The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has fined a landholder $500 and issued a formal warning for multiple alleged non-compliances when using fox and wild dog baits.
The landholder had been using sodium fluoroacetate known as 1080 pesticide baits on a property near Hillston in south-west New South Wales in March 2019.
EPA Manager Regional Operations Riverina Far West Craig Bretherton said the EPA became aware of an alleged offence after a neighbour claimed his dog had died after eating baits.
“Samples taken from the deceased dog were tested and 1080 was detected in the dog’s stomach.”
Based on the allegations and the testing results, the EPA questioned the landholder regarding his baiting program.
Mr Bretherton said the landholder then spoke to EPA officers about how he had conducted the baiting program, who believed the program had not been done in compliance with the Pesticide Control (1080 Bait Products) Order 2017.
“Not using all 1080 bait material within an allotted time and not notifying neighbours, including erecting warning signs is an offence under the Order.”
“The Orders are there to ensure that 1080 baits can be used effectively and safely.
“If the rules are not followed unintended consequences can occur, as has happened in this instance.”
Mr Bretherton said he hoped this would serve as a timely reminder to anyone using baits to be familiar with their obligations.
“It is important that anyone who uses pesticides, particularly restricted pesticides such as 1080, uses them correctly and keeps detailed records of how they were applied.”
The community plays an important role in helping to monitor 1080 baiting activities. If you are concerned about an illegal baiting program, or you have knowledge of an incident, please call the 24/7 Environment Line on 131 555.
Source: NSW EPA