The City of Canning has completed an Australian-first urban forest protection study which found early success using systemically injected chemicals to combat invasive pests.
In collaboration with BioHerbicides Australia (BHA), ArbWest, the University of Queensland and Curtin University, the city’s trial of 131 trees, which tests systemic chemicals to combat the Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer (PSHB), has produced promising results in managing this invasive pest.
The city’s ground-breaking trial is showing significant progress in combating the PSHB. By testing innovative systemic chemicals, the trial of 131 mature trees in the Canning River Regional Park, is proving to be a powerful solution in managing and safeguarding local ecosystems.
These results demonstrate that the chemicals are effectively inhibiting beetle development and fungal growth, marking a significant advancement in the battle against the PSHB crisis.
City of Canning Mayor, Patrick Hall, said that the initial trial results are incredibly encouraging and are a major milestone for the project team.
“This represents a game-changing approach to preserving our urban forests,” Mayor Hall said.
“It is absolutely vital that we build on this momentum, yet whilst other local governments stand ready to participate in further trials, those trials can only occur if additional government funding and support is provided.”
BHA’s John Szymanski said that while the initial results are promising, continued funding is essential to extend the trials and ensure long-term solutions.
“The evidence shows we’re moving in the right direction, but to make a real impact, we need additional support,” Szymanski said.
The City of Canning has been working closely with the City of Perth, City of Vincent, Town of Victoria Park and the City of Gosnells, sharing information and collaborating to combat the PSHB infestation.
While these and other Local Government Authorities are eager to participate in the BHA trials and continue their efforts, securing government support and funding is crucial to enable a coordinated, collaborative approach that can expand the trial and ensure long-term solutions for protecting urban forests.
Only with the backing of the government can these efforts be scaled up and sustained, helping to safeguard and protect the vital urban canopy across the region.
