Effective molluscicide baiting is crucial in broadacre cropping systems...

Effective molluscicide baiting is crucial in broadacre cropping systems to

control snails and slugs, which cause considerable crop damage and impose costs estimated at $43.6 million annually on the Australian grains industry.

Research has identified inefficiencies in current baiting practices, largely due to the uneven performance of both ground and aerial spreaders. Given that snails

rely on random interception to encounter bait, uniform bait distribution is essential. Growers have expressed concerns over rising baiting costs and limited efficacy, emphasising the need for improved baiting strategies to reduce crop losses and avoid multiple applications.

To address these challenges, this project will assess both ground and aerial spreaders, with substantial in-kind support from the Aerial Application

Association of Australia (AAAA). The initiative will include testing various aircraft types and surveying grain growers to pinpoint key factors for effective bait distribution. Additionally, common ground spreaders will be evaluated to provide recommendations on suitable equipment and configurations for consistent baiting outcomes. These insights aim to enhance bait integrity, coverage, and pest control efficiency, supporting growers in adopting sustainable pest management practices.

The project will produce accessible resources detailing the strengths and limitations of different spreader types, along with practical recommendations to improve bait placement and effectiveness. By optimising molluscicide baiting,

this initiative seeks to help growers reduce pest-related losses and meet

market standards.