FARMERS affected by wild dogs are able to apply for trapping services under a $1.4 million state government program, but certain conditions will need to be met.
PIRSA principal biosecurity officer for pest animals Brad Page said a coordinated approach was needed to ensure the extensive baiting program presently underway had a significant effect on dog numbers.
Dr Page said by bringing wild dog numbers down through baiting, trappers would be able to concentrate on the harder to catch dogs.
“We know we’re going to pick up the young and naive dogs through the baiting program,” Dr Page said.
“It’s the dogs that won’t take baits that we want the trappers to target.”
As part of the application process, landowners need to meet selection criteria including having baited in the past six months and having evidence dogs still remain on their property.
Preference will be given to properties where neighbours are working together to control wild dogs.
In addition to the baiting usually done in SA through the Biteback program, the state government has committed an additional $200,000 for a one-off extensive baiting program, which includes aerial drops in dog hot-spots. This program includes free baits for landowners, which will be available from the Natural Resources offices in Port Augusta, Orroroo, Murray Bridge and Ceduna by the end of June.
To ensure the success of the baiting program, landholders receiving free baits are asked to have them in place by the end of July.
The tender process for the two full-time equivalent trapper positions closed on Friday last week, with the positions to be filled by July 1.
Any landowners wanting to access trapping services can contact state wild dog coordinator Marty Bower either through email: marty.bower@sa.gov.au or by calling 0419 835 120.