Watch for Pasture Dieback

THE NSW Department of Primary Industries is urging farmers to be on the lookout for pasture dieback, which has spread to New South Wales from Queensland and is believed to be spreading through hay.

Dr Suzanne Boschma, research scientist with the NSW Department of Primary Industries, said producers needed to be aware of the disease which has affected large areas of sown and native summer-growing grasses in Queensland.

“Pasture dieback was first seen in Central Queensland before spreading to the far north and south of the state – it kills grass pastures, reducing productivity,” Dr Boschma said.

“The first suspected case in NSW was reported this autumn and we are monitoring the site,” she said.

“Grasses only are affected, with symptoms including yellowing, reddening and purpling of leaves before the plants eventually die.

“The best time to look for symptoms in summer grasses is following significant rainfall, when the plants are actively growing.

“Dieback symptoms are similar to those of stressed plants and it is important to first rule out other causes, including moisture stress, fertility and herbicide damage,” said Dr Suzanne Boschma.

Sarah Baker, pasture development officer for the NSW DPI said solid biosecurity is the first step to protecting pasture from dieback.

“Come clean and go clean, instruct workers and visitors to follow your farm hygiene requirements, source hay and seed with certification or a known status from reputable suppliers, monitor pastures regularly and keep records,” Ms Baker said.

“There are reports of dieback being spread by hay in Queensland and we advise producers to buy hay from dieback-free areas or hay produced from dieback resistant crops, such as lucerne, store and feed fodder in consistent locations and monitor these areas regularly,” said Sarah Baker.

The cause of pasture dieback is an ongoing area of research, with the mealy bug being investigated.

Suspected symptoms of pasture dieback in NSW should be reported to the Exotic Plant Pest hotline 1800 084 881.

For more information on pasture dieback visit the NSW DPI website.