Many environmental problems face us today. Some species are facing extinction. The Greenhouse Effect seems to be affecting climate and weather. Bushland is still being lost to development. Weeds are proliferating. Pest species are of increasing concern.
This site aims to help us better understand the environment of northern Victoria and southern NSW. Armed with better knowledge, we are better able to assess the problems and make better decisions.
There are sections on birding, indigenous plants, bushwalking, parks and reserves and more. This page mentions recent developments. It is linked to a blog page which addresses various issues.
Issues
Should the Barmah-Millewa forest be a national park?
Conservation news
Northern Victoria and Southern Riverina NSW
The news items appearing here are sourced from personal observations, newspaper articles, telephone calls, seminars, press releases, word of mouth, radio and TV news items, browsing the Internet, etc. The webmeister thanks those individuals or groups who have supplied photos and information.
Conservation News
River Red Gum Forests investigation final report released
VEAC has completed its investigation into public landuse along the Murray River and released its final report, A copy of the report a be downloaded from the VEAC web site. Some modifications have been made othe draft recommendations, e.g. the size of some proposed national parks has been reduced to allow camping with dogs along longer stretches of rivers and to provide larger areas for firewood collection. Reedy Swamp in Shepparton and McNab Bend on Gunbower Island have been excluded to allow for duck hunting. August 2008.
Our planet is warming up
Recently, some climate change deniers have claimed that our planet is cooling down. Data from the Climate Research Unit, University of East Anglia and UK Meteorological office suggests otherwise. The graph prepared from their data shows global annual mean surface temperature anomalies (base1961-90).
Our region continues to be drought affected. Above average rainfall has not occurred for many years. August 2008.
Gaunaut report calls on government to act urgently
A draft report on climate change which was commissioned by the Australian government has been released. The report was headed by Professor Ross Garnaut, an economist. The report states that climate change is ahppening faster than most scientists foresaw, partly due to economic growth in Asian countries.The report states that Australia will suffer from climate change more than most countries. Rivers may stop flowing, especially in the Murray-Darling Basin, and many farms will be unviable. Our region is already suffering from prolonged drought and increased temperatures associated with climate change.
The report stresses that global action is essential. But Australia and other rich countries must lead the way, setting good examples for the 'developing' countries to follow. A carbon tax is advocated.
A few days later, the CSIRO released a very pessimistic report, outlining some likely consequences of climate change, e.g. loss of the Great Barrier Reef, 'destruction' of Kakadu wetlands, collapse of ecosystems in the Murray-Darling Basin.
The Australian government is preparing a green paper, outlining its response. July 2008.
Crew works to improve environment
Bushland areas in the Echuca district have benefited from the Drought Employment Programme (DEP). One of the projects carried out has been the erection of bird nesting boxes on Gunbower Island. Other tasks carried out included the erection of signs, the construction of fences to protect remnant indigenous vegetation, the removal/repair of old fences, the removal of barbed wire from the top of some fences, rubbish removal and the construction and erection of picnic tables. Crews comprises farmers and others affected by prolonged drought associated with climate change. July 2008.
Aquatic wetland to contribute to Moama's water supply
A newly created wetland with about 38,000 plants is expected to contribute about 50 megalitres of water a year to Moama's raw water supply system each year. The wetland north of Nicholas Drive will take storm water from the estate and filter it before it is added to the town's water supply. The project cost about $215,000. June 2008
Wildlife corridor to link Bendigo bushland to the Murray River
Campapse Shire has funding to help create a wildlife corridor between the Kamarooka Forest (which is located north of Bendigo) and the Murray River. The location of the corridor has yet to be finalised. June 2008
Murray mouth's ecosystem faces immediate catastrophe
A report into the environmental health of the lower reaches of the Murray-Darling river system was leaked to the media in mid June, about a month after it had been received by politicians. The report warns that the Coorong, Lake Alexandrina, Lake Albert and the mouth of the Murray River will be irreversibly damaged unless environmental flows are restored or rainfall increases dramatically by October this year.The Murray-Darling Basin Ministerial Council, which comprises State and Australian conservation ministers, appears to have ignored the dire warnings of the report, deciding not to meet until after the October deadline. A spokesperson for the Australian Conservation Foundation told reporters that the Council 'effectively made a decision to let the lower lakes and the Coorong go by refusing to take action in the six month window of opportunity identified by the scientists'.
Furore following the leak may be sparking some action. Ministers have asked their departments to start crunching some numbers on what might be done to avert the catastrophe.
The ACF spokesperson claims that State water ministers in conjunction with the Federal Water Minister must find 400 gigalitres, mostly from the Darling system, and get it onto the Lower Lakes and Coorong almost immediately, e.g. by buying water off willing sellers, mostly cotton growers, and by obtaining water from storages along the Darling and other rivers in the basin. Because international cotton prices are so low, there may besome growers who would prefer to sell their water for environmental purposes this year than grow cotton. But relatively little water is in storages: management options are limited.
It's not just the Lower Murray that's in trouble: rivers, farms and ecosystems throughout the Murray-Darling basin are in crisis owing to prolonged drought associated with climate change and the over-allocation of water for irrigation.
A audit of the Murray-darling Basin, the results of which were released in June 2008, confirmed that most of the basin's rivers are in a poor condition. The Goulburn River, which flows into the Murray upstream of Echuca, was the least healthy. Another river which flows into the Murray at Echuca, The Campaspe, was also rated as one of the worst. The Paroo River, which flows through Eulo in southern Queensland, was the only tributary found to be in good condition!
The price charged for water in the cities and for irrigation may need to increase substantially. Currently businesses pay $1.10 per kilolitre and individuals pay $1.76. As a result businesses have little or no incentive to conserve it. Billions of dollars have beenwiped off the value of residential real estate because of dying gardens.
Annual inflows into the Murray River during the first half of the twentieth century were below the long-term median of 9,000 gigalitres a year. From 1950 to 2002 the average inflows were above the median. The past few years have been drought years and, because of climate change, inflows are expected to remain low in years to come.
Australia¹s dairy industry is one of the biggest users of water but the value added is relatively low when compared to the value-added by rice and by horticultural crops. To save the river system, it may benecessary to cut down on the production of export products which use a lot of the water, e.g. dairying and cotton.
Any sustainable scheme to save the Murray must allow the river system ~ the environnment ~ to obtain a sufficient share of the water. This requires money and political courage. And we should remember that most (over 90%) of the environmental water released into places like the Barmah-Millewa Forest will eventually drain back into the river system and, if not used for irrigation and town supplies, will find its way into the Lower Murray ecosystem. Extracted from various newspaper reports and Internet news sites. June 2008
* Heads of government met early in July but failed to take immediate action to address the crisis.
Irrigation water supply projects to reduce water loss
About two billion dollars is being expended to reduce water loss in the Goulburn Valley. Many earthen channels are being lined and others are being replaced with pipelines. Lake Makoan is being decommissioned. The water saved wil be made available to irrigators and wetlands, and some may be piped to Melbourne. Some locals and right-wing politicians are opposed to some of the saved water being piped to Melbourne even though the pipe may be capable of carrying water in the reverse direction, e.g. from a proposed desalinization plant to the Goulburn Valley. With climate change resulting in reduced rainfall in the valley, and with irrigators receiving only a fraction of their water 'entitlements', opposition to water being taken from the Goulburn River (the least healthy of all rivers in the Murray-Darling Basin) via proposed north-south pipeline is understandable. A protest rally early in June drew much media attention. June 2008
Environmental water for some Murray Valley wetlands
17 gigalitres of environmental water has been released into some wetland areas fed by the Murray and Goulburn rivers. Some of the wetland areas to receive water are on Gunbower Island. Other wetlands to benefit include Reedy Swamp in Shepparton, Kinnairds Wetland in Numurkah, Black Swamp at Wunghu, Black Swamp on Gunbower Island, Moodie Swamp near Shepparton, Little Lake Boort and the Lindsay-Walpolla wetlands on the Victoria/SA border. Much of the water will eventually drain back into the river system with downstream benefits. When Barmah-Millewa wetlands received envionetl ater about three years ago, about 96% of the water drained back into the river system (according to DSE). May 2008.
