Biodiversity Strategy

Version: Final The Natural Environment Adopted: 2016 & Sustainable Living Front Cover Ballion’s Crake image by Kevin Williams Document Images by Darren Clements, unless credited otherwise

Abbreviations

AMLRNRM Adelaide and Mt Lofty Ranges Natural Resource Management group BBCG Bremer Barker Catchment Group BCM Bushland Condition Monitoring BDBSA Biological Database of South Australia (managed by DEWNR) Contents DEH Department of Environment and Heritage, now DEWNR DENR Department of Environment and Natural Resources, now DEWNR. 4 Acknowledgement of Country BIODIVERSIRTY PLANNING DEWNR Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources 6 Mayor’s Message 86 4.0 Watercourses and Waterbodies 8 Executive Summary BFL Bush For Life (Program) 87 4.1 Catchments Within the District DPTI Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure 89 4.2 Aquatic Biodiversity DSEWPaC Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities 12 1.0 Introduction 89 4.3 Fish 14 1.1 Policy and Legislative Context 100 4.4 Altered Aquatic Environments CFS Country Fire Service 16 1.2 What is Biodiversity 100 4.5 Riparian Zones EID Emerging Infectious Diseases 18 1.3 Biodiversity Decline EBS Ecology Environmental and Biodiversity Services 19 1.4 Environmental Setting and Location BIODIVERSIRTY PLANNING EPBC Act Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 23 1.5 Land Uses 24 1.6 Population and Urban Growth 106 5.0 Monitoring and Evaluation GWLAP Goolwa to Wellington Local Action Planning Group Inc 24 1.7 Climate 106 5.1 Ministerial Development Plan HEA Hahndorf Environment Association 25 1.8 Pre-European Vegetation Amendment (MDPA) IBRA Interim Biogeographical Regionalisation of Australia 29 1.9 Threats to Biodiversity 107 5.2 Flora LCU Landscape Character Unit 30 1.10 Biodiversity Protection Objectives 122 5.3 Threatened Flora Species 124 5.4 Threatened Ecological Species LGA Local Government Area BIODIVERSITY MANAGEMENT 124 5.5 Fauna MDPA Ministerial Development Plan Amendment 132 5.6 Fauna Habitats MLR Mount Lofty Ranges 32 2.0 Vegetation NPW Act National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972 33 2.1 Significant Natural Areas BIODIVERSIRTY PLANNING - Remant Vegetation NPW National Parks and Wildlife 38 2.2 Bush For Life (BFL) Sites 158 6.0 Partnerships NRM Act Natural Resources Management Act 2004 39 2.3 Roadside Vegetation 158 6.1 Organisational Partnerships NV Act Native Vegetation Act 1991 42 2.4 Related Flora 160 6.2 Government Partnerships NVC Native Vegetation Council 53 2.5 Veteran and Street Trees 161 6.3 Community Partnerships 54 2.6 Revegetation and Restoration Sites RP Recreation Park RMS Roadside Marker Scheme 57 2.7 Threats to Vegetation 164 7.0 Monitoring and Evaluation SAMDBNRM South Australia Murry Darling Basin Natural Resources Management BIODIVERSITY MANAGEMENT 166 8.0 References SEB Significant Environmental Benefit 62 3.0 Wildlife spp. species (plural) 62 3.1 Human Health and Social Benefits ssp. subspecies 63 3.2 Economic Benefits TEC Threatened Ecological Community 63 3.3 Threats to Fauna TFL Trees For Life (Program) 68 3.4 Fauna of Conservation Significance in the District 73 3.5 Fire Control History Of Peramangk People

The Peramangk people lived on the eastern side of at these places. Peramangk people had relations wallabies and emus all included, but depended the escarpment of the Adelaide Hills in the Districts along the River Murray and areas north of Manunka on traditional laws of season and permissions of surrounding Mount Barker. Records indicate that and around it to Swan Reach. Until settlement the access. Peramangk people wore very little clothing, approximately 600 Peramangk living around Mt Barker Peramangk always maintained a good supply of water especially in summer, but the women were more and at least 1,200 across its Nation and Clan areas at and plentiful amount of food, they rarely needed likely to wear a cloak of opposum fur or kangaroo the time of European colonisation. There are still many to move down on to the plains. There was trading skin. Place names within the landscape mark a descendants living today in South Australia. between the Peramangk and the Aboriginal people in clear boundary of Peramangk territory and their adjoining Nations, with them supplying: Ochre, flint, many Clans, even though they also shared many The whole language of these people has not survived, quartz, supple whip-stick mallee spears, opposum trade items and dreaming across common but there are still many words, names of places skins and other items not found on the plains and ground, water, sky and the stars. and names of the Clans that made up the lower lakes. Within the community, the men would Peramangk nation. hunt for animal food while the women gathered Art sites along the eastern escarpment and vegetables, cared for the children and maintained the the boundaries defined in the Tjilbruke and The Peramangk people share close relationships, campsite. They would remain at a campsite for several Ngarrindjeri song-lines that are also part of the culture and some language with the Nations of the days before moving, this prevented over use of the Kaurna dreaming. The ancient beings that carved Kaurna to the West, Ngadjuri to the north, Ngarrindjeri area and its food supply/resources thus ensuring the out this land and the dreaming stories of these to the south & Meru to the east. The Peramangk lived environment stayed the same for future generations beings is still a living presence and known by in the strip of country running north from Mount over thousands of years. The Peramangk would return many of our Meruwatta - (Country men), Nepo- Barker through Harrogate, Gumeracha, Mt Pleasant, to the sites used in previous years depending on the anna (neighbours) and ad joining Nations - This and Springton to the Angaston district and south to seasons and the condition of the environment. The diet will never change... even when the surface of the Strathalbyn. There are also sites along the River also varied according to the season with vegetables, earth we all stand on does. Murray where Peramangk people had access to the seeds, honey, eggs, grubs, insects, lizards, snakes, fish, River. Peramangk place names can still be found yabbies, opposums, and larger game with kangaroos, Ivan-Tiwu Copley

4 Biodiversity Strategy - Acknowledgement of Country 5 Mayor’s Message

The Mount Barker district boasts a wide range of We share this responsibility with other government habitats, including Eucalytpus woodlands and forest, agencies, not-for profit organsations, community grasslands and an extensive range of watercourses. groups and the dedicated and skilled volunteers that continue to work on Council land and private land. Our plants, wildlife and terristeral and aquatic habitats continue to face a number of threats including weed Our thanks is extended to all the Council staff, invasion, habitat fragmentation and degradation, risk elected members, community groups, government of fire, and climate change. agencies, non-government organisations and industry professionals that participated in the development By developing a Biodiversity Strategy, Council can of this Strategy. demonstrate that biodiversity is a part of core business and commitment toward conserving biodiversity in the Ann Ferguson face of a changing landscape and urban growth. Mayor

The reduction of biodiversity has the potential to affect economic, ecological, social and cultural values within the District. The implementation of the actions outlined in this strategy will essentially aim to mitigate biodiversity loss and guide a sustainable, adaptive and achievable approach to biodiversity conservation and urban growth.

6 Biodiversity Strategy - Mayor’s Message 7 Hydrology Hydrological processes are essential to not only maintain biological diversity, but are also fundamental to the survival of humans (Pert and others 2010). Catchments and watercourses Biodiversity Strategy Snap Shot provide habitat for a number of plants and animals particularly in the aquatic environments and riparian zones, the land Objectives surrounding or adjoining and influenced by, a body of water. Biological diversity or biodiversity is the variety of all life forms on earth – the different plants, animals and micro-organisms, their genes, and the There are two broad categories of surface water resources terrestrial, marine and freshwater ecosystems of which they are a part (National Strategy for the Conservation of Australia’s Biological Diversity). within the district. These categories can be distinguished by The Biodiversity Strategy has: creeks that drain in a southwest direction and form part of the Onkaparinga Catchment, which includes Echunga Creek, • Identified current landscape & values within the local government area (LGA); Hahndorf Creek and the Biggs Flat area and those streams • Identified threats within the study area; and rivers that drain in an easterly direction towards Lake • Identified responses to the threats; Alexandrina and form part of the River Murray Catchment; • Identify actions for effective implementation of the strategy and; this includes the Bremer River and the Angas River. • Identified effective monitoring and evaluation of the strategy. Flow regime is regarded to be the key driver for river, creek and wetland ecosystems. Flows are the major determinant of Biodiversity and Landscape Assets habitats in streams, which contributes to the survival of aquatic Prior to European settlement the Mount Barker District was covered in forests and woodlands, which supported a diverse range of flora and fauna. organisms. Altered flow regimes also facilitate the invasion of These vegetation associations were predominately Red Gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis var. camaldulensis) Woodland, Blue Gum (Eucalyptus exotic species, causing addition predation and competition leucoxylon) Woodland, Pink Gum (Eucalyptus fasciculosa) Woodland, Drooping Sheoak (Allocasuarina verticillata) Woodland and Blue Gum for native species, particularly in fish, crustaceans and (Eucalyptus leucoxylon) and Pink Gum (Eucalyptus fasciculosa) Woodland. Smaller patches of forests, woodland and grassland occurred throughout macroinvertebrates (Bunn and Arthington 2002). the region including Peppermint Box (Eucalyptus odorata) +/- Pink Gum (Eucalyptus fasciculosa) Woodland, Scented Mat-rush/ Irongrass (Lomandra Fauna that inhabit aquatic and riparian environments in effusa) Open Tussock Grassland, Messmate Stringybark (Eucalyptus obliqua) and Pink Gum (Eucalyptus fasciculosa) Woodland, Messmate the watercourses in the district include fish, invertebrates, Stringybark (Eucalyptus obliqua) Open Forest, and small patches of Mallee Box (Eucalyptus porosa) Low Woodland (Crompton & Williams 1998). amphibians, birds, reptiles and mammals.

Flora Undisturbed native vegetation is the result of an extensive evolutionary process. Once this system has been disturbed by anthropogenic influences, it cannot be replicated. Vegetation systems are important for the survival of wildlife and provide ecosystem services for humans. The interactions between different populations of species are directly and/or indirectly interrelated and interdependent. Fauna Native animals are important to ecosystems because they act as indicators There is little remaining native vegetation within the District. During of healthy ecosystems, waterways and habitats, play important balancing the 19th Century, approximately 95% of the original vegetation has roles in ecosystems, human health and social benefits of being in nature, been cleared for agricultural use and mining activities (University of economic benefits and provision of educational experiences. Wildlife plays Adelaide 2010). Generic Community Land management plans have an important role in keeping some animals from becoming too numerous been developed for all Council reserves and are classified under 3 (predators), managing vegetation growth (herbivores) or providing food, categories – Natural Areas, Parks and Recreation & Sport. The Natural and recycling organic matter (decomposers). Area schedule applies to 58 of the community land and contains one or more of the assets that contribute to biodiversity outcomes such Mount Barker Local Government Area provides habitat to a number of as bushland, watercourses, wetlands and grasslands. fauna species including birds, mammals, amphibians, reptiles, fish and insects. A number of these species are listed as threatened at a regional, • Approximately 25-30 thousand street and reserve trees state and/or national level. • 21 Bush for Life Sites There are approximately 70 nationally listed species and/or regionally • There are around 60 nationally listed specis, state listed specis listed species in the district. and/or regionally listed specis • There are two nationally threatened ecological communities that remain in the district: Iron-grass Lomandra species Natural Temperate Grassland; and Peppermint Box (Eucalyptus odorata) Grassy Woodland. • Council’s Community Land Register has 393 parcels of community and crown. Many of these community land parcels and road reserves contain remnant native vegetation • The area has a network of 855 kms of made roads comprising 664 kms of Council roads and 191 kms of Transport SA roads. Over 150 kms of road reserve remain undeveloped. 265 roadsides are protected under the Roadside Marker Scheme (RMS) Image by Kevin Williams Image by Kevin Williams 8 Biodiversity Strategy - Executive Summary 9 The strategy itself will adopt an adaptive management approach. The implementation of strategy will be an ongoing process where the completed actions are reported annually to council staff, elected members and external stakeholders. This will enable the strategy be qualitatively assessed. • Key • Themes Key Key Threats Objective Priority Actions Area Themes

Degradation of limited remnant To maintain and enhance good quality Prioritise weed management and integrate with existing programs Threats to Biodiversity and connected habitat of flora and fauna. and projects.

In general, the following key pressures have been identified for the District, Habitat Predation by pest species Develop threatened species and Dedicated specialist onground team that are trained and have management requirements. experience in land conservation and management. Biodiversity Biodiversity

based on the current status information collected: Preservation Management Grazing competition Conduct seasonal surveys. Provide an area for rescuing and relocating species • Degradation of roadside vegetation; (council nursery). Weed invasion • Degradation of limited remnant vegetation; Develop a policy to protect vegetation on council land, including creeklines. • Fragmentation of habitats and lack of connectivity between remnant vegetation Pest diseases Developed of a hollow protection and protection policy. and degradation around the edges ofremnants (the ‘edge effect’); Competition from Develop conceptual linkages for fauna habitat (& potential habitat). • Predation by pest species (cats, foxes and stray dogs); introduced birds • Grazing competition (rabbits, goats, deer, straying sheep and cattle); Occasional seasonal over • Illegal hunting of native animals abundance of native species

• Road-kill Fragmentation of habitats and • Loss of habitat (terrestrial and aquatic); lack of connectivity between remnant vegetation and • Habitat fragmentation degradation around the edges of remnants (the ‘edge effect’) • Diseases and pollution; • Habitat alteration Degradation of roadside Implement best practise roadside Review and audit RMS sites Educate adjacent landholders on the vegetation (including road vegetation management to support importance of native vegetation. • Weed invasion; reserves) biodiversity goals and road safety.

Roadside Roadside Update the roadside vegetation plan. Vegetation

• Pest diseases; Biodiversity

Management Protection of unmade road reserves. • Fire management regime and changes in fire regimes; Ensure any works that could impact roadsides and road reserves • Occasional seasonal over abundance of native species; are assessed, with mitigation strategies developed, in conjunction with Open Space and Environment Team. • Competition from introduced birds;

• Recreational impacts (bicycles, off road vehicles, horses); Fire management regime and Maintain native vegetation of habitat Education on bushfires and how different species (native versus changes in fire regimes and conservation value while reducing exotic) burns. • Unsustainable land use and natural resources management; bushfire fuel load. • Change in zoning and land use; Bushfire Manage bushfire risk by developing site specific management

Biodiversity Biodiversity plans and timing of slashing etc. • Changes to water flows and hydrology; Management Management Educate regarding bushfire in new resident packs Retain native • Reduction of water quality; grasses and encourage proliferation. • Climate change; and Recreational impacts (bicycles, To protect and enhance biodiversity Provision of enough open space that considers recreation and • Population growth. off road vehicles, horses). outcomes by encouraging and supporting biodiversity values. Black Cockatoo Image by Kevin Williams Kevin by Image Black Cockatoo community participation, education and Planning Balanced Land Use strengthening partnerships. Partnerships with recreational clubs Biodiversity Biodiversity Incorporate conservation/biodiversity zones into the planning and development of parks Interpretive signage along trails.

Urban Development To promote urban develop that avoids the Demonstration sites for backyard biodiversity. loss of biodiversity. Retain native vegetation on roadsides surrounding development Planning Sustainable Sustainable Biodiversity Biodiversity Promote retention of native vegetation patches through

Development development sites.

Change in zoning and land use To adopt, implement and promote Developer checklist/guidelines for best practice Developers to have best practise ecological sustainable high energy/water efficient properties (reduce light pollution, solar, development principles. Solar passive design, rainwater tanks, native plant Partners to grow advance plants of local Provence. Review climate change plan.

Changes to water flows Develop best practise management to Harness MDPA watercourses opportunities for managing optimise physical, chemical and biological environment water provision (environmental flow).

Health state of watercourses in the district. Planning Reduction of water quality Develop strategic guidelines for best environmental practise of Biodiversity Biodiversity

Watercourse Watercourse riparian planting and management Link with Water Sensitive Urban Design for habitat value.

Lack of information sharing To protect and enhance biodiversity Information kit to new home builders on biodiversity outcomes by encouraging and supporting community participation and Develop a community engagement plan .

