Annual Report to Grain Growers: Skeleton Weed Program 2023-24
Abstract
Skeleton weed is a major pest of grain crops and can significantly reduce grain crop yields by competing for moisture and nutrients (mainly nitrogen), due to its deep perennial root system.
Skeleton weed is a declared plant in WA under section 22 of the Biosecurity and Agriculture Management Act (2007) and is assigned to control category 2 (Eradication) for the whole of the State, except in the Narembeen and Yilgarn Shires, where it is category 3 (Management).
Modelling indicates that under a nil management scenario, the cost to WA broadacre agriculture will be approximately $19.2 million per year after twenty years, while under eradication scenario, costs fall to $2.8 million per year.
With annual program costs of approximately $5.2 million per annum, the skeleton weed eradication program produces a net present value of $15.8 million over twenty years.
The Skeleton Weed Program (the Program) provides a coordinated approach to manage skeleton weed in WA and protects the profitability of grain growers.
The Program is fully funded by the WA grains industry though the Grains, Seeds and Hay Industry Funding Scheme (Grains IFS), under the direction of the Grains, Seeds and Hay Industry Management Committee (GSHIMC), and is delivered by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD).
The objective of the program is to assist WA landholders to:
- Eradicate skeleton weed (where possible)
- Manage skeleton weed to reduce the impact on crop yields
- Restrict and slow the further spread of skeleton weed in WA.
