Hawkesbury residents are being invited to have a say on pest animal management by Greater Sydney Local Land Service’s (GSLLS).
A session providing insights into current pest animal programs in the local area will be held at GSLLS demonstration farm in Richmond on April 12, while residents are also being urged to have their say on the draft Greater Sydney Regional Strategic Pest Animal Management Plan online.
The plan sets a strategic direction for managing pest animals throughout the region, according to GSLLS biosecurity manager Graham Wilson.
The economic impact of pests such as rabbits, foxes, dogs, pigs, goats and introduced birds was estimated at $170 million every year, he said.
“The Greater Sydney Plan sets priorities which guide resourcing and investment for coordinated pest animal management,” Mr Wilson said. “Pest animals pose a serious threat to threatened species and the environment.
“Feral pigs alone impact on 361 native species already listed as nationally threatened.”
Mr Wilson said the plan focused on key pest animals in the region, outlining how government, community groups and individual landholders can work together to prevent, eradicate, contain and manage the impacts of pest animals.
“The management of pest animals in our region is a complex and challenging situation which can’t be ignored. Collaboration is our best defence when it comes to reducing the impacts of these animals,” he said.
“The consultation period is an opportunity for stakeholders, organisations and interested community members to provide feedback on managing pest animals in our region and across the state.”
Mr Wilson said several pest animal control campaigns were currently underway in the area.
The April 12 session will be held at the demonstration farm located at Gate 6 Southee Rd, Richmond. For more information, or to download a copy of the plan and provide feedback, visit the website by April 20.
Email events.greatersydney@lls.nsw.gov.au to find our more or register interest.