Reedy Swamp, Shepparton (late May 2008) ~ recipient of environmental water (K Stockwell)
Greenhouse offset scheme may benefit Terricks
The Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) has received an offer to revegetate about 150 hectares of degraded land within Terrick Terrick National Park. The cost of revegetating parts of Ferris and Riegal paddocks is estimated to be around $250,000 and will be met using greenhouse gas offset monies. Infested with weeds, both paddocks have been ploughed and grazed in the past. Areas where indigenous grasses and shrubs have 'come back well' will not be affected. DSE has offered to help prepare the soil and has ensured that there are negotiations with Parks Victoria, Friends of Terrick Terrick National Park and representatives of the traditional owners. Any works must comply with the Park's Management Plan and should not impinge on grasslands used by the endangered Plains-wanderer.If the offer is acceptable to Parks Victoria and DSE, and if the funding becomes available, DSE hopes that work can commence before the autumn break either this year or next. A conservation-minded organisation (believed to be 'GreenFleet') is offering the funding.
The Friends group, the park grazing manager and the park ranger have suggested that provision be made for ongoing management (weed and pest control) of the revegetated area. Parks Victoria has insufficient resources for this.
In addition, work has commenced on a wildlife corridor across private land to link the main area of forest in the Park to Bendigo Creek in the east and Bullock Creek in the west. March 2008
Stubble Quail population crashes
Anecdotal evidence suggests that the population of Stubble Quail has crashed in northern Victoria and southern (Riverina) NSW. Members of Echuca and District BOCA have not recorded even a single Stubble Quail in the region during recent surveys. The prolonged drought (now into its 14th year) and habitat lass appear to be partly or entirely responsible for the population crash. Some are calling for quail hunting to be banned at least until numbers recover. Continued hunting could render quail species locally extinct. March 2008.
Smoke from Moira Forest fire blankets a wide area
In mid February a fire ~ the cause of which is 'suspicious' ~ broke out in Moira forest alongside Coolamon Road (at the foot of the fault line and not far from the Cobb Highway). Over 100 hectares was burnt. Smoke from the fire blanketed Echuca-Moama and drifted south to engulf parts of Melbourne. Red Gum does not respond well to fire; many of the affected trees may not recover. It is fortunate that the fire was controlled before it spread through a wide area. February 2008.
Duck season cancelled in Victoria
The Victorian Government has announced that there will not be a 2008 duck killing season in 2008. Because of drought conditions and habitat loss, waterbird numbers have fallen significantly throughout most of Victoria over the past few years. December 2007.
Lake Makoan to become a swamp
The Victorian Government has decided that Lake Makoan will be converted into a wetland of international significance. Lake Makoan has been a shallow storage which has lost much of its water to evaporation. A significant amount of water ~ up to 50,000 MG ~ which would have been lost to evaporation is expected to be saved. Authorities claim that amount of water lost to evaporation from the lake each year was about a tenth of Melbourne's annual water consumption! A Goulburn Valley Environment Group spokesperson, Doug Robinson, expects that the area could now become a world-class wetland. The lake level is presently very low and, to prevent large-scale native fish deaths, DSE has arranged for native fish to be caught and released into more-secure water bodies such as the lower Goulburn River. Source: newspaper reports. December 2007
Wildlife corridor to join Loddon River and Kooyoora National Park
Work is underway to establish a belt of indigenous plants about 50 metres wide, and much wider in places, between Kooyoora National Park-Wedderburn and the Loddon River.Furthermore, Powlett Swamp has been fenced and some revegetation work undertaken.
Supplementing existing vegetation, indigenous shrubs are being planted along much of the Loddon River. Much of the river has been fenced to keep cattle away from the river. Source: Loddon Shire Landcare Co-ordinator. September 2007.
Concern about the dumping of rubbish in wetlands
There is a wetland near Youanmite (south-west of Yarrawonga) which used to be used as the Shire's tip.Rusbbish remains in the wetland to this day. Fortunately, most local wetlands have escaped this fate and many are now reserves.Reedy Swamp, north of Shepparton, is a wetland which often supports large numbers of migratory waders and colonial waterbirds. Unfortunately, Reddy swamp and many other wetlands are still sometimes being used by ratbags as dumping grounds for rubbish. According to DPI, over the past year or so dumped cars, garden clippings, car tyres, mattresses and other household rubbish was removed from Reddy Swamp. Dumping rubbish in wetlands can increase nutrient levels causing toxic algal blooms and degraded water quality.
Persons illegally dumping rubbish in wetlands should be reported. The number to report rubbish dumping is 1800 352 555. December 2007.
Serrated tussock attacked
A programme to eradicate Serrated Tussock, an unpalatable introduced weed, is under way in the Goulburn Broken Catchment. Landowners are responsible for eradicating it from their property. December 2007
Prolonged drought conditions continue
The southern Riverina and northern Victoria have suffered from drought conditions for about 14 years. Rainfall was been below average again in 2007. Crop yields have been low and little irrigation water made available. Whilst Grey Box trees appear to be withstanding the dry conditions well, a lot of Red Gum trees are under great stress. Some old trees have already died. The dry conditions are having a negative impact upon bush bird numbers. Most wetlands are dry. Many lakes and storage reservoirs are empty. There appears to be a long-term climatic change and devastating effects are becoming obvious. September 2007/upgraded December 2007.P.S. Some rain fell during January 2008, alleviating the situation, and more rain is predicted to fall over the first half of 2008. February 2008.
'Demonstration reaches'
The native fish of the Murray-Darling Basin have suffered declines in distribution and abundance over the past 50 years or so. A third of the fish species are threatened, including the Murray Cod.As fish are a good indicator of river health, it is clear that all is not well.
A number of sections of some rivers in the catchment have been selected as 'demonstration reaches'. In these sections, riparian vegetation is to be rehabilitated. Where snags are few, they are to be supplemented. An attempt is to be made to control alien species. Barriers to fish movement are to be overcome, e.g. by constructing fish ladders. Attempts are to be made to improve water quality.
Demonstration reaches are large-scale river reaches or wetlands where a number of management interventions are applied to showcase the cumulate benefit of river rehabilitation on native fish populations.
The lower Campaspe River ~ from the Waranga Channel siphon to its confluence with the Murray ~ has been selected as a demonstration reach. Adjoining landholders are being encouraged to participate in the stretch's rehabilitation. Much fencing has been undertaken and some revegetation works are under way. Resnagging is not necessary because many snags are already present.
A field day to outline the scheme was held early in September 2007. About 35 people attended. September 2007.
* The day was also Threatened Species Day. Many attended an event at Kyabram.
Fungus to attack Bridal Creeper
A biological control agent, rust fungus (Puccinia myrsiphylli), has been released on bridal creeper in Echuca. Many plant species introduced into Australia do not have any natural enemies here to restrict their spread. Bridal Creeper is an introduced weed which has proliferated in places, smothering indigenous vegetation.Biological control aims to restore the balance by introducing one or more of the weed¹s natural enemies, such as insects, mites, nematodes or pathogens such as fungi, as biological control agents to reduce it to a level where it is no longer considered a problem. Agents are all thoroughly tested under quarantine conditions to ensure that they can be safely released and will not threaten other plant species.
The Department of Primary Industries (DPI), in conjunction with the Shire of Campaspe, has identified sites of major infestations of bridal creeper within the Echuca Township. A DPI officer released rust fungus on an infestation along Campaspe Esplanade on 17th August, and on an infestation alongside the Campaspe in Victoria Park on 20th September.
Furthermore, in September, under the supervision of Department of Primary Industries, some students from an Echuca primary school have bred and released leaf hoppers to attack Bridal Creeper.
The release of Leaf Hoppers to attack Bridal Creeper (K Stockwell)
Bridal creeper rust fungus (Puccinia myrsiphylli) was approved for release in Australia in 2000. It is host specific and will not attack any economically important or native plant species. It is the second natural enemy of bridal creeper to be released in Australia, the first being the leafhopper, Zygina species. The rust fungus and Leaf Hoppers are expected to considerably reduce the number of fruits produced in a season.