Planning strengthening partnerships. Biodiversity Biodiversity Community Communication Plan for roadside vegetation stakeholders Clear Education & Education 10 Biodiversity Strategy - Executive Summary Partnerships guidelines for field council staff and contractors 11 Natural Environment Objectives Natural Environment Strategies NE 1 Environmental leadership NE1.1 Demonstrate leadership in sustainability, environmental enhancement For stewardship of the environment to be and protection a core commitment and to continuously NE 1.2 Lead biodiversity protection and restoration initiatives lead by example in environmental protection and innovation. NE1.3 Promote environmental education and awareness NE1.4 Support environmental research on local issues

NE 2 Ecological footprint and NE 2.1 Commit to a high standard of built and operational sustainability waste management performance in major building projects of Council There is a committed and sustained effort NE 2.2 Limit and reduce carbon and other greenhouse gas emissions in to reduce the ecological footprint of capital investment projects and operational practices 1.0 Introduction Council and community. NE 2.3 Use renewable energy The District Council of Mount Barker Local The Mount Barker 2035 District Strategic Plan NE 2.4 Conserve water, maximise recycled water use and practice appropriate Government Area (LGA) contains substantial addresses numerous relevant outcomes that relates Water Sensitive Urban Design biodiversity and has areas located within the to the biodiversity strategy. These objectives and NE 2.5 Promote, practice and enable best practice waste minimisation, waste reduction and recycling systems “biodiversity hotspot”, Mount Lofty Ranges. Council corresponding strategies in table 1.1. is responsible for the management of vegetation NE 2.6 Increase recycling rates within council reserves, road reserves and NE 3 - The promotion and protection of NE 3.1 Promote understanding and use of natural areas and provide learning natural areas opportunities roadsides. By developing a Biodiversity Strategy, To respect and protect local natural areas Council can demonstrate that biodiversity is a NE 3.2 Integrate human environments with natural areas using urban ecology through awareness and involvement. principles part of core business and commitment toward NE 3.3 Design buffers and interfaces between built and natural areas conserving biodiversity in the face of a changing landscape and urban growth. This is a high priority NE 3.4 Further develop and enhance vegetation corridors due to the introduction of the Mount Barker NE 3.5 Increase community awareness regarding its impact on the natural environment Urban Growth (Ministerial) Development Plan Amendment (MDPA) as part of its 30 year plan for NE 3.6 Influence community behaviours and attitudes to achieve global and local environmental targets Greater Adelaide. NE 3.7 Facilitate and support active volunteer involvement from the community in preserving, rehabilitating and enhancing the natural The reduction of biodiversity has the potential to environment affect economic, ecological, social and cultural NE 4 Climate change and resilience NE 4.1 Ensure up-to-date knowledge and understanding of environmental values within the District. The implementation of To continually adapt to changing local conditions and context the actions outlined in this strategy will essentially environmental conditions. NE 4.2 Identify and respond to environmental risks and vulnerabilities aim to mitigate biodiversity loss and guide a NE 4.3 Evolve strategy, policy and operational practices to ensure appropriate sustainable, adaptive and achievable approach to adaptive responses to climate change biodiversity conservation and urban growth. Table 1.1 Strategic plan objectives and corresponding strategies related to the biodiversity strategy

12 Biodiversity Strategy - Introduction 13 The Biodiversity Strategy will: 1.1 Policy and Legislative Context • Environment Protection and Biodiversity • Identify current landscape & values within the The Biodiversity Strategy considers appropriate Conservation Act (1999) local government area (LGA); legislation and guiding principles within a local, • Basin Plan and Water Act (Commonwealth) 2007 • Identify threats within the study area; state, federal and global context. There are a series • Caring for our Country 2013-2018 • Identify responses to the threats; of documents that legislate or set the strategic • National Water Initiative • Identify actions for effective Implementation of direction of the management of natural resources • National Water Quality Management Strategy the strategy and; and biodiversity at all levels of government. Figure 1.1 • National Food Plan: Our food future • Identify effective monitoring and evaluation of shows the key legislation and documents that have • National Wildlife Corridors Plan the strategy. been considered in the development of the strategy. • Australia’s Biodiversity Conservation Strategy • Native Vegetation Act 1991 • Identify remnant native vegetation to the current (2010 – 2030) • Native Vegetation Regulations 2003 and pre European vegetation association and • Australian Weeds Strategy 2007 • Mining Act 1971 species level within the area covered by the • Australian Pest Animals Strategy 2007 • Natural Resources Management Act 2004 Mount Barker, Littlehampton and Nairne • National Bushfire Management Policy • Fire and Emergency Services Act (2005) MDPA area; • Local Government Act 1999 • Identify remnant vegetation to the association Relevant Federal Government • Development Act 1999 level beyond the MDPA area that highlights Legislation and Documents • National Parks and Wildlife Act (1972) existing and potential habitat corridors • Crown Land Management Act (2009) and buffers; • Environment Protection Act 1993 • Provide species lists for each vegetation • River Murray Act 2003 (SA) association, both existing and pre-European. • Mount Barker, Littlehampton and Nairne Draft • Regional Recovery Plan (AMLR) 2009-2014 • Provide an assessment of Vegetation Condition, Structure Plan • Natural Resources SA MDB Natural Resources Conservation Value and Landscape context based • Mount Barker Township Expansion Flora and Management Plan on techniques used by the DEWNR Native Fauna Assessment • The 30-Year Plan for Greater Adelaide –DPTI Vegetation Council; • Mount Barker Threatened Flora Recovery • Threatened Flora Recovery Plan (SAMDB NRM) • Identify conservation ratings of vegetation Project: Interim Survey Findings & Management communities and species; Recommendations Relevant State Government • Identify and map environmental features such • Landscape Planning Review – Future Growth Legislation and Documents as wetland/bog areas and rocky outcrops that Corridors for District Council of Mount Barker may provide current or potential habitat; heading into 2050 • Identify water dependent ecosystems; • University of Adelaide 2010 – Landscape Planning • Identify known fauna species within the MDPA Report 2010 area and their habitat requirements; • Local Natural Resource Management Plan • Make recommendations on the design and (Flaxley Landcare Group) 2006 function of development areas to achieve • Mount Barker Creek rehabilitation Strategy 2013 outcomes that protect and extend biodiversity • Laratinga Reserve Management Plan (draft) 2011 asset; and • Mount Barker Council Strategic Plan • Align recommendations with relevant policies within Council’s Development Plan. Relevant Local Government Documents

Figure 1.1 Relative policy and legislative context associated with the Biodiversity Strategy.

14 Biodiversity Strategy - Introduction 15 1.2 What is Biodiversity? HA

BITAT

Biodiversity is fundamental to the production of Biological diversity or biodiversity is the variety of ecosystem services. Ecosystem services are the benefits all life forms on earth – the different plants, animals G

and micro-organisms, their genes, and the terrestrial, provided to humans through the transformation of IN resources and environmental assets, such as water, N marine and freshwater ecosystems of which they IO S are a part (National Strategy for the Conservation of land, vegetation. Biodiversity directly produces a I V Australia’s Biological Diversity). number of services whilst supporting other services O

R through the role of organisms in energy and material P The concept of biodiversity embraces the various cycles. Healthy ecosystems are based around intact living parts of the world around us. The three levels vegetation communities and biodiversity and can

provide a number of essential services such as of biodiversity – species, genetics and community – are interrelated and interdependent. A population of provisioning services, cultural services, supporting a species is dependent on the genetic variation within services and regulating services. Diverse communities it and upon its habitat (ecosystem) for survival, and may be more productive because species differ in the G

way they capture energy and nutrients, so leading to a an ecosystem is dependent on the full variety of the N

I

potentially greater collective uptake. Figure 1.2 shows species that comprise it (Williams et al. 2001). T

A a summary of the range of services produced by the L

Biodiversity allows human life to exist, as we rely natural environment. U

G on the resources provided by many species and C E U R ecosystems. The understanding and appreciation L T of biodiversity highlights the benefits of the natural U R world and allows us take steps to conserve this asset. E

Biodiversity can be valued by understanding the

contribution to economic, recreation, culture, health s and science values (Morton and Hill 2014). si he Soil Formation Photosynt “All Australians depend on our biodiversity g and the many ecological services provided by lin B yc i C od our natural environment. Some of us depend Nutrient iv ersity directly or indirectly on healthy environments

for our livelihoods and culture, some enjoy

them for sport and recreation, and some find

artistic and spiritual inspiration from nature.”

Australian Biodiversity Conservation Strategy (2010-2020)

Figure 1.2 The range of ecosystem services provided by biodiversity.

16 Biodiversity Strategy - Introduction 17 1.3 Biodiversity Decline 1.4 Environmental Setting and Location

Biodiversity decline can be defined as The Mount Barker District Council and Nairne townships”. The Western the loss of variety in living systems. It comprises area of 597km2. The Local Ranges LCU is described as an area can be a decline in the number and Government Area (LGA) boundary is “generally characterised by high the range of species in a particular located approximately 25km from the rainfall and corresponds with the region, the loss of genetic diversity Adelaide CBD and 33km to the Mount Watershed and is associated with within populations of individual Barker Township. Other townships extensive drainage networks, ridges species, or more broadly, the loss within the district include, Hahndorf, and valleys of high relief and open of ecosystems. Consequently, Meadows, Echunga, Macclesfield, valley basins. It possesses significant biodiversity decline or loss can reduce Flaxley, Prospect Hill, Littlehampton, areas of vegetation and its major land the efficiency with which ecosystems Nairne, Brukunga, Harrogate, Dawsley, uses are agriculture (horticulture, acquire resources, produce biomass, Kanmantoo, Wistow and part of dairying), water catchment, and decompose it to recycle nutrients. Callington. Surrounding Councils conservation and urban development. Loss of diversity at multiple levels include Adelaide Hills Council, Mid The Interim Biogeographical within a food chain can influence Murray Council, The Rural City of Regionalisation of Australia (IBRA) ecosystems more than loss within just Murray Bridge, Alexandrina Council identifies geographically distinct one level. Effects of extinction range and the City of Onkaparinga. bioregions based on common from undetectable for species having climate, geology, landform, native small roles in ecosystem functions, to Approximately 80% of the LGA sits vegetation and species information. extreme for those that dominate the within the South Australian Murray The bioregions are further refined working of the ecosystem. Maintaining Darling Basin Natural Resource into subregions and environmental biodiversity allows ecosystems to keep Management region (SAMDBNRM) associations. The District falls into working in the face of ongoing change and the remaining 20% falls within two bioregions. The first located and to recover functions more readily the Adelaide Mount Lofty Ranges within the Flinders Lofty Block IBRA after a shock. Natural Resource Management bioregion and the Mount Lofty Ranges (AMLRNRM) region. IBRA subregion and on a finer scale falls within Hahndorf Environmental The Mount Lofty Ranges Regional Association. The second falls within Plan places the Mount Barker Local the Kanmantoo IBRA bioregion, Government area partly within the Fleurieu IBRA subregion and the Scott Central Ranges Landscape Character Hill Environmental Association (see Unit (LCU), and partly within the table 1.2). Western Ranges LCU. The Central Ranges LCU, as defined in the Mount Native vegetation remnancy Lofty Ranges Regional Strategy Plan, figures for IBRA subregions and “is characterised by rolling uplands environmental associations are useful and open valleys with drainage divides for setting regional landscape targets and has a moderate rainfall. Its major and guiding restoration projects. land uses are agriculture (cropping, dairying and grazing) and areas of urban development, mainly centred in the Mount Barker, Littlehampton

18 Biodiversity Strategy - Introduction 19 Allocasuarina Allocasuarina (Mallee Correa). Correa sp. and in the northern part of the region E. and in the northern part of region and low open scrub of and low odorata Eucalyptus and (Rough-barked Manna Gum) dominates the wetter and the wetter Manna Gum) dominates (Rough-barked (Scarlet Mintbush) and Mintbush) (Scarlet dominates the woodlands on podzolised soils in the lower rainfall soils in the lower on podzolised the woodlands dominates characterises drier sites. Eucalypts give way to to way give Eucalypts drier sites. characterises E. odorata are found in higher rainfall areas on deep, lateritic soils. Shallower or soils. Shallower on deep, lateritic areas in higher rainfall found are E. fasciculosa, E cosmophylla E. fasciculosa, Allocasuarina verticil/ala Allocasuarina E. baxteri (Drooping Sheoak) in the most arid woodlands and in coastal situations on shallow on shallow situations and in coastal arid woodlands Sheoak) in the most (Drooping and E.viminalis ssp. cygnetensis ssp. cygnetensis E.viminalis Eucalyptus shrublands with a shrubby understorey. shrublands with a shrubby Eucalyptus Hard setting loams with red clayey subsoils, highly calcareous loamy earths, hard setting earths, hard loamy calcareous highly subsoils, red clayey loams with setting Hard clays. sandy soils, cracking coherent subsoil, clayey yellow loams with mottled of woodland Low Prostanthera aspalathoides Prostanthera Dissected lateritized surface in south. surface lateritized Dissected reddish soils and duplex pedal mottled-yellow sandy soils, hard structured weakly Grey-brown siliceous loams. Hills and valleys; alternating sub parallel hilly ridges and valleys with a general N-S trend in N-S trend general with a valleys and hilly ridges sub parallel alternating Hills and valleys; tableland. north. In south, hilly dissected Metasediments. 18 Conservation Parks. Approximately 12.3% of the subregion is mapped as remnant native remnant is mapped as 12.3% of the subregion Approximately Parks. 18 Conservation (6509ha) and in reserves within NPW is protected Areas Protected of which 19.5% vegetation, Act 1991, with an additional Vegetation (1800ha) under the Native Agreements Heritage private reserves. 555ha in Forestry of open is a cover There slopes, on metasediments. with steep ridges controlled Structurally growth, tree without any hills, often grass-covered pasture. of sown parkland with an understory gorges. into steepening locally and deeply incised valleys, outcrops, rock frequent This subregion is predominantly an undulating to low hilly upland with steeper marginal ranges ranges marginal steeper hilly upland with to low an undulating is predominantly This subregion increasingly Peninsula and becomes on the Fleurieu occurs surface and hills. A lateritized and summits with crests as rounded survive remnants only a few where to northward dissected soft glacial where Valley within the Inman are lying areas soils. The lowest duplex -yellow mottled sedimentary quickly than the surrounding more been lowered and fluvio-glacial deposits have and reserves remains in some however has been cleared, vegetation Much of the native rocks. Eucalyptus by dominated commonly open woodland Low inaccessible areas. small isolated obliqua sandy soils support E leucoxylon gonioca/yx. areas, and woodlands cooler verticil/ala soils. rocky of 97,645 ha. 10% the area total a remaining from 0.3% of vegetation Approximately reserves in NPW conserved 0.5% is where vegetation, native remnant is mapped as association (48ha) and 0.86% (84 ha) Temperate, well defined uplands of Cambrian and Late Proterozoic marine sediments, and a marine sediments, Proterozoic uplands of Cambrian and Late defined well Temperate, lateralised on and heaths and woodlands with open forests northwards, dissected becoming surface soils. duplex gravelly and ironstone yellow mottled Kanmantoo IBRA bioregion Kanmantoo Fleurieu (KAN02) IBRA subregion association Hill IBRA environmental Scott , E

E. E. fasciculosa are found in higher rainfall in higher rainfall found are and open forest of E. obliqua and open forest E. baxteri and Eucalyptus woodlands with a shrubby understorey with a shrubby woodlands Eucalyptus Hard setting loams with red clayey subsoils, Highly subsoils, red clayey loams with setting Hard loams with setting earths, Hard loamy calcareous sandy Coherent subsoil, clayey yellow mottled clays soils, Cracking ssp. leucoxylon E. leucoxylon of SA Woodland ssp. E. camaldulensis with river sometimes camaldulensis Stringybark. with Brown sometimes Dissected lateritized surface in south surface lateritized Dissected soils, hard duplex pedal mottled-yellow Hard structured weakly soils, reddish duplex pedal red siliceous loams and sandy soils and grey bleached sands. Hills and valleys; alternating subparallel hilly subparallel alternating Hills and valleys; in N-S trend with a general and valleys ridges tableland north. In south, hilly dissected and alluvium. quartzite Shale, laterite, Approximately 15% (46342 ha) of the subregion Approximately of which vegetation, native is mapped as remnant conserved 27% (12706 ha) is formally to hilly high plain on shale with Undulating ridges. strike quartzite northerly trending narrow, Approximately 8% (5091 ha) of the association is 8% (5091 ha) of the association Approximately of which vegetation, native mapped as remnant conserved. 6% (311ha) is formally dominate the wetter and cooler woodlands and cooler and the wetter dominate drier sites. Eucalypts give way to Drooping Sheoak Drooping to way give Eucalypts drier sites. n E leucoxylo E. goniocalyx. and in the northern part of region IBRA Regions, sub-regions, and environmental association environmental landscape summaries for the District. Source: IBRA version 7 version IBRA Source: for the District. summaries landscape environmental association and environmental sub-regions, IBRA Regions, Vegetation Soil Vegetation Geology Soil Landform Geology dominates the woodlands on podsolised soils in the lower rainfall areas, areas, rainfall on podsolised soils in the lower the woodlands dominates cosmophylla viminalis ssp. cygnetensis characterises E. odorata situations and in coastal arid woodlands ) in the most verticillata ( Allocasuarina soils. rocky on shallow vegetation Remnant Landform areas on deep, lateritic soils. Shallower or sandy soils support soils. Shallower on deep, lateritic areas Flinders Lofty Block IBRA bioregion Flinders soils; stony and shallow outcrop rock and hills with extensive Ranges narrow downs; of stony and small basin plains; some remnants pediments in of hogback ridges and hills in form Ranges some with gorges. valleys, quartzite. (FLB01) IBRA subregion Lofty Ranges Mount the Barossa to north of the Fleurieu Peninsula from extends This subregion steeper hilly upland with to low an undulating and is predominantly Valley, in this area is the lowest Valley and hills. The Barossa ranges marginal consists of the subregion basin. The rest a structural and represents subregion ridges strike and shale with northerly trending of hilly uplands on sandstone commonly woodland open Low remnants. tableland lateritic and dissected obliqua Eucalyptus by dominated association Hahndorf IBRA environmental vegetation Remnant Table 1.2 Table

20 Biodiversity Strategy - Introduction 21 1.5 Land Uses There are a large variety of land uses throughout the district; however there are two dominant land categories; rural General & Government Map residential (rural living) and livestock grazing. The current percentage used by each the dominant land use is projected to change as urban expansion increases residential zones and reduces livestock grazing and agricultural land use.

