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Weed management app crowdsources biosecurity

Primary Industries

A new smartphone app is putting the power of weed control in the hands of South Australia’s farmers and landholders.

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In an Australia-first effort to protect crops, pastures and native bushlands, the Department of Primary Industries and Regions SA (PIRSA) has released the Apple and Android app, SA Weed Control.

It contains data on 100 weeds, including images for identification, information on control methods and herbicide use, as well as a reporting feature so PIRSA and Biosecurity SA can map out where weeds have spread.

Environment Minister Ian Hunter launched the free phone and tablet app, saying it can be used to educate and advice on the critical issue of weed control.

“With the majority of people now having access to smart phones and tablets it provides an opportunity to exploit the technology for the benefit of managing declared weeds found across South Australia's diverse landscapes and agricultural systems,” Minister Hunter said.

“A landowner may be surveying a paddock when they come across a declared weed. Using the app they can identify the best methods for managing the weed, register the location to keep track of it, and inform authorities if an alert weed has been discovered.”

Biosecurity SA say the app will help to quickly identify trouble spots and organise the appropriate response before weeds can cause significant ecological damage.

South Australia tightly manages and controls weeds in order to protect its large agricultural industries and broad range of natural environments. Declared weeds are prohibited from sale, movement on public roads and entry in to South Australia.

More information on the Weed Control app.

SA Weed Control on the Google Play store for Android devices.

The SA Weed Control App is coming soon to iOS devices.

More information on PIRSA's weed control policies.

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