LANDHOLDERS across New South Wales are being urged to take advantage of $850,000 worth of free grain and bait as part of a statewide crackdown on feral pigs.
The support is being delivered through Local Land Services and forms part of the NSW state government’s broader plan to strengthen and build the state’s primary industries sector.
It is the third consecutive year that free grain and bait have been made available to landholders under the Feral Pig and Pest Program, backed by the state’s more than $1 billion biosecurity budget.
Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty, said the threat posed by feral pigs was significant and growing.
“Feral pigs are wreaking havoc on our landscapes, threatening biodiversity, damaging crops and undermining biosecurity,” Ms Moriarty said.
“With free grain and bait being offered across the state, we’re backing our farmers and regional communities with real, practical support.
Increasing access to baiting and trapping resources gives landholders the tools they need, meaning greater impact on the ground and fewer pigs out there causing damage.”
Since July 2023, the NSW Government has committed more than $40 million to initiatives aimed at supporting landholders in controlling feral pig and pest animal populations.
This investment has led to the removal of approximately 223,000 feral pigs and the distribution of more than 475,000 kilograms of bait to landholders.
The cost of grain for trapping and baiting can be significant, but under the current program, these supplies are now available at no cost while stocks last.
Feral pigs are known to damage crops and pastures, prey on livestock, and degrade natural habitats.
On-farm baiting and trapping programs are considered critical to reducing their impact and are most effective when used alongside other control methods such as aerial and ground shooting.
Landholders interested in accessing free grain and bait or seeking tailored advice on pest control options are encouraged to contact their nearest Local Land Services office, operating across 11 regions, including the Riverina, South East and Western regions.
