Farmers, take heed: burning piles can be a stock hazard. The story of a tragic cattle death near Wangaratta serves as a stark reminder of the dangers lurking in seemingly innocuous burn piles. It all began with a well-intentioned action: replacing damaged fences after the fires. But the burn pile contained treated timber, a common choice for fencing and landscaping, often treated with copper chrome arsenate (CCA). This chemical, while effective against rot and pests, becomes a deadly toxin when burned. The burning process concentrates the arsenic, leaving behind highly palatable ash and debris that can be fatal to livestock. A single bonfire can have devastating consequences, as seen in the Wangaratta case, where every animal that accessed the burn site died. This incident underscores the critical importance of vigilance in burn pile management. Even small amounts of contamination can lead to severe, often fatal, outcomes for animals. It's not just treated timber that poses a risk; common garden plants like sugar eucalypts, oleander, yew, foxglove, and rhododendrons can also be toxic to livestock. Dried clippings, in particular, retain their toxicity and become more palatable, making them a silent killer. A recent case involving horses and garden clippings containing oleander on a burn pile resulted in multiple deaths. This highlights the need for farmers to be cautious about what they burn and where their animals roam. The key takeaway? Always be aware of potential contaminants and the sources of your burn piles. Livestock health and safety should be a top priority, and being proactive in preventing contamination can save lives. So, the next time you're considering a burn pile, remember the Wangaratta tragedy and take the necessary precautions to protect your stock. Stay vigilant, and stay safe.
