Horehound BioControl Update 7 – Submissions closed

Greetings all,

The formal public consultation on the application to introduce two species of moths as biocontrol agents for horehound has now closed and it is time to take stock of the where we are at.
The submissions are all available for the general public to view. You can find them listed under “Application Documents” here.

A quick summary:

• Three binders of submissions – impressive by all accounts!
• One submission opposing the application
• One neutral (not opposing) submission
• Thirty six submissions in support, from a wide variety of individuals and organisations, covering a wide spectrum from farming, through conservation, to community groups

For those of you made submissions – your descriptions of the impact of horehound on your livelihood and wellbeing speak loud and clear. They are incredibly well-structured and informative, and they serve exceptionally well to bring to life the personal stories that make the picture real.
Thank you – we can’t quite say that enough.

What’s next?

There will be a hearing. The opposing submitter, as well as six supporting submitters requested a hearing, and the EPA are now setting the date. It is likely to be in mid-August.

Following the hearing it will be 30 working days to final decision.

It is one giant step forward!
Best wishes,
Ronny & Gavin
You can find previous updates by checking the Horehound BioControl page.