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Visiting wild dog expert to help boost control efforts in central Wheatbelt

Released on

Released on:
Monday, 8. July 2013 - 13:45

Sheep producers in the central Wheatbelt will this week benefit from an information session and workshop by the national wild dog facilitator.

Department of Agriculture and Food regional leader for invasive species Tim Stevens said there was community concern about the continued impact of wild dogs on sheep enterprises in the central Wheatbelt.

“The department and Central Wheatbelt Declared Species Group organised the events to assist industry and government to work together in areas affected by wild dogs and plan the most strategic and coordinated approach,” Mr Stevens said.

“National wild dog facilitator Greg Misfud has been invited to share with local sheep producers the latest research and control information from around Australia.

“At the Koorda information session, producers will also be updated on the local situation and Central Wheatbelt Declared Species Group activities.

“The aim in Koorda is to encourage conversation among local farmers about the potential impact of wild dogs on their businesses, the effectiveness of different wild dog control methods and ways they can work together to achieve better outcomes.”

The wild dog information session would be held on Wednesday 10 July from 4.00 pm at the Koorda Hotel.

Mr Stevens said a full-day wild dog workshop, to be held on Thursday 11 July from 10.00 am at the Latham Golf Club, would be more comprehensive, with an overview of the latest research and information by Mr Misfud and a practical session on wild dog control techniques.

“Latham workshop participants will also benefit from an update on the local situation which will be complemented by a visual overview via nil tenure mapping of the Shire of Perenjori,” Mr Stevens said.

“The workshop will also include an overview of Central Wheatbelt Declared Species group activities and practical training on dog control techniques, presented by a local dogger.

“This will cover dog behaviour, dog signs on the ground and among stock, and a demonstration of trapping techniques and lures.”

Doggers form part of an integrated approach to wild dog management in WA.

 

Media contact: Jodie Thomson, media liaison             +61 (0)8 9368 3937