NORTH Queensland banana growers are being urged to start a feral pig trapping program to reduce the risk of spread of Panama disease tropical race 4.
Biosecurity Queensland’s acting Panama TR4 program leader Rhiannon Evans said there had been reports of increased pig sightings and activity on farms in recent weeks.
“Because Panama disease tropical race 4 is a soil borne fungus, it can be spread by animals when mud sticks to their feet and fur,” Ms Evans said.
“Even though the infected property at Tully has been taken out of production, growers shouldn’t be complacent about on-farm biosecurity and should manage all disease pathways, including potential spread by feral animals.
“Starting a well-planned trapping program in conjunction with neighbouring farms is an effective way to manage feral pig populations and to reduce the risk of spread of Panama disease tropical race 4.”
Ms Evans said there had also been reports of hunters entering farms without permission.
“While we acknowledge that feral pig hunting is a popular recreational activity for many people in the region, hunters trespassing on private land may be putting banana growers at risk,” she said.
Ms Evans said many growers had implemented strict biosecurity measures to protect their farms from Panama disease.
“Growers would not want to see their efforts undermined by irresponsible behaviour,” she said. “We still don’t know how Panama disease tropical race 4 arrived in Far North Queensland, or if it has already spread to other farms, which is why we need to remain vigilant.”
Ms Evans said hunters needed permission from land owners to avoid possible charges of trespassing.
“A quick phone call to obtain permission is all that’s required,” she said. “Entering a farm without permission is trespassing. We encourage growers to call the police if they see someone accessing their property illegally.”
CLICK HERE for the feral pig trapping guide has been distributed to all banana growers in Far North Queensland.
The Panama TR4 Program, in collaboration with key agencies, has launched a feral pig trapping guide for banana growers on the Cassowary Coast.
“A joint trapping program between neighbours has been proven to be a much more effective way of managing feral pig numbers than hunting with dogs. There are a number of resources available locally for growers to start trapping pigs on their land.”
Cassowary Coast Regional Council has pig traps and hog hoppers for loan and information on how to use them. Hunting with dogs in national parks is not permitted unless it is part of an authorised pest management plan implemented by the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS).
Plants are showing symptoms of Panama disease should be reported immediately to Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23.
CLICK HERE for more information on preventing the spread of Panama disease.