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Plant Protection
Districts
Potato Cyst Nematode
(PCN)
Potato Protection Districts
Potato Cyst Nematode (PCN) is a
serious pest of potatoes world-wide which feeds on the roots of
plants and can reduce yields by up to 90%. Because of PCN, host
stock grown in Victoria are subject to stringent quarantine
and/or regulatory procedures wherever it occurs. PCN can be a
devastating pest of potatoes in temperate regions if not
controlled.
The Department of Primary Industries
(DPI) has declared three districts under Victorian legislation
in order to prevent the entry of PCN: the Portland Potato
Protection District, the Otways Potato Protection District and
recently, the Warragul Potato Protection District.
These measures have been undertaken
at the request of local potato growers in order to protect the
interests of the local industry and all sectors of the potato
industry that trade with this district.
This proclamation aims to prevent
the introduction of Potato Cyst Nematode (PCN) which threatens
local production. Portland potato growers supply valuable
planting material throughout Australia. The Portland Potato
Protection District is an example of biosecurity Victoria’s
essential role in establishing pro-active biosecurity programs
in partnership with industry.
These Biosecurity programs will
ensure the continued development of market access opportunities
for Victorian farmers.
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