If you would like further information before this time, please contact Rhonda Day, Campaspe Shire Landcare Coordinator on 5851 3408. Source: observation and emails from DPI and from Rhonda Day. September 2007
Who's who at Whroo?
A Whroo Goldfields Conservation Management Network of landholders and land managers is being formed to cover an area of around 1,600 square km surrounding Rushworth and Whroo.The Whroo network will run on similar lines to the Broken-Boosey network which has been involved in a number of projects aimed at conserving and improving bio-diversity.
Amongst other projects, such networks aim to eliminate or control such feral pests as foxes and rabbits
For further information contact Jim Castles, Goulburn Broken CMA 5820 1141. Source: press release.
New parks proposed for northern Victoria
Barmah Forest, Kanyapella Forest and forests along the lower Goulburn River are likely to become national parks. A draft proposals paper by the Victoria¹s Environment Assessment Council has recommended new and expanded national parks for northern Victoria. The area available for timber harvesting is to be reduced and commercial grazing will not be permitted in reserves.But the report warns that, even with the additional protection afforded by reserve status, our riverine forests and wetlands may not survive unless the Œunder flooding¹ is addressed. More substantial environmental water releases are needed.
In view of these developments, I have updated the parks page, the issues page and the Barmah-Millewa page.
Nine National Parks are proposed:
€ Murray Sunset ~ the existing national park should be expanded in area by about 9% to about 700,000 hectares.
€ Hattah-Kulkyne ~ the existing national park should be expanded by about 5 hectares and needs more environmental water. About 50,000ha.
€ Leaghur-Koorangie ~ incorporating the existing Leaghur State Park, Wandella Flora and fauna reserve, Mystic Park bushland and a number of other areas of public land. 7,790 hectares.
€ Gunbower ~ the Torrumbarry end and some other sections of Gunbower Island. The proposed park excludes most of the forest near Koondrook where forestry activities will be allowed to continue. 9,574 hectares.
€ Terrick Terrick ~ the report recommends that some indigenous grasslands on the Patho Plain, including Tomai Gilgaes, Pine Grove and Wanurp NCRs, be added to the existing park to protect endangered grasses and the Plains-wanderer, increasing the area of national park to 3,882 hectares.
€ Lower Goulburn River ~ including Wyuna River Reserve, Kanyapella Forest, Yambuna Bridge Bushland Reserve, Loch Garry, Gemmill Swamp, Reedy Swamp and ther Goulburn River littoral. The report stresses the need for Kanyapella Forest to receive environmental flooding f rom time to time and for it to come under the managmenet of Parks Victoria. Yorta Yorta Nations should have a role in the managment of this park. 14,718 hectares.
Kanyapella Forest (K Stockwell)
€ Barmah ~ the existing State park plus most of the Barmah State Forest. The report stresses the need for the forest to receive more environmental fwater and for Yorta Yorta Nations to have a role in the managment of this park. 29,942hectares.
€ Warby Ranges-Ovens River ~ the existing State Park plus 4,223 hectares along the lower Ovens River.
€ Mt. Buffalo ~ 4 hectares to be added to the existing national park.It is proposed that no cattle grazing, logging, wood fires or dogs should be permitted in these national parks. Riverside camping, driving on formed roads and bird observation will be permitted. Grazing and tree thinning may be undertaken for environmental reasons.
Seven regional parks are proposed:
€ Kerang Regional Park ~ part of the Kerang wetlands Ramsar site. 1,138 hectares.
€ Shepparton Regional Park ~ the riverine forest between Shepparton and Mooroopna. 603 hectares.
€ Murray River Park ~ a long treescape corridor along the Murray, including Victoria Park bushland Echuca and the existing Echuca Regional Park. 32,028 hectares
€ Kings Billabong Park ~ near Mildura, including Karadoc State Forest.. 3,535 hectares
€ Murray Kulkuyne Park ~ alongside Hattah-Kulkuyne National Park. 3,999 hectares.
€ Gadsen Bend Park ~ near Robinvale. 1,618 hectares.
€ Nyah-Vinifera Park ~ including the exisiting Nyah State Forest. 1,391 hectares. It is recommended that camping, dogs, fishing and winter fires be allowed in these parks. Cattle grazing and logging will not be permitted. Driving is to be restricted to formed roads.A number of Nature Conservation Reserves are proposed, including Lake Yando, Johnson Swamp, Tang Tang Swamp, Thunder Swamp, Wallenjoe Swamp and Pipit Grasslands (Roslymead). Duck shooting will not be allowed in these reserves.
It is recommended that the Port of Echuca and Bayula Forest be designated as Echuca Historic and Cultural Features Reserve.
75% of the area of Gunbower State Forest that was available for lumbering will still be available. Benwell and Guttram State Forests remain unchanged.
It is recommended that the area of State Forest in the study area be reduced from 106,910 to 12,205 hectares. In effect, the area available for timber harvesting may fall from 25,165 to 10,105 hectares. In Victoria, sustainable harvest is expected to fall to 62% of current harvest.
Source: VEAC draft proposals paper, July 2007.
The draft proposals apply only to the Victorian side of the State border.
Copies of the report are/were available from DPI and DSE offices in Echuca, Tatura, Nathalia, Bendigo, Kerang, Melbourne and elsewhere or online at www.veac.vic.gov.au
Protest rallies have been held by those with vested interests condemning the proposals.
Incentive payments for Landholders who enhance habitats
Murray CMA has provided information on a novel incentive programme, developed in conjunction with CSIRO and the Australian government, to encourage land-holders in the Murray Catchment of NSW to develop suitable on-farm habitat for Plains-wanderers, Brolgas and Bush Stone Curlews.NestEgg is a habitat improvement programme which encourages land-holders to undertake and implement on-farm management actions to benefit three ground-nesting birds: Plains-wanderer, Brolga and Bush Stone Curlew. NestEgg encourages farmers to apply for funds by submitting bids for works to encourage these birds to breed. They decide on what measures they could take and cost them.
Bonus payments NestEgg offers upfront payment to participating land-holders and then offers bonus payments for sound natural resource management outcomes. Additional set bonus payments are available where land-holders maintain good habitat and for the presence and successful breeding of the three species over the three-year life of their agreement. Successful bids incorporate management actions to improve the birds¹ key habitat features. For example, a Brolga project may include managing water in a wetland where the bird breeds (to maintain a suitable wetting and drying regime), controlling foxes, or strategically grazing the wetland to ensure indigenous vegetation is a suitable height and condition for Brolgas breeding.
Wildlife information sessions Murray CMA has been running a second round of ŒWildlife Wonderments¹ information sessions across the Riverina. The seminars and field days presented the results of bird and wildlife surveys undertaken by ornithologist and wildlife ecologist Matthew Herring. The aim of the wildlife surveys is to improve participation in restoration and regeneration, and active management of local wildlife habitat. The sessions play a role in providing land-holders with the knowledge and support to better manage vegetation and wildlife on their farms. Thousands of people have attended Matt¹s sessions over the past few years. A third round of information sessions is about to get under way. A colour brochure is being produced. For details contact Alexandra Knight 02 6051 2207 (or 0428 429 985). Source: Murray CMA.
Wildflower group challenges claims
According to a newspaper report, Nathalia Wildflower Group has challenged claims by the Goulburn Valley Environment Group about damage to native flora in the Barmah Forest by cattle grazing. They claim that pug holes made by cattle hooves retain water and act as little ecosystems in which a number of plants, e.g. Starwort and Clovestrip, can grow. The GV Environment Group dismisses their claims. 27 June 2007.
More protection for northern Victoria's indigenous grasslands
According to a senior DSE officer, the Federal Government has recognized the northern Victoria's indigenous grasslands as a distinct habitat from the Southern Riverina Grasslands, and classified them as critically endangered. This probably means that northern Victoria's indigenous grasslands will be now listed under the Commonwealth's EPBC legislation, and more funding may be available for research, care and protection. The officer suggested that we still need to keep up the good work of seeking to preserve all the little remnants of native grassland around the area, and especially keeping local shire councils aware of their importance. Source: email, June 2007.P.S. In its draft recommendations paper, VEAC recommended that some existing indigenous grassland reserves be incorporated intoTerrck Terrick National Park.
