PHYTOPHTHORA IS DAMAGING OUR
ENVIRONMENT AND WE AS BUSHWALKERS ARE IN A POSITION TO REDUCE THE
SPREAD OF THIS DISEASE.
WHAT IS PHYTOPHTHORA?
Phytophthora is a fungal disease that causes damage to plants in
areas we walk through. The disease is also common in your garden.
WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE?
The most obvious signs of Phytophthora are:
- Autumnal colours in plants (not during autumn!)
- Collapsed grass trees (Xanthorrhoea spp.)
- Banksia leaves going yellow
- Eucalypts slowly dying back
WHAT IS THE PROBLEM?
The disease is being spread throughout our bushland by infected
soil being carried from one place to another. Our footwear and
equipment contribute to the problem.
HOW CAN WE HELP?
By cleaning and disinfecting our footwear at home each time we
have walked in an infected area. Disinfectant can be methylated
spirits (undiluted) or household bleach (one part bleach, four parts
water).
By keeping to designated roads and walking trails, parking in
designated car parks, and complying with track access restrictions
in force within infected areas.
WHAT AREAS ARE INFECTED?
The Department of Natural Resources & Environment (DNRE) has
advised that the fungus is present in the following areas:
- Large areas of forest in the southern foothills
- South and East Gippsland
- Grampians
- Lower Glenelg
- Brisbane Ranges
- Kinglake
- Point Nepean (Greens Bush)
- Wilsons Promontory
- Croajinglong National Park
- Angahook-Lorne
- Lake Tyers.
Thank you for your cooperation.
For more detailed information on
Phytophthora see:
Phytophthora
Root Rot
