Feral Pig Control

How can we all work together more effectively to manage feral pigs? Brett Carlsson is looking at this, as our new Feral Pig Coordinator for the Wet Tropics and Cape York.

Brett has spent more than 20 years in invasive species work and has an agricultural background. His position has been funded by the Queensland Government, along with four others across the state.

First steps…
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Brett is talking to stakeholders – from industry groups to councils and Traditional Owner groups.

“First, we need to build up a picture of the current situation – from control efforts to research activities. Then we can identify any gaps, boost community-led initiatives, get targeted working groups together where needed…”

Managing feral pigs on a regional scale

“Pests are best managed at a regional landscape scale. The focus will be on pest impacts, rather than pest numbers. The goal is to get more people involved and to help everyone to work smarter, not harder – for a result that’s fewer pigs, less damage to crops, the land, threatened species and culture, and a better ability to respond if disease outbreaks occur.”

The new coordinator positions are hosted by NRM groups and are funded through the Queensland Government’s Queensland Feral Pest Initiative. Work will be guided by the National Feral Pig Action Plan.