Norfolk Island Plant Pest and Disease Survey

This year, we are running a plant pest and disease survey on Norfolk Island. We will be on Norfolk Island to run surveys and community workshops in Summer 2022 and Spring 2022. The Summer 2022 survey will take place from 14-19 March 2022.

Who are we?

We are a group of scientists from Agriculture Victoria Research. Our team is led by Ross Mann and Fi Constable. We have been funded by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications to conduct a survey to understand the status of pests and diseases that might impact on Norfolk Island’s important agricultural and native plant species. The survey has been designed with the support of the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment.

We are keen to work with growers across Norfolk Island

We would like to take plant samples from across farms and home gardens, targeting agricultural plant species and weeds. So, if you have agricultural plants with signs of disease (such as curly leaves, odd patterning or dark lesions) or have noticed new weeds on your property, we would love to have a look and work with you to better understand your plant health issues.

The amount of time required can vary from a few minutes to a few hours, depending on your availability and the number of samples. People who participate will get results from their properties sent directly to them. These will not be publicly available. Data from all sampled areas will be combined for public reports in such a way that does not disclose information about specific properties.

The community is integral to the success of the survey. The more we sample, the more we can understand what is happening across the Island.

What does this survey mean for Norfolk Island?

Understanding what is and is not on island is important to inform how we collectively manage the island’s biosecurity, including if certain pests and diseases need to be more actively managed, and, in the absence of certain pests and diseases, how Norfolk Island can continue to stay free from these.

Keen to participate?

If you are interested in participating in the survey please call the Department’s office on 23315 or email: Norfolkislandteam@infrastructure.gov.au