WHAT IS BIOSECURITY?Biosecurity is the management of risks to the economy, the environment and the community of pests and diseases entering, emerging, establishing or spreading in Australia. A pest is any animal, plant, invertebrate or pathogen with the potential to have a negative effect. An invasive pest is a pest that requires effort to control it because it is easy for the pest to move into a habitat. Exotic pests or diseases are not native to, or established in, Australia and may not have predators or other population control mechanisms. Why is it so important?Biosecurity is becoming increasingly important in the future as global food demand rises to unprecedented levels. In Australia, where more than two thirds of the population lives in major cities, there is a growing disconnection between consumers and their food source, and consequently their understanding of food-related issues. Increased levels of trade and travel have opened up opportunities for Australia’s economy and people, but at the same time have increased the risk of pests (i.e. insects, feral animals, weeds, diseases) entering the country. This poses a major threat to Australia’s food production, trade, environment and biodiversity. It is important that Australia has some protection measures (biosecurity) in place to:
What can your community do about it? LEARN, SHARE AND COMMUNICATE ways to help protect our agricultural industry and for us to be proactive rather than reactive to these challenges. Biosecurity is everyone’s business! HERE ARE SOME EASY STEPS TO INTRODUCE BIOSECURITY AT A LOCAL LEVEL 1. Look for signs that your plant is unhealthy
Kids can help by becoming pest detectives who spot signs of trouble early. When it comes to spotting pests, kids are usually better than adults. Small people are nearer to the ground where pests usually live, and usually have sharper eyesight so they can spy really tiny insects or the little signs which tell you a plant disease is starting to grow. 3. Download the MyPestGuide Reporter app to a mobile phone and you can use it to send in a report or photo of the pest you have found. 4. Plan and carry out weed surveillance projects using the MyPestGuide pest reporting tools. 5. Prepare fruit fly traps at school or at home 6. Follow border security rules when travelling 7. Come in clean and go out clean - when walking through gardens or farms ensure your shoes are always clean 8. Develop in school communities, an education program that emphasises the relationship between food and fibre industries, individuals, communities, the environment and our economy. 9. TALK - it is important to share your knowledge with everyone
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