Dieback (Phytophthora dieback) is a disease that presents a very real threat to our native species. A fungus that exists in mud and soil, it affects more than 40 per cent of native plant species and has the ability to forever alter some of our bushland by killing off susceptible species. There is no known cure for this disease, which is most rapidly spread through human activity. You can help to prevent the spread of it by making sure you:
Dieback devastation in a woodland forest. Photo credit DPAW
- Use cleaning stations to washdown your vehicles before entry to dieback free areas;
- Always stay on roads and tracks;
- Clean or sterilise your footwear before entering dieback free areas;
- Stay out of quarantined areas;
- Do not enter disease risk areas during, or for three days after, rain;
- Making sure you do not move soil or plant material from infected areas; and
- Reading and complying with information signs.