“With more fodder being moved across the State to feed livestock in dry conditions, it is important to have a strategy to reduce the risk of weeds establishing from the fodder you purchase,” DPI Manager Invasive Species Programs Scott Charlton said.

“There are key steps that farmers can take to make sure the stockfeed they bring on their farm doesn’t lead to a weed infestation,” he said.

Firstly, it’s important to get as much detail as possible about the source of the fodder or grain that is being brought onto the property.

Ask about where the feed was grown and the potential weeds that grow in that area. Check that the source paddock was weed free.

If possible, restrict drought feeding to a sacrifice area and be alert for new weeds in this area.

Locate this “sacrifice paddock” where regular checks for weeds can be made after each incident of rain.

Flat, arable areas are best where there is easy access and the opportunity for weed control, including mechanical, chemical, biological or grazing management.

Have any unknown plants identified early. Don’t let them establish on your property and set seed.

Remember, a significant rainfall event will germinate any weed seeds.

• Livestock are excellent distributors of weed seeds, often in dung days after the fodder has been eaten. So restrict the movement of livestock, including livestock returning from agistment, to a quarantined area for at least two weeks. Fortunately, annual ryegrass seed is normally digested by sheep, and very little viable seed passes through the digestive tract.

Mr Charlton said buying in fodder or grain was an important part of livestock management in a drought.

“Drought unfortunately creates the conditions for weeds – with bare ground removing competition for light, nutrients, moisture and space.

“Livestock will also allow some weeds to establish to the detriment of desirable species as these weeds are unpalatable and are therefore not readily grazed.

“A strategy to reduce the risk of weeds during drought can help farmers avoid any additional problems during what is already a stressful time,” he said.

Mr Charlton said the NSW Biosecurity Strategy highlights that biosecurity is shared responsibility. We need to manage the risks effectively to protect the economy, environment and community.