Image: Detection Dogs SA
Specially trained detector dogs have been deployed across Adelaide’s north eastern suburbs as part of South Australia’s annual surveillance program to ensure the destructive Giant Pine Scale remains eradicated from the state.
The dogs are searching pine trees and other susceptible conifer species at Thorndon Park and other locations, using their highly developed sense of smell to detect the pest long before it becomes visible to the human eye.
The surveillance program follows previous successful eradication efforts and comes as South Australia continues to remain free of Giant Pine Scale infestations.
Detector dogs can identify the scent of the pest at extremely low levels, allowing authorities to detect any new infestation much earlier than traditional visual inspections. Early detection gives biosecurity teams the best chance of containing and eliminating the pest before it spreads.
The annual winter and spring surveillance program is led by the Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) in partnership with the Australian Forest Products Association, Green Adelaide and Detector Dogs SA.
Later in spring, aerial surveillance and on-the-ground inspections will complement the dogs’ work, when the pest’s distinctive white, cotton-like wax becomes easier to spot.
Minister for Forest Industries Clare Scriven said the dogs play a critical role in protecting South Australia’s forests and public spaces.
“Detector dogs are highly capable when it comes to detecting any signs of Giant Pine Scale well before humans are capable of doing so,” she said.
“By utilising their enhanced sense of smell, we are delivering a comprehensive surveillance program to help ensure our state’s outdoor spaces and pine plantations are protected from a devastating pest disease.”
While there are currently no known infestations in South Australia, Scriven said ongoing vigilance remains essential.
Member for Hartley Jenn Roberts said the work is particularly important for protecting community spaces like Thorndon Park.
“This surveillance work is important to ensure that Giant Pine Scale is not present in the area, and if it is present, the detector dogs will help find it as early in the lifecycle as possible,” she said.
Member for Morialta Matthew Marozzi said the proactive surveillance provides reassurance for local residents.
“This surveillance is critical because it lets us detect the pest as early as possible in the event of an infestation, and gives us greater peace of mind that our parks and plantations continue to be free of Giant Pine Scale.”
The pest poses no risk to people, pets or native tree species, but can cause significant damage to pine plantations and ornamental conifers if left unchecked.
Anyone who suspects they have seen Giant Pine Scale is encouraged to report it to PIRSA through the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881.
