Optimising slug management

WHY THIS PROJECT IS IMPORTANT

Slugs are becoming a major issue in the Riverine Plains region, with a recent run of good starts and wet seasons likely contributing to their appearance in new areas. Canola is widely grown across the Riverine Plains and is especially vulnerable to seedling damage by slugs. Where slugs are left unchecked, seedling damage can be extensive and crops may need to be resown. 

Because the economic cost to farmers of annual chemical control programs is significant, farmers are looking at ways to better understand and manage existing slug populations.

This project aims to investigate best practice to reduce slug damage in canola using chemical and non-chemical options. It involves the monthly monitoring of slug populations in dryland and irrigated paddocks located in NSW and Victoria, as well as the design and establishment of annual spring baiting trials, including non-chemical treatments, in collaboration with SARDI

Project focus

This project addresses the Riverine Plains strategic objectives of lowering production risk, optimising profitability and production, and increasing system sustainability and resilience.

The project involves a two-year chemical trial, through an investment by the GRDC, and a non-chemical component (2024), supported by the Victoria Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hub.  

The two-year replicated chemical trial will evaluate spring baiting prior to sowing canola the following autumn. Treatments will include a control, as well as two different baiting treatments.

As part of the non-chemical component of the project, supported by the Victoria Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hub, Riverine Plains conducted a farmer survey during 2024. The results are being used to better understand the presence or absence of slugs, the level of damage being experienced by farmers across the region, as well as the control practices that are currently being used. The survey results will inform activities for the second year of the project and are also being used to understand the potential for non-chemical slug control strategies to help farmers avoid the significant costs associated with chemical control.

This project  involves the monthly monitoring of slug populations in several dryland and irrigated paddocks located in NSW and Victoria. Extension events and activities will also support farmers in better understanding and managing their slug populations