BENDIGO residents are being warned to brace for more locust swarms following a rise in temperatures this week.In an attempt to combat the invasion, the Department of Primary Industries is urging landholders to report new egg layings. DPI state locust director John Balfour said erratic weather conditions during the past two months had resulted in a broad variation in locust development across the state.“There are adult locusts flying in some parts of Victoria, whereas in other areas locusts have not yet reached adulthood and are still unable to fly,” he said.“Where hoppers remain on the ground, landholders should be spraying them if the conditions are suitable or preparing to spray them soon when conditions improve.”Mr Balfour said information from landholders was crucial to the statewide locust response as field crews continue to scan the Mallee, Wimmera and north central regions for bandings.“Swarm activity has been reported around Horsham, Sea Lake and Shepparton,” Mr Balfour said.“As adult locust activity increases with the warmer weather, more locusts will be laying eggs and it is vital to have timely information on locust swarms and egg-laying.”He said reports of locust activity from landholders was also pivotal in helping DPI co-ordinate the response to the second generation of locust hoppers, which would start hatching in the coming weeks.Landholders should report locust activity, including hoppers and egg laying, to DPI on 1300 135 559 or to the DPI website at www.dpi.vic.gov.au/locustsMr Balfour reminded landholders that when treating locust hoppers with chemical sprays, it was essential to observe withholding periods and follow guidelines on the safe use of chemicals.