Industry Biosecurity Plan for the Olive Industry. Version 1.0 October 2009

Transcription

1 Industry Biosecurity Plan for the Olive Industry Version 1.0 October 2009

2 Location: Suite 5, FECCA House 4 Phipps Close DEAKIN ACT 2600 Phone: Fax: Visit our web site: admin@phau.com.au An electronic copy of this plan is available from the web site listed above. Plant Health Australia 2009 This work is copyright except where attachments are provided by other contributors and referenced, in which case copyright belongs to the relevant contributor as indicated throughout this document. Apart from any use as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968, no part may be reproduced by any process without prior permission from Plant Health Australia. Requests and enquiries concerning reproduction and rights should be addressed to the Communications Manager at the address listed above. In referencing this document, the preferred citation is: Plant Health Australia (2009) Industry Biosecurity Plan for the Olive Industry (Version 1.0). Plant Health Australia. Canberra, ACT. Disclaimer: The material contained in this publication is produced for general information only. It is not intended as professional advice on any particular matter. No person should act or fail to act on the basis of any material contained in this publication without first obtaining specific, independent professional advice. Plant Health Australia and all persons acting for Plant Health Australia in preparing this publication, expressly disclaim all and any liability to any persons in respect of anything done by any such person in reliance, whether in whole or in part, on this publication. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of Plant Health Australia.

3 Acknowledgements The Industry Biosecurity Plan for the Olive Industry was coordinated by Plant Health Australia and developed through a partnership approach using government and industry resources and expertise. The following organisations, agencies and/or individuals were involved in the development and finalisation of the plan. Endorsement The Industry Biosecurity Plan for the Olive Industry (Version 1.0) was formally endorsed by the olive industry (represented by Australian Olive Association Ltd.), the Australian Government and all state and territory governments (through the Plant Health Committee) in October 2009.

4 Table of contents INTRODUCTION... 8 Plant Health Australia... 9 Need for biosecurity plans... 9 Background on the olive industry What is industry biosecurity planning? Document overview Review processes Biosecurity implementation THREAT IDENTIFICATION, PEST RISK REVIEWS, AND INCURSION MANAGEMENT FUNDING ARRANGEMENTS Introduction threat identification and incursion management Threat identification Ranking pest threats Olive industry plant pest threat priority list Description of terms used in pest risk tables Pest risk reviews Step 1 Clearly identify the pest Step 2 Assess the likelihood of entry, establishment and spread Step 3 Assess the likely consequences Step 4 Derive an overall risk estimate by combining the likelihood and consequence ratings Step 5 Review the risks Formal Categorisation of pests for inclusion in the Emergency Plant Pest Response Deed 29 Pest categorisation Composition of the Categorisation Group References RISK MITIGATION PLAN Introduction risk mitigation Barrier quarantine National level importation restrictions State and regional level movement restrictions Region level movement restrictions Farm level on-farm exclusion (biosecurity) activities Surveillance, awareness and training National surveillance programs State surveillance programs Farm surveillance activities Awareness activities... 45

5 Key points for farm biosecurity/farm hygiene Selection and preparation of appropriate planting materials Use of chemical control measures Control of vectors Control of alternative hosts Destruction of crop residues Post-harvest handling and produce transport procedures Use of warning and information signs Use of dedicated equipment when working in high risk areas Managing the movement of vehicles, equipment and people Farm/regional activities Including farm biosecurity in Industry Best Management Practice (IBMP) and Quality Assurance (QA) schemes Reporting suspect pests References CONTINGENCY PLANS AND RESPONSE MANAGEMENT PROCEDURES Introduction emergency response PLANTPLAN Current response management procedures Industry specific response procedures Industry communication Counselling and support services Pest-specific emergency response and information documents Threat-specific contingency plans National diagnostic standards for priority plant pest threats AWARENESS MATERIAL High priority plant pest threat-related documents Fact sheets Relevant web sites Contacts for further information on olive industry biosecurity APPENDIX 1: THREAT SUMMARY TABLES Olive industry threat summary tables Pathogens Invertebrates Description of terms... 80

6 Figures Figure 1. Industry biosecurity: a shared responsibility Figure 2. Summary of incursion management for plant industries according to PLANTPLAN (2008) Figure 3. Steps involved in the development of an IBP Figure 4. Potential biosecurity implementation activities within the framework of the IBP Figure 5. Summarised pest categorisation decision tree Figure 6. Examples of biosecurity risk mitigation activities Figure 7. Example biosecurity warning sign Figure 8. Suspect emergency plant pest detection reporting flowchart Figure 9. General decision making and communication chain for a plant pest emergency response Tables Table 1. Production statistics for the Australian olive industry Table 2. Members of the Olive Industry Biosecurity Group Table 3. Biosecurity action items identified by the olive industry Table 4. Olive industry plant pest threat priority list Table 5. Factors used to rate the likelihood or potential of a pest impact Table 6. Defining the risk level ratings of the potential of a pest incursion Table 7. A matrix of rules for combining descriptive likelihoods Table 8. Definitions of economic impact ratings of a pest to an industry Table 9. Risk estimation matrix Table 10. Definition of risk categories with respect to management Table 11. Cost sharing categories Table 12. Import conditions for olive products (as at January 2009) Table 13. Interstate and interregional movement of plants and plant products legislation and quarantine manuals Table 14. Contact details for pre-importation requirements for plant materials Table 15. Australian Olive Association contact details Table 16. Counselling and financial counselling services Table 17. Pest-specific information documents on pests of the olive industry Table 18. Sources of information on high priority pest threats of the olive industry Table 19. Relevant sources of further biosecurity information for the olive industry Table 20. Olive industry pathogen threat summary table Table 21. Olive industry invertebrate threat summary table... 73

7 List of acronyms APVMA AQIS AS/NZS BMP BSG DAFF DAFWA DEEDI DPI DQMAWG EPP EPPRD IBG IBMP ICA ICON IPM IPPC IRA NAQS OCPPO PHA PIRSA QA QPIF SARDI SPHDS SPS TST WTO Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service Australian Standard/New Zealand Standard Best Management Practice Biosecurity Services Group Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Department of Agriculture and Food, Western Australia Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation, Queensland Department of Primary Industries Domestic Quarantine and Market Access Working Group Emergency Plant Pest Emergency Plant Pest Response Deed Industry Biosecurity Group Industry Best Management Practice Interstate Certification Assurance AQIS Import Conditions Database Integrated Pest Management International Plant Protection Convention Import Risk Analysis Northern Australian Quarantine Strategy Office of the Chief Plant Protection Officer Plant Health Australia Primary Industries and Resources South Australia Quality Assurance Queensland Primary Industries and Fisheries South Australian Research and Development Institute Subcommittee on Plant Health Diagnostic Standards Sanitary and Phytosanitary Threat Summary Table World Trade Organization Note: The definition of a pest as adopted by the International Plant Protection Convention (any species, strain or biotype of plant, animal, or pathogenic agent, injurious to plants or plant products) is used throughout this plan.

8 INTRODUCTION PAGE 8

9 Introduction Plant Health Australia Plant Health Australia (PHA) is a public company, with members including the Australian Government, all state and territory governments, and a range of plant industry organisations. The company was formed to address high priority plant health issues, and to work with all its members to develop an internationally outstanding plant health management system that enhances Australia s plant health status and the sustainability and profitability of plant industries. Need for biosecurity plans Australia s geographic isolation and lack of shared land borders have, in the past, provided a degree of natural protection from exotic threats. Australia s national quarantine system also helps to prevent the introduction of harmful exotic threats to plant industry. Rapid increases in overseas tourism, imports and exports, mail and changing transport procedures (e.g. refrigeration and containerisation of produce), as well as the potential for pests to enter via natural routes, mean that relying on these quarantine measures is not enough. Biosecurity planning provides a mechanism for the olive industry, government and other relevant stakeholders to actively determine pests of highest priority, analyse the risks they pose, and put in place procedures to reduce the chance of pests becoming established, and minimise the impact if a pest incursion occurs. Ensuring the olive industry has the capacity to minimise the risks posed by pests, and to respond effectively to any pest threats is a vital step for the future sustainability and viability of the industry. Through this pre-emptive planning process, the industry will be better placed to maintain domestic and international trade, negotiate access to new overseas markets, and reduce the social and economic costs of pest incursions on both growers and the wider community. The definition of a pest used in this document covers all insects, mites, snails, nematodes, pathogens (diseases) and weeds that are injurious to plants or plant products. Exotic pests are those not currently present in Australia. Endemic pests are established within Australia. Introduction PAGE 9

10 Background on the olive industry Olive trees were first planted in Australia in the 1790s, with most of the commercial groves currently in operation a result of a major expansion over the last decade. In Australia, olive trees are currently grown in three settings: commercial groves, ranging in scale from very small to very large remnant trees from earlier plantings and natural spread backyard and landscaping trees. Victoria currently has the greatest number of olives trees in Australia, but olives are grown in every state and territory, as far north as the Atherton Tableland. In general, areas where wine grapes are grown also contain commercial olive plantations. The production of olive oil has been increasing rapidly as trees become mature from 500 tonnes in 2001 to over 12,000 tonnes in 2009 (Table 1). In addition, there has been a steady increase in the production of table olives. There has been an emphasis on a science-based approach in the development and management of the modern industry, with considerable support from RIRDC and several state bodies. Close attention has also been paid to overseas developments in olive production. A review of the research and development plan is being undertaken in Pest issues have been a feature of research activities over the last few years. The industry is well organised, with a national structure covering regional, State and national activities. Close relationships have been developed with government agencies. Introduction PAGE 10

11 Table 1. Production statistics for the Australian olive industry 1 Production estimates for Australia (tonnes) Extra virgin olive oil Table olives Year Table olives Olive oil NSW QLD SA VIC TAS WA Imports (tonnes) Exports (tonnes) Imports (tonnes) Exports (tonnes) , , , , , % 12.0% 39.0% 28.0% 1.0% 9.0% 28, , ,000 2, % 8.0% 16.0% 47.0% 1.0% 16.0% 32, , ,700 5, % 5.0% 16.2% 40.1% 0.4% 26.2% 29,062 1,652 15, ,200 8, % 4.0% 18.2% 53.9% 0.2% 15.4% 34,511 2,988 15, ,500 9, % 4.1% 14.6% 49.2% 0.2% 23.9% 43,404 2,502 16, ,200 12,000 1 Source of information: Australian Olives Association website ( Introduction PAGE 11

12 What is industry biosecurity planning? Industry biosecurity is the protection from risks posed by exotic organisms through actions such as exclusion, eradication, and control. Effective industry biosecurity relies on all stakeholders, including government agencies, industry, and the public (Figure 1). The components of the plant industry biosecurity continuum have been identified and described in PLANTPLAN. A summary of the incursion management plan from PLANTPLAN (2008) has been summarised in Figure 2. Figure 1. Industry biosecurity: a shared responsibility Introduction PAGE 12

13 Figure 2. Summary of incursion management for plant industries according to PLANTPLAN (2008) quarantine risk reduction measures codes of practice accreditation quality assurance schemes grower awareness planning pest risk assessments surveillance diagnostics facilities organisational arrangements communications media trade response plan funding arrangements training legislation research and development resistance breeding initial report of pest incident survey action initiated trigger nature of event extent of impact scope of response options defined response mechanism implemented to target the problem supported by legislation, funding and administration eradication successful * stages of all hazards approach adopted by Emergency Management Australia Introduction PAGE 13

