Victory at last. The National Fire Ant Eradication Program has finally backed down, making an exemption for individuals with chemical sensitivities. After being forced to mandate poisoning on properties, they’ve relented, acknowledging that people’s health comes first. To obtain this exemption, individuals simply need to visit their GP and secure a medical certificate.

Check out the attached letter for their own admissions. Huge congratulations to everyone who shared posts, wrote to the program, and stood up against mandated poisoning. With so many exemptions likely, statistically, eradication is now impossible. The program’s collapse seems inevitable.

It’s time for smarter approaches. Doctor Josh King suggests promoting a healthy native population to suppress fire ants. Methods like steam, diatomaceous earth, and orange oil offer effective alternatives. Potential exemptions might include chemical sensitivities, respiratory issues, skin conditions, allergies, and mental health concerns like anxiety. Let’s prioritise health and the environment for a more balanced solution. It’s up to you now, people go to the GP for your expansion and end this poisoning program. @estelleey @jessie_reimers #savethebees

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