Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall has called on the new NSW Government to help farmers and homeowners prepare for a possible influx of mice this winter.
Mr Marshall said the CSIRO had issued a warning last week to expect a higher number of mice around homes and properties as the pests seek shelter ahead of the cooler months following some optimal breeding conditions.
“The CSIRO and NSW Farmers have warned farmers and rural landholders to be vigilant and consider baiting if needed – fearful that the numbers from the devastating 2021 mouse plague will be back,” Mr Marshall said.
“This follows reports of surging numbers of mice right across country NSW in summer crops.”
In 2021, the La Nina driven heavy rain and flooding, combined with baiting, stopped the NSW mice plague. This year we cannot expect the same, with La Nina over and the Bureau of Meteorology on an El Nino watch.
Adam Marshall says he has written to the NSW Government urging them to ensure immediate steps are taken to prepare for the recent influx of mice reported across our region, including baiting.
“Last time, the Government moved to ensure bait supplies and rebates were on the table – we need to be prepared if the population spikes after what has been another bumper cropping season in many areas.”
“I know the impact of the 2021 mouse plague had on communities right across regional and rural NSW and it was simply devastating for many families.”
“Mice chewed through crops, damaged farming machinery, swarmed homes and towns leading to millions of dollars of damage to crops and infrastructure.”
“I have written to the Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty and urged her to act now to ensure we are adequately prepared and that the same support will be available if we see a repeat of the 2021 numbers.”
Farmers and rural landholders are urged to report mouse activity by visiting feralscan.org.au/mousealert and download the chew card template at https://grdc.com.au/resources-and-publications/resources/mouse-management/monitor-manage/know-your-mouse-numbers.
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