Land Use Description Area (Hectares) District (%) Rural Residential 22923.32 38.48 Livestock 21418.79 35.96 Agriculture 4272.56 7.17 Reserve 2535.07 4.26 Vacant 1947.84 3.27 Horticulture 1697.86 2.85 Utility Industry 1638.41 2.75 Forestry 1277.23 2.14 Residential 1126.77 1.89 Vacant Residential 181.57 0.30 Recreation 153.72 0.26 Golf 82.32 0.14 Public Institution 85.50 0.14 Education 75.38 0.13 Commercial 67.51 0.11 Retail Commercial 53.38 0.09 Non Private Residential 15.29 0.03 Mine Quarry 9.44 0.02 Food Industry 5.62 0.01 59567.56 100.00

Table 1.3 – Land use and breakdown of land use in the Mount Barker District

40 Figure 1.3 - Land use and percentage of the total district area in the Mount Barker District 35 30 25 20 15 ge of total district area ta 10 en rc

Pe 5 0 l l l y y y k e e n n ry re ial ial tr tr at e oc st rc Golf cant st serv re tuo eao Va Re Fo Land Use cr s sidena sidena ducaon Live E Re Re Re Agricultu Non Priv Comme Horcultur ood Indus Mine Quarr al F Ulity Indus ail Comme rc t

Map 1.2 Mount Barker LGA showing NRM region boundaries, IBRA region boundaries, council land, State owned land and MDPA area. cant Residena Rur Public In Re Va

22 Biodiversity Strategy - Introduction 23 1.6 Population and Urban Growth 1.7 Climate 1.8 Pre-European Vegetation

Australia’s population has increased significantly since the The climate in the Mt Barker District is generally cooler Prior to European settlement the Mount Barker District 1.8.2 Blue Gum mid 20th century and is expected to increase to around 41 and wetter than the Adelaide Plains. Mean daily maximum was covered in forests and woodlands, which supported (Eucalyptus leucoxylon) Woodland million by 2056 (Department of Environment – Australian temperatures range from approximately 14°C in winter a diverse range of flora and fauna. These vegetation Blue Gum (Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon) Government). There is a relationship between population to 27°C in summer. The mean minimum temperature is associations were predominately Red Gum (Eucalyptus Woodlands in the district are generally open with a grassy growth and pressures on the environment. These approximately 5°C in winter and to 12 °C in the summer. camaldulensis var. camaldulensis) Woodland, Blue Gum understorey consisting of Spear-grasses Austrostipa( spp.), pressures include the increase of built infrastructure, The highest temperature on record is 44.5°C with the (Eucalyptus leucoxylon) Woodland, Pink Gum (Eucalyptus Wallaby grasses (Austrodanthonia spp.) and Kangaroo alteration of natural environments, increase in the use of lowest being -5.6°C. fasciculosa) Woodland, Drooping Sheoak (Allocasuarina grasses (Themeda triandra) and numerous herbs and natural resources, altered flow regimes and tidal zones, verticillata) Woodland and Blue Gum (Eucalyptus bulbous plants. In some areas a sparse cover of shrubs is The average annual rainfall is 764 mm/yr at Mt Barker, increased use of natural areas for recreation, increased leucoxylon) and Pink Gum (Eucalyptus fasciculosa) present consisting of Golden Wattle (Acacia pycnantha), with the highest rainfall months between June and August. greenhouse gas emissions and an increase in non- Woodland. Smaller patches of forests, woodland and Sticky Hop-bush Dodonaea( viscosa spp. spatulata) Climate varies across the District, with rainfall higher in the indigenous organisms. grassland occurred throughout the region including and Sweet Bursaria (Bursaria spinosa ssp. spinosa). The western parts of the District (average total annual rainfall Peppermint Box (Eucalyptus odorata) +/- Pink Gum community is mostly found on crests, ridges or hill slopes The 30 Year Plan for Greater Adelaide identified Mount of 849 mm /year in Hahndorf) and lower in the eastern (Eucalyptus fasciculosa) Woodland, Scented Mat-rush/ on soils ranging from loamy sand to clay loam. Remnants Barker as a regional centre for the eastern Mount Lofty portions of the District (average total annual rainfall of 468 Irongrass (Lomandra effusa) Open Tussock Grassland, can be seen in Council reserves such as Coppins Bush Ranges, highlighting a number of growth areas for urban mm in Kanmantoo). Messmate Stringybark (Eucalyptus obliqua) and Pink Gum at Littlehampton, at the Echunga Cemetery and on the expansion with approximately 1300 hectares in Nairne (Eucalyptus fasciculosa) Woodland, Messmate Stringybark lower western slopes of Mt. Barker Summit, Macclesfield and Mount Barker. These growth areas resulted from (Eucalyptus obliqua) Open Forest, and small patches of Cemetery and Flaxley (Crompton & Williams 1998). rezoning by the Ministerial Mount Barker Urban Growth Mallee Box (Eucalyptus porosa) Low Woodland (Crompton Development Plan Amendment (2010). & Williams 1998). 1.8.3 Pink Gum The new growth areas for Mount Barker are located (Eucalyptus fasciculosa) Woodland along the southern and western fringes of the existing 1.8.1 Red Gum Pink Gum (Eucalyptus fasciculosa) Woodlands grow on a Mount Barker Township. The MDPA land is outlined in the (Eucalyptus camaldulensis var. camaldulensis) Woodland variety of soil types and habitats where the soil is acidic, Draft Mount Barker, Littlehampton and Nairne Structure Red Gums form either individually dominant Woodlands phosphorus and nitrogen are low, generally over rock, with Plan (District Council of Mount Barker 2012), where or co-dominant Woodlands with Manna Gum (Eucalyptus. rainfall greater than 400mm per annum. The understorey the intention is to ensure that the impacts associated viminalis ssp. cygnetensis). Red Gum Woodlands typically is either mixed shrubs with sedges or more open grassland with the new development on both communities and occur along creeklines, drainage lines and floodplains or with herbaceous species and sedges. The dominant the environment can be appropriately managed. This on hill slopes. The soils are mostly loams to clays, silty understorey shrubs are Golden Wattle (Acacia pycnantha), takes into consideration issues such as climate change loam and clay loam. Red Gum Woodlands have an open Twiggy Daisy-bush (Olearia ramulosa), Heath tea-tree and the need for food production that supports an understorey of grasses, sedges and herbs. The shrub layer (Leptospermum myrsinoides) and Cranberry Heath expanding urban environment (District Council of Mount is also quite open. Along creeklines, rivers and floodplains, (Astroloma humifusum). Pink gum is usually associated Barker 2012). The plan identified the need to undertake reeds and rushes form the understorey in the waterlogged with Blue gum and Manna gum woodlands with pink a detailed biodiversity study of the area as a matter areas. In valleys, Blue Gum (Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. gum becoming the dominant species in steeper and of priority, to better inform good development that leucoxylon) and Pink Gum (Eucalyptus fasciculosa) are rockier locations. An important remnant of Pink Gum E.( adequately addresses these issues associated with the usually present and on hill slopes. The drier eastern fasciculosa) occurs at the Macclesfield cemetery reserve. protection and management of biodiversity. slopes of the Mount Barker District originally supported Blue Gum (Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon) and The MDPA biological survey’s primary aim is to ensure that a range of different woodland types. For example, River Peppermint Box (Eucalyptus odorata) are also found new development doesn’t further erode the biological Red Gum dominated the higher slopes from Wistow, in association and are often co-dominant species in health of the region and that opportunities to restore local through Dawseley to Brukunga. Hallett Road Reserve in Pink Gum Woodlands. The local government area has biodiversity are assisted through the design and function Littlehampton and Mt. Barker Springs, Wistow Nairne still remaining examples along the ridge between Echunga in and around those areas (see chapter 5.0). contain remnant Red Gums (Crompton & Williams 1998). and Mount Barker, at Macclesfield Cemetery Council and Scrubby Hill Road, Wistow (Crompton & Williams 1998).

24 Biodiversity Strategy - Introduction 25 1.8.4 Drooping Sheoak 1.8.6 Scented Mat-rush/ Irongrass 1.8.8 Messmate Stringybark 1.8.10 Mallee Box (Allocasuarina verticillata) Woodland (Lomandra effusa) Open Tussock Grassland (Eucalyptus obliqua) Open Forest (Eucalyptus porosa) Low Woodland Drooping Sheoak (Allocasuarina verticillata) Low Grasslands contained a wide range of species including Messmate Stringybark (Eucalyptus obliqua) Open Mallee Box (Eucalyptus porosa) Low Woodland occurs in Woodlands form small stands where soils are stony grasses, sedges, herbs and often scattered trees or Forests occur on the highest ridges and hill slopes of lower-lying areas on undulating plains with sandy to red- and drier. Sheoak Woodlands have an open grassy and shrubs. Lowland temperate native grasslands and grassy the higher rainfall areas on soils ranging from sandy brown clay loam soils. Mallee Box Woodland can often be herbaceous understorey. Dominant understorey includes woodlands are recognised as the most threatened natural loams, clay loams/ ironstone soils. The dominant tree associated with (Eucalyptus gracilis) and Peppermint Box Cranberry Heath (Astroloma humifusum), Pointed Mat- ecosystem in Australia (Ellis 2000). species is Messmate Stringybark (Eucalyptus obliqua) and (Eucalyptus odorata) on more fertile soils. rush (Lomandra densiflora), Hard Mat-rush (Lomandra occurs over a shrub understorey Myrtle Wattle (Acacia The Scented Mat-rush/ Irongrass (Lomandra effusa) Dominant Shrub species are Silver-leaved Wattle (Acacia multiflora ssp. dura) Wallaby grasses (Austrodanthonia myrtifolia), Beaked Hakea (Hakea rostrata), Narrow-leaf Open Tussock Grassland community is sometimes argyophylla), Golden Wattle (Acacia pycnantha), and spp), and Spear-grasses (Austrostipa spp). Medium sized Bitter-pea Daviesia( leptophylla), Silver Banksia (Banksia as an understorey to Sheoaks (Hyde 1998). Most Sweet Bursaria (Bursaria spinosa var. spinosa) through understorey shrubs include Sweet Bursaria (Bursaria marginata), Large-leaf Bush Pea (Pultenaea daphnoides) remnants occur where underlying bedrock is exposed as sheltered lower slopes Wirilda (Acacia retinodes var. spinosa ssp. spinosa), Golden Wattle (Acacia pycnantha) and Yacca (Xanthorrhoea semiplana ssp. semiplana). In the outcropping stone and the soil profile is generally shallow. retinodes) and Manna Wattle (Acacia microcarpa). and Sticky Hop-bush Dodonaea( viscosa ssp. spatulata). west of the district there were Stringybark forests with an This community is often found adjacent to Mallee Box This community has a grass and sedge understorey Currently remnants of Sheoak (Allocasuarina verticillata) understorey of healthy shrubs and yacka (Xanthorrhoea (Eucalyptus porosa), Peppermint Box (Eucalyptus odorata) with Kangaroo Grass (Themeda triandra), Spear-grass woodland occur on the Back Callington Road, Mount species). Nearly all of the original Stringybark trees or Southern Cypress Pine (Callitris gracilis) Woodlands, (Austrostipa spp.), Wallaby Grass (Austrodanthonia spp.), Barker Summit, Scrubby Hill Road and Native Avenue have been felled, although remnants of these forests and these trees may be scattered throughout. Iron Grass (Lomandra spp.) and Heathy Saw-sedge (Gahnia roadsides (Crompton & Williams 1998). are evident at Survey Hill Reserve and Stringybark deusta). Where areas of granite cropping exist in this Iron-grass Natural Temperate Grassland is listed as a Conservation Reserve and on private land. community Prickly Dagger Wattle (Acacia rhigophylla) is 1.8.5 Peppermint Box Critically Endangered ecological community under the Dominant understorey grasses and sedges are Weeping often found. Patches of Mallee woodland were also once (Eucalyptus odorata) +/- Pink Gum Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Rice-grass (Microlaena stipoides var. stipoides) and Wire distributed in the Mt. Barker District, however only a tiny (Eucalyptus fasciculosa) Woodland Act 1999 (EPBC ACT 1999). Small areas can be still be Rapier-sedge (Lepidosperma semiteres). Sporadically, patch remains, east of Mt. Barker Summit on the Cattle Peppermint Box (Eucalyptus odorata) usually forms a seen at Monarto Quarry and patches through Callington the Common Bearded-heath (Leucopogon virgatus var. Route (Crompton & Williams 1998). distinct woodland community on rocky slopes in sandy (Crompton & Williams 1998). virgatus) occurs. Totness Recreation Park and Jupiter loams, sandy clay-loams and clays. Peppermint Box is Creek Reserve contain good examples of this community often found in association with Pink Gums (Eucalyptus 1.8.7 Messmate Stringybark (Crompton & Williams 1998). fasciculosa), Drooping Sheoak (Allocasuarina verticillata) (Eucalyptus obliqua) and Pink Gum (Eucalyptus and sometimes Blue Gums (Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. fasciculosa) Woodland 1.8.9 Blue Gum leucoxylon). Grasses, sedges and herbs are the dominant The dominant species found in this plant community are (Eucalyptus leucoxylon) and Pink Gum understorey, with Hill Raspwort (Gonocarpus elatus), Messmate Stringybark (Eucalyptus obliqua) and Pink Gum (E. fasciculosa) Woodland Black-anther Flax-lily (Dianella revoluta), Sword Sedge (Eucalyptus fasciculosa). The community i occurs on the Woodlands dominated by Blue Gum (Eucalyptus (Lepidosperma spp.), Mat-rushes/ Irongrasses (Lomandra lower hill slopes in soils that range from sandy loam to clay leucoxylon) and Pink Gum (Eucalyptus fasciculosa) can spp.), Spear-grasses (Austrostipa spp.) and Wallaby grasses loams. The understorey consists of species such as Golden be found on hill slopes on soils ranging from sandy clay (Austrodanthonia spp.). The low shrubs Common Eutaxia Wattle (Acacia pycnantha), Large-leaf Bush Pea (Pultenaea loam, silty loam and medium clay. The community consists (Eutaxia microphylla) and Cranberry Heath (Astroloma daphnoides), Beaked Hakea (Hakea rostrata), Dwarf of Blue Gum and Pink Gum over Golden Wattle (Acacia humifusum) are also common. Medium to tall shrubs are Hakea (Hakea rugosa), Wire Rapier-sedge (Lepidosperma pycnantha) and low shrubs including Silky Guinea-flower sparse with Golden Wattle (Acacia pycnantha), Kangaroo semiteres), Cushion Ground-berry (Acrotriche serrulata) (Hibbertia crinita), Prickly Guinea Flower (Hibbertia Thorn (Acacia paradoxa), Sweet Bursaria (Bursaria spinosa and Prickly Guinea-flower (Hibbertia exutiacies). Jupiter exutiacies), Cranberry Heath (Astroloma humifusum), Holly ssp. spinosa) and Twiggy Bush-pea (Pultenaea largiflorens). Creek area contains this community (Crompton & Flat-pea (Platylobium obtusangulum) and Wire Rapier- Remnants of Peppermint Box occur on Wooley Road at Williams 1998). sedge (Lepidosperma semiteres). Harrogate and Daniel Road at Wistow. This vegetation community is listed as threatened under the Environment Council land containing this community is at Macclesfield Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 2004 Cemetery near the corner of Macclesfield to Meadows (Crompton & Williams 1998). Road and Paris Creek Road between Meadows and Strathalbyn (Crompton & Williams 1998).

