INFORMATION SERVICE FRONTLINE AGAINST PESTS AND DISEASES

A new service aimed at keeping Western Australia pest and disease free has been launched by the Agriculture Minister at Garden Week.

The Department of Agriculture’s new Pest and Disease Information Service (PDIS) will be the frontline for reporting suspected exotic animal and plant pests, diseases and weeds, as well as a community information source providing high quality technical information.

Department Acting Director General Ian Longson said WA had one of the most pest and disease free environments in the world. It's important that we protect our environment for future generations and the quality of life we currently enjoy.

"While this can be partly attributed to our geographical isolation, it is also the result of effective management and the vigilance of industry and the community.

"Early detection provides the best opportunity to limit the impact and spread of pests and diseases.  Early reporting will also ensure eradication takes place as quickly as possible."

Mr Longson highlighted a current biosecurity threat posed by unusually high numbers of European wasps in WA this summer and the importance of public awareness in reporting sightings.

"We have managed to prevent this pest from establishing in the past.

"With a successful relationship between the Department of Agriculture and the reporting public, need to work together to ensure the threat to our life style is minimised,” Mr Longson said.

Mr Longson said the costs of weeds to Australian agriculture now exceeds $4 billion per year, and more if the impact on tourism, recreation and the environment is taken into account.

Mr Longson said a close relationship between the Department horticulture and agriculture industries and community members is needed to effectively manage potential biosecurity threats.

The Pest and Disease Information Service plans to build on existing relationships to develop strong partnership with nursery, horticultural, education and community groups to promote the early detection of exotic plant and animal pests, diseases and weeds and keep our environment and agriculture free from these threats.

The service encourages the community to send in specimens for free identification and testing to determine any potential threats.

A 'Common Seasonal Pest' booklet containing brief descriptions that help to identify common pests and some of the more exotic pests of quarantine interest to WA has also been released.

Mr Longson said many of our most serious weeds were introduced as garden plants and have attractive flowers that belie their true nature.

"Every gardener, horticulturist, farmer and community member can help prevent the spread of pests, diseases and weeds to WA's environment, agriculture and community facilities,” Mr Longson said.

For any queries regarding exotic threats contact the Pest and Disease Information Service on 9368 3666.