Pest animals and plants have had major impacts on biodiversity, agricultural industries and public health. The risks they pose to our terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, including productive systems, are likely to increase as a result of climate change, global trade and travel. An integrated approach, based on a risk management framework, will be taken to minimise current and future impacts and, wherever possible, prevent new pest species from becoming established.

What will be happening?

• Development of early detection and eradication systems for new pests.
• Awareness-raising about preventing the introduction and spread of pest species.
• Investigations into appropriate management of over-abundant native species.
• Research into future potential biological threats and changes that occur through natural selection, land use, management practices and climate.
• Promotion of changes to the land use planning system to improve protection for areas that are important for conservation from land uses that involve pest plants and/or animals.

What you can do

If you would like to find out more about the current pest/plant projects and initiatives underway in your region or how you can become involved, please contact your respective Board.