Guns, traps and baits to target 'ballistic' NSW feral pig problem

A new 600,000-hectare feral pig control program in north-western New South Wales aims to reduce the pest population and associated agricultural damage. The initiative marks a coordinated effort between landholders and government land managers to combat the feral pig issue, which is estimated to cost Australian agriculture nearly $200 million annually.

Enid Coupe, a Walgett farmer, described the pig problem as being "out of control" and causing significant harm to agriculture, water sources and the environment. Recent favorable seasons have led to a population boom, prompting the need for a new program spanning 600,000 hectares in the Walgett Shire. The program will involve 120 landholders, state government land managers, and other stakeholders using baiting, trapping, and aerial culling techniques to target feral pigs across five priority management areas.

NSW Agriculture Minister Tara Moriarty emphasized the importance of local buy-in and cooperation among landholders to ensure the program's success. Penalties of up to $220,000 for individuals and $440,000 for corporations can be imposed for those who refuse to participate. The program's success will be measured by environmental, agricultural, and productivity outcomes, not just the number of pigs removed.

North West Local Land Services invasive species team leader Peter Dawson noted that the pig population in the Walgett Shire has exploded following a recent drought, estimating tens of thousands of pigs in the area. Northern Inland branch director of the National Parks and Wildlife Service, John Whittall, confirmed that the NPWS is responsible for managing about 65,000 hectares within the trial area, having previously controlled over 4,000 pigs in the region through ongoing feral pig control programs.