SHIRES in the eastern Wheatbelt and South West could be at risk of significant locust infestations this spring.
The Department of Agriculture and Food (DAFWA) is predicting significant locust numbers in spring in eastern and southern parts of the grainbelt.
It predicts moderate density hatchings could occur in parts of Ravensthorpe, Jerramungup, Gnowangerup, Narrogin, Kulin, Yilgarn, Westonia, Mukinbudin and Nungarin shires.
In these areas, some locust bands and loose swarms are expected to form.
Department Invasive Species acting director Malcolm Kennedy said hatchings were expected to occur from next month.
"It is vital that landholders control locusts by spraying paddocks at the right time to minimise damage to valuable pastures and crops where locusts emerge and feed," Dr Kennedy said.
"Locusts will hatch at variable times and landholders should be checking their properties from early September to determine when to start spraying.
"Green crops and pasture are most at risk from locust damage."
Landholders who observe locusts in autumn need to be particularly vigilant as there are likely to be egg beds which will hatch in spring.
"The main activity will be seen in pastures - look for early hatchings and hatching egg beds in places where there are bare areas such as around dam banks, roaded catchments and along fencelines," he said.
While landholders are responsible for controlling locusts, DAFWA will assist with monitoring and surveys and provide advice to landholders on the best control options.
Growers are also encouraged to use the department's PestFax Reporter app to report where locusts are found.
