At the (2015) conference the very informative and engaging Dr John Clearwater presented on beneficial bugs. Needless to say in question time there was quite a few divergent questions. What John stated was that Tree Croppers are a wonderful resource as ears and eyes on the ground noticing new bugs, and that the Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI) should highly value our ability to give feedback about new or invasive bugs, to www.mpi.govt.nz.
For all Bugs, Fungi, Viral or Bacterial diseases, you phone the 0800 80 99 66 and you will be put through to the right team. If it is deemed no risk, then nothing happens (which is most of the time). But if deemed a risk then follow up may include request for photos or samples. And then things can go from there.
Please also see www.mpi.govt.nz for more information.
– David Whyte