26 Biodiversity Strategy - Introduction 27 1.9 Threats to Biodiversity Pre-European Vegetation Natural Resource priorities in the Mount Barker District are generally based on maintaining and enhancing the vegetation areas that are already in the best quality, as well as focussing on strategic locations, corridors and buffers to existing vegetation.

In general, the following key pressures have been identified for the District, based on the current status information collected:

• Degradation of roadside vegetation; • Degradation of limited remnant vegetation; • Fragmentation of habitats and lack of connectivity between remnant vegetation and degradation around the edges of remnants (the ‘edge effect’); • Predation by pest species (cats, foxes and stray dogs); • Grazing competition (rabbits, goats, deer, straying sheep and cattle); • Illegal hunting of native animals • Road-kill • Loss of habitat (terrestrial and aquatic); • Habitat fragmentation • Diseases and pollution; • Habitat alteration • Weed invasion; • Pest diseases; • Fire management regime and changes in fire regimes; • Occasional seasonal over abundance of native species; • Competition from introduced birds; • Recreational impacts (bicycles, off road vehicles, horses); • Unsustainable land use and natural resources management; • Change in zoning and land use; • Changes to water flows and hydrology; • Reduction of water quality; • Climate change; and • Population growth.

These pressures, causes and responses will be discussed in more detail in each relevant chapter.

Map 1.2 The Mount Barker LGA showing pre-European vegetation associations.

28 Biodiversity Strategy - Introduction 29 1.10 Biodiversity Protection Objectives

Threats Key Area Key Themes Objective

Degradation of limited remnant Biodiversity Management Habitat Preservation “To maintain and good quality and connected habitat of flora and fauna” Predation by pest species Biodiversity Management Habitat Preservation

Grazing competition Biodiversity Management Habitat Preservation

Weed invasion. Biodiversity Management Habitat Preservation

Pest diseases. Biodiversity Management Habitat Preservation

Competition from introduced Biodiversity Management Habitat Preservation birds

Occasional seasonal over Biodiversity Management Habitat Preservation abundance of native species

Fragmentation of habitats and Biodiversity Planning Habitat Preservation lack of connectivity between remnant vegetation and degradation around the edges of remnants (the ‘edge effect’)

Degradation of roadside Biodiversity Management Roadside Vegetation “Implement best practise roadside vegetation (including road vegetation management to support reserves) biodiversity goals and road safety”

Fire management regime and Biodiversity Management Bushfire “Maintain native vegetation of habitat and changes in fire regimes Management conservation value while reducing bushfire fuel load”

Recreational impacts (bicycles, Biodiversity Planning Balanced Land Use “To protect and enhance biodiversity off road vehicles, horses). outcomes by encouraging and supporting community participation, education and strengthening partnerships”

Urban Development Biodiversity Planning Sustainable “To promote urban develop that avoids the Development loss of biodiversity

Change in zoning and land use Biodiversity Planning Sustainable “To adopt, implement and promote Development best practise ecological sustainable development principles”

Changes to water flows Biodiversity Planning Watercourse Health “Develop best practise management to optimise physical, chemical and biological Reduction of water quality Biodiversity Planning Watercourse Health state of watercourses in the district”

30 Biodiversity Strategy - Introduction 31 2.1 Significant Natural Areas – Remnant Vegetation

2.1.1 Mount Barker Summit Conservation Reserve

The Mount Barker Summit Conservation Reserve is an woodland areas in the form of A. verticillata (Drooping area of Crown land, under part care and control of the Sheoak). The understorey varies from a dense shrub layer Mount Barker District Council. The reserve is located characterised by Acacia pycnantha (Golden Wattle),A. BIODIVERSITY MANAGEMENT east of the Mount Barker Township, in the Mount Lofty paradoxa (Kangaroo Thorn), Correa glabra var. turnbullii Ranges of South Australia. The summit (517m) is a major (Rock Correa) and Dodonaea viscosa ssp. spatulata (Sticky geographical and biological feature that is also valued for Hopbush) to a very sparse shrub component of mainly 2.0 Vegetation its Aboriginal and European heritage. The “Mount Barker A. pycnantha and/or Olearia ramulosa. Also present is Summit Conservation Reserve Management Plan” was scattered individuals and patches of native grass e.g. Undisturbed native vegetation is the result of an extensive & Sport. The Natural Area schedule applies to 58 of the prepared in 2011 (Milne), which prioritises actions Themeda triandra (Kangaroo Grass), Austrodanthonia evolutionary process. Once this system has been disturbed community land and contains one or more of the assets for management. racemosa var. racemosa (Slender Wallaby Grass) and by anthropogenic influences, it cannot be replicated. that contribute to biodiversity outcomes such as bushland, Austrostipa setacea (Corkscrew Speargrass)). Additional Vegetation systems are important for the survival of watercourses, wetlands and grasslands. Each sub-category The reserve provides facilities for passive recreation, groundcover dominants, some seasonal, are Cheilanthes wildlife and provide ecosystem services for humans. The identifies core objectives and also considers other tourism and education. In recognition of its high austrotenuifolia (Rock Fern), Gonocarpus elatus (Hills interactions between different populations of species are environmental, social, economic and cultural values. conservation value, including significant plant species Raspwort), Hibbertia crinita (Guinea-flower),Astroloma directly and/or indirectly interrelated and interdependent. diversity and contains flora and fauna species of humifusum (Native Cranberry), Lomandra densiflora(Soft A number of these reserves also have site-specific conservation significance. Council is currently investigating Tussock Mat Rush), and Caesia calliantha (Blue-grass Lily). There is little remaining native vegetation within the management plans that have been endorsed by Council. placing the Mount Barker Summit Conservation Reserve The Reserve is providing habitat for many wildlife species District. During the 19th Century, approximately 95% of Significant natural areas in the Mount Barker District are under Heritage Agreement with the Minister for due largely to its large size and diverse structure. A search the original vegetation has been cleared for agricultural listed below. There are also a number of water reserves Environment and Conservation. The reserve has also been of the Biological Databases of SA for the Summit Reserve use and mining activities (University of Adelaide 2010). and smaller parcels of land that contribute to the overall approved as a “Credit Bank” by the Native Vegetation and immediate surrounds resulted in 184 wildlife Species. biodiversity asset of the Local Government Area (LGA). Council to utilise as an offset for future native vegetation The reserve has been identified as providing suitable Council’s Community Land Register has 393 parcels of This remaining vegetation is represented in Map 2.1. clearance required for various developments. habitat for the following bird species of state conservation community and crown space (600ha) and approximately The Development Plan Amendment (DPA) 2015 has an significance: Painted Button-quailTurnix ( varia, rated State 1000 km of made and unmade road reserve. Many of expanded conservation zone incorporating Mount Barker As a whole, the reserve is described by Milne 2011, Rare), Elegant Parrot (Neophema elegans, rated State these community land parcels and road reserves contain Summit Conservation Reserve, Stringybark Conservation as a Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. viminalis (Manna Gum), Rare), Scarlet Robin (Petroica boodang, rated State Rare) remnant native vegetation although it is now fragmented Reserve, Yantaringa Reserve, Jupiter Creek Gold Diggings, E.viminalis ssp. cygnetensis (Rough-barked Manna Gum), and Diamond Firetail (Stagonopleura guttata, rated State and in declining condition. Kuitpo forest, Emerald Quarry, Mount Bold, Stone Reserve E. leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon (South Australian Blue Gum) Vulnerable). The latter two have been recorded in or near and Survey Hill. This will prevent any development in +/- E. camaldulensis var. camaldulensis (River Red Gum) the reserve. The Brown Toadlet (Pseudophryne bibronii) Generic Community Land management plans have been the zones and provide protection of rare and significant Open Woodland to Very Open Woodland with small areas and Common Brushtail Possum (Trichosurus vulpecula) developed for all Council reserves and are classified vegetation and habitats. of Allocasuarina verticillata (Drooping Sheoak) Woodland. have also been recorded in or near the reserve. Both are under 3 categories – Natural Areas, Parks and Recreation A subcanopy layer is present in most of the Eucalypt rated State Rare.

32 Biodiversity Strategy - Vegetation 33 2.1.2 Totness Recreation Park 2.1.3 Stringybark Conservation Reserve 2.1.4 Yantaringa Reserve – Hahndorf 2.1.5 Survey Hill Reserve (State Government Owned) This small reserve (10.3 ha) is located near Echunga and This small reserve (8.4 ha) is located close to Hahndorf This small reserve (1.25 ha) occurs on a hilltop southeast Totness Recreation Park was declared in 1970 and falls within the Hahndorf Environment Association (HEA). and has been a Bush For Life Site since 1996. The reserve of Prospect Hill and has been a Bush For Life Site since covers an area of 43 ha. It is located between Hahndorf Less than 1% of the indigenous vegetation of the HEA has had varied land use, such that some sections have 2005. The area is valued for its indigenous vegetation and and Mount Barker in the Southern Mount Lofty Ranges remains. The main communities in the reserve include been severely modified and others retain remnant historic significance. The reserve supports tall Messmate and is divided by the South Eastern Freeway. The park regrowth messmate stringybark open forest and mixed vegetation in good condition with diverse understorey stringybark open forest that is a remnant of the Bull Knob falls within the ‘country’ of the Peramangk Aboriginal manna gum/ river redgum woodland (E. viminalis/E. and several species of regional and state conservation Environment Association of which 5% remains. This area is people, however the archaeology of the park has yet camaldulensis) (Crawford 1995b). significance. There are 11 plant species of conservation vulnerable to pest plant invasions, but the summit section to be surveyed. significance that occur in the reserve including the Candle is in good condition. Weeds have become established in During a survey in 1995, a total of 115 plant species bark (Eucalyptus rubida), which is considered rare both in the area in disturbed roadside frontages (Crawford 1995c). There is a dam in the northern section of the park that were recorded, of which 8 are listed as having particular the Lofty Region and in South Australia, and the pink gum was used to service steam trains until 1944, and was then conservation significance including the Crested sun-orchid Eucalyptus .fasciculosa, which is also considered rare in Ninety-three indigenous flora species have been recorded used to supply water to Mount Barker. The park is among (T. irregularis) which is considered endangered at a the state. Regionally listed species that have been noted at in this reserve since 1995, with one state listed species, the few significant areas of natural vegetation remaining in State level. the reserve include Lobed Wallaby-grass (Austrodanthonia Eucalyptus fasciculosa. Other dominant canopy species the District and contains a number of rare and threatened auriculata), Hibbertia crinite, Juncus sarophorus, Yellow include Messmate stringybark, (Eucalyptus obliqua), Blue species of high conservation significance. There are two Fauna were not surveyed in 1995, however Western grey Star (Hypoxis vaginata var. vaginata), Little Sword-sedge gum (Eucalyptus leucoxylon) and Rough-barked manna major woodland types in the park dominated by either kangaroos, abundant birdlife, termite mounds (attractive to (Lepidosperma curtisiae, Mount Lofty Mat-rush Lomandra( gum (Eucalyptus viminalis ssp cygnetensis). Three species stringybark (Eucalyptus obliqua) trees or blue gums echidnas), possum scats and rabbits were observed during fibrate), Weeping Rice-grass (Microlaena stipoides var. have been listed in the Southern Lofty herbarium region; (Eucalyptus leucoxylon). There is also a small area of river the preparation of the management plan. stipoides), Rayless Daisy-bush (Olearia tubuliflora) and Creeping/tiny cudweed (Gnaphalium gynocephalum/ red gum woodland associated with the wetlands in the Prickly Geebung (Persoonia juniperina). indutum), Guinea-flower (Hibbertia crinita) and Austral northern section. The regeneration of river red gums and indigo ( Indigofera australis var australis). acacia species is occurring within this section of the park, Fauna at this reserve have not been surveyed, but the amongst the introduced grasses. In the 30 ha southern management plan provides a species list for mammals, Fauna have not been surveyed in this reserve, however section of the park there is stringybark woodland that has reptiles and birds that inhabit the Engelbrook Reserve at during preparation of the Management Plan in 1995, diverse understorey and is in good condition. This area Bridgewater (located 4.5 km NW of Yantaringa Reserve), Western Grey Kangaroos (Macropus fuliginosus), was burnt in the Ash Wednesday bushfires, but most of which may have similar species to this reserve. abundant birdlife, termite mounds (attractive to echidnas, the vegetation has been regenerating ever since. Tachyglossus aculeatus) and evidence of rabbits were Restoration of the remnant vegetation in this reserve observed. The large dead eucalypts on the reserve form Twenty-seven species of bird fauna have been recorded is a priority given that the area has the potential to valuable habitat for a variety of wildlife. in the park with large Eucalypts (northern section) provide suitable habitat for wildlife (diverse flora, dense providing important nesting sites for Crimson rosellas understorey, old eucalyptus forming nesting hollows) and and Kookaburras. The dam provides habitat for a range of the proximity of other larger remnant areas of vegetation waterfowl including ducks, herons and cormorants. Small (Engelbrook Reserve, Mylor Recreation Reserve, Hahndorf numbers of kangaroos, echidnas and bats are known to Stringy Bark Reserve - Image by Angela Cullen Cemetery Reserve and Totness Conservation Park). exist in the park. There is a possibility that bandicoots are present, however no sightings have been recorded. Major impacts on park fauna include, nearby urbanisation, habitat destruction and bushfire.

Yantaringa Reserve - Image by Angela Cullen Survey Hill - Image by Angela Cullen 34 Biodiversity Strategy - Vegetation 35 2.1.6 The Macclesfield Parklands 2.1.7 Turner’s Bush Reserve Lord Robinson Park Remnant Vegetation (main map Turner’s Bush is a council reserve that is approximately 1 Pre-European Vegetation (insert map) The reserve contains a red gum Eucalyptus camaldulensis, hectare of open Blue Gum woodland, similar to nearby manna gum, Eucalyptus viminalis, and blue gum Coppin’s Bush. There are 45 species of native vegetation Eucalyptus leucoxcylon woodland, with sheoaks, acacias, growing within this Reserve. Turners Bush was established native grasses including wallaby grass, kangaroo grass as a Bush For Life Site in 1996. and microlaena. Along the river there is woolly tea tree leptosperum lanigerum, sedges and rushes. The park 2.1.8 Coppin’s Bush is home to a variety of birds including ducks, coots, kingfishers, honeyeaters and blue wrens. The native fish The Reserve is part of a large block, which was originally mountain galaxis are found in the river as well as long bounded by four roads. It was owned by Mr Henry Coppin, necked tortoise and native water rats. Western grey Storekeeper of Main Road, Littlehampton. kangaroos and echidnas may be seen. A freestone quarry once operated there, although in The Night Paddock 1996 the scrub portion to the block was given to the Riparian vegetation consisting of ancient manna Littlehampton Community Association for use as a Flora gums and red gums, acacia species and native grasses Reserve, with Littlehampton Primary School taking on the including wallaby grass and kangaroo grass and sedges development as an educational and community project along the river. by the Dept. of Transport as a Flora Reserve. The “Friends of Coppins Bush” group was established in 1997 and The Day Paddock has members from the District council of Mount Barker, Named from historic practice of agisting during the day, Littlehampton Community Association, Littlehampton a milking cow or horse that is used for transport. The Day Primary School and the general community. In 2011, the Paddock Park is a conservation reserve with a walking trail site became a Bush for Life Site. Coppin’s Bush consists which contains prolific wild flowers including a variety of of a low Blue Gum woodland with 116 native species of native orchids in spring. The reserve contains significant vegetation, providing habitats for a variety of biodiversity. remnant native vegetation consisting of open forest of stringy barks (Eucalyptus obliqua), manna gum (Eucalyptus 2.1.9 Cemeteries viminalis), red gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) and blue gum (Eucalyptus leucoxylon). The dense understorey There are a number of cemeteries within the district includes acacias, pultanea, bursaria, lomandra and native that contain remnant vegetation and are valued habitat. grasses. The site was established as a “Bush for Life” site. These are located at Macclesfield, Archer Hill Road, Mount Emphraim and Echunga. Other significant areas of native All of the reserves located in the Macclesfield Parklands vegetation that are not under Council’s care and control are cared for by local volunteers involved in include Totness Recreation Park (NPWS) Jupiter Creek bush regeneration. reserve (PIRSA), Mount Bold Reservoir (SA Water) and Kuitpo Forest (Forestry SA). This remainder of vegetation is shown in Map 2.1.

