GARDENERS are being asked to take part in a survey about their knowledge and practices when it comes to garden pests.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is working with Community Gardens Australia (WA) to better understand factors affecting participation in surveillance for plant pests and diseases.

DPIRD senior development officer Rosalie McCauley said backyard surveillance could help with early detection of exotic pests or diseases, giving DPIRD a better chance of eradicating or limiting further spread.

“Gardeners are really engaged and observant about the organisms in their backyard, including when they spot something unusual,” she said.

“Tools such as the department’s MyPestGuide reporter app can help people identify pests by submitting a report of organisms, such as insects, diseases or weeds, observed in their garden.”

Dr McCauley said the survey would provide insight into what influenced people’s participation in surveillance.

“We can then tailor our future engagement activities to improve people’s skills, knowledge and management of garden pests and diseases.’’

Community Garden Australia WA coordinator Chris Smyth encouraged gardeners to take part in the survey, which closes on Monday, February 19.

“Community gardeners care about their gardens and their communities, so they are good recruits to the cause,” he said.

For more information on the Community Gardens Project or to take part in the survey, go to the
department website.