News

Mite detected in Riverina

Aug 30, 2023

Varroa mite can cause destruction of hives as well as spread honey bee viruses.

A new Varroa mite infestation has reached the Riverina.

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The NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) immediately established emergency eradication and emergency surveillance zones in the Griffith region.

Tracing has linked the infestation in beehives at Nericon, near Griffith, to hive movements out of the Kempsey region.

In announcing the new detection on Friday, NSW DPI chief plant protection officer Shane Hetherington said the department was confident they knew of hive locations.

“Our work is fast discovering any mites that have travelled with the hives,” he said.

This new detection is in addition to five detections in the Kempsey Eradication Zone, bringing the total number of infested premises to 221.

Hive locations and alcohol wash results must be reported to NSW DPI by filling out the online forms at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au or by calling the Varroa Emergency Response Hotline on 1800 084 881.

For more information visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa.

By Southern Riverina News

Southern Riverina News generic byline.