Map 2.1 Pre-European vegetation and remaining vegetation

36 Biodiversity Strategy - Vegetation 37 2.2 Bush For Life (BFL) Sites 2.3 Roadside Vegetation

Council allocates budget towards the management of sites with remnant native vegetation on an annual basis. Part of this The District Council of Mount Barker currently has a • Roadworks and service provision allocation is directed towards supporting the Bush For Life (BFL) program. There are currently 21 BFL sites within the district network of 855 kms of made roads comprising 664 kms • Battering roadsides which form part of the overall biodiversity management strategy. These sites are located on community land, road reserves of Council roads and 191 kms of Transport SA roads. Over • Construction and maintenance of drain culverts and cemeteries. There are also four BFL sites located on private or corporate land. 150 kms of road reserve remain undeveloped. The length • Stockpiling of road metal and fill of made roads will increase as urban growth will require • Road grading The BFL program uses minimal disturbance bushcare techniques to help protect and rehabilitate bushland areas, mostly additional thoroughfares through the district The majority • Use of vegetated verges to turn, park and targeted at weed management. These techniques include hand weeding, selective brushcutting to reduce the prevalence of road reserves are 20 metres wide and are highly valued service machinery of weed grasses, use of herbicide to control weeds, release of biological control agents where safe and appropriate, due to the remaining vegetation (District Council of Mount • Over-clearing (e.g. in a specified work-zone compilation of species lists and development of bush action plans, specific work to protect rare and threatened species Barker Road Reserve Vegetation Management Plan 2004). for visibility) and monitoring and recording of works undertaken.. The BFL sites are shown in Map 2.2 and are listed below. • Pruning of trees by using inappropriate methods Large-scale land clearing for agriculture has occurred • Service trenches in rural areas and consequently road reserves often • Off-target herbicide damage SITE NAME LOCATION NRM SIZE (HA) ESTABLISHED support the only remaining remnant vegetation. Current • Roadside slashing demands for land division and urban settlement continue • Landscaping CALLINGTON ROAD PETWOOD MDB 0.3 01/05/96 to erode patches of native vegetation, particularly in • Rubbish dumping and using reserves as junkyards SCHMIESS ROAD ECHUNGA MLR 0.6 01/05/96 the urban growth zone. As a consequence, this remnant • Grazing YANTARINGA RES. HAHNDORF MLR 5.7 01/05/96 vegetation has become an important environmental asset • Ploughing firebreaks TURNERS BUSH LITTLEHAMPTON MDB 0.9 01/05/96 in urgent need of protection. Roadside vegetation should • Firewood collection THE DAY PADDOCK MACCLESFIELD MDB 9.2 23/08/06 be protected as it provides numerous benefits such as • Horse riding • Off-road vehicles DAWESLEY BRUKUNGA MDB 2.8 02/09/99 functional benefits including functional, conservation and social benefits. • Driveways KANMANTOO KANMANTOO MDB 0.8 02/09/99 ARCHER HILL CEM BUGLE RANGES MDB 1.1 27/06/00 Roadside vegetation in the District of Mount Barker is Crompton and Williams (1998) surveyed the vegetation of M'FIELD QUARRY GREEN HILLS RANGE MDB 1.3 01/05/00 classed into categories from 1-5 according to remnant 263 (including two railway reserves) roads in the District, HACK RANGE RD ECHUNGA MDB 1.0 01/05/00 vegetation (canopy cover, understory flora and strata, of which 31 (11.8%) (including one railway reserve) were ECHUNGA RD ECHUNGA MDB 2.9 10/06/02 ground cover,) weed invasion, mechanical disturbance, classed as Category 1. HARROGATE RES HARROGATE MDB 3.4 25/06/04 natural ecosystem stability and biodiversity and habitat integrity. Category 1 is the most intact with category 5 In April 2010 Council endorsed a Road Reserve Vegetation PINEY RIDGE RD NAIRNE MDB 2.3 15/12/04 being the most disturbed. The classification system is Management Plan. The plan addresses a broad range of MT EPHRAIM CEM PROSPECT HILL MDB 0.5 19/04/05 based on the representation of remaining vegetation issues involved in road reserve management throughout RED GUM RD FLAXLEY MDB 5.7 19/04/05 and the evidence of weed invasion. Category 1 areas are SURVEY HILL PROSPECT HILL MDB 2.2 19/04/05 classed as a priority for conservation because remaining ECHUNGA CEM ECHUNGA MLR 6.3 19/04/05 vegetation is high and weed infestation is low hence the likelihood of successful rehabilitation is higher. The study MT BARKER SUMMIT MOUNT BARKER SUMMIT MDB 6.2 25/01/08 also identified a range of influences damaging remnant COPPINS BUSH LITTLEHAMPTON MDB 3.4 29/07/11 vegetation and/or leading to weed invasion: BURNBRAE RD HARROGATE MDB 1.8 29/07/11 STONE RESERVE MACCLESFIELD MDB 3.1 15/05/13

Table 2.1 Bush For Life Sites within the District

38 Biodiversity Strategy - Vegetation 39 the district and sets up procedures whereby future conflicts between road use and maintenance and BFL / Eeveg Sites / Roadside Veg vegetation management can be addressed. Council is currently involved in the Roadside Marker System (RMS) to assist with on ground management of key roadside remnants and also has a Roadside Vegetation Management Plan/Strategy (1996). The Roadside Marker System is modelled on the TSA system. The initiative allows responsible authorities, such as council, Transport SA and community groups, to identify and maintain good quality patches of roadside vegetation. Significant patches of vegetation are identified by distinctive blue and white signage that allows sites to be quickly identified by work crews. Protective actions related to the category of roadside patch are then to be followed by roadside workers. There are also signs used to indicate the end of the RMS zone.

In addition, a few pockets of category 1 roadside vegetation were contiguous with privately maintained native vegetation remnants on adjacent property. The roads where this occurs include: Kangaroo Reef Rd and Haines Fire Track (Hahndorf); Cleggett Rd and Windsor Ave (Littlehampton); Frampton Rd, Native Ave and Summit Track (Wistow); Hack Range Rd and Liebelt Rd (Echunga); Harper Rd (Meadows) and Magins Rd (Macclesfield) (Crompton & Williams 1998).

The Road Reserve Vegetation Management Plan will be updated in 2016/2017. The revised plan will include a thorough audit of existing RMS sites, identify any new sites and include Bushland Condition Monitoring (BCM) as an effective way to monitor trends.

Map 2.2 The Mount Barker LGA showing BFL sites, roadside vegetation (category 1&2) and road reserves.

40 Biodiversity Strategy - Vegetation 41 2.4 Rated Flora 2.4.1 Nationally Threatened 2.4.2 Threatened Flora Species Ecological Communities In South Australia, a Regional Species Table 2.2 displays the threatened flora species that are Conservation Assessment framework There are two nationally threatened ecological listed within the district. Conservation status of a species was developed by the Department communities that remain in the district: can be as listed at a national, state or regional level. of Environment, Water and Natural Resources (DEWNR) to contribute to • Iron-grass (Lomandra species) Natural Temperate Council is a stakeholder of the South Australian Murray the knowledge base and management Grassland; and Darling Basin threatened flora recovery team, which of threatened species and ecological • Peppermint Box (Eucalyptus odorata) contributes to the recovery of nine nationally threatened communities at a regional level. The aim Grassy Woodland. species. The Mount Barker District contains two of the was to provide a standardised approach nine species that are listed in the plan; coloured spider- to assessing and prioritising SA’s native “The Iron-grass Natural Temperate Grassland of South orchid (Caladenia colorata) and Silver daisy bush (olearia species to guide species conservation Australia is an ecological community in which Iron-grasses pannosa ssp pannosa). and recovery, in each of the Natural (Lomandra species) are a characteristic and dominant Resource Management (NRM) region part of the vegetation. In South Australia, Stiff Iron-grass across the state. Each region was assessed (Lomandra multiflora subsp. dura) and Scented Iron- according to the Interim Biogeographical grass (Lomandra effusa) commonly occur in grassland Regionalisation for Australia (IBRA) communities, in association with perennial, tussock- subregions falling within or across the forming native grasses Iron-grass Natural Temperate regional boundary. Grassland is considered endemic to South Australia. The Iron-grass Natural Temperate Grassland occurs to the East of the district around Kanmantoo and Callington. The presence of mature Iron-grass tussocks generally indicates areas not previously disturbed by ploughing: such areas are important refuges for species sensitive to cultivation and fertilizers, such as orchids and soil-dwelling insects, spiders and reptiles (Threatened Species Scientific Committee, 2007)

Peppermint Box - Image by Mark Mills Peppermint Box (Eucalyptus odorata) Grassy Woodland of South Australia ecological community has the woodland form of Eucalyptus odorata as the characteristic and dominant tree species. Peppermint Box Grassy Woodland is endemic to South Australia. The ecological community occurs around Kanmantoo with small patches near Harrogate, Callington and Wistow. It occurs mainly on loam to clay loam soils, on gentle to steep slopes of hills and ridgelines. Peppermint Box Grassy Woodland has a sparse to dense tree over an open native grass and herb understorey with scattered shrubs. Mosses, lichens, leaf litter and bare ground are common and important features of the ground layer. Many plants and animals of the ecological community are grassy habitat specialists or woodland-dependent species (Turner 2012). Irongrass Grassland - Image by Ben Simon 42 Biodiversity Strategy - Vegetation 43 E.

patch. patch. E. . . The . On site it was it was . On site woodland. Also woodland. woodland and woodland E. leucoxylon ssp. E. leucoxylon woodlands. Found along Found woodlands. open forests with a relatively with a relatively open forests woodland. woodland. E. fasciculosa, E. leucoxylon E. leucoxylon E. fasciculosa, E. leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon E. leucoxylon or E. fasciculosa woodland. Outside of MDPA Outside of MDPA woodland. Xanthorrhoea semiplana Xanthorrhoea and s remnant in close proximity to the Victor the Victor to in close proximity s remnant E. porosa obliqua woodlands west of the MDPA land, of the MDPA west obliqua woodlands E. leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon E. leucoxylon E. leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon / E. camaldulensis ssp. / E. camaldulensis ssp. leucoxylon E. leucoxylon and patch. obliqua woodlands west of the MDPA land. of the MDPA west obliqua woodlands E. leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon E. leucoxylon Comments Comments A medium sized shrub, preferring damp sites. Found along Native Avenue Avenue along Native Found damp sites. shrub, preferring A medium sized with high quality associated reserve road boundary. Outside of MDPA woodland. ssp. of E. camaldulensis in the understorey herb found growing A low camaldulensis and other Creek Flat Western Roads and along the and Martin Hunt small watercourses. Medium sized spindly shrub prefers grassy woodland communities. communities. woodland grassy spindly shrub prefers Medium sized the species is reserve, within the road Road along Hunt Observed with associated / E. viminalis ssp. cygnetensis camaldulensis More often associated with grasslands, shrublands and mallee with grasslands, associated often More et al., 2006). On the MDPA woodlands (Jessop rarely and communities in close proximity along a minor watercourse found land, the species was in reserve line and further south along the rail Harbor railway the Victor to ssp. camaldulensis E. camaldulensis with scattered association Known principally from grassland and grassy woodland communities, the communities, woodland and grassy grassland principally from Known with associated species is often with a degraded in association along a small watercourse from recorded ssp. camaldulensi camaldulensis line. Harbor railway boundary. found recently was sedge perennial A small clump of the rhizomatous line and Harbor railway the Victor close to creekline along degraded ssp. camaldulensis E. camaldulensis with a small remnant associated 1943. from record BDBSA Last A climbing shrub, found along Native Avenue road reserve associated with associated reserve road Avenue along Native A climbing shrub, found high quality The species occurs in Eucalyptus obliqua, in Eucalyptus The species occurs E. microcarpa E. goniocalyx, ssp. leucoxylon, near records historical (Willson & Bignall, 2009). Several open shrub layer was discovered Reservoir at Mt Bold population a large whist Echunga in the undisturbed exist the species may in 2008. It is possible that ssp. leucoxylon/E. leucoxylon in the MDPA communities woodland in the disturbed unlikely but probably land. Endemic to SA. Preferred habitat is open grassy woodland on relatively on relatively woodland is open grassy habitat SA. Preferred Endemic to 13 sub- from soil (Willson & Bignall, 2009). The species is known fertile by R. in 200 of Harrogate west being records the closest populations, the northern side of Mt Barker from record is an historical There Bates. that Road. It is unlikely of Springs and Dutton near the intersection Creek of the nature the degraded land given in MDPA exist the species would leucoxylon E. undisturbed more in present be may it however understories, land. of the MDPA west woodlands ssp. leucoxylon and widespread was probably the species settlement European to Prior fertile, in 1994). Grows the MLR (Bates common throughout relatively / E. fasciculosa E. goniocalyx loams, amongst shallow ssp. leucoxylon leucoxylon E. obliqua/E. microcarpa/E. E. fasciculosa amongst recorded mid 1990’s from records Several is usually open and shrubby. understorey the species that It is unlikely RP. of Totness 2kms west approximately from of the understories, nature the degraded land given in MDPA exist would undisturbed in more be present it may however leucoxylon/E. An annual lily recorded from a number of areas containing intact eucalypt eucalypt intact containing a number of areas from An annual lily recorded Native Road, Harrop Road, Hunt understorey. with reasonable woodlands RP. Totness to in close proximity remnants and larger Avenue Recently found along degraded creekline close to the Victor Harbor the Victor close to creekline along degraded found Recently ssp. E. camaldulensis with a small remnant line and associated railway camaldulensis 1943 1996 1958 2005 1961 2005 2014 1981 1987 1971 2008 2008 1968 2014 2014 1941 1986 1993 2014 1953 1900 2010 2014 1967 1900 1900 1995 1937 2014 1900 1900 2010 1990 2005 date date Latest record record Latest record Latest

EN EN EN AUS AUS

E E E E R R R R SA SA status status CR RA RA RA RA RA RA RA RA RA RA RA RA RA RA RA RA NT NT NT NT NT NT NT NT EN EN EN EN VU VU VU VU VU Conservation Conservation Conservation AMLR AMLR Common name Common name Swollen Spear-grass Swollen Fox-tail Spear-grass Fox-tail Native Celery Native Australian Piert Australian Veined Swamp Wallaby-grass Swamp Veined Mount Lofty Mount Ground-berry Prickly Moses Prickly Sheep's Burr Downy Currant Native Varnish Wattle Varnish Rock Wattle Rock Wirilda Swamp Wattle Swamp Ploughshare Wattle Ploughshare Wreath Wattle Wreath Apple-berry Yellow-flower Rough Spear-grass Rough Fine-head Spear-grass Desert Banksia Balcarra Spear-grass Balcarra Spear-grass Corkscrew Salt Club-rush Boronia Edwards' River Bottlebrush River Scarlet Bottlebrush Scarlet Stiff White Spider-orchid Stiff White Pink Caladenia Pink-lip Spider-orchid Pink-lip White Beauty Spider-orchid White Bulbine-lily Purplish Beard-orchid Purplish Notched Sedge Notched Knob Sedge Knob Species name Species name Austrostipa gibbosa Austrostipa Austrostipa densiflora Austrostipa Apium prostratum var. var. Apium prostratum prostratum Aphanes australiana Amphibromus nervosus Acrotriche fasciculiflora Acacia verticillata ssp. ovoidea ssp. verticillata Acacia ovina Acaena Acrotriche depressa Acacia verniciflua Acacia Acacia rupicola Acacia Acacia retinodes Acacia Acacia provincialis Acacia Acacia gunnii Acacia Acacia acinacea Acacia Billardiera versicolor Austrostipa scabra ssp. scabra scabra Austrostipa Austrostipa oligostachya Austrostipa ornata Banksia Austrostipa nitida Austrostipa setacea Austrostipa tenuifolia Austrostipa Bolboschoenus caldwellii Boronia edwardsii Callistemon sieberi Callistemon Callistemon rugulosus Callistemon Caladenia rigida Caladenia latifolia Caladenia behrii Caladenia argocalla Bulbine bulbosa Calochilus robertsonii Carex bichenoviana Carex Carex inversa var. inversa var. inversa Carex Family Family Family GRAMINEAE GRAMINEAE UMBELLIFERAE ROSACEAE GRAMINEAE EPACRIDACEAE LEGUMINOSAE ROSACEAE EPACRIDACEAE LEGUMINOSAE LEGUMINOSAE LEGUMINOSAE LEGUMINOSAE LEGUMINOSAE LEGUMINOSAE PITTOSPORACEAE GRAMINEAE GRAMINEAE PROTEACEAE GRAMINEAE GRAMINEAE GRAMINEAE CYPERACEAE RUTACEAE MYRTACEAE MYRTACEAE ORCHIDACEAE ORCHIDACEAE ORCHIDACEAE ORCHIDACEAE LILIACEAE ORCHIDACEAE CYPERACEAE CYPERACEAE

