Pest plants and animals

Natural resource management is all about protecting and maintaining the indigenous landscape. The introduction of plants and animals in areas where they do not occur naturally has had major impacts on the South East region. Pest plants and pest animals reduce effective land management, disturb the balance of native ecosystems and are an economic liability. A wide range of pests are already established in the South East. A number of new incursions are currently being eradicated and others are trying to arrive and vigilance is needed.

Prevention and containment of pest plants and pest animals are critical components in the continued work necessary to maintain and enhance our natural resources. The South East Natural Resources Management Board has a detailed management framework for ensuring the protection of agriculture, the environment and public safety from the impacts of pest plants and animals. The network of Authorised Officers located across the region is a critical component in ensuring early detection of and rapid response to pest incursions.

The Natural Resources Management Act lists a range of pest plant and animals as declared species and provides significant powers to the South East Natural Resources Management Board to ensure effective control of pests in the region.

The Biosecurity SA website is the best place to easily find information on declared species and important information on weed control methods, weed factsheets and latest updates on pest plant and animals.

Natural Resources South East believes the best way to prevent or eradicate pest plant and animals is through a collaborative approach between landholders, the community and our organisation; and the mix of education/information and action. No-one farms in isolation. A commitment to a collaborative approach ensures the best possible outcomes and provides a more sustainable and better economical approach to resources. An example of this is Natural Resources South East’s group fox baiting days.

Weed spotters program

Natural Resources South East also has established a ‘Weed Spotters’ program. Weed spotters are volunteers who receive training to help identify new, early or established pest plant incursions. They are a front line defence in spotting pest plants are report any issues for immediate action. Find out more about the Weed Spotters.