Wild dogs have a huge economic and emotional impact on farmers in the Hunter Region. It is estimated wild dogs create at least $50 million in livestock and control costs across the state each year.
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These shocking figures are behind the push for a statewide wild dog management strategy. The strategy will concentrate on cooperation between public and private landowners. NSW Department of Primary Industries invasive species strategy manager, Quentin Hart, said wild dogs cause real problems with negative impacts on communities and the environment.
“They cause physical and emotional distress to farming and urban communities by attacking livestock and pets,” Mr Hart said.
“We aim to build on the 2012-2017 strategy to deliver a framework which will continue to reduce wild dog impacts across the state.”
Mr Hart said input from the public would be essential in developing an effective strategy.
“Coordination and cooperation between public and private land managers is the key to effective management of all pest animals,” he said.
“The latest information and community response will guide specific action to help reduce negative impacts of wild dogs and will help define the roles and responsibilities of government agencies, public and private land managers and other community members in managing wild dogs,” he said.
The draft NSW Wild Dog Management Strategy 2017–2021 is open for feedback until Friday May 5, 2017. Visit www.nsw.gov.au for more.
