Phytophthora Risk

Phytophthora is an introduced root-rot disease which is killing native plants. Plants that are susceptible include gums, banksias and yaccas - all of which provide important habitat and food for native wildlife.

There is no cure for Phytophthora, nor is there any way of stopping its spread once it has infested an area. We can, however, slow down its movement, and minimise its introduction into new areas by modifying the way we behave in Phytophthora infested areas or Phytophthora prone areas.

Phytophthora has the ability to live in most of the southern areas of South Australia, including the Mt Lofty Ranges around Adelaide and the Fleurieu Peninsula.

Bushwalkers can spread Phytophthora by allowing moist soil and plant material to stick to footwear. Please use the footwear cleaning stations along the Heysen Trail, and familiarise yourself with the bushwalking guidelines listed in the Department for Environment and Heritage's Bushwalking Guidelines.

Remember: the best way to control the fungus is to prevent the dispersal of infested soil or plant material.

Spread the word - not the fungus!

More information can be found on the Department for Environment and Heritage websites:

• www.environment.sa.gov.au/biodiversity/plantsand.html
• Phytophthora brochure
• Bushwalking Guidelines