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Aerial Control

Aerial Foliar Spray Application (AFSA)

Aerial Foliar Spray Application good practice front cover dated May 2023

Aerial spraying by helicopter boom (AFSA) can be a cost-effective way to control large areas of dense wilding conifer infestations.

Latest update: May 2023 

Aerial Basal Bark Application (ABBA)

 The image shows a helicopter hovering over a wilding conifer with a contractor leaning out of the helicopter with a nozzle and spraying chemical on a lone wilding pine. This is Aerial Basal Bark application control method for wilding pines

The ABBA method of wilding conifer control involves chemically ring-barking trees by using a wand to apply herbicide from a helicopter. Dead trees are left standing until they naturally rot away. It is the most efficient way to control scattered wildings in difficult-access areas or within high value vegetation.


Latest update: May 2023 - (some minor wording edits changed June 2023)

Ground Control

Ground Based Control: Cut Stump

This image shows a wilding pine tree stump with a ring of herbicide around the stump to show it has been controlled.

Cut stump is a control method that involves cutting a tree down and applying herbicide to the cut stump to prevent regrowth. It is suitable for the control of trees which are accessible from the ground and where the risk of damage to surrounding vegetation is minimal or not a concern.

Latest update: November 2021

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Video - Good Practice Guide for Cut Stump

It’s important to always wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) for the cutting tool you are using.

This video demonstrates the cut stump method.
Filmed in June 2022

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Ground-Based Herbicide Injection: Drill and Fill

This image shows a wilding pine contractor wearing full PPE including helmet, earmuffs and facemask whilst drilling into the trunk of a wilding pine.
Rather than cutting down large trees, it is often better to drill holes into a tree’s trunk and fill the holes with herbicide. This is a good option on difficult terrain where felling is unsafe.

Latest update: October 2021

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Video - Good Practice Guide for Drill and Fill

It’s important to always wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) for the herbicide you are using.
This video demonstrates the drill and fill method.
Filmed in September 2021.

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Fire Risk Mitigation

Video - Fire Prevention During Wilding Pine Control Operations

This video helps to give guidance on mitigating fire risk for contractors during wilding control operations.

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Example Fire Risk Mitigation Plan

This is an example fire risk mitigation plan which can be used and adapted to operations in your area.

example fire mitigation plan

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Other guides

Video - Helicopter Transport Safety: Load Master Rules

Helicopter transport is essential for wilding control work in remote places. Passengers must follow instructions of the Pilot and their appointed Load Master.

This video explains the Load Master role and what passengers must do.

Published in April 2023

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WCIS User Guide

 WCIS User Guide - June 2023

Latest update: June 2023

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Video - Helicopter Passenger Safety: Before You Fly

This video demonstrates how to stay safe around helicopters as a passenger.

Published in November 2021

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