14 With the assistance of Australian Olive Association, an Industry Biosecurity Group (IBG), coordinated by PHA, was formed to work on the development of the Industry Biosecurity Plan (IBP) for the Olive Industry (herein known as the Olive IBP). The IBG includes representatives from the olive industry, as well as representatives from relevant state and territory agriculture agencies, the Australian Government, and PHA (Table 2). Table 2. Members of the Olive Industry Biosecurity Group Name Nelson Quinn Barbara Hall 2 Bill Washington Susan Marte Colin Hanbury 2 Roberta Rossely Robert Spooner-Hart 3 Sharyn Taylor Stephen Dibley Nicky Bresolin Organisation Australian Olive Association Ltd South Australian Research and Development Institute Biosecurity Victoria, DPI Victoria NSW Department of Industry and Investment, District Horticulturist Department of Agriculture and Food, WA Office of the Chief Plant Protection Officer, DAFF University of Western Sydney Plant Health Australia Plant Health Australia Plant Health Australia Key steps in the development of the Olive IBP included (and outlined in Figure 3): identifying and documenting key threats to the olive industry developing an agreed high priority plant pest threat list undertaking a review of biosecurity risk mitigation activities in the olive industry identifying sources of information on biosecurity measures and pest threats to the olive industry identifying the need for pest-specific documentation for high priority pests developing appropriate communication strategies developing a review strategy. 2 Attended IBG meeting by teleconference 3 Not in attendance for IBG meeting Introduction PAGE 14

15 Figure 3. Steps involved in the development of an IBP Document overview The biosecurity package developed for the Australian olive industry focuses on a number of key areas. Threat identification, pest risk reviews, and incursion management funding arrangements Guidelines are provided for the identification and categorisation of biosecurity threats through a process of qualitative risk assessment. The primary goal is to coordinate identification of exotic pest threats that could impact on productivity, sustainability, and marketability and to assess their potential impacts. This plan strengthens risk assessment work already being done both interstate and overseas. Pest Risk Reviews have been included for individual pests where available. Key olive biosecurity threats are detailed in Threat Summary Tables, along with the plant pest threat priority list (the top ranked threats to the olive industry). An Emergency Plant Pest Response Deed (EPPRD) has been negotiated between the government and industry members of PHA. The EPPRD came into effect on October 26, 2005 and as at January 2009, 27 plant industries, including the Australian Olive Association, had formally ratified the EPPRD. The EPPRD is a formal legally binding agreement between PHA, Introduction PAGE 15

16 the Australian Government, all state and territory governments and plant industry signatories covering the management and funding of responses to Emergency Plant Pest (EPP) Incidents. The EPPRD is based on the following key principles of response to EPPs: cost minimisation for all parties early detection and response ensuring rapid responses to exotic pests - excluding weeds in the first instance ensuring decisions to eradicate are based on appropriate criteria (must be technically feasible and cost beneficial) an agreed list of potential emergency plant pests an industry commitment to biosecurity and risk mitigation and a government commitment to best management practice cost sharing/payment of eligible costs a cap on contributions (based on gross value of production) an effective industry/government decision-making process a limit in scope (to only cover exotic pest threats relevant to PHA member industries). Risk mitigation plan This section provides a summary of activities to mitigate the impact of pest threats on the Australian olive industry, along with a set of guidelines for managing risk at all operational levels. Many pre-emptive practices can be adopted by plant industries and government agencies to reduce risks. These include: surveillance, awareness and training activities exclusion activities selection and preparation of appropriate planting materials destruction of crop residues control of vectors control of alternative hosts and weeds tillage practices produce transport procedures use of warning and information signs use of dedicated equipment when working in high risk areas restricting the use of high risk vehicles during high risk times reporting suspect pests to appropriate authorities including farm biosecurity in Industry Best Management Practice (IBMP) and Quality Assurance (QA) schemes. Introduction PAGE 16

17 Contingency plans and response management procedures PHA has developed PLANTPLAN, a generic emergency response plan for the Australian plant industries. This plan details the procedures required and the organisations responsible in the event of an incursion of an emergency plant pest. This section also contains contact and communications information relevant to the olive industry. Awareness material Details on where to find further information on key pest threats to the Australian olive industry are provided in this section. It also contains links to general biosecurity information related to the olive industry. Review processes With the support of PHA, the IBG is responsible for reviewing this plan on a 3-4 year basis. The review process will be used to determine: strategies to maximise the adoption of recommended practices where further improvements can be made revisions/updates to the plan where resources should be allocated to improve the plan. Biosecurity implementation The development of the Olive IBP provides a framework for the implementation of biosecurity practices within the industry. Currently a range of biosecurity practices are undertaken within the olive industry and these are outlined in the Risk Mitigation chapter (page 35). Further implementation within the framework of the Olive IBP, such as those practices outlined in Figure 4, should be investigated to increase preparedness in the industry. Introduction PAGE 17

18 Figure 4. Potential biosecurity implementation activities within the framework of the IBP Through the development of the Olive IBP, a list of biosecurity action items to be considered by stakeholders in the industry has been developed (Table 3). This list is intended to provide proposed or potential biosecurity priorities for the olive industry that are gaps in the current activities listed in the Risk Mitigation section of the Olive IBP. Future versions of this document will contain information on the progress made on the listed items. Table 3. Biosecurity action items identified by the olive industry Action item Verticillium wilt diagnostic training Olive fly contingency planning Details Provision of training opportunities to develop expertise in the diagnosis of exotic pests in Australia. The highest priority is for the development of local expertise in the diagnosis of the defoliating strain of Verticillium wilt. Development of a contingency plan for olive fly to outline response options in the event of an incursion of the pest. Introduction PAGE 18

19 THREAT IDENTIFICATION, PEST RISK REVIEWS, AND INCURSION MANAGEMENT FUNDING ARRANGEMENTS PAGE 19

20 Introduction threat identification and incursion management This section identifies high risk exotic pest threats to the olive industry, and presents a framework for assessing the potential economic, social, and environmental impacts associated with each threat. This part of the biosecurity plan uses a nationally consistent and coordinated approach to threat identification and risk assessment to provide a strong base for future risk management in the olive industry. Emergency plant pests (EPPs) are defined as those that meet one or more of the following criteria: a) It is a known exotic plant pest, the economic consequences of an incident of which would be economically or otherwise harmful for Australia, and for which it is considered to be in the regional or national interest to be free of the plant pest b) It is a variant form of an established plant pest which can be distinguished by appropriate investigative and diagnostic methods, and which if established in Australia, would have a regional or national impact c) It is a serious plant pest of unknown or uncertain origin which may, on the evidence available at the time, be an entirely new plant pest, and which if established in Australia would have an adverse economic impact regionally and or nationally d) It is a plant pest of potential economic importance to the area endangered thereby and not yet present there or widely distributed and being officially controlled, but is occurring in such a fulminant outbreak form, that an emergency response is required to ensure that there is not either a large scale epidemic of regional or national significance or serious loss of market access. By identifying key threats a pre-emptive approach may be taken to risk management. Under this approach, mechanisms can be put into place to increase our response effectiveness if pest incursions occur. One such mechanism is the Emergency Plant Pest Response Deed (EPPRD) that has been negotiated between PHA government and industry members. The EPPRD ensures reliable and agreed funding arrangements are in place in advance of emergency plant pest incursions, and assists in the response to emergency plant pest incursions, particularly those identified as key threats. Identification of high risk pests will also assist in the implementation of effective grower and community awareness campaigns, targeted biosecurity education and training programs for growers and diagnosticians, and development of pest-specific incursion response plans. Threat Identification, Pest Risk Reviews, and Incursion Management Funding Arrangements PAGE 20

21 Threat identification Information on biosecurity threats to the olive industry described in this document came from a combination of: past records existing industry protection plans relevant experience industry practice and experience relevant published literature local industry and overseas research specialist and expert judgment. At this time, only invertebrate pests (insects, mites, molluscs and nematodes) and pathogens (disease causing organisms) have been identified, although the issue of weeds may be revisited through future reviews of this plan. Ranking pest threats Key questions required for ranking the importance of pests include the following: What are the probabilities of entry into Australia, establishment, and spread, for each pest? What are the likely impacts of the pest on cost of production, overall productivity, and market access? How difficult is each organism to identify and control and/or eradicate? The Threat Summary Tables (TSTs; Appendix 1) present a list of potential plant pest threats to the olive industry and provide summarised information on entry, establishment and spread potential, and the economic consequences of establishment (where available). The most serious threats from the TSTs were identified through a process of qualitative risk assessment and are listed in Table 4. Threat Identification, Pest Risk Reviews, and Incursion Management Funding Arrangements PAGE 21

22 Olive industry plant pest threat priority list Table 4 provides an overview of the top ranked threats to the olive industry. Further details on each pest along with the basis for the likelihood ratings are provided in the TSTs below (Appendix 1). Assessments may change given more detailed research, and the priority list will be reviewed with the Biosecurity Plan on a 3-4 year basis. Table 4. Olive industry plant pest threat priority list Common name Life form Scientific Name Entry potential Establishment potential Spread potential Economic impact Overall risk Olive fly Fly Bactrocera oleae MEDIUM HIGH HIGH HIGH HIGH Olive thrips Thri Liothrips oleae HIGH HIGH 4 HIGH LOW-MEDIUM LOW-MEDIUM Olive moth Lep Prays oleae HIGH HIGH HIGH MEDIUM-HIGH MEDIUM-HIGH Verticillium wilt (defoliating strain) Fun Verticillium dahliae LOW HIGH MEDIUM HIGH MEDIUM 4 Higher in the presence of bark beetles (provide holes for overwintering) Threat Identification, Pest Risk Reviews, and Incursion Management Funding Arrangements PAGE 22

23 Description of terms used in pest risk tables The descriptions below relate to terms in the high priority pest list (Table 4). Life form legend Fly Fun Lep Thri Flies and midges (DIPTERA) Fungus Butterflies and moths (LEPIDOPTERA) Thrips (THYSANOPTERA) Entry potential Negligible Low Medium High Unknown Probability of entry is extremely low given the combination of factors including the distribution of the pest source, management practices applied, low probability of pest survival in transit Probability of entry is low, but clearly possible given the expected combination of factors described above Pest entry is likely given the combination of factors described above Pest entry is very likely or certain given the combination of factors described above Pest entry potential is unknown or very little of value is known Establishment potential Negligible Low Medium High Unknown The pest has no potential to survive and become established The pest has the potential to survive and become established in approximately one third or less of the range of hosts. Could have a low probability of contact with susceptible hosts The pest has the potential to survive and become established in between approximately one-third and two thirds of the range of hosts The pest has potential to survive and become established throughout most or all of the range of hosts. Distribution is not limited by environmental conditions that prevail in Australia. Based upon its current world distribution, and known conditions of survival, it is likely to survive in Australia wherever major hosts are grown The establishment potential of the pest is unknown or very little of value is known Threat Identification, Pest Risk Reviews, and Incursion Management Funding Arrangements PAGE 23

