Forest Operations > Environmental Care Principles > Plant diseases and pest plants

Plant diseases and pest plants

Pest plants, animal diseases and insects reduce the health of forests and other plant communities.

Large areas of pests can reduce plantation viability.

Introduction of, and the spread of plant diseases and pest plants, animals and insects into the forest must be avoided.

It is important all machinery and equipment is washed down on site before moving to a new site.

This stops the spread of weeds in forest areas and neighbouring properties.

Figures 57a and 57b show examples of aerial spraying as a technique for dealing with pest plants and diseases.

Fig 57a Preparing for aerial spraying of forest

Fig 57b Aerial spraying pine forests

Prevention methods could include all, or some of the following:

• Cleaning or washing machines and vehicles before moving to new areas can help reduce introducing new infestations or diseases.
• Restricted movement of machines to prevent introduction and spread into new areas.
• Discharge of oils into the ground is prohibited and proper disposal of litter, food scraps, unserviceable equipment or machinery is expected to support looking after the health of the soil.