AgResearch scientist Sarah Mansfield urged farmers to take part to hear first-hand about a new Sustainable Farming Fund porina research programme specific to the West Coast.
“Until now little has been known about the pest’s specific impact in this area.
“So, the aim of these field days is to update farmers about the work we’re undertaking but to also provide fresh ideas for more efficient and effective management using current methods.”
At low densities porina are direct competitors with stock for foliage and at higher densities plants are destroyed, allowing inferior plant or weed species to establish.
Young porina caterpillars constructed silk-lined casings on the soil surface, and as they grew built permanent burrows in the soil. They emerged from their burrows at night to feed, severing grass and clover leaves at the base of plants and dragging them back to their burrows where they are eaten.
Moths flew in large numbers during spring and early summer. They did not feed but each moth could lay up to 3000 eggs on the pasture surface.
Caterpillars and the damage they caused were mostly noticeable from April to September.
Field day details – All times: 10am to 2pm
• Tuesday, June 2 – Aaron Laurie’s property, 1818 Kaniere-Kowhitirangi Rd, Kowhitirangi
• Wednesday, June 3 – Gerald Hateley’s property, 96 Stephen Rd, Westport
• Tuesday, June 9 – Dale Straight’s property, 337 Scally Rd, Whataroa
