The NSW Nationals in the state government have secured 5000 litres of one of the world’s strongest mice-killing chemicals, fast-tracking further practical help for farmers to combat the current plague.
NSW Nationals Agriculture Minister Adam Marshall said the anti-coagulant bromadiolone had been sourced locally, which meant distribution to primary producers could begin within days of approval by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority.
“As soon as the APVMA gives us approval to use bromadiolone for baiting crop perimeters we can start to distribute it out through our treatment stations absolutely free of charge to farmers,” Mr Marshall said.
5000 litres will treat approximately 95 tonnes of grain.
“By securing a local supply of the chemical we ensure the NSW Government is ready to roll – no waiting for overseas shipments, no immediate supply issues,” Mr Marshall said.
“Experts will treat growers’ grain with bromadiolone completely free of charge to build a mice-free fortress to protect paddocks. When used in conjunction with in-field zinc phosphide baiting, farmers will have a multi-layered defence against the rodents.
“This is an unprecedented plague with no blueprint on how to handle it, but we’re giving our farmers the tools they need to combat these vile vermin. As circumstances evolve, we will continue to adapt our best approach to support the agricultural industry.”
To best manage any potential risks posed to non-target species, bromadiolone will only be handled by Local Land Services experts when grain is being treated.
Landholders will also be educated on best practice and will need to adhere to strict APVMA guidelines when handling treated grain.
The free grain treatment is part of the NSW Nationals in the state government’s $50 million support package to manage the impacts on regional communities, which also includes rebates for households and small businesses, community workshops and targeted pest research.
