Fears Locust Poisons Might Pose Risk To Cattle
AUSTRALIA - Australia's peak red meat marketing association says chemicals used to rid locust swarms could pose a big risk to the cattle industry.
23 August 2010
1 minute read
The State Government says Queensland is facing its worst plague in 30 years, with spur-throated locusts expected to move due to recent hot weather and the insects set to hatch this month in the Channel Country.
Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA) spokesman Patrick Hutchinson told ABC News producers need to follow guidelines if they are using chemicals before selling stock or supplying feed to other farmers.
"We are out there providing assurances across the board for our beef and sheep exports stating that these products are clean and green [and] free of residue," he said.
"If those things don't occur, people are signing declarations that aren't true and are passing a risk onto the person purchasing the livestock."
He says producers need to be vigilant.