Restoration of Kanyapella Basin under way
Some time back, a draft management plan was prepared for Kanyapella Basin. The plan has been revised and was signed off by key stakeholders in April 2007. A 'steering committee' with representatives of stake-holders is to meet from time to time, at least until the recommendations of VEAC's River Red Gum Investigation are known.Work at rejuvenating the environmental values of the Kanyapella Basin are under way. Goulburn Murray Water has agreed to undertake site works to provide a new water management system which will be able to deliver an appropriate water regime without compromising the flood retardation function of the wetland and without having a significant impact on local irrigators. The works are to commence sometime during the next 12 months, possibly as early as June 2007. Parks Victoria and Field and Game Australia hope to reduce the population of foxes and other feral animal pests. Fencing works, including restoration of boundary fences, are also likely to be undertaken this year. There is concern about stock which is wandering at will; agencies are hoping to work with a lease-holder to resolve this problem.
Bush Stone Curlews have recently been observed in the Basin.
Unsubstantiated rumour was spot on
The 'source' who claimed back in May that the Basin's conservation status is to be upgraded in the draft VEAC investigation report on Victoria's Red Gum forests was spot on. The source also predicted a national park was to be proposed for most of Barmah Forest.
Irresponsible forest users
There are concerns about the actions of irresponsible shooters in local forests.
During May 2007, indiscriminate shooters have allegedly killed many animals in Barmah Forest and damaged signage. During a recent blitz, at least 10 people were 'intercepted' by DSE and police. Two men have been charged with a number of offences. Night-time and random patrols are to continue.A number of kangaroos and other animals have been shot in Kanyapella Forest. Some illegal firewood collection has occurred. Local land-holders notify police or land-managers about incidents. The Steering Committee hopes that appropriate signage will be erected at entrances to Kanyapella Forest.
In Banyula Forest (Echuca), there has been illegal dumping of rubbish.
In southern NSW, there have been blitzes on Gulpa Island and other State forest areas aimed at reducing illegal activities such as shooting, driving unregistered motor bikes and collecting wood without a permit. May 200
Investigation of Barmah proposal
The Victorian Government has established a task force to investigate the proposal to by-pass The Narrows (see article below). The task force includes representatives of various stake-holders. The proposal is unlikely to go ahead if the task force finds that it will impact adversely on the Barmah-Millewa wetlands. March 2007.
Help for the Bush Stone Curlew
The Murray CMA has appointed a Curlew conservator and Landcare liaison person. Rosie Smith. A curlew breeding programme is under way in two secure, fenced locations.
Bush Stone Curlew (Keith Stockwell)Local Curlew numbers have been falling owing to predation and habitat loss. Funding is avaialable to help fence areas where curlews reside, helping protect them from predators. Crash grazing may be desirable in such reserves as the Curlews like to have a clear 360 degree view of the ground. They also like fallen timber. The birds spend much time sitting or standing motionless on the ground, and young Curlews are therefore sitting dummies for foxes and cats.
For further information, contact Rosie Smith at Murray CMA (NSW) or, in the case of northern Victoria, Amy Marshall at DSE Bendigo. March 2007.
Grazing claims rejected
One argument used by those who wish to continue to graze cattle in State forests is that cattle reduce fire risks. DSE's north-east fire manager has rejected the claim.According to a report in the Riverine Herald, DSE's north-east fire manager has apparently claimed that cattle grazing has little impact on the bushfire risk as cattle do not eat branches, twigs, bark and eucalyptus leaves which are the main flammable fuels.
He is reported as saying that the scale and intensity of recent fires in Barmah Forest was largely due to long-term drought conditions.
He was responding to a threat from Picola Fire Berigade that they may not fight fires in the forest if cattle grazing ceases.
It has been noted that cattle are not eating Giant Rush and some other flammable plants. Cattle graze selectively, favouring some grasses over other plants. May 2007.
Goulburn Valley conservation group lambasts State government
The following is a press release forwarded by Nick Roberts of the Goulburn Valley Environment Group. The views and opinions expressed are those of the group (through its spokesperson Mr Robinson) and are not necessarily those of the webmeister. The cattlepersons claim that their cattle are NOT causing long term damage to the forest. See the article above about the views of Nathalia Wildflower Group.Goulburn Valley Environment Group President, Dr Doug Robinson, today lambasted the State Government for its failure to remove cattle from Barmah Forest.
³The decision to remove cattle from the forest was made before Christmas and Parks Victoria and DSE have subsequently made excuse after excuse as to why the cattle haven¹t gone yet².
³We¹re in one of the worst droughts in history, when every other land manager is de-stocking their land to protect their soil, water and plant-cover, and here we have our own conservation departments failing to implement their own conservation advice on their own land. Instead, they have decided to allow cattle to continue grazing in Barmah right through the drought, thereby further degrading the internationally recognised natural and cultural values of these wetlands. The government¹s failure to get the cattle out of Barmah during the drought also means there have been hundreds of cattle wallowing and (defecating) in the river and remaining wetlands, strongly indicating how much our government cares about the quality of water we deliver to our neighbours downstream and in South Australia.²
Cattle in Barmah Forest (February 2007) (K Stockwell)³What really annoys me about the government¹s failure to implement its own guidelines for good land management during the drought is that this land is public land, owned by all Victorians, and managed on our behalf by the State Government. As one of the share-holders of this public land, I can¹t say that I¹m impressed by the quality of the management the cattle have ruined most of the natural capital remaining at Barmah and there is no sign that this public land is being managed for the public good. If the government seriously wants to demonstrate its commitment to water and the environment, it should get the cattle out today.² D. Robinson. 1 March 2007.
It is, of course, not only cattle which are causing damage to vegetation. The major cause of stress is drought. Kangaroos and feral animals such as brumbies put the vegetation under pressure.
An independent scientific review of a Department of Sustainability and Environment assessment of vegetation conditions in the Barmah Forest has concluded that the vegetation is not in a condition to support cattle grazing. The review, conducted by botanist Douglas Frood, found cattle grazing had increased pressure on plant varieties already suffering from drought and a lack of flood conditions.
Mr Froon is quoted in the Melbourne Herald-Sun as saying, ``In light of prevailing dry conditions and ongoing grazing pressure, there is the very real possibility of serious long-term ecological damage'' . His conclusions mirror the findings of last October's DSE report on forest conditions
About 35 graziers graze about 670 cattle in the Barmah Forest and Barmah State Park.
Some cattle are grazed on the NSW side of the Murray, based on guidelines set out in a NSW government document on the Riverina Grazing Strategy. On the NSW side of the river, cattle are excluded by fences and waterways from large environmentally-sensitive areas such as wetlands. The forest is divided into sections according to topography and other factors and grazing is permitted in some sections at certain times, e.g. in such a way as to help control the spread of introduced weeds.
Sources: Nick Roberts GVEG, article in Herald Sun (page 26, Thu 1 Mar 2007), and Millewa Forest site manager.
Huge wildlife corridor
In February 2007, the NSW government announced its intention to create a wildlife corridor extending over thousands of kilometres from southern NSW into Queensland. It is hoped that wildlife will be able to migrate along the corridor to help them cope with climate change. Source: news reports, February 2007.
Locust site
A local farmer and ecologist has emailed, requesting that we link this site to his Save the Locust site. Save locusts?! Checking out the site, I found the site to be most informative and learnt much about locusts. Check the site out: it aims to provide 'a more balanced view' about locusts. February 2007
Chilling plan for Chiltern
A DSE officer writes:This is an alert to ALL birdos and visitors who have ever visited, gone passed or plan to get to, Chiltern and the wonderful box-ironbark habitats at this location in north east Victoria. The land manager, Parks Victoria, has finally released the long-awaited DRAFT management plan for the park.
