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Rebates for NSW farmers battling mice

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Mice have cut a destructive swathe for 11 months through properties in NSW's west and south.
Camera IconMice have cut a destructive swathe for 11 months through properties in NSW's west and south. Credit: AAP

NSW farmers who have been dealing with a devastating mouse plague for nearly a year can now get up to $10,000 for the zinc phosphide they are using to kill the rodents.

The rodents have been devouring crops and cutting a destructive swathe through properties for 11 months in the state's west and south.

Deputy Premier John Barilaro said zinc phosphide rebates are now available as part of the government's $150 million mice support package.

Farmers who are laying defences against a spring surge in mouse populations can now claim the rebate which will cover 50 per cent of the cost of zinc phosphide baits, up to $10,000.

"Our farmers have endured the toughest of conditions with recent seasons of drought, bushfires, floods, COVID-19 and now the mice plague and we want to help them protect their crops from rodents which pose a serious threat to the upcoming harvest," Mr Barilaro said on Monday.

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Agriculture Minister Adam Marshall said with stronger zinc phosphide-based baits available, farmers were well equipped to face an expected spring surge of mice.

"Zinc phosphide is the best tool we have in managing the mice plague in crops, so this rebate will go a long way to support our growers, covering some of those costs," Mr Marshall said.

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