THE state government is backing local research initiatives to help protect the state’s valuable agriculture industry from the destructive polyphagous shot-hole borer.

Up to $2 million in funding is available for innovative projects aimed at safeguarding Western Australia’s agricultural assets through a new program led by the WA Agricultural Research Collaboration (WAARC).

Expressions of interest are now open for the program, with Western Australian scientists encouraged to put forward research proposals and apply.

Research into the destructive beetle and its associated fungus within the WA environment is vital to support the ongoing national eradication response.

The WAARC recently brought together experts from across government, research and industry to identify key priority areas for research into the polyphagous shot-hole borer.

These include the pest’s interactions with its environment, innovative control strategies and new approaches to detection and surveillance.

Agriculture and Food Minister Jackie Jarvis said the state government was continuing to work hard in the fight against the polyphagous shot-hole borer and its response efforts have proven effective in containing it to the metropolitan area.

“There have been no effective chemical treatments found anywhere in the world, so the more we can learn about the polyphagous shot-hole borer, and how to combat it, the better.

“The Cook Government is committed to continuing to look for alternative solutions, including supporting local scientists to undertake research in WA.

“I encourage our leading researchers and scientists to embrace this opportunity and put forward research proposals to help us protect our State’s urban tree canopy and horticultural industry.”

For more information on WAARC’s Polyphagous Shot-hole Borer Research Program visit
www.waarc.org.au/opportunities/polyphagous-shot-hole-borer-fusarium-dieback/