24 Spread potential Negligible Low Medium High Unknown The pest has no potential for natural spread The pest has potential for natural spread locally The pest has potential for natural spread throughout a physiographic region The pest has potential for natural spread to all production areas Spread potential is unknown or very little of value is known Economic impact Negligible Low Medium High Extreme Unknown There is no impact on yield, host longevity, production costs or storage There is minor impact on standing crop and little effect on stored product There is moderate impact on crops, but host mortality is rare, storage losses may occur There is severe impact on standing crop, with significant host mortality and/or storage losses There is extreme impact on standing crop, with extreme host mortality and/or storage losses The economic potential of the pest is unknown or very little of value is known Pest risk reviews The assessment of risk posed by exotic pests listed in this IBP was carried out using a pest risk assessment protocol based on that used in Biosecurity Australia (2009). A number of modifications have been made to suit the analysis required in the IBP development process. This assessment process was developed in accordance with the International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures (ISPMs) No. 2 and 11 (FAO, 2004; 2007). The objective of risk assessment is to clearly identify and classify biosecurity risks and to provide data to assist in the evaluation and treatment of these risks. Risk assessment involves consideration of the sources of risk, their consequences, and the likelihood that those consequences may occur. Factors that affect the consequences and likelihood may be identified and addressed via risk mitigation strategies. Risk assessment may be undertaken to various degrees of refinement, depending on the risk information and data available. Assessment may be qualitative, semi-quantitative, quantitative, or a combination of these. The complexity and cost of assessment increase with the production of more quantitative data. It is often more practical to first obtain a general indication of the level of risk through qualitative risk assessment, and if necessary, undertake more specific quantitative assessment later (AS/NZS-4360, 1999). Threat Identification, Pest Risk Reviews, and Incursion Management Funding Arrangements PAGE 24

25 When a risk assessment is performed, it is important to document the type of analysis used, the level of confidence in the analysis, and any areas where assumptions have been made or where information is limited or unavailable. The steps listed below provide an outline of the qualitative pest risk assessment process. Pest risk reviews for key threats to the Plant Health Australia s Industry Members are available for download from Step 1 Clearly identify the pest It is important to clearly define the identity of the pest for which the risk assessment is being performed, so that it is not confused with other pests. The generally accepted unit for defining a pest is its scientific species. A broader grouping may be used in some circumstances, for example when carrying out a risk assessment for a group of closely related species. Alternatively, the unit for defining a pest may be more narrowly defined, for example a subtype within a species (e.g. subspecies, race, pathovar). In such cases there must be evidence that factors, such as differences in host range, pathogenicity or vector relationship, make that sub-type distinct from others in terms of biosecurity significance. Step 2 Assess the likelihood of entry, establishment and spread It is likely that a combination of qualitative and quantitative data will be used to assess the likelihood or potential of an exotic incursion and its establishment. Table 5 outlines the factors that should be considered when determining the likelihood or potential of a plant pest affecting an industry under current or existing controls. Each factor should be rated according the guidelines outlined below, noting any limitations or comments that may help in further refinement of the rating given. Table 6 defines the different risk level ratings that may be allocated and provides descriptive definitions. After each risk area has been rated individually, a combined risk rating should be determined using the qualitative risk analysis matrix presented in Table 7. Again, any important assumptions or limitations should be noted. Threat Identification, Pest Risk Reviews, and Incursion Management Funding Arrangements PAGE 25

26 Table 5. Factors used to rate the likelihood or potential of a pest impact Likelihood or potential Entry potential Establishment potential Total spread potential Overall rating Definition Likelihood of movement of a pest into an area where it is not yet present, or present but not widely distributed and being officially controlled. Likelihood of self-perpetuating populations, for the foreseeable future, of a pest remaining within an area after entry. Likelihood of the expansion of the geographical distribution of a pest within an area. Rating Negligible, low, medium, high or unknown Negligible, low, medium, high or unknown Negligible, low, medium, high or unknown Negligible, low, medium, high or unknown Table 6. Defining the risk level ratings of the potential of a pest incursion Likelihood Descriptive definition Statistical probability of occurrence High The event would be very likely to occur Range = 0.7 to 1 Medium The event would occur with an even probability Range = 0.3 to 0.7 Low The event would be unlikely to occur Range = to 0.3 Negligible The event would almost certainly not occur Range = 0 to Unknown The likelihood of the event occurring is unknown n/a Adapted from Biosecurity Australia (2009) Table 7. A matrix of rules for combining descriptive likelihoods Combine in order of entry, establishment and spread Likelihood High Medium Low Negligible High High Medium Low Negligible Medium Medium Low Low Negligible Low Low Low Extremely Low Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible Adapted from Biosecurity Australia (2009) Threat Identification, Pest Risk Reviews, and Incursion Management Funding Arrangements PAGE 26

27 Step 3 Assess the likely consequences The most obvious consequence of a pest introduction is the economic impact on an industry and local communities. In addition, exotic pests can also have environmental and social consequences. However, the risk assessment process utilised in IBPs is based primarily on the economic consequences of the introduction of the pest to the particular industry. The economic impact on an industry following the establishment of an exotic plant pest is assigned a rating based on the descriptions provided in Table 8. The effectiveness of current or available chemical treatments and pest management procedures should be taken into account when determining the economic impact. Table 8. Definitions of economic impact ratings of a pest to an industry Economic impact Negligible Low Medium High Extreme Unknown Definition There is no impact on yield, host longevity, production costs or storage There is minor impact on standing crop and little effect on stored product There is moderate impact on crops, but host mortality is rare, storage losses may occur There is severe impact on standing crop, with significant host mortality and/or storage losses There is extreme impact on standing crop, with extreme host mortality and/or storage losses The economic potential of the pest is unknown or very little of value is known Step 4 Derive an overall risk estimate by combining the likelihood and consequence ratings Once the probabilities of entry, establishment and spread have been estimated for the pest, and an assessment of the likely economic consequences has been made, this information can be combined to achieve a risk estimate. This may be done mathematically for numerical data, however a set of decision rules are required in order to combine qualitative rankings (Biosecurity Australia, 2009). Table 9 summarises decision rules for combining the qualitative likelihood and consequence ratings described in this document. Threat Identification, Pest Risk Reviews, and Incursion Management Funding Arrangements PAGE 27

28 Table 9. Risk estimation matrix Combine the result of the above entry, establishment, spread matrix (Table 7) with the economic impact rating using this table to obtain the overall risk rating Combined likelihood rating High Medium Low Extremely low Negligible Economic consequence rating Extreme Extreme risk Extreme risk High risk Medium risk Low risk High High risk High risk Medium risk Low risk Very low risk Medium Medium risk Medium risk Low risk Very low risk Low Low risk Low risk Very low risk Negligible risk Very low Very low risk Very low risk Negligible risk Negligible Negligible risk Negligible risk Negligible risk Negligible risk Negligible risk Negligible risk Negligible risk Negligible risk Negligible risk Adapted from Biosecurity Australia (2009) Table 10. Definition of risk categories with respect to management Overall risk Extreme High Medium Low Very low Negligible Definition Specific action is required immediately to reduce risk Specific action is required. Generic risk mitigation plans should be adopted as soon as possible in the interim to increase the level of protection The current level of risk protection is insufficient. Appropriate risk reduction measures need to be identified and applied The current level of risk protection is insufficient. Appropriate risk reduction measures need to be identified and applied An acceptable level of risk protection is in place. Additional risk management measures are not required An acceptable level of risk protection is in place for this threat. Risk management measures should be reviewed to ensure that they are justifiable Step 5 Review the risks Risks will change over time and may become more or less important based on changing technology, practices, legislation and policy. A process to identify new threats and to reassess the risk of existing threats facing the industry will be undertaken regularly as part of the review process of this plan. This will help ensure all threats have been identified and appropriately prioritised, with suitable risk mitigation strategies in place. Threat Identification, Pest Risk Reviews, and Incursion Management Funding Arrangements PAGE 28

29 Formal Categorisation of pests for inclusion in the Emergency Plant Pest Response Deed The following section outlines the Emergency Plant Pest Response Deed (EPPRD) between all government and most industry members of PHA. The EPPRD aims to manage the impact of EPPS (see page 20 for definition) by establishing an industry/government agreement to cover eradication of emergency pests, reducing delays in securing funding, providing industry with greater involvement in eradication efforts, and removing disincentives to report emergency pests. The Australian Olives Association Inc is the peak Australian olives industry body. The Australian Olives Association represents the olives industry as a member of Plant Health Australia and a signatory to the EPPRD after signing on 23 May The EPPRD only covers eradication responses to EPPs when based on an approved Emergency Plant Pest Response Plan. Weeds are not covered by the EPPRD at this stage. Under the EPPRD, both industry and government contribute to the total cost of the approved EPP Response, with the ratio of contribution based on the Category of the EPP (Table 11). The Category of the EPP is determined by the Categorisation Group and is based on the relative public versus private benefits of eradication of the EPP. A copy of the EPPRD can be downloaded from the Plant Health Australia website ( Threat Identification, Pest Risk Reviews, and Incursion Management Funding Arrangements PAGE 29

30 Table 11. Cost sharing categories Category Description Funding share Category 1: Very high public benefits Category 2: High public benefits Category 3: Moderate public benefits Category 4: Mostly if not wholly private benefits Pest which if not eradicated would: cause major environmental damage to natural ecosystems; and/or potentially affect human health or cause a major nuisance to humans; and/or cause significant damage to amenity flora; and have relatively little impact on commercial crops. This category also covers situations where the pest has a very wide range of hosts including native flora and there is considerable uncertainty as to the relative impacts on the different crops. In short, it is almost impossible to properly determine which industries benefit from eradication and to what extent, and in any case, the incursion primarily affects native flora and/or amenity plants, and/or is a major nuisance if not a health risk to humans. Pest which if not eradicated would: cause significant public losses either directly through serious loss of amenity and/or environmental values and/or effects on households or indirectly through very severe economic impacts on regions and the national economy, through large trade losses with flow on effects through the economy; and also impose major costs on the industries concerned so that these industries would significantly benefit from eradication. Pest which if not eradicated would: primarily harm the industries concerned but there would also be some significant public costs as well (that is, moderate public benefits from eradication). In this case the pest could adversely affect public amenities, households or the environment, and/or could have significant, though moderate trade implications and/or national and regional economic implications. Pest which if not eradicated would: have little or no public cost implications and little or no impacts on natural ecosystems. The affected commercial industries would be adversely affected primarily through additional costs of production, through extra control costs or nuisance costs; and generally there would be no significant trade issues that would affect national and regional economies. 100% Government 80% Government 20% Industry 50% Government 50% Industry 20% Government 80% Industry Threat Identification, Pest Risk Reviews, and Incursion Management Funding Arrangements PAGE 30

31 Pest categorisation The EPPRD outlines a mechanism whereby Industry and Government Parties will share the total cost of a Response to an EPP Incident based on agreed Categories. These Categories determine the ratio each party will pay, based on the relative public and private benefits of EPP eradication. Four Categories are included in the EPPRD, as outlined in Table 11 and Figure 5. Pests listed in the high priority pest list (Table 4) may be put forward for categorisation and inclusion in Schedule 13 of the EPPRD. Other pests identified in TSTs or identified via other means as being priority pests, may also be categorised if required. The process for requesting categorisation of a Pest is set out in Schedule 3 of the EPPRD. Pests that enter Australia, but which have not been formally categorised will be treated as belonging to Category 3 until an appropriate Category has been formally determined. The Categorisation Group will be responsible for determining a cost sharing Category applicable for high priority pests. Only Pests meeting the Emergency Plant Pest criteria will be considered for categorisation. Taking into account relevant scientific and other knowledge and experience, the Categorisation Group will consider requests for pest categorisation, recategorisation or removal from Schedule 13 of the EPPRD. Figure 5 outlines the decisionmaking process used by the Categorisation Group in deciding pest Categories. When more than one industry is affected by an Emergency Plant Pest, the Categorisation Group will also determine, and when requested will review, the Funding Weight for each industry. Funding Weights provide a means for calculating each industry s Proportional Share of the total industry contribution if a pest affects multiple industry Parties. Threat Identification, Pest Risk Reviews, and Incursion Management Funding Arrangements PAGE 31

32 Figure 5. Summarised pest categorisation decision tree Threat Identification, Pest Risk Reviews, and Incursion Management Funding Arrangements PAGE 32

