Participatory biosecurity practices: Myrtle rust an unwanted pathogen in Aotearoa New Zealand

Abstract

Managing unwanted pests and diseases is a growing concern. Recent shifts in state-led biosecurity policy have seen a movement towards ‘shared responsibility’ between government, industry and communities. We use social practice theory to show how materials, skills and meanings come together to shape how people understand the spread of myrtle rust (Austropuccinia psidii), an unwanted disease in Aotearoa New Zealand. We show how ‘shared responsibility’ has emerged in the shift from a government-led incursion response to myrtle rust, to passive disease reporting using iNaturalist. We offer a reflective aid to help biosecurity practitioners better consider participatory practices for plant health.