Landmanagers and community groups in the Central West region are being encouraged to apply for funds through the $3 million 2015-2016 Pest and Weed Drought Funding program. Applications are open until 4th April 2016, with the program being administered by Local Land Services using funding through the Australian Government Agricultural Competitiveness White Paper.
Chair of the Local Land Services Board of Chairs, Tim De Mestre said the funding is available to help reduce grazing pressure and stock losses from pest animals and reduce the spread of weeds.
“Managing pest animals is essential during dry times, when feed supply is short and pests compete with livestock and native animals for pasture and ground cover,” Mr de Mestre said. Individuals, groups and organisations are welcome to apply for funding, which will be allocated through a competitive assessment process. A wide range of activities was undertaken in the
2014-2015 program, including programs targeting wild dogs, foxes, feral pigs and unmanaged goats. Activities included the establishment of pest control groups, coordinated ground baiting, trapping, aerial baiting and culling programs, pesticide training courses and resources to assist
with more targeted control programs. Local Land Services is available to offer ongoing
advice for farmers and landholders dealing with drought. They offer hands on support
where possible and endeavour to provide updated localised information about managing
and recovering from drought. More specifically, their Livestock officers provide
technical advice on feeding and nutrition, their District Veterinarians manage and
advise on livestock health and welfare and their TSR rangers manage permits for grazing on TSRs and roads.