Weeding out the Ferals – Managing weeds and feral animals in the Weddin Shire

  • Eight pig traps were constructed and made available for loan to residents of the Weddin Shire. 
  • Four remote cameras were purchased and made available for loan to residents of the Weddin Shire. 
  • Multiple workshops were held to educate on management options for feral animals and weed control. 

The issue 

The impact of feral pests and weeds was starting to take its toll on local ecosystems as well as agricultural impacts on crops and livestock in the Weddin Shire. 

There was a lack of resources for landholders to manage feral pigs, foxes, and invasive weeds on private properties, within tree lines and on roadsides. 

The Solution 

Building on previous Pest Management Projects, with funding through the Central West Local Land Services Landcare Delivery Projects Program, it was agreed to continue to better resource the community for weed and feral animal control and to protect local native plant species from the impact of feral pests.  

Eight pig traps were constructed and four remote cameras were purchased to assist in monitoring pest animal activity. These are now available for loan to residents of the Weddin Shire to help them get better visibility on what pests are impacting their property and to help manage them. 

A Feral Animal Seminar was held in conjunction with Central West Local Land Services in April 2017. Over 30 participants gained valuable insight into the different management options for feral animals. 

Two 1080/Pindone workshops were held (one in 2017 and one in 2019) in partnership with Central West Local Land Services. The training courses provided landholders with a clear understanding of 1080 and Pindone use and their respective legal obligations. Participants who completed the course received chemical accreditation for five years. Additionally, training was conducted on the use of the Canid Pest Ejector (CPE). The course covered baiting techniques, toxicity, storage, transport requirements, legislation, WHS, use of CPEs, and PAPP. 

A weed identification and control workshop was held in 2018 to educate attendees on how to manage weeds in fenced tree lines. 

The impact 

Our local area is now better protected from invasive species with landholders having increased knowledge and skills on managing and maintaining the impacts of feral pests and weeds. The pig traps and remote camera resources have helped empower the landholders to better manage their natural resources, knowing assistance is available.