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Biosecurity, 04 Dec 2024
Farm biosecurity needs vigilance
Taking steps to understand, prevent, and deal with pests, weeds and diseases is crucial for biosecurity on farm
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Biosecurity, 27 Nov 2024
Do not let this stink bug hitch a ride
Not present in Australia, the Brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB), (Halyomorpha halys), poses a significant biosecurity threat, particularly between September and April. When temperatures drop in winter, it seeks shelter in cars, shipping containers, houses and even inside luggage and clothing and is an expert hitchhiker. With the potential to affect over 300 different plants and crops, understanding and preventing its entry into Australia is crucial for protecting the agricultural industry.
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Biosecurity, 04 Nov 2024
Insect control and effective fumigation help guard your harvest
As pests such as weevils and other stored-product beetles become less susceptible to phosphine, there is growing concern over its future effectiveness as a primary fumigant for stored grain in Australia.
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Biosecurity, 21 Oct 2024
New grains biosecurity officer for Queensland
The Grains Farm Biosecurity Program (GFBP) has welcomed Adam Jalaludin as the new grains biosecurity officer (GBO) for Queensland. He will based at the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries in Toowoomba. Adam Jalaludin will work to enhance biosecurity preparedness and management at farm and industry levels, contributing to the resilience of the state’s $2 billion grains industry
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Biosecurity, 08 Aug 2024
What do you need to know about barley stripe rust?
Barley stripe rust (Puccinia striiformis f. sp hordei) poses a significant threat to wheat and barley production globally. Although not present in Australia, our grains industry is going to great lengths to keep this damaging disease out. Barley stripe rust is a fungal disease and is known to reduce plant and root growth, increase water loss and cut, resulting in fewer and lighter kernels.
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Biosecurity, 06 Aug 2024
Consider biosecurity at field events
Field days, trial inspections and crop tours provide growers, agricultural professionals and extension workers with the opportunity to learn about new farming techniques, technologies and varieties. However, these events also pose potential biosecurity risks due to the movement of people, machinery, vehicles and other materials. To reduce risk, consider the following measures.
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Biosecurity, 02 Aug 2024
Biosecurity stands or falls on collaboration
International collaboration and cooperation play a crucial role in maintaining biosecurity. Presenters at the 2024 Plant Biosecurity Research Initiative (PBRI) symposium in Cairns emphasized the significance of whole-of-industry strategies to mitigate threats posed by weed, pest, and disease incursions in agriculture.
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Biosecurity, 10 Jun 2024
$42m diagnostics initiative to bolster grains biosecurity
A new five-year National Grains Diagnostic and Surveillance Initiative will use state-of-the-art technology and processes to improve Australia’s ability to rapidly detect and accurately diagnose exotic pests and plant diseases. The $42 million national biosecurity initiative is set to transform the effectiveness and responsiveness of Australia’s grains biosecurity system.
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Biosecurity, 13 May 2024
PHA releases FMD quick guide for mixed producers
PHA has developed a FMD quick guide to help plant industries and mixed-farming operations prepare for animal and plant pest and disease outbreaks and identify business opportunities that could arise. Although Australia is currently free from foot and mouth disease (FMD), it is considered one of the country’s greatest biosecurity risks and an incursion would have significant consequences for animal health and trade, along with potential impacts for the grains industry.
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Biosecurity, 03 May 2024
Updated resource for growers to enhance – not hinder – beneficial insects
The Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC), in collaboration with Cesar Australia and the University of Melbourne, has released an updated version of the Beneficials Chemical Toxicity Table. This essential resource, part of the Australian Grains Pest Innovation Program (AGPIP), provides grain growers and advisers with critical information on the impact of insecticides and miticides on beneficial insects, such as ladybird beetles, parasitoid wasps, predatory mites, lacewings, and hoverflies. First introduced in 2022, the table helps integrate pest management strategies by categorizing chemical treatments based on their toxicity to beneficial species, using a color-coded system for easy interpretation. The update includes new data and insights, particularly on Australian wolf spiders and hoverflies, enhancing the table's role in supporting informed decision-making for effective pest control with minimal harm to beneficial organisms.