33 Composition of the Categorisation Group Membership of the Categorisation Group for each industry will comprise (at a minimum): an independent chair from Plant Health Australia a standing representative of industry parties three technical experts [people with specific expertise in the areas of plant pathology or entomology], one nominated by the Australian Government, one nominated by the states/territories and one nominated by plant industry(s) a person with relevant economic expertise including social, trade and regional impact assessment a nominee from each plant industry or industries affected by the exotic plant pest being categorised. The Categorisation Group may also seek advice from: a person with human health expertise, if a public health risk may exist a conservation representative (e.g. Australian Government Department of Environment and Heritage) or other relevant members determined by the independent chair. Advisers who have specific expertise may accompany members of the Categorisation Group, but will not be part of the decision-making process. Categorisation Group composition taken from Part 4 of Schedule 8 of the EPPRD. References AS/NZS-4360 (1999) Risk Management Standards Association of Australia, Strathfield, NSW. Biosecurity Australia (2009) Draft pest analysis report for Candidatus Liberibacter psyllaurous in fresh fruit, potato tubers, nursery stock and its vector the tomato-potato psyllid. Biosecurity Australia, Canberra. FAO (2004) Pest risk analysis for quarantine pests including analysis or environmental risks and living modified organisms. International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 11. Secretariat of the International Plant Protection Convention, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Rome. Threat Identification, Pest Risk Reviews, and Incursion Management Funding Arrangements PAGE 33

34 FAO (2007) Framework for pest risk analysis. International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 2. Secretariat of the International Plant Protection Convention, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Rome. Threat Identification, Pest Risk Reviews, and Incursion Management Funding Arrangements PAGE 34

35 RISK MITIGATION PLAN PAGE 35

36 Introduction risk mitigation There are a number of strategies that can be adopted to help protect and minimise the risks of exotic and emergency pests under International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) standards ( and Commonwealth and State legislation. Many pre-emptive practices can be adopted to reduce the risk of exotic pest movement for the olive industry (Figure 6). Such risk mitigation practices are the responsibility of governments, industry and the community. A number of key risk mitigation areas are outlined in this guide, along with summaries of the roles and responsibilities of the Australian Government, state/territory governments, and olive industry members. This section is to be used as a guide outlining possible activities that may be adopted by industry and growers to mitigate risk. Each grower will need to evaluate the efficacy of each activity for their situation. Figure 6. Examples of biosecurity risk mitigation activities Risk Mitigation Plan PAGE 36

37 Barrier quarantine Barrier quarantine should be implemented at all levels of the olive industry including national, state, regional, and farm levels. National level importation restrictions Responsibility > Australian Government The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) is the Australian Government department responsible for maintaining and improving international trade and market access opportunities for agriculture, fisheries, forestry, and food industries. DAFF achieves this through: establishment of scientifically-based quarantine policies provision of effective technical advice and export certification services negotiations with key trading partners participation in multilateral forums and international sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) standard-setting organisations collaboration with portfolio industries and exporters. DAFF also undertakes research to improve policies and procedures for protecting Australia s animal and plant health and natural environment, and provides technical assistance to further Australia s export market access program. Biosecurity Services Group (BSG) is an agency of DAFF and is responsible for developing biosecurity (SPS) risk management policy and reviewing existing quarantine measures for the importation of live animals and plants, and animal and plant products. In particular, BSG undertakes Import Risk Analyses (IRAs) to determine which products may enter Australia, and under what quarantine conditions. BSG also consults with industry and the community, conducting research and developing policy and procedures to protect Australia s animal and plant health status and natural environment. In addition, BSG assists Australia s export market program by negotiating other countries import requirements for Australian animals and plants. The administrative authority for national quarantine is vested in the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS), which is part of BSG, under the Quarantine Act Quarantine policies are developed on the basis of an IRA process. This process is outlined in the Import Risk Mitigation Plan PAGE 37

38 Risk Assessment Handbook 2007 (DAFF, 2009). AQIS Operations maintains barrier quarantine services at all international ports and in the Torres Straight region. The management of quarantine policy, as it relates to the introduction into Australia of fruit, seed, or other plant material, including any olive material, is the responsibility of the AQIS Operations. The Quarantine Proclamation 1998 provides the legislative basis for controlling the entry of animals, plants, and other goods of a quarantine concern into Australia. Section 63 of the Proclamation provides that the importation of a seed (other than a seed of a kind of plant mentioned in Schedule 5 of the Proclamation) is prohibited unless the Director of Quarantine has granted a permit for its importation. Schedule 5 of the Proclamation lists all species that have been assessed as permitted seeds. The effect of this is to allow the importation of a seed species listed in Schedule 5 to Australia without an import permit. The Schedule 5 Permitted Seeds list is maintained on the Import Conditions (ICON) database at ICON contains the current Australian import conditions for more than 20,000 foreign plants, animal, mineral and human products and is the first point of access to information about Australian import requirements for a range of commodities. It can be used to determine if a commodity intended for import to Australia requires a quarantine import permit and/or treatment or if there are any other quarantine prerequisites. There are currently a number of cases for olive plants or plant parts listed on ICON, as listed in Table 12. For export conditions see the PHYTO database at Table 12. Import conditions for olive products (as at January 2009) 5 Commodity End use Import status Import permit Additional comments Fruit, fresh Human consumption Permitted Required (except when importing from Spain) Fruit, preserved Human consumption Permitted Not required Oil All Permitted Not required Plant material, dried All Permitted Required for commercial uses Plants, from accredited sources Propagation Permitted Required 5 This is a summary only and should not be used as a substitute for consulting the ICON database or AQIS directly to confirm the details of import conditions and any recent changes Risk Mitigation Plan PAGE 38

39 Commodity End use Import status Import permit Additional comments Plants, from nonaccredited sources Propagation Permitted Required Must be grown in an AQIS approved facility for Olea spp. post entry Seeds Propagation Permitted Not required Tissue cultures Propagation Must be grown in an AQIS approved facility for Olea spp. post entry If there is any uncertainty, contact AQIS on (02) or State and regional level movement restrictions Responsibility > state/territory government Each state has quarantine legislation in place to control the importation of plant material and to manage agreed pests if an incursion occurs (refer to Table 13). Further regulations have been put in place in response to specific pest threats and these are regularly reviewed and updated by the Domestic Quarantine and Market Access Working Group (DQMAWG). Before moving plants or plant products, machinery or equipment interstate, contact should be made with the appropriate authority (Table 13). Most state government departments have a manual on quarantine of plant material that can be accessed on the websites listed in Table 13. Additional information and current legislation can be found on the domestic quarantine website (visit Advice can be obtained by contacting your local state or territory agriculture agency directly. For regular exporters an alternative mechanism is provided through the Interstate Certification Assurance (ICA) scheme. ICA is a national scheme of plant health certification based on quality management principles that offers cost saving and enhanced flexibility in certification and is accepted by all states and territories of Australia. Under an ICA, a business can be accredited to issue Plant Health Certificates for movement of specified produce. For more information on specific arrangements and their acceptance by jurisdictions visit Risk Mitigation Plan PAGE 39

40 Table 13. Interstate and interregional movement of plants and plant products legislation and quarantine manuals State Administering authority Legislation Links to quarantine manual 6 ACT Environment ACT Plant Disease Act 2002 See NSW conditions NSW NSW Department of Industry and Investment Plant Diseases Act 1924 Phone NT Department of Regional Development, Primary Industry, Fisheries and Resources, NT Plant Diseases Control Act der=nt%20entry%20requirements QLD Biosecurity Queensland, part of the Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation Plant Protection Act 1989 Plant Protection Regulation 2002 Biosecurity Queensland Bill (Draft only) 7 www2.dpi.qld.gov.au/health/4058.html SA Primary Industries and Resources, SA Plant Health Act TAS Department of Primary Industries and Water, TAS Plant Quarantine Act FB94Z?open VIC Department of Primary Industries, VIC Plant Health and Plant Products Act 1995 Plant Health and Plant Products Regulations D43D194794DCA25718E001FE34C0F2B087FC279 C31FCA C054D WA Department of Agriculture and Food, WA Plant Diseases Act 1914 and Regulations in If the link does not work, the relevant documents can be found by going to the department home page and checking the quarantine section of each website 7 Biosecurity legislative review with an expectation to transition to the new Biosecurity Queensland Bill in Due to be replaced by Biosecurity and Agriculture Management Act 2007 in 2009 Risk Mitigation Plan PAGE 40

41 Region level movement restrictions Responsibility > state/territory government Quarantine legislation currently in place provides a basis for regulating the movement of plant materials between regions within states. Before moving olive plants and plant products interstate a permit must be obtained from the appropriate authority (see Table 13). Advice about pre-importation certification and treatments required prior to movement of olive plants and plant products into each state or territory can be obtained through the contact details listed in Table 14. Additional information can be found at the Domestic Quarantine website ( Table 14. Contact details for pre-importation requirements for plant materials State/Territory Office/agency Contact details NSW/ACT NT NSW Agriculture Regulatory Services Office NT Quarantine Plant Market Access Branch P: (02) F: (02) W: P: (08) F: (08) E: quarantine@nt.gov.au W: QLD Biosecurity Queensland, part of DEEDI P: F: (07) E: callweb@dpi.qld.gov.au W: SA PIRSA Plant Health Operations P: (08) or W: VIC DPI Plant Standards Centre P: (03) F: (03) W: TAS Quarantine Centre, DPIW P: (03) F: (03) W: WA DAFWA P: (08) F: (08) W: Risk Mitigation Plan PAGE 41

42 Farm level on-farm exclusion (biosecurity) activities Responsibility > industry/growers A significant risk of spreading pests onto farms arises when propagation material, people, machinery and equipment move from property to property and from region to region. It is the responsibility of the industry and the owner/manager of each property to ensure these risks are minimised. It is in the interests of industry to encourage and monitor the management of risk at the farm level, as this will reduce the probability of an incursion or outbreak and increase the probability of early detection. This should in turn reduce the likelihood of a costly incident response, thereby reducing costs to industry, government and the community. Farm biosecurity measures are described in a later part of the Risk Mitigation section (see page 45). Surveillance, awareness and training Surveys enhance prospects for early detection, minimise costs of eradication and are necessary to meet the treaty obligations of the World Trade Organization s (WTO) SPS with respect to the area freedom status of the Australian mainland. The SPS agreement gives WTO members the right to impose SPS measures to protect human, animal and plant life and health provided such measures do not serve as technical barriers to trade. In other words, for countries, such as Australia, that have signed the SPS Agreement, imports of food, including fresh fruit and vegetables, can only be prohibited on proper, science-based quarantine grounds. The agreement also stipulates that appropriate surveillance and monitoring are necessary to support claims of area freedom. Structured pest surveys should be carried out under the guidance of ISPM No. 6 (Guidelines for Surveillance; IPPC, 1997). Their planning and implementation depends on the risk involved, the resources available, and the requirements of trading partners (particularly when Australia wishes to access overseas markets). The intensity and timing of surveys also depend on the spread characteristics of the pest and the costs of eradication. Early detection of an exotic incursion can significantly increase the likelihood of a successful eradication campaign, and reduce the associated costs. Effective surveillance plays a critical Risk Mitigation Plan PAGE 42

