Biosecurity is the management of risks to the economy, the environment and the community, from new pests, diseases and weeds entering, establishing and spreading.

As biosecurity risks continue to grow, protecting your farm starts with the fundamentals. This article from Issue 16 of PotatoLink magazine explores practical steps growers can take to reduce the risk of pests and diseases entering via people, vehicles, and equipment to ensure a resilient and productive future for the Australian potato industry.

Knowing what disease you are dealing with is the first step to managing it. This fact sheet discusses what the important things are to look for, when the best time for testing is, and where to send it.

By focusing on these biosecurity fundamental practices discussed in Issue 15 of PotatoLink magazine, you can minimise the risk of devastating outbreaks and ensure a sustainable future for potato production.

The Australian potato industry is committed to building its capacity to respond to potential biosecurity threats. In addition to dedicated farm biosecurity officers and advisers, a range of farm biosecurity planning resources are available for growers, advisers and industry members to access. These resources are regularly reviewed and updated to reflect industry needs.

The exotic Colorado potato beetle (Leptinotarsa decemlineata) (CPB) is globally considered one of the most economically damaging pests to the potato industry. CPB is native to North America and widespread. It has hitchhiked its way to Europe and northern Asia, where it has since spread rapidly and established. Read the full article in Issue 13 of PotatoLink magazine.

This fact sheet from the Department of Agriculture and Food WA covers why It is important to be vigilant for signs of the pest and report suspect tomato potato psyllids.