International and local experts are meeting in Perth today to aid the long term management of polyphagous shot-hole borer in Australia.
The leading scientists are attending a National Stakeholder Workshop, hosted by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD), looking at tree canopy management and agricultural industry preparedness.
The workshop will feature learnings from the US and South Africa with presentations from Professors Shannon Lynch, University of California - Davis, Francois Roets, University of Stellenbosch, and Brett Hurley, University of Pretoria.
These international experts will share key insights and advice, drawing on their experience in the long term management of the pest in orchards, as well as urban and natural environments.
The program also includes an update on local research by Murdoch University, Curtin University and The University of Western Australia funded by the WA Agricultural Research Collaboration, with DPIRD and CSIRO investment.
DPIRD Biosecurity and Emergency Management Deputy Director General Mia Carbon said the workshop would help inform the future of shot-hole borer management in Australia.
“DPIRD’s shot-hole borer management response is continuing to prepare for the transition to the successful long-term management of the pest,” Dr Carbon said.
“The National Stakeholder Workshop is a part of the department’s ongoing efforts to learn and share as much as we can about the borer to develop best practice management strategies for WA and the rest of Australia
“Our Capacity Building and Training team continues to provide practical support, training and resources to upskill industry, local government and communities in the metropolitan area and regions.
“By working together, we will have the best chance of reducing the impact of the borer on our valuable tree canopies and the horticulture industry.”
DPIRD surveillance is continuing with monitoring traps deployed in the regions, including in orchard production areas.
A Quarantine Area remains in place for the entire Perth metropolitan area to minimise the risk of spreading the borer through human activity, such as moving wood.
Members of the community, gardeners and commercial growers are urged to report any evidence of shot hole borer in the Containment Zone and outside the Quarantine Area.
Commercial growers are encouraged to regularly monitor their trees and maintain good orchard hygiene practices to minimise risk.
Suspect shot-hole borer infestations should be reported via DPIRD’s MyPestGuide Reporter app or to the Pest and Disease Information Service at padis@dpird.wa.gov.au or (08) 9368 3080.
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