43 role in working toward this goal. Surveillance can be either targeted toward specific pests, or general in nature. General non-targeted surveillance is based on recognising normal versus suspect plant material. Targeted surveillance is important for establishing whether particular pests are present in each state or region, and if so, where these occur. Industry personnel can provide very effective general surveillance as part of their normal management procedures, provided individuals are aware of what to look for and of reporting procedures (i.e. passive surveillance ). Agronomists and consultants can provide valuable information as they are regularly in the field, and hence can observe any unusual pest activity or symptoms on plants. Suitable awareness programs are required to support and encourage surveillance activities. These awareness programs can range from general information posters and sheets for farm staff, through to field day activities and professional courses. Awareness programs should also outline procedures (i.e. who to contact, where and how) so that industry personnel are able to have unusual plant symptoms or insects identified quickly. Promoting community awareness and reporting should be encouraged. Industry personnel need to be kept informed of areas within the local area where pest incursions exist so that they can take precautionary measures when working in or receiving produce from those areas. National surveillance programs Responsibility > Australian Government, industry (national associations) AQIS maintains barrier quarantine services at all international ports and in the Torres Strait region. AQIS also surveys the northern coast of Australia, offshore islands and neighbouring countries for exotic pests that may have reached the country through other channels (e.g. illegal vessel landings in remote areas, bird migrations, wind currents), as part of the Northern Australia Quarantine Strategy (NAQS). State surveillance programs Responsibility > state/territory governments, industry/growers State level surveillance depends on the participation of all stakeholder groups, particularly state/territory agriculture departments, industry representative groups, agri-business and growers. Risk Mitigation Plan PAGE 43

44 The state agriculture department is responsible for: planning and auditing surveillance systems coordinating surveillance activities with those of industry and interstate groups provision of diagnostic services providing field diagnosticians for special field surveillance surveillance of non-commercial sites liaising with industry members developing communication, training and extension strategies with industry carrying out training reporting to all interested parties (AQIS, national bodies, trading partners and industry). Various pest surveillance programs are managed by AQIS and the state/territory agriculture departments. Farm surveillance activities Responsibility > industry/growers Industry representative groups contribute toward the provision of effective surveillance through a range of activities, particularly those that are on farm. Growers, consultants, pest scouts and extension officers are regularly in the field including monitoring crop health. Examples include: implementing surveillance on commercial properties liaising with agriculture departments reporting suspect pests provision of on-farm surveillance records coordination of grower surveillance funding commercial surveillance activities working with agriculture departments to develop awareness, training and extension programs carrying out training developing Quality Assurance systems. Agri-businesses participate in surveillance by increasing general pest awareness and providing diagnostic services. Specific actions that contribute to surveillance include: distribution of extension materials assistance with training Risk Mitigation Plan PAGE 44

45 receiving suspect pests supplying surveillance equipment (e.g. traps and diagnostic kits) providing diagnostic services to growers. Grower roles and responsibilities may include: implementation of surveillance on properties (where possible) reporting suspect pests provision of records of on-farm surveillance attending training providing awareness and training to staff assisting state/territory agriculture department and industry surveillance requirements ensuring identification material and sampling kits are available for staff. Awareness activities Responsibility > industry primarily with government assistance as appropriate On behalf of the olive industry, the Australian Olive Association promotes awareness of good biosecurity within the industry in a number of ways. For more information see the Awareness Material section (page 63). Key points for farm biosecurity/farm hygiene The following sections of this document deal specifically with guidelines for farm biosecurity. Specific focus areas include: avoidance of pest spread by selecting appropriate planting materials control of pest vectors control of alternative hosts destruction of crop residues integration of biosecurity awareness into post-harvest handling and transport procedures use of warning and information signs for biosecurity awareness use of dedicated equipment in high risk areas managing people and vehicle movement in high risk areas reporting suspect pests through appropriate channels including farm biosecurity in Industry Best Management Practice (IBMP) and Quality Assurance (QA) schemes. Risk Mitigation Plan PAGE 45

46 Selection and preparation of appropriate planting materials Obtaining pest free planting material for crop production Responsibility > national border control (Australian Government), intra- and interstate border controls (state and territory governments), industry/growers Olive plants should not be distributed without screening for pests. Infected planting material can be the main source of spread for some serious pests. Soil carried on plants can harbour pests, such as fungal spores or nematodes. Planting material that has been certified as being free of pests provides a useful safeguard for growers. Use of pest resistant varieties Responsibility > industry drawing on advice from government and non-government research agencies Resistant varieties provide one of the most successful approaches to the control of pests in many crops. Use of chemical control measures Responsibility > industry/growers, drawing on advice from government and non-government research agencies Agriculture departments and the olive industry should identify and list suitable chemical control measures for high priority pest threats (Table 4), and put into place procedures for the emergency registration of necessary chemicals that may be unavailable. The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) is the national authority responsible for registration and deregistration of chemicals and can be contacted by phone on (02) The APVMA Permit Section deals specifically with emergency registrations for chemicals. Further information can be obtained from the APVMA web site at Risk Mitigation Plan PAGE 46

47 Control of vectors Responsibility > industry/growers, drawing on advice from government and non-government research agencies Many viruses and some bacteria require a vector to provide a means of dispersal. Vectors are commonly invertebrates such as insects and mites, nematodes, fungi, birds and people. Nonbiological vectors such as machinery can also transmit plant pathogens. The activity and mobility of the vector determines the rate and distance of dispersal. Thorough inspection and cleaning of vehicles, machinery and equipment (such as pruning tools) helps to prevent pest spread, as does cleaning of footwear and restricting unnecessary people movements around the farm. Consideration should also be given to the control of known vectors of plant pathogens when new disease outbreaks are likely. Control of alternative hosts Responsibility > industry/growers, drawing on advice from government and non-government research agencies Weed species are significant biosecurity problems in their own right as well as acting as alternative hosts of crop pests. Where this is so, weed control practices can significantly contribute to limiting the survival of pests and reducing the potential for outbreaks. Details of any alternative hosts will be included in pest specific contingency plans and awareness materials developed for high priority olive pests. Some alternative hosts of olive pests may not be weeds. For example, grapevines and a variety of broad acre crops are commonly grown alongside olives and many olive groves are grown in close proximity to native forests. In these situations, pests such as Armillaria, olive lace bug (native forests) and Eutypa dieback (grapevines) can potentially move into the olive crop. Risk Mitigation Plan PAGE 47

48 Destruction of crop residues Responsibility > industry/growers, drawing on advice from government and non-government research agencies Protocols for the destruction or treatment of affected crop material should be developed for high risk pests. As many crop pests are able to survive on crop residues and by-products these should be treated responsibly. Burying, burning 9 or removing crop residues, and cleaning equipment and machinery are effective cultural practices that may be adopted if necessary. When developing protocols some issues that will determine the effectiveness of crop residue treatment will include: the extent of the cropping area the survival mechanism, dispersal ability, and host range of the pest environmental constraints. The common practice of spreading olive fruit back into groves following oil extraction should be discouraged, as this waste material takes a considerable amount of time to breakdown and can provide a breeding environment for pest species. Disposal of waste material through burning 9, deep burial or composting away from production areas will reduce the likelihood of pest introduction and spread. Post-harvest handling and produce transport procedures Responsibility > industry/growers, drawing on advice from government and non-government research agencies Machinery, picking buckets, crates, bins, pallets, hand tools, and other equipment, should be cleaned of soil and plant matter before being taken into an olive grove or nursery area. Vehicles that are used to harvest or to transport olives, particularly if moving between farms, should be cleaned to remove soil and plant matter. This will help to minimise the risk of pest spread. For this purpose, all farms should have access to a high pressure wash down facility for machinery, with detergent and scrubbing brushes available and with a concrete or tarmac pad. Gravel access roads away from the production site could be used to minimise contamination. Smaller equipment such as secateurs, knives and similar, should be washed 9 Check with local authorities for any current fire bans that may be in place before burning crop residues. In some areas, this destruction method must not be used. Risk Mitigation Plan PAGE 48

49 free of any loose soil or plant material and then disinfested by either dipping them in a solution of chlorine bleach (1% available chlorine) or spraying them with an alcohol solution (70%). It is preferable that wash down facilities are located on the property, or failing this, close to the property. At a minimum wash down facilities should be located within the same region as the property. Detergent based disinfectants should be considered. Water draining from the wash down facility should not be directed back into fields or the farm irrigation water supply. Growers should maintain effective pest and disease monitoring and management programs. This includes keeping record of pest outbreaks and the control measures used. Restrictions may be placed on the introduction or movement of olives by individual states or territories, for example, specifying the use of certain transport routes, container types or consignment management procedures. If proposing to move olives within or between quarantine areas or between states, transporters should first check with state authorities to find out which regulations apply (refer to page 39). Olives should be transported securely to prevent spillage. An identification and tracing system will assist in tracing produce consignments to their source if they are found to be contaminated with an exotic pest. Consignments should be clearly marked with the name of the grower, and a batch identification mark (date or other code). Growers should maintain a record of the source and destination of each batch, and identify separate growing areas on a property map. Post-harvest handling and produce transport procedures that minimise the risk of pest movement should be developed further and promoted within the industry. Use of warning and information signs Responsibility > industry/growers Placing warning and information signs on the entrances and gates of properties can help inform visitors of your farms biosecurity practices, and to remind personnel that farm biosecurity is a priority. Signs should also include up-to-date contact details for people to gain further information. Remember, visitors to the area may not be aware of relevant biosecurity protocols. Informational signs should be clearly visible to all people entering your property. Signs should contain clear and simple messages (e.g. do not enter the farm without prior approval, use wash down facilities for cleaning vehicles, machinery and people s clothing/footwear). Risk Mitigation Plan PAGE 49

50 For more information on biosecurity signs, or to obtain a sign template (Figure 7), please contact PHA. Figure 7. Example biosecurity warning sign Use of dedicated equipment when working in high risk areas Responsibility > industry/growers, state/territory government It may be practical to assign equipment (including clothing, tools and footwear) to be used in pest infected/infested areas only. This means that the equipment used in infected/infested farms or areas is not reused in clean areas and vice versa. Risk Mitigation Plan PAGE 50

51 Managing the movement of vehicles, equipment and people A high risk of spreading pests comes from movements of people, machinery and equipment between regions and farms. This risk can be reduced by ensuring plant material and soil that may harbour pests is not moved to other properties or regions. Further information in relation to farm biosecurity can be found at the farm biosecurity website. National controls Responsibility > Australian Government The Australian Government is responsible for the inspection of machinery and equipment being imported into Australia. Administrative authority for national quarantine is vested in AQIS under the Quarantine Act Any machinery or equipment being imported into Australia must meet quarantine requirements. If there is any uncertainty, contact AQIS on (02) or , or visit the website at State controls Responsibility > state/territory government Information regarding interstate movement of machinery or equipment can be found in quarantine manuals (Table 13) and on the Domestic Quarantine website ( Enquiries can also be made directly to your local state or territory agriculture agency. Farm/regional activities Responsibility > industry/growers It is in the interests of industry to encourage and monitor the management of biosecurity risks at the farm level, as this will reduce the probability of an incursion or outbreak and increase the probability of early detection. This should in turn reduce the likelihood of a costly incident response, thereby reducing the costs to the industry, governments and the wider community. Risk Mitigation Plan PAGE 51

