A new website launched this week will support national efforts to tackle the growing feral deer problem.
Member for Barker Tony Pasin said feral deer were becoming a major problem across Australia and in Barker.
“Feral deer cause significant impacts on agriculture, the environment and are a road safety concern in parts of Barker,” Mr Pasin said.
“Feral deer is estimated to cost land managers an average of $2,133 per year per property for control activities,” said Mr Pasin.
“The new website will support the development and delivery of the National Feral Deer Action Plan, raise awareness of feral deer impacts, and provide strategies and tools for managing feral deer.” Mr Pasin said.
“It provides a platform for communities wanting to manage the impacts of feral deer in their local area, and to share knowledge of what is and isn’t working, through videos, podcasts and events. It will also provide access to news articles and updates on research findings.” Mr Pasin said.
“The website will help groups across the country coordinate their efforts to control feral deer and share knowledge on how to manage their impacts.”
The National Feral Deer Action Plan is currently being developed by a national working group, led by Dr Annelise Wiebkin, the National Deer Management Coordinator.
Feral deer cause damage to Australia’s natural environment and agricultural businesses by trampling plants, grazing, and ring-barking young trees, fouling waterholes, causing soil erosion, spreading weeds and pose a significant risk to our ability to contain an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease should one eventuate.
For more information visit www.feraldeerplan.org.au
