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NZDFI Biosecurity Risk Management Plan

By T. J. Murray, June 2018.

Download SWP-T051 (pdf)

Executive summary

A number of new biological threats to eucalypts have recently become established in New Zealand.

NZDFI are particularly concerned about the risk of spreading myrtle rust and EVB (Eucalyptus variegated beetle) from the north to south Islands.

Movement of foliage has been assessed as carrying the highest biosecurity risk for both myrtle rust and EVB. Movement of wood samples carries a small risk of transferring EVB adults and a moderate risk of transferring eggs and larvae of Trachymela sloanei in particular. Movement of people between sites also carries a small risk, particularly if myrtle rust becomes established at a site.

NZDFI researchers and students should undertake a series of measures to reduce this risk.

  1. Conduct surveillance to assess risk level prior to commencing fieldwork or sampling
  2. Carry out inspections to prevent contamination during sample collection and packing
  3. If necessary, treat samples as recommended herein
  4. Inspect samples in a contained area when unpacking to prevent escape of any live pests/pathogens that may still be contaminating consignments
  5. Dispose of waste material as recommended herein

Treatments recommended include;

Foliage from Woodville to Christchurch

  • Risk assessment prior to sample collection
  • No collection if myrtle rust is detected
  • Inspection for rust and insect eggs/larvae/adults during collection and packing
  • Spray with flori-gas immediately prior to sealing containers for transport to South Island
  • Visual inspection of container exterior before transport
  • Storage of samples in cool room prior to unpacking
  • Visual inspection of foliage during unpacking in sealed room (lab building away from main glasshouses) at Proseed
  • Bag and burn or freeze waste material
  • Ongoing pest and pathogen surveillance in propagation facility

Wood samples from Woodville to Christchurch

  • Conduct risk assessment prior to sample collection
  • Inspection during packing
  • Overnight flooding
  • Spray with flori-gas immediately prior to sealing containers for transport to the south island
  • Visual inspection of container exterior before transport
  • Storage of sample in cool room prior to unpacking
  • Visual inspection of samples during unpacking in sealed room (wood-tech lab) at UC
  • Treatment of waste water with bleach

 

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