GRAIN CENTRAL | Applications for ZP50 mouse bait lodged as clock ticks

Applications for emergency access to higher-strength mouse bait have been lodged, as mouse numbers continue to build across key grain regions.

Reporting from Grain Central shows the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority is assessing requests to allow use of ZP50, which doubles the zinc phosphide dose currently available under ZP25.

The applications come as seeding gets underway in South Australia and Western Australia, with strong mouse activity already being reported in paddocks.

Grain Producers Australia RD&E spokesperson Andrew Weidemann said access to effective control is critical at this point in the season.

“Mouse activity is building at a critical time for grain producers during seeding and early crop development,” Mr Weidemann said.

He said feedback from growers indicates current bait strength is not consistently delivering control in paddocks, particularly where background feed is high.

The regulator has indicated the application is being prioritised, with any decision to be based on safety, efficacy and trade considerations.

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