As a well known hotspot for most Victorian woodland bird species (especially Regent Honeyeaters), threatened orchids (and other flora), rare and threatened reptiles, amphibians etc, this is your chance to make your thoughts heard. Of particular concern to birdos is the proposed introduction of prospecting in the north east section of the park. This activity may have impacts on a suite of ground-dwelling birds and other fauna. Threatened species recorded for this patch of the park are - Brush-tailed Phascogale, Squirrel Glider (both listed as threatened under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act) - Brown Treecreeper, Black-chinned Honeyeater, Painted Honeyeater, Regent Honeyeater, Speckled Warbler, Diamond Firetail, Grey-crowned Babbler, Swift Parrot, Turquoise Parrot, Barking Owl (the last eight bird species are FFG-listed) - Tree Goanna (vulnerable in Victoria)
Disturbance of the ground layer in dry environments may have serious impacts on ground-nesting birds in particular. Species lists for the park and this area can be obtained from the Atlas of Victorian Wildlife via the email address: biodiversity.info@dse.vic.gov.au
I encourage everyone to make a response, no matter how short. Close of submissions is Monday 28 May 2007. Full details can be found on the following Parks Victoria web pages. Link to Parks Victoria Draft Management Plan for Chiltern-Mt Pilot National Park - http://www.parkweb.vic.gov.au/1ministory.cfm?story=208 Responses can be posted or emailed with the address provided as: chilternpilotplansubmissions@parks.vic.gov.au
2,500 scientists warn of dire consequences from climate change
Early in February 2007, the United Nations released a 1,200 report prepared by around 2,500 scientists warning of turbulent storms, rising sea levels, devastating droughts, increasing temperatures and melting ice caps as a result of global warming. They attributed the warming to human activities, e.g. the use of coal to fire power stations and vehicle exhaust emissions. The report predicts that temperatures could rise by up to a massive six degrees Celsius and that sea level could rise by up to 140cm by the end of the century. Warming is well under way. In particular, southern Australia stands to suffer from reduced rainfall and higher evaporation. Source: media reports, February 2007.
Additions to this site
Early in February 2007, a number of changes and additions have been made to this and allied sites. The contents page has been redesigned to provide a better site map. There is a separate page on three bushland areas: Terrick Terrick National Park (including information about the new Friends of Terrick Terrick Group), Greater Bendigo National Park and Barmah-Millewa Forest. A section on indigenous animals, featuring information on indigenous fish, mammals (including marsupials and monotremes), reptiles, amphibians and more, has also been prepared at the suggestion of Echuca Landcare group. The new animals section excludes birds, which are covered in a separate section, and invertebrates. The section on weeds has been moved to a separate page on the Echuca Landcare Group site. February 2007.
Australian Government plans takeover of Murray-Darling
At a National Press Club address in Canberra in January, the Australian Prime Minister announced a ten-point water plan. The plan envisages lining or piping channels, allocating 50% of water savings to the environment (and especially to the six icon sites, including Barmah-Millewa Forest) and the remainder to irrigators, capping ground water use, investigating the possibility of developing more agricultural areas in northern Australia, restoring the Great Artesian Basin, addressing water over-allocation and undertaking major infrastructure works in the Murray-Darling Basin.Threat to The Narrows? Specific mention was given to the Barmah Choke ('The Narrows'). The very existence of the Barmah-Millewa Forest is dependent upon the choke which constricts the amount of water which can be conveyed through the forest. When the capacity of the choke is exceeded, sections of the forest flood. Red Gum and Moira Grass Plains depend upon flooding for their existence. Most of the flood water eventually returns to the river. Any attempt to widen or deepen 'The Narrows' would be bad news for the forest and would damage a geological formation of national significance, a perched river with paired silt jetties. Such action is unlikely in view of the likely protests.
A by-pass channel or pipeline would be terrific for the forest if it was used only in summer and spring, and not at all in winter or autumn, so that the old natural flooding patterns could be partially restored. It is unlikely that a by-pass would only be used in summer and spring, especially in view of the enormous cost of such by-pass. The area is very flat, and because the Murray can flow backwards when the Goulburn is in flood, a by-pass channel would have to be very long. Unless carefully planned, a by-pass could turn out to be an expensive white elephant.
Looking toward Barmah Lake from The Narrows (K Stockwell)The Narrows or Barmah Choke is that length of the Murray immediately east of the Cadell Fault Line (see diagram). It is a new section of river formed after the Cadell Tilt Block rose, blocking the old course of the Murray River. The very existence of the Barmah wetlands depends upon the carrying capacity of The Narrows being exceeded in late winter and spring, but not late summer or autumn. January 2007
P.S. All States apart from Victoria have agreed to hand over powers so that the Australian government can manage the Basin. Conservation groups have spoken out against any by-pass of The Narrows ('Barmah Choke'). The Australian Government cannot assume control of the Basin untill and unless all State governments agree. Victoria is holding out as it fears its farmers will be disadvantaged; it is generally agreed that Victoria has managed its water resources better, with less 'over-allocation' for irrigation, than some of the other States. KS
Help find a Growling Grass Frog
North Central Waterwatch has developed a frog education and monitoring program to increase public awareness of frogs, their biology, conservation status, and threats, while increasing knowledge of species distribution in our region.The program realises these objectives by engaging the community in frog identification and distribution mapping activities.
How do we survey frogs? Well, it's actually pretty easy. All you do is listen to them.
You can identify the species present at a site through their characteristic calls (it's a little harder to survey for numbers, as only males call and it's pretty hard to distinguish between individual calls in many cases). Through our frog monitoring program, community members can learn to identify all species of frog present in the region through call recognition.
Most of the species in the North Central region of Victoria have calls that are quite different, making them pretty easy to identify; however, a few are pretty similar. To ensure that species are properly identified, monitors record calls on digital voice recorders (supplied by NC Waterwatch) which are then verified by Waterwatch staff. Data collected stored on a database and will be forwarded to DSE to be included in the Victorian Wildlife Atlas.
Community members can conduct surveys at any time of the year, but guidance is given as to 'where and when' is the most appropriate. January is the time you are most likely to hear the Growling Grass Frog calling.
The Growling Grass Frog is a threatened species and has very few know populations in the North Central region. This makes it even more important that we get out there and try to find remnant populations!
NC Waterwatch will be conducting surveys for the GGF with community members over the next month in an effort to locate populations and raise awareness of this amazing, but highly threatened species. If any staff (or friends and family) are interested in participating in these surveys or think they may have heard a Growling Grass Frog (they really growl, so you would know if you had heard one), please let one of the Waterwatch team know and well sort you out with a voice recorder and some instructions on how best to find the frogs.
All of you who are interested in frogs might want to have a look at the frog identification materials NC Waterwatch has developed. Click here to find how to obtain a copy or visit http://www.vic.waterwatch.org.au/inform.php?a=7&b=625&c=626
Barmah-Millewa Wetlands dry out
As most of the storages along the Murray and its tributaries contain little water, it is unlikely that environmental water will be released in the foreseeable future. It is hoped, however, that environmental water can be released into a few small wetlands so that they can act as drought refuges for native fish and waterbirds.Reports suggest that there will be no further releases of water from Jindabyne and, if substantial rains do not fall soon, that the Murray could cease flowing later this year. If it was not for storages, the Murray would, by now, be reduced to a chain of waterholes.
The Murray is still flowing strongly downstream of Yarrawonga at the moment (January 2007), with much of the water destined for Adelaide. But wetlands have either been drained or allowed to dry out.
Almost all of the wetland areas in the Barmah-Millewa Forest are dry. The Reed Beds near Picnic Point (southern Riverina) have been dry for several months. Even 'permanent' wetlands such as Hut Lake in Barmah Forest, have now dried out. Permanent wetlands provide a drought refuge for both native fish and birds.
An interesting email report ~ which was written by Keith Ward last month ~ has been received, outlining the effects of drought on wetlands of the Barmah-Millewa Forest.
