Agricultural
19 May, 2026
Stay alert for locusts and report immediately
Local Land Services is reminding landholders across regional NSW to report locust sightings immediately to reduce the risk of damaging infestations this coming spring.
Adult locusts remain active across parts of the state following favourable seasonal conditions, resulting in numbers above the usual baseline for this time of year.
Early reporting by landholders gives Local Land Services biosecurity staff the best chance to monitor activity and plan control programs before numbers escalate.
“Locusts are much easier to manage if we know where they are early,” Kristy Bennetts, Local Land Services locust management project coordinator said.
“Reporting activity now helps reduce the risk of widespread crop and pasture damage in spring.
“Landholders play a crucial role in reporting activity, and they should be checking hard, loamy red soils near roads, farm infrastructure and crops where eggs are often laid.”
Adult locusts are expected to slow their flying activity as temperatures cool, but females in good condition may still lay eggs during May and into June.
These eggs can remain in the ground over winter and hatch in spring if rainfall conditions are favourable.
Landholders and land managers have a legal responsibility under the NSW Biosecurity Act to report actual or suspected locust activity within one business day.
Reports should be made to Local Land Services.
Local Land Services biosecurity staff can provide practical on-ground advice, help identify locusts, explain their behaviour and guide landholders on appropriate management options.