44 Biodiversity Strategy - Vegetation 45

and . The E. leucoxylon E. leucoxylon Also studded throughout throughout Also studded E. leucoxylon ssp. E. leucoxylon . Also studded throughout throughout . Also studded . leucoxylon woodland. Also woodland. . leucoxylon . camaldulensis patch. Last BDBSA Last patch. . camaldulensis open forests with a relatively open a relatively with forests open E. leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon / E. obliqua ssp. leucoxylon E. leucoxylon and also found in association with the Native with the Native in association and also found E. camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis, E. obliqua, ssp. camaldulensis, E. camaldulensis E. viminalis ssp. cygnetensis overstorey. E. viminalis ssp. cygnetensis woodlands west of the MDPA land, but probably probably but land, of the MDPA west woodlands woodlands west of the MDPA land. of the MDPA west woodlands E. viminalis ssp. cygnetensis. E. viminalis ssp. cygnetensis. and and patch. woodlands. eucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon and E. camaldulensis ssp. and E. camaldulensis ssp. leucoxylon l eucoxylon Comments Comments A climbing species recorded from from A climbing species recorded Recorded along good patches of remnant eucalypt woodland within the woodland eucalypt of remnant patches along good Recorded BFL site. Road and Hunt Road of Harrop reserves road Recently recorded from degraded sections of Western Flat Creek Creek Flat Western sections of degraded from recorded Recently ssp. camaldulensis. E. camaldulensis with scattered associated Recorded from a number of locations within remnant eucalypt woodlands eucalypt remnant within a number of locations from Recorded Road, including Martin corridor, Harbor railway and Victor along roadsides BFL site. Road and Hunt Road Harrop A climbing shrub, found along Native Avenue road reserve associated reserve road Avenue Native along found shrub, A climbing of Outside woodland. leucoxylon ssp. E. leucoxylon quality with high boundary. MDPA along found recently was sedge perennial rhizomatous of the A small clump associated and line railway Harbor Victor the close to creekline degraded ssp E. camaldulensis with a small remnant 1943. from record to in close proximity remnants by the larger characterised associations boundary. Outside of the MDPA RP. Totness E. fasciculosa, E. leucoxylon ssp. E. leucoxylon E. fasciculosa, obliqua, in Eucalyptus species occurs The E. microcarpa E. goniocalyx, leucoxylon, near Echunga records historical 2009). Several (Willson & Bignall, layer shrub in 2008. It is discovered was Reservoir at Mt Bold population a large whist ssp. E. leucoxylon undisturbed the in exist may species the that possible obliqua leucoxylon/E. land. MDPA the in communities woodland disturbed the in unlikely woodland as a grassy and known the ranges mainly from records SA in reserve Road along Barker recorded individuals were Three specialist. E. camaldulensis Endemic to SA. Preferred habitat is open grassy woodland on relatively fertile on relatively woodland grassy is open habitat SA. Preferred to Endemic 13 sub-populations, from is known 2009). The species & Bignall, soil (Willson is There R. Bates. 200 by in of Harrogate west being records closest the the near Creek side of Mt Barker northern the from record historical an would species the that unlikely It is Road. Dutton and of Springs intersection however understories, of the nature the degraded given land MDPA in exist leucoxylon ssp. E. leucoxylon undisturbed more in be present it may land. MDPA of the west woodlands and widespread probably was species the settlement European to Prior fertile, in 1994). Grows MLR (Bates the throughout common relatively and woodland / E. fasciculosa E. goniocalyx loams, amongst shallow ssp leucoxylon E. obliqua/E. microcarpa/E. semiplana Xanthorrhoea and E. fasciculosa amongst recorded mid1990’s from records Several shrubby. and open is usually understorey the species that It is unlikely RP. of Totness 2kms west approximately from of the understories, nature degraded the given land MDPA in exist would ssp. E. leucoxylon undisturbed more in present be it may however obliqua leucoxylon/E. An annual lily recorded from a number of areas containing intact eucalypt eucalypt intact containing of areas a number from lily recorded annual An Native Road, Harrop Road, Hunt understorey. reasonable with woodlands RP. Totness to close proximity in remnants larger and Avenue Recently found along degraded creekline close to the Victor Harbor the Victor close to creekline along degraded found Recently ssp. E. camaldulensis with a small remnant line and associated railway camaldulensis Recorded from degraded section of the Victor Harbor railway corridor, corridor, railway Harbor section of the Victor degraded from Recorded E. camaldulensis ssp. leucoxylon, E. leucoxylon with scattered associated ssp. camaldulensis open paddocks as scattered trees and small remnant groups. remnant and small trees as scattered open paddocks E. camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis woodlands ssp. camaldulensis E. camaldulensis pure Forming species such as with other eucalypt interspersing frequently ssp. leucoxylon Forming pure woodlands and frequently interspersing with other interspersing and frequently woodlands pure Forming species such as eucalypt and E. viminalis ssp. cygnetensis E. fasciculosa groups. remnant and small trees as scattered open paddocks Recorded from degraded section of the Victor Harbor railway corridor, corridor, railway Harbor section of the Victor degraded from Recorded planted. probably throughout scattered it is commonly Recorded, E. obliqua and viminalis ssp. camaldulensis, E. camaldulensis leucoxylon, woodlands ssp. cygnetensis in trees as scattered Also found Road. of Wellington east Pine remnant paddock environments. 2014 2010 2000 2014 1900 2014 1967 2014 2010 1942 2014 1967 1900 1995 1937 1900 2014 1900 1900 1989 2010 1990 2014 2000 2005 2014 1973 2014 2014 2014 1964 1965 date date Latest record record Latest record Latest

EN EN EN AUS AUS

E E E R R R R R V V SA SA status status CR RA RA RA RA RA RA RA RA NT NT NT NT NT NT NT NT EN NT EN EN NT NT EN EN VU VU VU VU VU VU VU Conservation Conservation Conservation AMLR AMLR E. leucoxylon E. leucoxylon Common name Common name Yellow-flower Apple-berry Yellow-flower Dodder-laurel Coarse Pale Flax-lily Pale Heath Bent-grass Heath Sweet Hound's-tongue Sweet Austral Bear's-ear Austral Swamp Crassula Swamp Rock Correa Rock Australian Bindweed Australian Salt Club-rush Boronia Edwards' Everlasting Clustered River Bottlebrush River Scarlet Bottlebrush Scarlet Stiff White Spider-orchid Stiff White Pink-lip Spider-orchid Pink-lip Pink Caladenia Orchid Behr's Cowslip White Beauty Spider-orchid White Bulbine-lily Purplish Beard-orchid Purplish Rough-beard Grass Rough-beard Knob Sedge Knob Notched Sedge Notched Robust Willow-herb Robust Blue Devil Candlebark Gum River E. camaldulensis ssp. E. camaldulensis River camaldulensis South Australian South Australian ssp. leucoxylon Coastal White Mallee White Coastal E. fasciculosa Mallee Red Narrow-leaf Species name Species name Billardiera versicolor melantha Cassytha Dianella longifolia var. grandis var. Dianella longifolia Deyeuxia densa Deyeuxia Cynoglossum suaveolens Cynoglossum Cymbonotus preissianus Cymbonotus Crassula helmsii Correa glabra var. turnbullii Correa glabra var. Convolvulus angustissimus ssp. angustissimus Convolvulus angustissimus Bolboschoenus caldwellii Boronia edwardsii Chrysocephalum semipapposum Callistemon sieberi Callistemon Callistemon rugulosus Callistemon Caladenia rigida Caladenia behrii Caladenia latifolia Diuris behrii Caladenia argocalla Bulbine bulbosa Calochilus robertsonii Echinopogon ovatus Echinopogon Carex inversa var. inversa var. inversa Carex Carex bichenoviana Carex Epilobium billardierianum ssp. Epilobium ovinum Eryngium Eucalyptus dalrympleana ssp. Eucalyptus dalrympleana Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis Eucalyptus camaldulensis Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon Eucalyptus leucoxylon Eucalyptus diversifolia ssp. diversifolia Eucalyptus diversifolia fasciculosa Eucalyptus leptophylla Eucalyptus Family Family Family PITTOSPORACEAE LAURACEAE LILIACEAE GRAMINEAE BORAGINACEAE COMPOSITAE CRASSULACEAE RUTACEAE CONVOLVULACEAE CYPERACEAE RUTACEAE COMPOSITAE MYRTACEAE MYRTACEAE ORCHIDACEAE ORCHIDACEAE ORCHIDACEAE ORCHIDACEAE ORCHIDACEAE LILIACEAE ORCHIDACEAE GRAMINEAE CYPERACEAE CYPERACEAE ONAGRACEAE UMBELLIFERAE MYRTACEAE MYRTACEAE MYRTACEAE MYRTACEAE MYRTACEAE MYRTACEAE

46 Biodiversity Strategy - Vegetation 47 E.

woodland. . . E. leucoxylon, E. leucoxylon, . Recorded south of the . Recorded . verticillata Allocasuarina woodland remnant under remnant woodland and Callitris gracilis, Eucalyptus leucoxylon Callitris gracilis, Eucalyptus E. obliqua and fasciculosa E. leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon E. leucoxylon . Occurs in the open or in the shelter of broom-like of broom-like in the open or shelter . Occurs E. fasciculosa Comments Historically recorded 3kms east of Hahndorf and more recently from near from recently of Hahndorf and more 3kms east recorded Historically the land given in MDPA exist the species would that It is unlikely Harrogate. be present it may however understories, of the woodland nature degraded woodlands ssp. leucoxylon E. leucoxylon undisturbed in more land. of the MDPA west E. fasciculosa, E. goniocalyx, Callitris gracilis E. goniocalyx, E. fasciculosa, Widespread from the coast to the ranges. Associated with open forests with open forests Associated the ranges. to the coast from Widespread with and woodlands reserve. Road Avenue land along the Native MDPA with leaves mats on the surface, in floats that plant aquatic A freshwater sections degraded from recorded in mud. Recently and rooted submerged, ssp. E. camaldulensis with scattered associated Creek Flat of Western camaldulensis. Plan, this species is a freshwater Recovery in the AMLR Regional Listed submerged, with leaves mats on the surface, in floats that plant aquatic of streams occur in perennial to in mud. The species is known and rooted and declining habitat and has a limited catchment, River the Onkaparinga from recorded recently (Willson & Bignall, 2009). It was in the region Creek Flat Western sections of along degraded waterholes ephemeral ssp. camaldulensis E. camaldulensis with scattered associated soils of fertile on the more singly or in small groups SA. Grows Endemic to comprising often open forests, and well-grassed woodland is open habitat its preferred the AMLR where The species is endemic to with forest and grassy woodland and loams and sandy soils, usually with other fertile in well-drained shrubs was the 1970’s from (Willson & Bignall, 2009). Record leek-orchids in MDPA exist the species would that It is unlikely Mylor. from collected understories. of the woodland nature the degraded land given in forests with open areas shrub associated prostrate growing Low areas from recorded was 1989). The species (Prescott, and woodlands along understorey with reasonable woodlands eucalypt intact containing to in close proximity remnants larger Avenue, and Native Road Flaxley RP and an Totness land. of the MDPA west Agreement Heritage Comments Fine rush species recently recorded from Martin Road under degraded Road under degraded Martin from recorded Fine rush species recently ssp. leucoxylon / E. leucoxylon ssp. camaldulensis camaldulensis Creek Flat Western sections of degraded from recorded Recently ssp. camaldulensis E. camaldulensis with scattered associated woodland remnants in and around Totness RP west of the MDPA land. MDPA of the RP west Totness around in and remnants woodland within a number of locations from species recorded Small Irongrass Road, including Martin along roadsides, woodlands eucalypt remnant Road. and Hunt Avenue Native Road, Harrop Forms dense understorey mats in high rainfall areas of the Mt Lofty Ranges. areas rainfall high in mats understorey dense Forms / E. obliqua ssp. leucoxylon E. leucoxylon quality good from Recorded A small tufted perennial, the species often grows in exposed situations at exposed situations in grows the species often perennial, A small tufted a number of from Recorded woodland. and higher altitudes, also in heath land in a of the MDPA west woodlands eucalypt remnant within locations Harrop Road, including Flaxley and along roadsides, Agreement Heritage Road BFL site. and Hunt Avenue Native Road, Recorded along Martin Road, Harrop Road, and Hunt Road. Possibly planted Possibly Road. Hunt and Road, Road, Harrop along Martin Recorded 2014 1974 1905 2014 1929 1953 1983 1967 2014 2014 1910 1938 1976 1900 date 2010 2014 1979 2014 1964 2014 2014 1987 1993 1961 2014 1952 1968 1922 1937 2014 1952 1967 2005 1906 1967 1988 1981 2008 1937 1987 1936 date Latest record record Latest Latest record record Latest

EN EN VU AUS

AUS

E R R R R R V SA

R R status SA

status RA RA NT NT NT NT NT NT EN EN EN EN VU Conservation Conservation AMLR RA RA RA RA RA RA NT NT NT NT NT NT NT NT NT NT NT NT NT NT NT VU VU VU VU VU VU Conservation Conservation AMLR Matted Bush-pea Matted Loose-flower Bush-pea Loose-flower Pale Leek-orchid Pale Hairy-tails Lofty Bush-pea Mount Common name Common Tussock-grass Curly Pondweed Pondweed Blunt Leek-orchid Austral Plum Leek-orchid Mintbush Monarto Scented Leek-orchid Scented Greenhood Blunt Large Shell-orchid Large Common name Loose-flower Rush Loose-flower Blown-grass Pink Velvet-bush Short-leaf Honey-myrtle Short-leaf Orange Bell-climber Orange Sword Mat-rush Sword Dense Wood-rush Mount Lofty Mat-rush Mount Sand Mat-rush Recurved Logania Recurved Screw Fern Screw Scrambling Beard-heath Scrambling Little Sword-sedge Little Silky Tea-tree

