SA Locust Risk About to Peak

The threat from locusts is about to peak in South Australia, says the State Government.

There have been more than 1,200 sightings reported across northern regions, the Riverland and in the Mallee.

Five aircraft have been used to spray about 270,000 hectares.

SA Premier Mike Rann says two helicopters are also being used for surveillance.

“We’re fighting the locusts in the air using both helicopters and of course aerial spraying. That’s been particularly effective out of Orroroo,” he said.

“But we’ve also got a lot of ground troop work going on in the Riverland so look, so far so good.”

Mr Rann said about $13 million had been allocated to fighting locust hatchings across SA.