The Rockliff Liberal Government is taking proactive steps to support potato producers after the detection of Potato Virus Y tuber necrosis strain.
The virus causes a disease of potatoes called potato tuber necrotic ringspot disease which results in dark unsightly rings on tubers. The virus is spread by aphids.
Primary Industries and Water Minister Jo Palmer said the government was working closely with affected producers after the virus was detected on properties at Little Swanport, Bangor/Dunalley, Cressy and Connellys Marsh.
“Biosecurity Tasmania is working with the potato growers and a seed supplier to test and trace crops. The leaves of the affected crops have now been ‘burnt off’ which will reduce the chance of further spread of the disease,” Minister Palmer said.
“Advice and diagnostic support will continue to be offered to growers as they carefully dispose of symptomatic tubers and manage potato regrowth at the affected sites.
“Importantly, the potato virus is not dangerous to humans.”
Biosecurity Tasmania is working with industry and relevant authorities, including the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture, a seed supplier and the Tasmanian Farmers and Graziers Association.
For more information, contact Biosecurity Tasmania on 03 6165 3777 or e-mail Biosecurity.planthealth@nre.tas.gov.au.