Spreading Sword-sedge Spreading Totem-poles Slender Mint Tiny Bow-flower Tiny Common Bow-flower Rayless Daisy-bush Rayless Minnie Daisy Five-awn Spear-grass Five-awn Twiggy Stinkweed Twiggy Broad-leaf Stinkweed Broad-leaf Smooth Riceflower Prickly Geebung Prickly Pultenaea pedunculata Pultenaea Pultenaea laxiflora Pultenaea Prasophyllum pallidum Prasophyllum Ptilotus erubescens involucrata Pultenaea Species name Poa labillardieri var. labillardieri var. Poa labillardieri crispus Potamogeton ochreatus Potamogeton australe Prasophyllum pruinosum Prasophyllum eurybioides Prostanthera Prasophyllum odoratum Prasophyllum curta Pterostylis Pterostylis robusta Pterostylis Species name Juncus pauciflorus aemula Lachnagrostis Lasiopetalum behrii Lasiopetalum Melaleuca brevifolia Melaleuca Marianthus bignoniaceus Marianthus Lomandra sororia Luzula densiflora Lomandra fibrata Lomandra collina Logania recurva Lindsaea linearis Leucopogon concurvus Leucopogon Lepidosperma curtisiae lanigerum Leptospermum Lepidosperma congestum Lepidosperma concavum Melaleuca decussata Melaleuca diemenica Mentha Millotia perpusilla Millotia muelleri Olearia tubuliflora Minuria leptophylla Pentapogon quadrifidus var. quadrifidus var. Pentapogon quadrifidus Opercularia turpis Opercularia ovata Pimelea glauca Persoonia juniperina Persoonia LEGUMINOSAE LEGUMINOSAE ORCHIDACEAE AMARANTHACEAE LEGUMINOSAE Family Family GRAMINEAE POTAMOGETONACEAE POTAMOGETONACEAE ORCHIDACEAE ORCHIDACEAE LABIATAE ORCHIDACEAE ORCHIDACEAE ORCHIDACEAE Family Family JUNCACEAE GRAMINEAE STERCULIACEAE MYRTACEAE PITTOSPORACEAE LILIACEAE JUNCACEAE LILIACEAE LILIACEAE LOGANIACEAE LINDSAEACEAE EPACRIDACEAE CYPERACEAE MYRTACEAE CYPERACEAE CYPERACEAE MYRTACEAE LABIATAE COMPOSITAE COMPOSITAE COMPOSITAE COMPOSITAE GRAMINEAE RUBIACEAE RUBIACEAE THYMELAEACEAE PROTEACEAE

48 Biodiversity Strategy - Vegetation 49 patch. woodlands woodlands E. leucoxylon ssp. E. leucoxylon woodland with intact intact with woodland E. leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon/E. ssp. leucoxylon/E. E. leucoxylon remnant. patch. woodlands with reasonable understorey along understorey with reasonable woodlands woodlands west of the MDPA land, but probably land, but probably of the MDPA west woodlands E. leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon/E. obliqua ssp. leucoxylon/E. E. leucoxylon woodlands west of the MDPA land, but probably unlikely in the unlikely land, but probably of the MDPA west woodlands E. leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon E. leucoxylon Comments Occurs singly or in small numbers in forest clearings, woodland, rough rough clearings, woodland, in forest singly or in small numbers Occurs than greater loams receiving in sandy or gravelly scrub and heaths 2009). (Bates, 750 mm mean annual rainfall and north of the South Mt Bold and Kuitpo from are records Recent exist the species may It is possible that near Hahndorf. Freeway Eastern in the undisturbed woodland in the disturbed unlikely land, but probably of the MDPA west land. in the MDPA communities soil types from in various in woodlands species found A widespread occur near swamps and may clays gravelly yellow leached pale sands to south of located are within the district records 2010). Recent (Bates, It is of Meadows. west and Reservoir Mt Bold Creek, Scott Echunga, in the undisturbed exist the species may possible that obliqua leucoxylon/E. land. in the MDPA communities woodland in the disturbed unlikely quite in small to species, it occurs common and locally A widespread receiving in areas soils in open locations drained in well numbers extensive habitat (DEWNR, 2007). Preferred than 200 mm mean annual rainfall more 2009). (Bates, ridges and scrubby clearings, woodland includes forest It is possible that areas. and Echunga the Kuitpo from records Recent in the undisturbed exist the species may obliqua land. in the MDPA communities woodland disturbed habitats freshwater or flowing in stationary A riparian species which grows within small Recorded scrub and riparian woodlands. including swamp several and from Creek, Flat with the Western associated waterholes Also widespread Creek. of the Mt Barker along a small tributary locations wetlands. in Laratinga forests, in sclerophyll found herb commonly perennial A short-lived good in Avenue along Native Recorded woodlands. and grassy grasslands quality Comments Recently recorded from degraded sections of Western Flat Creek Creek Flat Western sections of degraded from recorded Recently ssp. camaldulensis. E. camaldulensis with scattered associated found in mud or shallow species perennial or semi-aquatic Aquatic (Willson & Bignall, 2009). or submerged floating with leaves water fresh near Creek Flat Western sections of degraded in 1987 from Recorded with been removed have May Road. Barker the Old Mount at the culvert comm, 2015) pers. (Crompton culvert of new construction including grasslands, of habitats a range species from A widespread al., 2006). Has been recently (Jessop et and open forests woodlands and E. ssp. leucoxylon E. leucoxylon intact containing areas from recorded viminalis ssp. cygnetensis Avenue. and Native Road Flaxley in grasslands, soils, often and heavy areas with wet Normally associated along from Recorded et al., 2006). woodlands (Jessop in but sometimes the and from reserve railway Harbor section of the Victor the degraded Creek. Flat Western sections of degraded in damp loam soils often on heavy woodlands from The species is recorded al., (Jessop et lines and damp woodlands drainage such as ephemeral sites along found recorded recently land the species was 2006). On the MDPA line and Harbor railway the Victor close to creekline a small degraded ssp. camaldulensis E. camaldulensis with a small remnant associated sclerophyll including open grasslands, of habitats in a wide range Occurs along woodlands eucalypt within remnant Recorded shrub and woodlands. reserve railway Harbor and the Victor reserve roadside Avenue Native land. within the MDPA land and in damp places. On the MDPA swamps coastal in brackish Grows creekline along a small degraded found recorded recently the species was with a small remnant line and associated Harbor railway the Victor close to ssp. camaldulensis E. camaldulensis leucoxylon ssp. E. leucoxylon intact in Recorded Agreement Heritage under remnant in Avenue Native along understorey land. of the MDPA west soils, grassy wet heavy, high, the species prefers waist shrub to A stalked section of the along a degraded Recorded 1989). (Prescott, in forests sites land. within the MDPA reserve Harbor railway Victor 1946 1998 1963 1921 1935 1969 1980 2005 1964 2014 2015 2014 1999 1900 date 2014 1961 2014 1943 1900 2014 2014 2014 2014 2010 1935 2014 1993 2008 1943 1987 date Latest record record Latest Latest record record Latest

AUS AUS

E E R R V V

SA R R R R SA status status CR RA RA RA RA NT NT NT NT NT NT VU VU Conservation Conservation RA RA RA RA RA NT NT NT NT NT NT NT EN EN VU VU Conservation Conservation AMLR AMLR Spotted Sun-orchid Spotted Great Sun-orchid Great

Blue Star Sun-orchid Blue Star Small Yellow-heads Broom Native Spurred Trigger-plant Spurred Blue Star Sun-orchid Blue Star Sun Orchid Yellow-tuft Sun-orchid Scented Water-ribbons Spur Velleia Violet Showy Creamy Candles Creamy Common name Shiny Bog-rush Shiny Groundsel Squarrose River Club-rush River Common name Hill Wallaby-grass Small River Buttercup Small River Buttercup River Wiry Dock Wallaby-grass Leafy Smooth Wallaby-grass Wallaby-grass Velvet Brookweed Creeping Groundsel Woodland Sow-thistle Native Thelymitra ixioides Thelymitra grandiflora Thelymitra arenaria Thelymitra peniculata pygmaeus Triptilodiscus Viminaria juncea Stylidium calcaratum Thelymitra latifolia Thelymitra luteocilium Thelymitra nuda procera Triglochin paradoxa Velleia ssp. Viola betonicifolia betonicifolia Stackhousia monogyna Stackhousia Species name Schoenus nitens Schoenus laevigatus Senecio squarrosus Schoenoplectus validus Senecio spanomerus Species name Rytidosperma erianthum Rytidosperma Ranunculus amphitrichus Ranunculus inundatus Ranunculus dumosus Rumex fulvum Rytidosperma laeve Rytidosperma pilosum Rytidosperma Samolus repens Senecio phelleus Senecio prenanthoides Sonchus hydrophilus ORCHIDACEAE CYPERACEAE ORCHIDACEAE CYPERACEAE COMPOSITAE ORCHIDACEAE CYPERACEAE COMPOSITAE ORCHIDACEAE COMPOSITAE LEGUMINOSAE STYLIDIACEAE GRAMINEAE Family Family RANUNCULACEAE RANUNCULACEAE POLYGONACEAE GRAMINEAE GRAMINEAE GRAMINEAE PRIMULACEAE COMPOSITAE COMPOSITAE COMPOSITAE Family ORCHIDACEAE ORCHIDACEAE ORCHIDACEAE JUNCAGINACEAE GOODENIACEAE VIOLACEAE STACKHOUSIACEAE

50 Biodiversity Strategy - Vegetation 51 2.5 Veteran and Street Trees

It is estimated that there is approximately 25-30 thousand The term ‘venerable tree’ can refer to a tree of great street and reserve trees. Street and reserve trees provide stature or a tree with special merit or of a tree in good very important social and economic benefits as well as condition and of a certain age class. Often a veteran tree provide essential environmental services in our is venerable due to its size or special merit. Most naturally urban environments. occurring veteran trees are venerable in some way and are remnants associated with associated remnants therefore highly valuable environmentally, aesthetically Amongst our extensive remnant tree population there are and sometimes even culturally. However, not every veteran some trees of an age class classified as ‘veteran trees’ that tree is of great stature or of special merit and therefore provide habitat for a variety of birds, mammals, reptiles, not every specimen maybe considered venerable. The insects and fungi. Where these trees are located in urban same applies in reverse, not every venerable tree maybe areas they provide highly public biodiversity nodes. considered a ‘veteran’ as ‘veteran’ predominantly refers to Comments A tall daisy species commonly found in open woodlands in open woodlands found species commonly daisy A tall E. leucoxylon larger from were records Closest or forests. / E. obliqua ssp. leucoxylon RP. Totness compromised structure and /or health rather than other The term ‘veteran’ predominantly refers to the structure features of a venerable tree which may be largely intact and form of a tree and indeed infers a tree has been around and still with robust vascular health. 2014 1998 1935 1961 date for a very long time, possibly centuries. More often than

Latest record record Latest not veteran trees have an extensive stem and branch A large tree, which may not be of an age class of a typical failure history. veteran but has experienced substantial structural

compromise through either storm damage or hot weather, AUS They remain standing with a hollowed and obscure decay related failure, can be managed and retained in a

SA highly altered state if it still has its primary scaffold stem

status structure, appearing quite striking and adding great and branch system remaining largely intact. Where trees RA RA RA RA

Conservation Conservation interest to a landscape. Often these trees have a very high AMLR biodiversity value due to the varied habitat they offer to in this situation are not heavily reduced further failures hollow dependent fauna and various fungal associations can be expected during wind events from the naturally they may have. imposed altered canopy dynamics. Or they can fail at a later point simply from a torn and decayed structure no Typically a veteran tree is a tree that has a large trunk longer ‘engineered’ to resist gravity. In some cases whole diameter and evidence of numerous branch failures. It may trees that have failed may be retained as veterans to form have a substantially reduced form displaying the remnants the ultimate horizontal landscape feature or habitat zone. Golden Everlasting Rock Grass-tree Rock Yellow-wash Bluebell Yellow-wash Common name Narrow-leaf New Holland New Narrow-leaf Daisy of what it once was. Alive or dead these are too valuable to be cut into firewood. Individuals in this case maybe suited to being converted There are trees within this class which are already into ‘veterans’ where either they have a long failure history naturally formed as veteran trees, however trees of with pre-existing hollows or they have an upper canopy in other age classes and types may become candidates for vascular decline or both. transformation into ‘veterans’ and through appropriate targeted branch management become ‘veteranised’. This A declined upper canopy often gives way to a secondary nthorrhoea nthorrhoea term may be considered new popular English or vocabulary lower canopy sometimes flush with mature ‘elite’ epicormic Xerochrysum bracteatum Xerochrysum Xa quadrangulata Wahlenbergia luteola Wahlenbergia Species name Vittadinia blackii Vittadinia and essentially derived amongst tree managers who growth, which is suitable to prune down to. By reducing through appropriate measures essentially fast forward the the overall canopy size the potential for failure is reduced. The mature epicormics can be managed and periodically Regional, State and National listed flora species within the District. flora listed and National State Regional, morphology of a younger tree into a much older one rather than removing it all together. pruned. Trees with hollows and failure history can have structural inadequacies utilised for hollow dependent fauna. COMPOSITAE LILIACEAE CAMPANULACEAE Family Family COMPOSITAE Table 2.2 Table

52 Biodiversity Strategy - Vegetation 53 2.6 Revegetation and Restoration Sites 2.6.1 Laratinga Wetland and Reserve Common Name Scientific Name Aus SA Currently Known from Laratinga Typically, efforts to protect biodiversity have focused on Laratinga Wetland is an artificially created wetland that BIRD large and relatively undisturbed habitats (Alvey 2006). serves to remove nutrients from the treated effluent from Australasian Bittern Botaurus poiciloptilus V P The increase of urbanisation has resulted in the loss the adjacent Springs Road wastewater treatment plant Australasian Darter Anhinga novaehollandiae R P of habitat and the resultant remaining natural areas to (WWTP). Recycled water that has passed through the Australasian Shoveler Anas rhynchotis R P become fragmented. The use of all types and conditions wetland has been used for irrigation of Council reserves, Australian Little Bittern Ixobrychus dubius E P P of greenspaces is important for biodiversity refuge and local agricultural industries, Hillgrove Mine and private Blue-billed Duck Oxyura australis R P connectivity. In an urban setting and for the purposes of properties. The reserve has a total area of approximately Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos R Crested Shrike-tit Falcunculus frontatus R P this plan, greenspace is defined as areas of remnant 50ha and includes the wetland itself comprising of three Freckled Duck Stictonetta naevosa V P vegetation, parks, reserves, sporting fields, green large connected wetland basins covering 10.7 ha, wetland Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus R P corridors, irrigated agricultural areas and private gardens reserve including BBQ, picnic and toilet facilities, the Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus R P in residential, industrial and commercial areas (Taylor, undeveloped space to the East of the Mount Barker Creek, Great Egret Ardea alba Mi(Ma),Mi(W) P 2013). Those located near significant habitat locations are and the Mount Barker Creek. Jacky Winter Microeca fascinans R P particularly important in providing corridors for wildlife Latham's Snipe Gallinago hardwickii Mi(W) R P (Goddard, Dougill & Benton 2010) in urbanised areas. Laratinga Reserve is a highly valued environmental and Lewin's Rail Lewinia pectoralis V P Urban greenspace not only provides areas for social recreational area. The following threatened fauna species Long-toed stint Calidris subminuta Mi(W) R P interaction and physical activity, it also plays an important have been recorded from Laratinga Wetland since 1985: Musk Duck Biziura lobata R P functional role in urban landscapes by providing services Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus R P such as the mitigation of flooding and erosion, the • 5 migratory bird species listed under the EPBC Act Rainbow Bee-eater Merops ornatus Mi(T) P collection of airborne and waterborne contaminants, • 19 State threatened bird species Spotless Crake Porzana tabuensis R P and provision of wildlife habitat (Barnett G, Doherty • 1 State threatened mammal Striped Honeyeater Plectorhyncha lanceolata R P M & Beaty M, n.d). White-bellied Sea-Eagle Haliaeetus leucogaster Mi(T) E P A further 17 bird species considered threatened at a Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola R P Not only has greenspace been identified as an important regional level in the Mount Lofty Ranges (Willson and Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoo Calyptorhynchus funereus V P resource for human social and health benefits, greenspaces Bignall 2009) have been recorded at Laratinga. MAMMAL within urban areas have been recognised as high value Common Brushtail Possum Trichosurus vulpecula R P for providing habitat for rare and endangered species. (Gairola and Noresah, 2010). The continuing consideration Table 2.3 State and migratory species known from Laratinga Wetland of biodiversity in urban greenspaces will contribute to Regions: AUS: Australia (Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999); SA: South Australia (National Parks and Wildlife reducing biodiversity loss, as urbanisation claims more Act 1972). Conservation Codes: CE: Critically Endangered; EN/E: Endangered; VU/V: Vulnerable; R: Rare; Mi(Ma): Migratory Marine; natural environments suited to habitat. (Gairola and Mi(W): Migratory Wetland; Mi(T): Migratory Terrestrial. Noresah, 2010).

Council has developed an extensive revegetation program that aims to contribute to biodiversity outcomes aesthetics and beautification of the area. The program relies and forms strong partnerships with community groups and volunteers. The program attracts an average of 800 volunteers, with around 10,000 native seedlings planted each year. Perhaps the most successful rehabilitation site is Laratinga Wetland and Reserve.