Having mentioned that a major drought refuge, Hut Lake, had all but dried out, Keith Ward states:
"Fortunately it is not all doom and gloom. The drying bed will consolidate and aerate the sediments, alter the phys-chemical properties, and may serve to strengthen macrophyte communities upon re-wetting. Giant Rush, an indigenous species that is, unfortunately, taking over too much of the rich biodiversity of the Moira Grass Plains, will not find the conditions favourable. This is a good thing."
It sure is, provided waterbirds can survive until these wetlands receive water. Some appear to have moved to northern Australia or into town lagoons, some are finding a refuge in sewage farms (i.e. waste water treatment facilities) whilst many may have perished. According to a report on the ABC news, a recent aerial waterbird survey recorded record low numbers.
In order to provide a rich source of food for water birds, wetlands need to dry out at times. So, when the wetlands next receive water, there should be lots of food for waders and other waterbirds. But Keith Ward points out a paradox:
"the drought paradoxically often means that parts of the Barmah wetlands get wet. No, this is not a typo - just a consequence of the Murray River being run too high in the quest of river managers' attempt to deliver as much water as possible through the Barmah Choke (a natural constriction within the river channel). The Giant Rush stands in those wetlands are in complete heaven, and their advancement this year will now be about the last nail in the proverbial coffin for many Moira Grass plains. This is definitely not a good thing."
Before irrigation, the Murray usually flooded the Moira Grass plains in spring,drowning and killing any young Red Gum saplings which had germinated since the last flood. With river regulation, flooding is less frequent and the floods are lower, so the area of Moira Grass plain has contracted, Red Gum saplings taking over. Most of the Moira Grass plains have been lost. Obviously, the loss of this habitat has had an effect on the makeup of the local bird population. Some birds have suffered, e.g. Brolgas, seed-eaters, whereas others have benefited, e.g. White-plumed Honeyeaters, nectar feeders. Anyway, Keith Ward continues,
"But it gets more interesting - What isn't wet or dry has been burnt. A large fire that begun in mid-October, under suspicious circumstances, burnt about 800 ha of Redgum-rushland wetland system (pictures not included here). Approximately 300 ML of water was diverted from the Murray River to successfully douse some difficult to reach hot spots, however the fire continues to re-ignite elsewhere from subterranean sources (i.e., is smouldering along roots until it re-surfaces in an adjoining tree). So much for the 'grazing reduces blazing' adage being exposed by those with a vested interest. Someone should have told the cattle that they need to eat the unpalatable rush instead of facilitating the spread of it. The flammability of the material, according to the fire-fighters, was practically beyond belief!
"Despite this, the fire has actually provided a unique opportunity to reduce the Giant Rush biomass. If we were now only to get some deep and long duration flooding, then the Moira Grass may have the opportunity to re-dominate. But like any good thriller, we now have a new surprise contender - Arrowhead. This introduced species is rapidly taking over vast areas of wetlands and water supply systems throughout north-eastern and north-central Victoria, including Barmah. It prefers shallowly flooded open systems, and has so far failed to colonise Top Island because of the Giant Rush. But with the rush now out of the way, and Arrowhead choking every waterway leading into the wetland, conditions are now set to enable this species to take over when the river next rises."
Comment: Unfortunately, Arrowhead is only one of several invasive water weeds threatening the Murray system (see 'issues'). Mr Ward's comments were forwarded through an intermediary. Jan uary 2007.
Renewal energy produced in Tatura
A power station has been constructed in the grounds of the Tatura Waste Water Treatment Facility. The station is powered by methane which is collected from sewage. The electricity produced is to be fed into the national grid from some time in November or December. Source: personal observation. December 2006.
It's not all doom and gloom: Minister
Addressing the National Press Club early in December 2006, Australia's Conservation Minister Senator Ian Campbell spoke on some good news before addressing the issue of global climatic change. He pointed out that $3.9 billion is being spent on environmental works and administration each year. The net loss of forest to landclearing is now less than the area being reafforested. Air quality has improved. 1,500km of riverbanks have been fenced, 1,200,000 ha is being rehabilitated.Unfortunately, the number of overfished species in Australian waters has increased from 5 to 14. However, marine reserves have been created and the number of fishing licences has been reduced. The great Barrier Reef marine Park covers a third of the Reef area. The new South-east marine Park is the world's largest.
The national reserve system now covers 50 of our 85 bioregions and covers over 10% of our land area. Private conservation bodies such as the Australian Bush heritage Fund, Australian Wildlife Conservancy and the nature Conservancy are all involved in managing reserved areas.
The biodiversity act involves management of bioregions rather than smaller areas.
He then went on to address climate change which challenges the world. if nothing is done, CO2 emissions will double within the next 50 years. This would be disastrous so practical solutions are needed. A solar cities project is under way. We are building the world's larger solar power station near Mildura and a large geosequestration project is under way at Barrow Island. He criticised the Kyoto protocol and hoped for a better protocol. According to Senator campbell, a multi-stemmed approach is needed, e.g.
• retaining forests, planting vegetation and direct seeding to soil
• energy efficiencies
• more-efficient vehicles
• fuel switching, e.g.from coal to natural gas
• more use of renewable fuels, e.g. for power generation
• carbon geo-sequestration
• nuclear powerDecember 2006.
Drought continues
A prolonged severe drought continues to affect northern Victoria and the southern Riverina. Residents of many towns, including Bendigo, are suffering from severe water retrictions. Eppalock Reservoir is below 2% of its capacity. Lake Cooper and several other storages are completely dry. Even some 'drought refuges' like Hut Lake are dry. Many crops have failed or all but failed. Farmers are irrigating only limited areas of their properties. Severe frosts have badly damaged fruit trees, including cherries, pears, peaches and apricot crops. Bushland is under great stress and bush bird numbers have plummeted, most wetlands having dried out. Several fires have occurred in local forests, including Barmah Forest. Murray Irrigation has been forced to cease supplying irrigation water to most of its customers. Some predict that the Murray River could cease flowing before Easter 2007 if substantial rain does not fall before then. The drought is the worst on record. Dry conditions have now been experienced in the region for about 14 years but the last year has been the worst. On the other hand, heavy rain has fallen over much of northern Australia, including coastal Queensland and the Simpson Desert. Water is flowing into Lake Eyre and even the Todd River startd flowing in January. Revised February 2007.
Solar power station for Murray Valley
In October, the Australian and Victorian governments announced that the world's largest solar power station is to be constructed between Mildura and Swan Hill. It is expected to produce sufficient power to service about 45,000 homes. There have also been recent announcements regarding the construction of the world's largest wind powered station and a new hydro-electric plant in Victoria. Source: government announcement. October 2006.
Friends group for Terricks
A weekend camp was recently held in the grasslands section of Terrick Terrick National Park. Volunteers participated in fauna surveys, examined the grassland flora, helped remove an unwanted fence and laid logs on the grasslands. Volunteers were called to form a committee to help form a Friends Group. Several volunteered to a committee to meet in mid December. Source: author attended function. October 2006.
Old trees felled in Barmah Forest
According to newspaper reports, once again old trees have been felled in the Barmah Forest. A very old, hollow habitat tree felled near the Dharnya Centre has been left lying on the ground. Another old habitat tree has been cut near Grinter's Bridge. Some conservationists are appalled at continued breaches of forestry regulations. DSE is investigating the breaches. Source: Riverine Herald, 25 August 2006.
New Landcare Co-ordinator
The Shire of Campaspe has appointed a new Landcare Co-ordinator, Rhonda Day. Rhonda, who will be based at the Kyabram office, replaces Andrew Dawson who resigned to take up a job in the Melbourne area.Allison Long has been appointed Regional Landcare Co-ordinator by the North Central CMA. Allison previously worked for the Goulburn Broken CMA. August 2006.
Scathing editorial
An editorial in the Country News dated 31st July is scathing of local federal member Dr Sharman Stone for her "relentless and successful effort to kill off the Lower Goulburn floodplain proposal" which has involved much input by the community over the past seven years. The preferred option, which Dr Stone allegedly opposed, accepted that when the Goulburn River floods, water flows through a network of creeks and channels to the Murray River. It was proposed that private dryland properties be purchased by the Crown, and leased back to their owners, "ensuring that floodwaters could escape to the Murray without severe impediment". Federal funding was sought for the project. Apart from a small promotional advertisement, the weekly newspaper, which is inserted in several local papers, devoted an entire page to the editorial! August 2006.• The Kanyapella Basin, much of which is State Forest, can be used to ameliorate the impact of floods insofar as some of the flood waters may be diverted into the basin.