52 Suggested practices for minimising pest spread at the farm level include: using certified (pest tested) planting material ensuring that all visitors to the farm report directly to the office on arrival checking that machinery, vehicles, and equipment (e.g. trailers, crates, bins) entering or leaving properties are free of soil and crop debris visually inspecting machinery and equipment before it comes onto the property and denying access to any equipment that does not meet biosecurity standards restricting movements of vehicles and people (if possible) during high risk periods. This may include avoiding moving vehicles and machinery, particularly when roads are wet and muddy ensuring all visitors and employees are aware of the importance of keeping footwear and clothing free from loose dirt and plant matter before entering or leaving the property providing wash down facilities for both machinery and people (e.g. high pressure hose with a concrete or tarmac pad, scrubbing brushes and footbaths) providing a designated parking area and transporting visitors, contractors, employees and government officials using vehicles based permanently on the property minimising unnecessary entry of vehicles from outside the farm and movements of vehicles around the farm (especially when the soil is wet) reporting all suspected exotic pests (see page 53) requiring all visitors to fill out a visitor register containing details of their previous movements 10 Keeping public sales and tourist activities separate from farm production areas. Including farm biosecurity in Industry Best Management Practice (IBMP) and Quality Assurance (QA) schemes Responsibility > industry/growers For farm level protection from pests, the following farm biosecurity (farm hygiene) measures are recommended: inspecting all incoming vehicles and equipment for signs of contaminated soil or plant material and enforcing biosecurity standards using high pressure wash down facilities associated with a concrete or tarmac pad for cleaning vehicles and equipment, with disposal of effluent away from plants and irrigation sources 10 Example visitor registers can be downloaded from Risk Mitigation Plan PAGE 52

53 undertaking a biosecurity/quarantine education and training program for employees and related personnel having a planned, effective monitoring and pest management program erecting informative signs at the entrance of the property which outline the basic biosecurity requirements for all visitors reporting all suspect exotic pests or unusual plant symptoms to the local state/territory agriculture department or through the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline ( ) minimising vehicle movement around the farm (particularly when muddy) training staff in effective use of relevant chemicals disposing of unwanted plants and reporting neglected crops and feral/volunteer plants to the local state/territory agriculture department managing visitor movement around the farm by using vehicles which remain on the property, and supplying footwear or footbaths with a strong cleaning agent such as Farmcleanse keeping public sales and tourist activities separate from the farm area. Including such measures in BMP and QA schemes will strengthen the ability to rapidly detect, control and eradicate exotic pest outbreaks in the olive industry before extensive damage occurs. At present, the Australian olive industry has developed a Code of Practice for the production of olive oil. Signatories to this Code have undergone rigorous procedures to certify that the content of a bottle of olive oil being sold is indeed Australian extra virgin olive oil. The code of practice is available from the Australian Olive Association website ( Reporting suspect pests Any unusual plant pest should be reported immediately to the relevant state/territory agriculture agency through the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline ( ). Early reporting increases the chance of effective control and eradication. Reporting an exotic plant pest carries serious implications and should be done only via the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline. Careless distribution of information, particularly if a pest has not been confirmed, can result in extreme stress for individuals and communities, and possibly damaging and unwarranted trade restrictions. If you suspect a new pest, call the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on Risk Mitigation Plan PAGE 53

54 Calls to the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline will be forwarded to an experienced person in the department of agriculture from the state of origin of the call, who will ask some questions about what you have seen and may arrange to collect a sample. Every report will be taken seriously, checked out and treated confidentially. In some states and territories, the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline only operates during business hours. Where this is the case, and calls are made out of hours, callers should leave a detailed message with current contact information and staff from the department of agriculture will return the call the following business day. Some olive pests are notifiable under each state or territory s quarantine legislation. The complete list of notifiable pests is available on the PHA website 11. Landowners and consultants have a legal obligation to notify the relevant state/territory agriculture department of the presence of those pests within a defined timeframe 12 following detection. Suspect material should not generally be moved or collected without seeking advice from the relevant state/territory department, as incorrect handling of samples could spread the pest or render the samples unsuitable for diagnostic purposes. State/territory agriculture department officers will usually be responsible for sampling and identification of pests. References Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry 2009, Import Risk Analysis Handbook 2007 (updated 2009), Canberra Notification timeframe dependant on the state/territory where pest is detected. In the Northern Territory, South Australia and Tasmania the detection must be reported immediately. In New South Wales, Queensland and Western Australia the detection must be reported within 24 hours, and in Victoria the pest must be reported within 7 days of detection. Risk Mitigation Plan PAGE 54

55 CONTINGENCY PLANS AND RESPONSE MANAGEMENT PROCEDURES PAGE 55

56 Introduction emergency response Gathering information, developing procedures, and defining roles and responsibilities during an emergency can be extremely difficult. To address this area, Plant Health Australia (PHA) has developed PLANTPLAN, a national set of incursion response guidelines for the plant sector, detailing the procedures required and the roles and responsibilities of all parties involved in an incursion response. Following PLANTPLAN, a set of threat-specific contingency plans will be developed to cover the key pests to the olive industry. These pests are detailed in the high priority plant pest threat list (Table 4) and have been identified through a process of qualitative risk assessment. Information will be provided on the host range, symptoms, biology and epidemiology of each organism, along with guidelines for general and targeted surveillance programs, diagnosis, and control. These documents are designed to assist with the development of response plans and will be used in conjunction with the emergency response guidelines in PLANTPLAN. This section includes key contact details and any communication procedures that should be used in the event of an incursion in the olive industry. Over time, pest-specific emergency response and information documents will be produced for pests on the high priority pest threat list (Table 4). As they are developed they will be included in this document and made available through the Plant Health Australia website. PLANTPLAN PLANTPLAN provides a description of the general procedures, management structure and information flow system for the handling of a plant pest emergency at national, state/territory and district levels. This includes the operations of the control centres, principles for the chain of responsibility, functions of sections and role descriptions. PLANTPLAN is a general manual for use by all jurisdictions for all plant pest emergencies. PLANTPLAN is regularly reviewed and updated to ensure it provides the best possible guidance to plant industries and governments in responding to serious plant pests. The most recent version of PLANTPLAN can be downloaded from the Plant Health Australia website ( Contingency Plans and Response Management Procedures PAGE 56

57 Current response management procedures Following the detection of a suspect exotic plant pest, the relevant state agency should be immediately notified directly or through the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline. Within 24 hours of the initial identification, the agency, through the State Plant Health Manager, will inform the Office of the Chief Plant Protection Officer (OCPPO) which will notify other relevant Australian Government Departments and relevant state agencies and industry representatives (process outlined in Figure 8). Following the detection or reporting of the pest, the relevant state/territory agriculture agency may collect samples of a suspect organism and seek a positive identification. If the pest is suspected to be an exotic pest (not yet present in Australia), the general process is as outlined in Figure 9. Figure 8. Suspect emergency plant pest detection reporting flowchart Contingency Plans and Response Management Procedures PAGE 57

58 Figure 9. General decision making and communication chain for a plant pest emergency response If the pest is considered potentially serious, then the relevant state/territory agriculture department may adopt precautionary measures. These measures, depending on the pest, may include: restriction of operations in the area withdrawal of people, vehicles and machinery from the area and disinfestation restricted access to the area interim control or containment measures. If an exotic plant pest is confirmed, technical and economic considerations are reviewed, and a decision made on whether to eradicate, contain or do nothing about the incursion (depending on the feasibility of the response and likely costs and impacts of the pest). Under the EPPRD all decisions are made by Committees with government and industry representation. Contingency Plans and Response Management Procedures PAGE 58

59 During this investigation/alert period, the affected area will be placed under quarantine until a decision is made on whether to eradicate or control the pest. Once a decision has been made on a suitable response, efforts enter the operational phase. Eradication or control methods used will vary according to the nature of the pest involved and infested material will be destroyed where necessary. All on ground response operations are undertaken by the relevant state department(s) in accordance with relevant state/territory legislation. In the stand down phase, all operations are wound down. Where a plant pest emergency was not confirmed, those involved will be advised that the threat no longer exists. Where an eradication or management/control campaign has taken place, quarantine measures will be finalised and reviewed. Industry specific response procedures Industry communication In the event of a pest incursion affecting the olive industry, the Australian Olive Association will be the key industry contact point and will have responsibility for relevant industry communication and media relations (see PLANTPLAN 13 for approved communications during an incursion). The Australian Olive Association should be contacted immediately, through the contact details listed in Table 15, to ensure that appropriate delegate/s are secured for meetings of the Consultative Committee or NMG. Table 15. Australian Olive Association contact details Contact person Responsibility Phone Mobile Paul Miller National Dan Burnet Queensland Nelson Quinn New South Wales Gwynedd Hunter-Payne Victoria Geoff Price Tasmania Lisa Rowntree South Australia John Wholley 14 Western Australia The latest version of PLANTPLAN is available for download from 14 An alternate contact for the olive industry in WA is Dick Taylor (DAFWA) Contingency Plans and Response Management Procedures PAGE 59

60 Close cooperation is required between relevant government bodies and industry in regards to the effective management of a pest response and media/communication issues. Readers should refer to PLANTPLAN for further information. Regional or state based industry organisations will be informed of the incident through the national industry contact. Counselling and support services Provision for counselling and advice on financial support for growers is made available through various agencies as listed in Table 16. Up-to-date information relating to mental health can be found at Local providers of counselling services can be found through contacting your local state or territory agriculture agency or your growers association (Table 15). Table 16. Counselling and financial counselling services Organisation Lifeline Mensline Kids Help Line Contact (24 hours) Anyone can call Lifeline. The service offers a counselling service that respects everyone s right to be heard, understood and cared for. We also provide information about other support services that are available in communities around Australia (24 hours) Mensline Australia is a dedicated service for men with relationship and family concerns (24 hours) Kids Help Line is Australia's only free, confidential and anonymous, telephone and online counselling service specifically for young people aged between 5 and 25. BeyondBlue beyondblue is an independent, not-for-profit organisation working to increase awareness and understanding of depression, anxiety and related substance-use disorders throughout Australia and reduce the associated stigma Contingency Plans and Response Management Procedures PAGE 60

61 Organisation Centrelink Rural Financial Counselling Service Contact (Farm Assistance) (Drought Assistance Hotline) The Exceptional Circumstances Relief Payment (ECRP) is delivered by Centrelink on behalf of the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. The payment provides assistance to farmers living in 'exceptional circumstances' affected areas who are having difficulty meeting family and personal living expenses (free call for referral to your nearest Rural Financial Counselling Service provider) Rural financial counsellors can: help clients identify financial and business options help clients negotiate with their lenders help clients adjust to climate change through the Climate Change Adjustment Program, identify any advice and training needed and develop an action plan help clients meet their mutual obligations under the Transitional Income Support program give clients information about government and other assistance schemes refer clients to accountants, agricultural advisers and educational services refer clients to Centrelink and to professionals for succession planning, family mediation and personal, emotional and social counselling. Pest-specific emergency response and information documents As part of the implementation of the IBP, pest-specific information and emergency response documents, such as fact sheets, contingency plans, pest risk reviews and diagnostic protocols should be developed over time for all medium to high risk pests listed in the Threat Summary Tables (Appendix 1). Currently, a number of these documents have been developed by other plant industries for pests of the olive industry (Table 17) and are available for download through the Pest Information Document Database located at As new documents are developed for pests of the olive industry they will also be available for download from the PHA website. Contingency Plans and Response Management Procedures PAGE 61

62 Table 17. Pest-specific information documents on pests of the olive industry Common name Scientific name Pest risk review Fact sheet Carrot cyst nematode Heterodera carotae 15 Pierce s disease of grapevine Xylella fastidiosa Threat-specific contingency plans Over time, threat-specific contingency plans will be completed for the exotic threats identified in the high priority plant pest list (Table 4). Updated plans will be identified during reviews of the biosecurity plan and added to the PHA website as they become available. The guideline for development of Threat Specific Contingency Plans, prepared by Dr Peter Merriman and Dr Simon McKirdy will be used as a basis for developing these plans 18. National diagnostic standards for priority plant pest threats National diagnostic standards have been commissioned for a number of exotic/emergency plant pests. These protocols would be used nationally in the event of an incursion, thus ensuring a rapid response and nationally consistent test results that are directly comparable. However, given the rapid development of improved molecular diagnostic techniques, these protocols need to be regularly reviewed and updated. The development and endorsement of these protocols is managed by the Subcommittee on Plant Health Diagnostic Standards (SPHDS). Diagnostic standards that have been formally nationally endorsed are available on the SPDHS website ( Prior to endorsement, completed draft protocols are made available on the pest information document database ( Further information diagnostic standards and their endorsement process can be found on the SPHDS website. 15 Developed as part of the Vegetable IBP 16 Developed as part of the Viticulture, Nursery and Garden and Cherry IBPs 17 Developed as part of the Nut IBP 18 Document available from Contingency Plans and Response Management Procedures PAGE 62

