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Kununurra fruit growers are deeply concerned at the biosecurity risks being posed by rotting fruit under backyard trees and in some orchards.
Ord Guard chairman Lachlan Dobson said it was a serious issue.
He said that if fruit was left whole on the ground it was not long before it became flyblown and could become host to exotic pests.
He said it was best, where there was a lot of fruit on the ground to run over it with a slasher or a vehicle, as it would break down much faster.
In a backyard situation it was best to use a garbage bag, with another garbage bag inside and then put the tied bag in a wheelie bin or take it to the rubbish tip.
Lachlan said that using Kimberley Waste's mobile vacuum rubbish remover was another option.
The Department of Agriculture and Food's Pest and Diseases Information Service (PADIS) has warned that it is important for fruit trees, even lone lemon trees, to be maintained properly.
Spokesman Michael Littlely said there were many exotic pests and diseases that could use backyard orchards as a host.
"Quarantine breaches can introduce exotic pests and diseases because of the high number of imports and travellers," Mr Littlely said.
"A poorly maintained backyard orchard will also be a breeding area for existing pests and diseases," he said.
Pests and diseases that could enter Western Australia include codling moth, Queensland Fruit fly, Citrus Canker and Phylloxera.
"Many people are not aware of the problem backyard trees pose, and if they don't want to maintain their trees, they should choose plants that do not pose a pest and disease risk," Mr Littley said.
PADIS can provide advice on treatments for backyard orchards to keep them pest free.
The service can be contacted on Freecall 1800 081 881 or email info@agric.wa.gov.au |
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