Decisions impact on red gum millers
Pacific National, which is upgrading railway lines between Melbourne and Brisbane, has decided to use concrete sleepers rather than red gum sleepers. This decision will have an impact on district sawmillers who have geared up to provide red gum sleepers. The NSW government's decision to limit logging of indigenous trees on private land may also impact on local millers. Millers claim that jobs will be lost, especially in Barham-Kondrook, as a result of these decisions. Some conservation groups, however, have welcomed one or both decisions. Source: various newspaper reports, July 2006.
Roadside Conservation Project
The Shire of Campaspe is working with North Central CMA, Goulburn Broken CMA and Victorian government departments on a roadside conservation project. 44,500km of roadsides are being mapped and assessed to gain a better understanding of conservation values and threats to roadside indigenous vegetation. Source: news release by Shire of Campaspe, July 2006.
Further damming of heritage rivers banned
Further dams have been banned on the Goulburn, Howqua, Ovens, Mitta Mitta and other Victorian heritage-listed rivers. The Goulburn Valley Environment Group has welcomed the ban but called on the Victorian government to better manage all Crown water frontages and other riparian public land. Source: newspaper reports, July 2006.
Roadside dedicated to memory of Allan Corry
The Wyuna Area Plan implementation committee has erected a large sign along Scobie Road Wyuna naming the roadside Allan Corry Roadside Reserve in honour of the late local naturalist who, along with his wife Patricia, campaigned to protect residual indigenous vegetation in the area. The roadside has a good cover of trees, including Yellow Box, Grey Box and River Red Gum. Until recently, there used to be Allocasuarina luehmanii too but only one tree appears to be alive. Fires, runoff of water and grazing have severely depleted the shrub layer (some mature Eremophila longifolia and some wattles remain) and the ground layer has been largely replaced by weeds, including introduced pasture grasses. The committee has set about redressing the damage by removing larger weeds such as Box Thorn and Peppercorns (Schinus molle). Waste water has been diverted from the roadside and it is hoped that a bank will be built to prevent irrigation water from flooding the roadside. The committee is determined to prevent further loss of indigenous vegetation and aims to increase the cover of indigenous vegetation from about 8% to about 15% of the area covered by the plan.
The sign honouring Allan was unveiled on a rainy morning, Saturday 16th July 2006. Those present, including the author, planted indigenous shrubs along the roadside. Source: author attended opening.
New address for NSW Forestry Deniliquin
The office of NSW Forestry Deniliquin has moved to 449 Charlotte Street Deniliquin.The new phone number is 03 5881 9999. All enquiries regarding firewood permits and other matters should be directed to the new address. May 2006.
Salt interception scheme
A rising water table in the Pyramid Hill area was reducing farm productivity. As a result, salty ground water has been pumped to the surface near Pyramid Hill, the water allowed to evaporate and the resultant salt has been harvested and sold commercially. Ponds of salty water have been used for fish farming. The water table has fallen and productivity has increased.Recently, a larger salt interception scheme was completed. The aim has been to prevent the salty ground water from entering the Murray River. Government and private enterprise have worked together. More salt will be harvested and the water table is expected to fall further. Because surrounding farmers will no longer have to apply as much fresh water in order to keep salty water from damaging their crops, not only will the quality of water in the Murray river improve but fresh water will be saved.
P.S. the project was outlined on ABC-TV's 'Landline' on Sunday 20th August 2006.
Victorian Local Sustainability Accord
An environmental accord has been developed by representatives of Victoria's local governments and the Department of Sustainability and Environment. Councils which sign up to the Accord must endeavour to protect, preserve and enhance the local environment. The V ictorian Government is to help provide funding for the environmental endeavours.The Shire of Campaspe has signed the Accord. Source: Riverine Herald, 17th March 2006.
Irrigation farmers enhance wildlife habitats
When irrigation farmers in the Wakool, Deniliquin and Moira irrigation districts heard that Matthew Herring was available to carry out wildlife surveys on 450 irrigated properties, so many of them offered their properties that a ballot had to be carried out. Over the past nine months, Matthew, biodiversity consultant to the Cadell Land and Water Management Plan, has observed over 200 bird species and 65 other animal species on the 450 farms which he has surveyed in the southern Riverina.He¹s observed 14 parrot species , 13 honeyeater species, 8 species of migratory shorebirds (including a Wood Sandpiper early in January), three Babbler species, three wren species (White-winged, Variegated and Superb), 16 duck species and five species of kingfisher (Sacred, Forest, Azure and Red-backed plus Kookaburra). His surveys were restricted to private property.
Speaking about his work to an audience during Australia Day activities in Mathoura, Matthew stressed that the species of birds present on a property are a good indication of its ecological health. And the birds provide free pest control.
He¹s found that isolated bits of bushland lack diversity, most of the birds in such areas being the winners from man¹s modification of landscapes: Galah, Kookaburra, Little Raven, Magpie, etc. But, over a period of 20 minutes, in larger areas of bush which had logs and understorey, he typically observed over 20 species, including endangered species.
One fifth of Australia¹s bird species are in real trouble. Local species which are in trouble include Bush Stone Curlew, Hooded Robin and Painted Snipe.
Through his work with irrigators, Matthew hopes that more suitable habitat will be available for these birds in the southern Riverina, including Murray Shire. Matthew has identified some great habitat on local irrigation properties and has advised irrigation farmers on how these areas may be enhanced. Having observed how local farmers are improving habitat for indigenous birds, Matthew is very optimistic as far as the future survival of endangered species is concerned.
Scores of wetland and Black Box areas which have not been inundated for many years have been flooded. The response has been phenomenal: lots of bats, birds and frogs appeared and bred successfully. On one farm, he counted 28 dams. If ephemeral shallows are created around dams, such birds as Painted Snipe and Brolga would benefit enormously.
Matthew has suggested to irrigation farmers that they target Box woodland, Boree (Myall) and sandhills for restoration. These three vegetation types support a vast array of wildlife not found on the floodplains which dominate our area. One such animal is the Blind Snake which relies on loose soil (sandhills) for burrowing. We need to appreciate more the value of fallen logs and old trees.
We must ensure that young trees can grow to replace the old trees found in paddocks.
It is important that we have ³stepping stones² between bushland areas. In his address, Matthew admitted that we have a long way to go in improving habitat for birds and wildlife, but many positive things are happening and congratulated local farmers on their efforts. ³We can all make a difference², he said.
During his Australia Day address, Matthew invited the audience to identify some bird calls. He played the calls of the Superb Parrot, Spotted Nightjar, Painted Honeyeater, Grey-crowned Babbler and Bush Stone Curlew. Few in the audience were able to recognise the calls and some of the answers displayed a great deal of ignorance. However, a young girl and one or two adults were able to correctly identify some of the calls.
Grey-crowned Babbler ~ a bird in declineMat told the audience that he has observed 540 bird species over the past 10 years. He advised interested persons to purchase a field guide and a pair of 8x35 or 8x40 binoculars. He also stated that Australia has about 540 bird species, fewer than the number found in some other countries, but over half our species are endemic.
42 wetlands restored during 2005
When introducing Matthew to those present at Mathoura on Australia Day, Murray Shire Mayor Brian Sharp announced that a local wetlands working group has rejuvenated 42 wetland areas in the southern Riverina (in Murray and adjoining shires) over the past 12 months. Brian expects that more ephemeral wetlands can be flooded during 2006. January 2006.
Environmental Farmers Network
A group of environmentally-minded Victorian farmers have formed a group which they hope will become national.The group hopes to promote environmentally-friendly initiatives in farming areas and hope for a more-balanced debate on matters relating to soil, vegetation (including weeds) and water. They have set up a web site. December 2005.