63 AWARENESS MATERIAL PAGE 63

64 High priority plant pest threat-related documents Pests listed in Table 4 have been identified as high priority threats to the olive industry by members of the Olive Industry Biosecurity Group. They have been assessed as having high entry/establishment/spread potential and/or a high economic impact. This list should provide the basis for the development of awareness material for the industry. A listing of current documents on these pests is presented in Table 17. Fact sheets Fact sheets are currently available from a range of government departments and industry sources for many of the olive high priority pest threats (Table 18). Table 18. Sources of information on high priority pest threats of the olive industry Pest name Olive fly Bactrocera oleae Brown spot Camarosporium dalmaticum Olive thrips Liothrips oleae Olive moth Prays oleae Verticillium wilt (defoliating strain) Verticillium dahliae Olive knot Pseudomonas savastanoi pv. savastanoi Information available from HYPPZ, INRA ( Olive Oil Source ( PaDIL ( PlantPro ( UC IPM Online ( PlantPro ( HYPPZ, INRA ( PlantPro ( HYPPZ, INRA ( PlantPro ( PaDIL ( PlantPro ( UC IPM Online ( PlantPro ( SARDI ( UC IPM Online ( Awareness Material PAGE 64

65 Relevant web sites Further information on pest threats to olives can be found from the following sources: Australian Olives Association Ltd. ( Plant Health Australia ( AQIS ICON database ( Pest and disease image library (PaDIL; Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry ( Farm biosecurity ( The Olive Press magazine (theolivepressmagazine.com) Awareness Material PAGE 65

66 Contacts for further information on olive industry biosecurity A range of government and grower organisation details are provided below (Table 19) for persons seeking further information on citrus industry biosecurity. Table 19. Relevant sources of further biosecurity information for the olive industry Agency Information Address National Australian Olive Association Ltd Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS) Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Refer to the website for: Australian olive industry information chemical permit information code of practice labelling information Refer to the website for: fact sheets on quarantine pests ICON import conditions database PHYTO - plant and plant product export conditions database Refer to the website for: emergency plant pest incursion alerts PO Box 309, Pendle Hill, NSW 2145 Telephone: (02) Fax: (02) GPO Box 858 Canberra ACT 2601 Switchboard: (02) Awareness Material PAGE 66

67 Agency Information Address Plant Health Australia New South Wales NSW Department of Industry and Investment Queensland Biosecurity Queensland, part of the Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation, Queensland Refer to website for: further information on Industry Biosecurity Plans other information on plant biosecurity projects pest fact sheets, pest risk reviews and contingency plans the Australian Plant Pest Database Refer to website for information including: pest and disease Agnotes and Agfacts Refer to website for: pest fact sheets Plant Health Australia Suite 5, FECCA House 4 Phipps Close DEAKIN ACT 2600 Telephone: (02) Fax: (02) admin@phau.com.au Agricultural Inspection Services Sydney Markets Office Shop 1 Markets Plaza, Sydney Markets PO Box 1 Sydney Markets NSW 2129 Telephone: (02) Fax: (02) Biosecurity Queensland 3 rd Floor, Primary Industries Building 80 Ann Street Brisbane QLD 4000 Telephone: Fax: (07) callweb@dpi.qld.gov.au Awareness Material PAGE 67

68 Agency Information Address Northern Territory Department of Regional Development, Primary Industry, Fisheries and Resources South Australia Primary Industries and Resources South Australian Research and Development Institute Tasmania Department of Primary Industries and Water Refer to the website for: information on field crops information on pests South Australia Research and Development Institute is part of PIRSA. Refer to website for fact sheets, and information on biosecurity issues including: farm hygiene pest and disease management Refer to website for: quarantine restrictions on movement of produce information for growers Berrimah Farm Makagon Road Berrimah Northern Territory 0828 Postal address: GPO BOX 3000 Darwin NT 0801 Telephone: (08) Plant Health Operations 46 Prospect Road PROSPECT SA 5082 Telephone: Fax: (08) Department of Primary Industries and Water GPO Box 44, HOBART TAS 7001 Telephone or (03) Awareness Material PAGE 68

69 Agency Information Address Victoria Victorian Department of Primary Industries Western Australia Department of Agriculture and Food Western Australia Refer to web site for: pest fact sheets information notes interstate quarantine Refer to web site for: pest fact sheets farm biosecurity pest and disease management For more details contact the DPI Plant Standards Branch on (freecall) or on Department of Agriculture and Food, Western Australia Western Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service 9 Fricker Rd (cnr Horrie Miller Dr) Perth Airport WA 6105 Telephone: (08) Fax: (08) Awareness Material PAGE 69

70 APPENDIX 1: THREAT SUMMARY TABLES PAGE 70

71 Olive industry threat summary tables The information provided in the threat summary tables (pathogens, Table 20 and invertebrates, Table 21) is a basic overview of plant pest threats to the olive industry. Summarised information on entry, establishment and spread potentials and economic consequences of establishment are provided where available. Assessments may change given more detailed research, and will be reviewed with the biosecurity plan. Pathogens Table 20. Olive industry pathogen threat summary table Common name Life form Scientific name Primary host Affected plant part Entry potential Establishment potential Spread potential Economic impact Overall risk Olive semi latent virus Vir Olive semi latent virus (Undetermined) Olive UNKNOWN UNKNOWN UNKNOWN LOW- NEGLIGIBLE Phytoplasmas Plo Aster yellows, X- diseases, elm yellows & stolbur groups Brown spot Fun Camarosporium dalmaticum Large host range Leaves, shoots LOW UNKNOWN 19 UNKNOWN 19 LOW LOW- UNKNOWN Olive Fruit LOW LOW 20 LOW 21 MEDIUM VERY LOW Canker Fun Cytospora oleina Olive Stem UNKNOWN UNKNOWN 22 LOW Esca disease Fun Fomitiporia mediterranea Grapevine Stem, leaves, fruit UNKNOWN UNKNOWN 19 Dependent on whether leafhoppers currently in Australia can transmit these strains. Native leafhoppers can transmit current phytoplasma strains in Australia, so may be expected to transmit other exotic strains. Establishment and spread potentials would be low-medium if transmissible by native leafhoppers 20 Unless olive fly also established, in which case establishment potential would be high 21 Unless olive fly also established, in which case spread potential would be high 22 Invades after cold injury. Many other species already in Australia, so may already be here but not so far detected Appendix 1: Threat Summary Tables PAGE 71

72 Common name Life form Scientific name Primary host Affected plant part Entry potential Establishment potential Spread potential Economic impact Overall risk Bark canker Fun Massariella oleae Olive Stem UNKNOWN LOW 23 Latent ring spot of olive Vir Olive latent ringspot virus (Nepovirus) Olive Symptomless UNKNOWN UNKNOWN 24 UNKNOWN 24 LOW Olive leaf yellowing associated virus Vir Olive leaf yellowing associated virus (Closterovirus) Olive Symptomless UNKNOWN UNKNOWN UNKNOWN LOW- NEGLIGIBLE Olive vein yellowing associated virus Vir Olive vein yellowingassociated virus (Potexvirus) Olive UNKNOWN UNKNOWN UNKNOWN LOW- NEGLIGIBLE Stem blight Fun Phoma incompta Olive Stem UNKNOWN HIGH HIGH LOW LOW- UNKNOWN Olive knot Bac Pseudomonas savastanoi pv. savastanoi Olive Leaves, stem, trunk HIGH 25 HIGH MEDIUM-HIGH LOW-MEDIUM LOW- MEDIUM Olive yellow mottling and decline associated virus Vir Unknown Olive Symptomless UNKNOWN UNKNOWN UNKNOWN LOW- NEGLIGIBLE Verticillium wilt (defoliating strain) Fun Verticillium dahliae Polyphagous Whole tree, including roots LOW HIGH MEDIUM HIGH MEDIUM Pierce s disease of grapevine Bac Xylella fastidiosa Grapevine Whole tree MEDIUM- HIGH HIGH LOW 26 UNKNOWN 27 UNKNOWN The pathogen threat summary table was primarily prepared with information supplied by Mrs Barbara Hall, South Australian Research and Development Institute. 23 Bark canker is a weak pathogen the affects mainly neglected olive trees growing under unfavourable conditions 24 Very little known about this virus. It is symptomless and vectors are unknown, therefore it is hard to determine establishment and spread potential. If it is not already present in Australia, establishment and spread are most likely to be low to negligible. 25 Olive knot is already in Australia, but has a limited distribution 26 Spread potential is vector dependent. Ability of native vectors to transmit disease is unknown, but all xylem sucking insects are potential vectors. Spread potential would be LOW without, but HIGH with suitable vectors. 27 Detected in California on olives, which showed symptoms, but no other information can be found Appendix 1: Threat Summary Tables PAGE 72

73 Invertebrates Table 21. Olive industry invertebrate threat summary table Common name Life form Scientific name Primary host Affected plant part Entry potential Establishment potential Spread potential Economic impact Overall risk Death s head hawkmoth Lep Acherontia atropos Broad host range Leaves UNKNOWN LOW LOW VERY LOW NEGLIGIBLE Mite Aculus olearius Olive Leaves, fruit MEDIUM MEDIUM-HIGH LOW-MEDIUM LOW NEGLIGIBLE- VERY LOW Bug Acutaspis paulista Broad host range Leaves UNKNOWN LOW-MEDIUM LOW LOW NEGLIGIBLE- VERY LOW Olive whitefly Bug Aleurolobus olivinus Olive Leaves MEDIUM MEDIUM-HIGH MEDIUM-HIGH LOW VERY LOW-LOW South American fruit fly Fly Anastrepha fraterculus Cherimoya, Citrus, Eugenia, stone fruit, guava, Syzygium Fruit UNKNOWN LOW 28 HIGH UNKNOWN- VERY LOW Btle Anthaxia dimidiata Olive Stems UNKNOWN MEDIUM MEDIUM LOW LOW Bug Aonidia oleae Olive UNKNOWN LOW-MEDIUM LOW-MEDIUM LOW NEGLIGIBLE- VERY LOW Black borer Btle Apate monachus Broad host range Stems UNKNOWN LOW LOW LOW NEGLIGIBLE Scale Bug Aspidiotus tafiranus Olive MEDIUM MEDIUM LOW-MEDIUM LOW NEGLIGIBLE- VERY LOW Olive fly Fly Bactrocera oleae Olive Fruit MEDIUM HIGH HIGH HIGH HIGH Btle Caenorhinus cribripennis LOW LOW-MEDIUM MEDIUM LOW NEGLIGIBLE- VERY LOW 28 Low establishment potential on olives Appendix 1: Threat Summary Tables PAGE 73

