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DPI Continues To Help Landholders With Agricultural Recovery

The latest farm stock and infrastructure losses recorded by the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) highlight the enormity of the recovery workload ahead for farmers in bushfire impacted areas of Victoria.

By Department of Primary Industries - 25th February 2009 - Back to News

DPI Statewide Emergency Coordinator Lloyd Klumpp said DPI had assessed more than 2500 properties across bushfire affected areas of the state.

"DPI Animal Health staff are working closely with landholders to assess their immediate needs relating to animal welfare, hay, fencing and livestock," Dr Klumpp said.

"We are prioritising on-site visits, to ensure that properties with animal welfare issues, including animals that need treatment to relieve pain and suffering, take priority.

"Farmers affected by the bushfires have ranged from sheep, dairy and cattle farmers to apiarists, fish farmers, vineyards and horticulturalists.

"Total farm animal stock losses around the state are currently at more than 9000, which includes more than 2200 sheep, 1100 cattle and 100 horses. There have also been more than 4500 missing stock reported.

"In addition to animal stock losses more than 5600 kilometres of fencing has been reported lost and more than 2200 farm facilities.

"These numbers are likely to continue to rise while assessments are being undertaken, and we urge all landholders who have not yet registered for assistance to do so by calling the Victorian Bushfire Information Line on 1800 240 667."

Dr Klumpp said DPI could provide immediate assistance, but also longer-term assistance such as advice on feed budgeting and planning to manage surviving livestock over the coming weeks.

"In areas where landholders’ urgent needs have been met, DPI Rural Recovery Officers are returning to affected properties to conduct more detailed assessment of fire damage, stock, fencing and fodder losses," he said.

"DPI is also providing long-term recovery advice for the re-establishment of pasture, herd and flock rebuilding, reestablishment of horticultural and viticulture plantings, soil conservation, stock containment and weed control."

More than 250 DPI staff are assisting with bushfire response and recovery efforts each day.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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