Indigenous plant nursery employs disabled
GV Centre Disability Services is employing and training clients with intellectual disabilities, propagating indigenous plants at Billabong Gardens Nursery, Wanganui Road Shepparton.Indigenous plants are being grown for farmers and householders. Local government is encouraging the planting of indigenous native species and some are offering rebates or subsidies to those who use indigenous plant species for their farm plantings. The group argues that indigenous plants also offer benefits to home gardeners. Their phone number is 5831 3146.
A drink for Barmah Millewa
More environmental water has been released from storages to help flood more than half of the Barmah-Millewa Forest . Last month (October 2005), some environmental water 'borrowed' over the past few years by irrigators was released into the forest.Several species of native fish and frogs are spawning. Straw-necked Ibis, Royal Spoonbills, Intermediate Egrets and some other water birds are nesting. Egrets started nesting later than most other water birds (they are exacting in their demands).
It is hoped that the flooding might help restore the threatened vegetation community of the Moira Grass plains. Because of lowered and reduced flooding regimes, much of the Moira Grass plains has been taken over by red gums. Flooding drowns young red gum saplings, allowing Moira grass to dominate some frequently flooded areas.
Red gums do not obtain sufficient moisture from natural rainfall and rely on flooding for their survival. Source: observation and information from CMAs. November 2005.
Barmah Forest in flood (K Stockwell)*P.S. It is estimated that about 50,000 colonial water birds were fledged as a result of this flooding, one of the largest releases of environmental water ever made any where. DSE has a wonderful computer slide show presentation about the results of this event. DSE claims that well over 90 percent of the environmental water found its way back into the river system for use downstream. March 2007.
Dinner marks wind up of Barmah Millewa Forum
A dinner has been held at Moama to celebrate the achievements of the Barmah-Millewa Forum, a cross-border liaison body, which has been dissolved by the Ministerial Council.... A booklet critically reviewing the achievements and failures of the Forum was tabled at the dinner. Source: author attended function. October 2005.
Katunga land carer wins award
One of the founding members of the Katunga Landcare Group, Don Harrison, has won an award for outstanding commitment to the environment. Since the formation of the group, Mr Harrison has tackled a range of local environmental problems, including salinity and vegetation loss.Don was involved in the restoration of the four hectare Drovers' Rest Bushland Reserve. For more than eight years he supervised a recycling depot at the local recreation reserve. ~ Summary of an article which appeared in Country News, October 2005.
Six-year wetlands, biodiversity and salt project under way
A six-year, NAP-funded project hopes to address issues of salinity management in wetlands. Six Victorian CMAs are involved.Researchers involved in the Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE)¹s Wetlands, Biodiversity and Salt Project have been busy in the last year since our fieldwork November 2004 in the Wimmera CMA.
In 2004 we conducted a survey of 58 wetlands in Victoria's south-west Wimmera to identify the impacts of different salinity levels on the biological components of wetlands. Information was collected on a variety of organisms, including frogs, fish, water birds, water plants, surrounding terrestrial plants, invertebrates, phytoplankton and diatoms. We are still collating the information and landholders who allowed us to survey their wetlands have been sent information on terrestrial and aquatic plants, frogs, fish and bird species seen during our visit. This year we are re-visiting twelve of the same wetlands in the south-west Wimmera to investigate how the impacts of salinity upon biodiversity might change over time. By sampling from fresh, primary and secondarily salinised wetlands each month we will be able to develop a picture of how wetland biodiversity changes with salinity from the time wetlands initially fill right through to summer drying.
This information, in conjunction with other data collected during this study, will allow us to better understand the effects that changes in wetland salinity will have on many aspects of wetland biodiversity, as well as identifying thresholds beyond which different organisms are unlikely to survive.
We have also surveyed the riparian vegetation in 20 wetlands in the Kerang region in North Central CMA. This data will complement that collected in the Wimmera and will allow comparisons to be made across different landscapes. The riparian area of a wetland is of fundamental importance, since it plays an important role in nutrient and sediment cycling and can provide the wetland with a Œbuffer¹ zone in an agricultural landscape.
We are also examining the effect of different levels of salinity on aquatic flora and fauna in glasshouse experiments, using soil from Tang Tang Swamp and Lake Cullen in the North Central CMA. One part of the experiment will provide information on how organisms in a freshwater wetland may respond to increases in salinity. The second part of the experiment will be a collaboration with Deakin University and will examine how a saline wetland might respond to inundation with fresh water. Such information will greatly benefit management of wetlands.
Further information on the project can be found by following the links at: www.dse.vic.gov.au/ari/ to Research Themes; Salinity, Climate change and other threats; and clicking on the Wetlands, Biodiversity and Salt project link. ~ by Michele Kohout, DSE
Project Platypus targets the lower Campaspe
Echuca Landcare Group is inviting members of the public to report any platypus which they observe in the lower Campaspe River. 'Project Platypus' will be publicised in the media, by means of a web site, and by a letter drop to riverside residents. Dressed in a platypus suit, a member of the group hopes to feature in the display mentioned above.The Group launched its web site during the 2006 Landcare Week. Web users are able to download reporting forms and see an interactive map showing where platypus have been observed in the lower stretches of the Campaspe River. The location of sightings will help the Group target sites for environmental plantings. Source: Echuca Landcare Group.
Johnson Swamp to be rehabilitated
During August 2005, members of Field and Game, with help from a few local bird observers, assisted in the clean up of Johnson Swamp, which lies between Leitchville and Kow Swamp.Many trailer loads of rubbish ~ mainly stubbies, cans and broken glass ~ were removed from Johnson Swamp....
Environmental corridor An officer of the Department of Primary Industry is determined to create an environmental link between Hird Swamp and Johnson Swamp. This involves fencing around the swamps and on both sides of Bendigo Creek. About half the fencing is already in place and more is currently under construction. However, a shortage of funding prevents the project from being completed this year.
The improvement in the habitat of the fenced sections is already apparent, both bush birds and water birds making more use of the enhanced habitat. The DPI officer is also determined to extend the link along Bendigo Creek from Johnson Swamp to Kow Swamp.
Before it reaches Hird Swamp, Bendigo Creek passes through Terrick Terrick National Park....
Spring 2005.
Superb Parrot breeding trees logged
Over a four month period, about 20 hectares of a special protection zone in Barmah Forest set aside to protect the breeding area of the nationally-threatened Superb Parrot has been inadvertently logged. Several dead trees and old trees with nesting holes were cut.The Department of Sustainability and Environment gave permission to an Echuca timber mill to log the area. Nathalia DSE claims that the protection zone was not marked on DSE¹s mapping system. DSE Nathalia claims it tries to keep such zones confidential lest poachers raid the nests. They apparently failed to identify Superb Parrot nesting hollows prior to the logging.
Superb Parrot by David OngBoth the Victorian National Parks Association and the Goulburn Valley Environment Group have called for an end to logging, and for the creation of a national park, in Barmah Forest.
Some local bird observers ~ especially some who have participated in Superb Parrot surveys and who have participated in tree/shrub plantings to enhance the parrot's feeding grounds ~ are outraged. The logging is seen as a slap in the face to those volunteers who have helped with tree plantings and surveys.
According to newspapers, DSE staff are deeply concerned about the incident but claim it will have minimal impact on breeding.
Superb Parrots often use the same nesting hole each summer. Some birds remain in the forest all year, jealously guarding their nesting hole. Suitable nesting holes are in limited supply, so the removal of the nesting trees may impact upon breeding. Source: bird observers and various newspapers, August 2005.
€ Postscript: Echuca & District BOCA Branch forwarded a letter to the Victorian Minister for Sustainability and Environment, John Thwaites, expressing our concern at the logging of a Superb Parrot Special Protection (nesting) Zone in Barmah Forest. We have received a reply from Janine Haddow, Executive Director Parks and Forests, on behalf of Mr Thwaites. Janine assures us that measures have been taken to ensure that such a mistake will be avoided in the future. She adds that ³the Department has taken action to improve the protection of older trees, in particular those most likely to contain habitat for hollow-dependent fauna². All trees with a diameter greater than 100cm at breast height will now be retained compared to 150cm previously.
