Further field surveys will be conducted in the near future for the exotic mealybug - the same type as recently found near Emerald and in the Burdekin - and if mealybugs are established on the Downs, it will mean crop and farm hygiene will be of paramount importance to minimise carryover.

According to Cotton Australia, an industry protocol for management of mealybugs is in the final stages of completion and has been adopted by the Central Highlands CGA, while other CGAs have been invited to give comment or their support.

Before the protocol can be released to industry, an Emergency Use Permit for a new treatment is being sought.

In trials conducted by researchers in Toowoomba on a range of products (including Farmcleanse, Canopy oil and PULSE Penetrant) found that PULSE at 0.5 per cent (i.e. half of one percent or 500mls per 100 litres) was the most superior treatment with 100pc mortality of all life stages (nymphs & adults).

Cotton Australia has applied for an APVMA Emergency Use Permit (EUP) for the use of PULSE as a disinfestation of mealybugs from farm machinery, and this is expected to be resolved by the end of the week.

A protocol for machinery clean-down using a PULSE solution as a final spray treatment after cleaning has been drafted subject to the APVMA granting the EUP.

The permit and protocol will be distributed to industry and will also be available from Cotton Australia's website, www.cottonaustrali a.com.au.