Council introduces Feral Pig Management Plan

Published on 08 April 2019

Rockhampton Regional Council has introduced an action plan for the control of feral pigs in our region.

Chair of Council’s Planning and Regulatory Committee Councillor Ellen Smith said that the Feral Pig Management Plan 2019-2023 outlines a coordinated approach to controlling the invasive species.

“Feral pigs negatively impact our environment and community in a number of ways,” said Cr Smith.

“They uproot seeds, trample crops, and feed on seed, native pastures, and grain crops. They can take lambs and predate on native fauna.

“They also destroy vegetation, damage fences and dam walls, spread invasive plant species, and carry infectious diseases.

“Feral pigs are an ongoing issue which requires a whole-of-community response, and this plan provides a great framework for that response.”

“The Feral Pig Management Plan builds on current feral pig management activities; maps a proactive and strategic approach moving forward; and outlines a hierarchy of preferred control methods based on location, effectiveness, humaneness, and cost.”

Council will be working closely with landholders and stakeholders to implement the plan, including the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries; the Department of Environment and Science; the Department of Natural Resources, Mines and Energy; landholders; industry groups; and natural resources management groups.

Anyone who wants to report a feral pig sighting can contact Council on 1300 22 55 77.