74 Common name Life form Scientific name Primary host Affected plant part Entry potential Establishment potential Spread potential Economic impact Overall risk Covillea scale Bug Clavaspis covilleae Broad host range Stems UNKNOWN LOW-MEDIUM LOW-MEDIUM VERY LOW NEGLIGIBLE Goat moth Lep Cossus cossus Broad host range Stems UNKNOWN MEDIUM LOW LOW VERY LOW Olive leaf midge Fly Dasineura oleae Olive Leaves MEDIUM HIGH HIGH LOW-MEDIUM LOW-MEDIUM Bug Delottococcus aberiae Broad host range MEDIUM MEDIUM MEDIUM LOW VERY LOW Grey scale Bug Diaspidiotus africanus Broad host range MEDIUM MEDIUM MEDIUM LOW VERY LOW Bug Bug Diaspidiotus lepineyi Diaspidiotus mairei Olive LOW LOW MEDIUM MEDIUM VERY LOW Broad host range MEDIUM MEDIUM MEDIUM LOW VERY LOW Pear scale 29 Bug Diaspidiotus pyri Broad host range Stems Bug Dynaspidiotus ericarum Broad host range Leaves UNKNOWN LOW LOW VERY LOW NEGLIGIBLE Btle Dyscerus perforatus Olive Leaves Pso Ectopsocus briggsi Olive Leaves, stems UNKNOWN MEDIUM MEDIUM VERY LOW 30 NEGLIGIBLE European pear scale Bug Epidiaspis leperii Broad host range Stems, fruit MEDIUM MEDIUM LOW-MEDIUM LOW-MEDIUM NEGLIGIBLE- LOW Olive psyllid Bug Euphyllura olivina Olive psyllid Bug Euphyllura phillyreae Olive Leaves MEDIUM HIGH MEDIUM-HIGH MEDIUM LOW-MEDIUM Olive Leaves MEDIUM MEDIUM-HIGH MEDIUM LOW LOW 29 Recorded as present in Tasmania (CSIRO) 30 No direct damage: has been possibly implicated with assisting distribution of Spilocaea oleagina Appendix 1: Threat Summary Tables PAGE 74

75 Common name Life form Scientific name Primary host Affected plant part Entry potential Establishment potential Spread potential Economic impact Overall risk Olive psyllid Bug Euphyllura straminea Olive Leaves UNKNOWN UNKNOWN UNKNOWN VERY LOW Olive pyralid moth Lep Euzophera pinguis Olive, almond Stems MEDIUM MEDIUM-HIGH MEDIUM-HIGH MEDIUM 31 LOW-MEDIUM American plum borer Lep Euzophera semifuneralis Sweet cherry, sour cherry, plum, almond, persimmon, apple, poplar, pecan, elm, oak Trunk, branches LOW MEDIUM LOW-MEDIUM LOW VERY LOW Bug Filippia follicularis Olive UNKNOWN MEDIUM MEDIUM LOW 32 VERY LOW Olive geometrid moth Lep Gymnoscelis rufifasciata Citrus, olive, sorghum, maize Flowers UNKNOWN UNKNOWN UNKNOWN VERY LOW Spiral nematode Nem Helicotylenchus neopaxilli Spiral nematode Nem Helicotylenchus oleae Roots LOW-MEDIUM 33 HIGH HIGH LOW-MEDIUM LOW-MEDIUM Olive Roots LOW-MEDIUM 33 HIGH HIGH LOW-MEDIUM LOW-MEDIUM Carrot cyst nematode Nem Heterodera carotae Carrot Roots LOW-MEDIUM 33 HIGH HIGH LOW-MEDIUM LOW-MEDIUM Mining scale 34 Bug Howardia biclavis Broad host range Stems LOW-MEDIUM 35 MEDIUM MEDIUM MEDIUM 36 VERY LOW-LOW Hyalesthes luteipus Increased incidence when trees damaged, e.g. frost, hail, pruning 32 Likely to be controlled by predators and parasites in the field 33 Comes in with soil on roots 34 Present in Queensland (CSIRO) 35 Only recorded on olives in the USA and South America 36 Recorded attacking olives in Chile 37 Phytoplasma vector Appendix 1: Threat Summary Tables PAGE 75

76 Common name Life form Scientific name Primary host Affected plant part Entry potential Establishment potential Spread potential Economic impact Overall risk Bug Hyalesthes obsoletus Stem, leaves MEDIUM MEDIUM MEDIUM LOW 38 VERY LOW Bark beetle Btle Hylesinus oleiperda Olive, fig Stems MEDIUM HIGH MEDIUM-HIGH MEDIUM LOW-MEDIUM Bark beetle, ash Btle Hylesinus varius Broad host range Stems MEDIUM HIGH MEDIUM-HIGH LOW VERY LOW-LOW Olive gall midge Fly Lasioptera berlesiana Olive Leaves MEDIUM MEDIUM-HIGH 39 HIGH UNKNOWN White olive scale Bug Leucaspis riccae Broad host range Leaves MEDIUM HIGH MEDIUM LOW 40 LOW Viburnum cushion scale Bug Lichtensia viburni Broad host range Stems LOW MEDIUM LOW LOW 41 NEGLIGIBLE Olive thrips Thri Liothrips oleae Olive Leaves, growing points, flowers, fruit Grape berry moth Lep Lobesia botrana Grapevine Fruit, inflorescence HIGH HIGH 42 HIGH LOW-MEDIUM LOW-MEDIUM UNKNOWN LOW-MEDIUM LOW-MEDIUM LOW NEGLIGIBLE- VERY LOW Blister beetle Btle Lytta vesicatoria Ash, olive Flowers UNKNOWN HIGH HIGH LOW-MEDIUM LOW-MEDIUM Melalgus confertus Polyphagous Twigs, branches UNKNOWN MEDIUM MEDIUM-HIGH VERY LOW 43 VERY LOW Cockchafer Btle Melolontha melolantha Polyphagous Roots LOW LOW-MEDIUM MEDIUM LOW-MEDIUM NEGLIGIBLE- LOW 38 Suspected phytoplasma vector 39 Establishment appears to be highly climate dependent 40 Not likely to be a problem except in disrupted ecosystems (e.g. pesticide overuse) 41 Likely to kept in check by natural enemies in the field 42 Higher in presence of bark beetles (holes for overwintering) 43 Olives not preferred host, sunburn damage predisposes to attack Appendix 1: Threat Summary Tables PAGE 76

77 Common name Life form Scientific name Primary host Affected plant part Entry potential Establishment potential Spread potential Economic impact Overall risk Metaceronema japonica Frosted moth-bug Bug Metcalfa pruinosa Olive Citrus, Ficus, soyabean, Malus spp., olive, stone fruit, European pear, grape Leaves Stems, fruit LOW LOW LOW VERY LOW 44 NEGLIGIBLE South American fruit tree weevil Btle Naupactus xanthographus Broad host range Leaves, roots Harper scale Bug Neopinnaspis harperi Broad host range Bug Neoselenaspidus silvaticus Broad host range Greenhouse orthezia Bug Orthezia insignis Citrus, Brazilian rose wood Leaves, stems, growing points Armadillo weevil Btle Otiorhynchus armadillo Cherry laurel Roots, stems, leaves, growing points MEDIUM MEDIUM MEDIUM VERY LOW- LOW NEGLIGIBLE- VERY LOW Oleander scale Bug Paracoccus burnerae Broad host range MEDIUM HIGH HIGH UNKNOWN Small olive leaf miner Lep Parectopa latifoliella Olive, Phillyrea Leaves MEDIUM MEDIUM MEDIUM LOW 45 VERY LOW Asiatic pomegranate scale Bug Parlatoreopsis longispina Broad host range 44 Appears to rarely cause economic damage in most crops 45 Rarely of economic importance Appendix 1: Threat Summary Tables PAGE 77

78 Common name Life form Scientific name Primary host Affected plant part Entry potential Establishment potential Spread potential Economic impact Overall risk Bug Peliococcus cycliger Bermuda grass, olive Stems MEDIUM MEDIUM MEDIUM LOW VERY LOW Olive bark beetle Btle Phloeotribus scarabaeoides Jasmine moth Lep Pipita unionalis Olive, Franxinus spp., privet, lilac, Phyllirea spp. Stems 46 MEDIUM HIGH MEDIUM-HIGH MEDIUM LOW-MEDIUM Pit scale Bug Pollinia pollini Olive Stems LOW-MEDIUM MEDIUM LOW-MEDIUM LOW NEGLIGIBLE- VERY LOW Olive moth Lep Prays oleae Olive, almond Flowers, fruit, leaves HIGH HIGH HIGH MEDIUM-HIGH MEDIUM-HIGH Woolly aphid 47 Bug Prociphilus oleae Olive Leaves, stem LOW-MEDIUM MEDIUM-HIGH MEDIUM-HIGH LOW VERY LOW Olive fruit midge Fly Prolasioptera berlesiana Olive bark midge Fly Resseliella oleisuga Olive Fruit MEDIUM MEDIUM MEDIUM LOW- MEDIUM 48 Olive Stems LOW-MEDIUM MEDIUM MEDIUM-HIGH LOW- MEDIUM 49 VERY LOW-LOW VERY LOW-LOW Giant emperor moth Lep Saturnia pyri Walnut, apple, olive, apricot, sweet cherry, plum, almond, peach, European pear Leaves LOW-MEDIUM LOW-MEDIUM MEDIUM VERY LOW 50 NEGLIGIBLE West Indian red scale Bug Selenaspidus articulatus Broad host range Leaves, stems, fruit LOW-MEDIUM LOW-MEDIUM MEDIUM LOW VERY LOW 46 Especially inserts of leaves and fruit 47 Present in Western Australia 48 Higher in the presence of olive fly 49 Influenced by health of tree. Also, likely to more problematic in coastal-high humidity areas. Rarely harmful 50 Rarely harmful Appendix 1: Threat Summary Tables PAGE 78

79 Common name Life form Scientific name Primary host Affected plant part Entry potential Establishment potential Spread potential Economic impact Overall risk Olive rust mite Mite Tegolophus hassani Olive Leaves MEDIUM HIGH LOW-MEDIUM LOW-MEDIUM VERY LOW-LOW False codling moth Lep Thaumetatotibia leucotreta Polyphagous Leaves, fruit, seeds LOW LOW LOW LOW NEGLIGIBLE Olive bark midge Fly Thomasiniana oleisuga Olive Stems LOW-MEDIUM HIGH MEDIUM LOW-MEDIUM VERY LOW-LOW Stubby-root nematode Nem Trichodorus primitivus Sugarbeet, cabbage, pea Roots LOW-MEDIUM 51 HIGH HIGH LOW-MEDIUM LOW-MEDIUM Lep Zelleria oleastrella Olive Leaves, terminal buds LOW-MEDIUM MEDIUM-HIGH MEDIUM-HIGH LOW VERY LOW-LOW Leopard moth Lep Zeuzera pyrina Broad host range Stems LOW-MEDIUM HIGH HIGH MEDIUM LOW-MEDIUM The invertebrate threat summary table was primarily prepared with information supplied by Professor Robert Spooner-Hart, University of Western Sydney. 51 Some species already widespread in Australia and affecting olives Appendix 1: Threat Summary Tables PAGE 79

80 Description of terms The descriptions below relate to terms used in the threat summary tables (Table 20 and Table 21). Full descriptions of the risk rating terms can be found on page 23. Life form legend Bac Btle Bug Fly Fun Lep Mite Nem Plo Pso Thri Vir Bacteria Beetles, weevils, etc. (COLEOPTERA) Stink bugs, aphids, mealybugs, scale, whiteflies and hoppers (HEMIPTERA) Flies and midges (DIPTERA) Fungus Butterflies and moths (LEPIDOPTERA) Mites (e.g. spider and gall mites) (ACARI) Nematode Phytoplasma-like organism Booklice, barkflies, etc. (PSOCOPTERA) Thrips (THYSANOPTERA) Virus Appendix 1: Threat Summary Tables PAGE 80

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