigs and deer in the region.
Mr King said there was an option for landholders to uptake and implement the learnings.
“Landholders can contact Local Government Land Protection Officers who can assist with providing advice, planning, coordinating activities as well as support with application of 1080,” he said.
“Landholders can purchase the available tools from distributors and use them themselves; or they can access contractors to undertake activities.”.
The next Dry Tropics Pest Advisory Forum is scheduled for June 9 and will be held at the Tropical Weeds Research Center in Charters Towers.
It will have a focus on weed species; new and emerging, bio controls, transfer of fodder weeds and herbicide control techniques.