TR4 Program update

After extensive consultation with industry stakeholders, the ABGC successfully updated the destruction zone requirements outlined in the Code of Practice for managing Panama TR4 infestations, effective September 30, 2024. 

The amendment to the destruction zone protocol under "Part 4, s21 Establishing a destruction zone" has altered the previous requirements. The original guideline stated: 

Previous Protocol: Within three business days of receiving a positive diagnostic result, a destruction zone must be established that: a) Extends 10 meters in either direction from the infected plant along the row of the infected plant, including: (i) the row of the infected plant, (ii) the immediate adjacent rows of plants, and (iii) the interrows between the infected and adjacent plants; b) Is bordered by a temporary barrier to deter unauthorized access; and c) Includes signage on the temporary barrier indicating that unauthorized access to the destruction zone is prohibited. 

Revised Protocol: The updated protocol now requires: Within three business days of receiving a positive diagnostic result, a destruction zone must be established that: a) Extends 5 meters in both directions from the infected plant along the row of the infected plant; b) Is bordered by a temporary barrier to deter unauthorized access; and c) Includes signage on the temporary barrier stating that unauthorized access to the destruction zone is prohibited. 

Summary of Key Changes: 

1.     The destruction zone extension from the infected plant has been reduced from 10 meters to 5 meters in either direction. 

2.    The requirement to destroy plants in the immediate adjacent rows and interrows has been removed. 

3.    The destruction zone must still be bordered by a temporary barrier and fenced upon completion to prevent unauthorized access. 

4.    Signage indicating no unauthorized access must be displayed on the temporary barrier during destruction and on the final fencing. 

Options on-farm after TR4 detection   

In response to grower feedback, the ABGC Board has recognised a need to investigate options that could ease some of the burden (in regulation and cost) on infested property owners. The disease has now been in the Tully Valley for almost a decade.

In coming weeks, ABGC officers will meet with affected growers to discuss these options, particularly around growing cane on their properties. An important first step in this process will be undertaking risk assessments. ABGC officers will explain the work required and the involvement growers can have going forward. This aligns with the ABGC’s charter of fostering transparent and open dialogue.