Biosecurity Queensland will boost its locust control efforts across western Queensland in coming weeks following growing concerns about the potential impacts of large swarms.

Biosecurity Queensland officer Duncan Swan said that large swarms of spur-throated locusts are expected to start moving towards cropping areas in the coming months.

"Despite months of intense aerial and ground control work by Biosecurity Queensland officers, recent warm weather means the locusts may start to disperse earlier than expected," Mr Swan said.

"When the locusts start moving, they may head towards Queensland´s million-dollar central highlands cropping region and the Darling Downs. Our top priority is to protect these industries and businesses.

"Resources including staff, chemicals and equipment for spraying are currently being pulled together to form a taskforce to undertake an intensive two-week control program starting next week."

Control programs will take place around the Barcaldine, Blackall, Charleville and Cunnamulla areas.

"Working cooperatively with property owners in these areas is vital to the success of the control operation," Mr Swan said.

"Cattle in paddocks, lambing sheep and beehives can be affected by the spraying, and consent is necessary before any control can go ahead.

"Landholders in the targeted areas can contact Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23 for further information about the control program."

Biosecurity Queensland officers have already treated 12,800 hectares of swarms over the past two months.

"These locusts are different to the Australian plague locusts currently affecting Australia´s southern areas," Mr Swan said.

"Spur-throated locusts disperse over a wide area during spring to lay their eggs, which means they do not form summer swarms like the other locust species.

"Therefore, it´s vital that current spur-throated locust swarms are targeted now."

For more information on locusts in Queensland or to report sightings, contact Biosecurity Queensland. Alternatively, contact your local government office.

Media contact: Jacinda Chisholm, 3239 3725