NSW Minister for Agriculture Adam Marshall announced on Thursday morning the government has secured 5,000 litres of one of the world's strongest mice-killing poisons, confirming distribution to primary producers could also begin in a matter of days.
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That distribution does rely on approval from the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority, which is yet to arrive, with Mr Marshall saying the anti-coagulant bromadiolone had been sourced locally to help farmers combat the still-rampant mouse plague.
"As soon as the APVMA gives us approval to use bromadiolone for baiting crop perimeters we can start to distribute it out through our treatment stations absolutely free of charge to farmers," Mr Marshall said.
"Five thousand litres will treat approximately 95 tonnes of grain. By securing a local supply of the chemical we ensure the NSW Government is ready to roll - no waiting for overseas shipments, no immediate supply issues.
"Experts will treat growers' grain with bromadiolone completely free of charge to build a mice-free fortress to protect paddocks. When used in conjunction with in-field zinc phosphide baiting, farmers will have a multi-layered defense against the rodents.
"This is an unprecedented plague with no blueprint on how to handle it, but we're giving our farmers the tools they need to combat these vile vermin. As circumstances evolve we will continue to adapt our best approach to support the agricultural industry."
Upon approval, should the APVMA grant it, the poison will only be handled by Local Land Services experts when grain is treated to manage any potential risks to non-target species.
Landholders will also be provided education on best practice and will need to adhere to strict APVMA guidelines when handling treated grain, with those free treatments a result of the government's $50 million package to support impacted communities.
The locations of grain treatment sites is still being finalised, but Mr Marshall confirmed they will be state-wide and encouraged producers to register their interest now with their local LLS office.
"People can right now register their interest online. As soon as each site is open we will let them know when and where to bring their grain for treatment," Mr Marshall said.
"We are in the final stages of confirming locations, but we'll have sites running right through affected areas, from Wagga Wagga to Walgett, and Moree to Jerilderie."
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The government's support package also includes rebates, through Service NSW, for impacted households and small business, with Thursday morning's announcement coming after Mr Marshall slammed PETA for urging farmers not to kill mice.
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