Rural landholders, particularly in the central agricultural area, are advised to inspect their properties for locust activity and prepare for control.
The Department of Agriculture and Food is predicting localised locust activity in parts of the central and eastern Wheatbelt.
Department entomologist Svetlana Micic said hatchings were expected during early October, with first hatchings already occurring in the Southern Cross area.
“Landholders should be checking their properties from now for the emergence of locusts to determine if control will be necessary,” Ms Micic said.
“It is vital that landholders carry out timely control to minimise damage to valuable pastures and crops where locusts emerge and feed.”
The department is continuing to undertake surveillance to assist landholders make timely decisions on control.
There are registered chemicals available commercially and the department can provide advice on control options.
More information on identification, monitoring and control is available from agric.wa.gov.au/locusts or by phoning 1800 084 881 or Martin Atwell on +61 (0)8 9881 0242.
Media contacts: Jodie Thomson, media liaison +61 0(8) 9368 3937