54 Biodiversity Strategy - Vegetation 55 Approximately 160 bird species have been 2.7 Threats to Vegatation 2.7.2 Declared Weeds recorded over the past 10 years by local Common Name Scientific Name birdwatchers and Birds SA. Declared plants are weeds that are regulated under the Gould's Wattled Bat Chalinolobus gouldii 2.7.1 Pest Diseases Natural Resources Management Act 2004 due to their Five frog species are confirmed from Laratinga Chocolate Wattled Bat Chalinolobus morio Land development, soil disturbance and the introduction threat to primary industry, the natural environment and Reserve including the Common Froglet (Crinia of new species have resulted in the introduction of public safety. Southern Freetail-bat Mormopterus species 4 "big dick" signifera), Eastern Banjo Frog (Limnodynastes diseases and invertebrate pests that threaten the health dumerili), Spotted Grass Frog (Limnodynastes of agricultural and natural systems. A widespread concern Plants are declared under the provisions of the Act Lesser Long-eared Bat Nyctophilus geoffroyi tasmaniensis), Brown Tree Frog (Litoria ewingi) to both natural and agricultural systems is the root-rot relating to: and Peron’s Tree Frog (Litoria peronei). White-striped Freetail-bat Tadarida australis fungus, Phytophthora and the less understood Mundulla Yellows that has only been reported in degraded 1. Controlling the movement of declared plants– The Common Brushtail Possum, Ringtail Possum, Large Forest Bat Vespadelus darlingtoni natural ecosystems. Some declared plants must not be moved on a House Mouse (Mus musculus), Koala and Black public road. Accidental movement of the plant Southern Forest Bat Vespadelus regulus Rat (Rattus rattus) are also noted from the site. Phytophthora is the main plant disease impacting the on animals, soil, vehicles, machinery or produce At least eight species of microbat have been may also be illegal. Little Forest Bat Vespadelus vulturnus MLR and Greater Adelaide Region. In South Australia identified. The common long neck tortoise is more than thirteen species of Phytophthora have been also commonly seen bathing on logs and the Table 2.4 Microbats recorded at Laratinga wetland identified, with three of these in native vegetation: 2. Prohibition of Sale – Many declared plants must native water rat (Hydromys chrysogaster). Phytophthora cinnamomi, P. citricola, and P. cryptogea. not be sold at any outlet including nurseries, pet shops and market stalls. Sale of any animal, soil, This fungus lives in the soil attacking plant roots and is vehicle, machinery or produce contaminated often difficult to detect and its impact may be significant with the plant may also be illegal. before it is detected. Depending upon environmental conditions and plant susceptibility (e.g. Banksia species, 3. Notification to relevant NRM board - The Yacca species, myrtle wattle, cone-bush, beaked hakea), presence and locations of some declared plants the pathogen can destroy vegetation communities and must be reported to the regional NRM board. plant species with extinction by reducing the plant’s ability to take up water and nutrients, eventually rotting 4. Control of declared plants- action to destroy or the root system of the plant and leading to the plant’s control many declared plant species present on death. Phytophthora can be spread by infested soil, properties, regardless of whether it is used as a gravel and plant material on vehicles, heavy machinery, business, residence or for other purposes. by bushwalkers, bicycles or animals and is spread most Two introduced species, Mosquito Fish • Creek line – Remnant Eucalyptus camaldulensis rapidly when rainfall coincides with warm temperatures There are currently over 100 weeds that are declared (Gambusia holbrooki) and Carp (Cyprinus carpio) +/- PlantedMixed Woodland; (DEH 2000; MLRIINRMG 2002; DEH Newsletter 2003). under the Natural Resources Management Act 2004 and The wetland was dried in 2010 in an attempt to • Mixed Planted Eucalyptus sp. +/- Acacia sp. Low both Boards have programs to manage weeds on public eradicate or reduce the both introduced species. Closed Forest; lands and roadsides. The numbers of mosquito fish were reduced and • Common Reed (Phragmites australis) +/- Bulrush the carp population was not noted until 2014. (Typha sp.) Sedgeland ; Some reserves within the District have Management Plans There is no sign of establishment for the released • Exotic Grassland; that suggest various methods to control and eradicate population of the native species Flathead • Mixed Aquatic Reeds and Rushes; and weeds and also include specific methods for specific weed Gudgeon (Philypnodon grandiceps). • Scattered Trees. types. Council undertakes annual weed control programs The flora of Laratinga Reserve has been classified • The wetlands support three primary wetland on reserves and roadsides and weeds have been reduced into six broad vegetation associations: ecological units. These ecological units are: significantly in targeted areas. • Dense reed beds of Phragmites australis +/- Typha sp • Mixed emergent reeds and rushes and open Water

56 Biodiversity Strategy - Vegetation 57 2.7.3 Environmental Weeds      Environmental weeds are plants that  (WONS)

have a negative impact on natural Significance

landscapes, generally due to them of National Weed causing a reduction in biodiversity. Biodiversity can be impacted directly             and indirectly by environmental weeds.  Declared Direct impacts include competition for resources with native plants. Indirect impacts include the loss of habitat for fauna, soil and water profiles, changes        in fire intensity, water flow and water Weed pollution (Weed Management Society of Environmental South Australia). Not all environmental weeds are declared plants.                                     District

2.7.4 Weeds of National from Known Significance (WoNS)

WoNS are plants that high invasive traits and potential to spread causing social, environmental and economic impacts of national concern (WMSSA). There are 6 WoNs in the District out of the top ranking 20 WoNS. Bathurst Burr Bathurst Dock Pincushion Daisy South African Thistle Variagated Black Nightshade Common Sow-thistle Salsify Gorse Bulbil Watsonia Blackberry Pussy Tails Pussy Phalaris pine Montery Ribwort Wireweed Grass Annual Beard Common Purslane Weed Turnip Watercress Dog Rose Soursob Witch-grass Couch Water grass Kikuyu Barley Grass Barley Grass Annual Rye Marshmallow Small Flowered Medic orchid weed South African trees Olive Common Heliotrope Ox-tongue Cape Tulip Annual Veldt Grass Annual Veldt Fennel Desert Ash Fumitory White-flower Cleavers Cape ivy Summer-grass Grass Common Barnyard Jane Salvation Common Name Saltbush Creeping Brome Centaury Lucerne Tree Boneseed Broom broom/Cape Montpellier Waterbuttons Couch English Broom Cotton bush Cotton Bridal Creeper Hen Fat Green Chicory Spear Thistle - Declared weeds, environmental weeds and weeds of nation significance (WoNS) within the District significance of nation and weeds weeds environmental weeds, - Declared Xanthium spinosum Xanthium Rumex sp. Rumex atropurpurea Scabiosa Senecio pterophorus Silybum mariaum Solanum nigrum Sonchus oleraceus porrifolius Tragopogon europaeus Ulex bulbilera Watsonia Rubus fruticosus Pentaschistis pallida Pentaschistis Phalaris aquatica Pinus radiata var. lanceolata Plantago aviculare Polygonum monspeliensis Polypogon oleracea Portulaca rugosum ssp. rugosum) Rapistrum aquaticum Rorippanasturtium canina Rosa Oxalis pes-caprae Oxalis capillare Panicum distichum Paspalum clandestinum Pennisetum Hordeum vulgare Lolium rigidum Malva parviflora sp. Medicago Monadenia bracteata Olea europea Heliotropium europaeum echioides Helminthotheca Homeria spp Ehrharta longiflora Ehrharta vulgare Foeniculum angustifolia Fraxinus capreolata Fumaria Galium aparine Delairea odorata sp. Digitaria crus-galli Echinochloa plantagineum Echium Atriplex prostrata Atriplex Bromus sp. sp. Centaurium Chamaecytisus proliferus monilifera Chrysanthemoides Scientific Name Scientific monspessulana Genista Cotula coronopifolia dactylon var. Cynodon scparius Cytisus Ascelpias rotundifolia Ascelpias Asparagus asparagoides Chenopodium murale Chichonium intybus Cirsium vulgare Table 2.5 Table

58 Biodiversity Strategy - Vegetation 59 2.7.8 Fire management regime 2.7.11 Change in zoning and land use and changes in fire regimes; Habitat loss due to vegetation clearance is amongst the Many plants in the district have adapted to fire such as important cause for biodiversity loss (Woinarski et al 2011). Xanthorrhoea spp, Eucalyptus, Banksia and Hakeas. The Large shifts in land management, use and zoning since community that has formed in a particular area before a fire European settlement has resulted in rapid human population may not be the same species that recolonise it after a fire. growth and consequently substantial habitat loss. Certain species respond well to fire, not necessarily restricted to species that have adapted, but also due to life-form and 2.7.12 Climate change reproductive opportunities. The species that respond well are becoming more dominant in areas that are frequently To date, changes in the Australian climate have been affected by bushfire. The impacts of fire on the environment relatively moderate. Despite this, the distribution, behaviour depends on the fire history or fire regime; the interval and timing of events of some species have already been between fires, the time of year fires occur, how intense fires observed (Cabrelli, Beaumont & Hughes 2015). In South are and the amount and arrangement of burnt and unburnt Australia, the expected changes to the climate include an patches in an area (Department of Environment, Water and increase in carbon dioxide levels, mean temperature, high Natural Resources). fire danger days and extreme weather events. A decrease in rainfall is expected as well as seasonal weather patterns. 2.7.9 Recreational impacts (DEWNR 2010).

Ecological research has strongly suggested that air pollution can adversely affect biota and ecosystems (Barker and Tingey 1992). Commonly used industrial, agricultural and domestic chemicals pose a risk to fauna and flora. Air pollution can impact both terrestrial and aquatic environments, which can cause death of species, pollution tolerant species dominance by a few species, altered food webs and opportunity for invasive species to infiltrate ecosystems.

2.7.10 Unsustainable land use and natural resources management;

Transformation of Australian landscapes from deep-rooted woody vegetation systems to shallow-rooted annual cropping systems has resulted in the severe loss of biodiversity. This loss has been worsened by rising ground waters that has untimely mobilised stored salts, causing land and soil salinity. Sustainable agriculture has the opportunity to maintain food and fibre production, improve salinisation, reduce biodiversity decline and assist in mitigating climate change.

60 Biodiversity Strategy - Vegetation 61 3.2 Economic Benefits land clearance can cause biodiversity decline.

Fauna can provide financial benefits such as tourism and There is little remaining native vegetation within the BIODIVERSITY MANAGEMENT provision service. Each year, thousands of tourists visit the District. During the 19th Century, approximately 95% of region to see native plants and animals. The vast majority the original vegetation was been cleared for agricultural of local residents enjoys seeing wildlife and values their use and mining activities (University of Adelaide 2010). 3.0 Wildlife presence in our landscapes. In addition, the presence of The remaining native vegetation throughout the district wildlife can increase “livability” and therefore increase is heavily degraded. These pockets of vegetation are Mount Barker Local Government Area provides habitat 3.1 Human Health and Social Benefits property values. essential for the survival of native fauna, however the to a number of fauna species including birds, mammals, fragmentation of vegetation affects species’ ability to amphibians, reptiles, fish and insects. A number of these Birds are important when it comes to the beneficial 3.3 Threats to Fauna move freely and disperse across the landscape, utilise species are listed as threatened at a regional, state and/or services provided to humans and the environment, both seasonal food resources, and take refuge from natural national level. natural and human-dominated environments. Some Anthropengic environmental change has a clear events such as bushfire and flooding. For many species, species provide services in an urbanised environment, and defined impact on wildlife populations, with vegetation reduction and fragmentation means that there Native animals are important to ecosystems because they where other species will not survive. Birds provide an unprecedented decline caused by habitat loss, is insufficient habitat and/or fragments are too small and act as indicators of healthy ecosystems, waterways and recreation to bird watchers and have strong links to fragmentation and biodiversity decline (Daszak, isolated to support viable populations. (DEH, 2009). habitats, play important balancing roles in ecosystems, art and religion. Wildlife can provide opportunities for Cunnigham & Hyatt 2001). Other threats include pollution, human health and social benefits of being in nature, educational experiences. Laratinga Wetland is an example disease, competition, predation and human impacts. Identifying and mapping habitat and potential linkages economic benefits and provision of educational of nature and wildlife, providing extensive environmental to connect and expand habitat, will enable Council to experiences. Wildlife plays an important role in keeping education. With rich biodiversity, interpretive signage and 3.3.1 Habitat loss and habitat fragmentation prioritise resources and activities. Green corridors can some animals from becoming too numerous (predators), revegetation projects and bird and frog monitoring, the incorporate remnant and restored vegetation areas, managing vegetation growth (herbivores) or providing wetland attracts the local visitors as long as interstate and Native vegetation provides habitat for wildlife and is wetlands, rivers, creeklines, railway lines, RMS sites, food, and recycling organic matter (decomposers). For international tourists. Public urban greenspaces that have the result of an extensive and complex evolutionary unmade road reserves, infrastructure easements, example bats in this region use hollows to roost during resulted in the increased provisions of habitat for wildlife process. Once this system has been disturbed, it cannot Heritage Agreements with the NVC and private landowner the day, but forages for insects at night. This reduces the has also been shown to provide quantifiable psychological be restored to its original condition. Vegetation systems agreements with Natural Resources AMLR & SAMDB. spread of diseases due to mosquito borne diseases and and physical benefits to uses of greenspace, particularly are essential to the survival of wildlife. Habitat loss due to Linkages and connectivity also extend beyond the Council stabilises the mosquito population. Collectively, birds can with high species richness (Fuller and others, 2007). vegetation clearance is amongst the important cause for boundaries to connect to neighbouring council areas assist in controlling insects, pollinating seeds, cycling of fauna extinction and population reduction (Woinarski et including Onkaparinga, Alexandrina, Adelaide Hills and nutrients, provision of food, provision of feathers, al 2011). Large shifts in land management since European Rural City of Murray Bridge. cleaning of carcasses, contributing to soil formation. settlement has resulted in substantial habitat loss. Rapid population growth, particularly with extensive (relative)

62 Biodiversity Strategy - Wildlife 63 3.3.2 Habitat alteration and degradation gums (Eucalyptus fasciculosa). There are a number of other Foxes are controlled using 1080 fox bait, which are Animal management is the responsibility of the Adelaide hollow bearing species that exist through the remainder available to landholders through coordination with the SA and Mount Lofty ranges and SA Murray Darling Basin NRM Fauna rely on habitat for protection, food, breeding and of the district including messmate stringybark (Eucalyptus MDB and AMLR NRM Boards. boards and through specific programs operating in the other ecological aspects. If habitat is threatened, for obliqua) and peppermint box (Eucalyptus odorata). area. Both NRM boards have developed NRM plans for example by degradation, fragmentation, human impacts, Further understanding of invasive predator management, their regions with the following key resource conditions introduced pest species or inappropriate fire regimes, then Some of the wildlife that utilise hollows for protection, including trialing alternative methods of control will aid in and management action targets. fauna may be threatened or impacted. In order to protect roosting and breeding have very specific requirements. reducing the impact of invasive predators on fauna and threatened species, in particular habitat needs Hollow-dependent wildlife is especially vulnerable as native biodiversity. to be maintained and protected. habitat loss occurs due to clearance for urban expansion (Stojanovic & others 2014). There are over 300 Australian Common name Scientific name Species requirements Degradation of vegetation has serious implications on natives animals that use tree hollows. These include birds, (habitat, diet, breeding) BIRDS habitat for fauna, but there are other less obvious threats marsupials, bats, insects, reptiles, and amphibians. Parrots Rainbow lorikeet, eastern rosella, crimson rosella, Breeding/refuge at night Table 3.1 shows the likely species within the district that can affect habitat such as removal of moss rocks or bluebonnet (nationally threatened), little lorikeet, dead timber. Removal of both moss rocks and dead timber that would utilise hollows. Australian ringneck parrot, bluewinged parrot ringneck reduces habitat for native fauna, including vertebrate parrot, bluewinged parrot (vulnerable in South Australia), budgerigar, musk lorikeet, purple crowned and invertebrate species; reduces lichen, moss and fungi 3.3.3 Predators lorikeet, red-rumped parrot, mulga parrot, elegant species; allows the potential for increased erosion and parrot. reduces natural landscape detail. The removal of dead Invasive species have reshaped the function and Birds of prey Nankeen kestrel, peregrine falcon Breeding/refuge at night timber for firewood is a significant issue throughout the composition of many ecosystems with substantial cost and Cockatoos Yellow-tailed black cockatoo (vulnerable in south Breeding/refuge at night Australia), galah, cockatiel, little corella, District, especially close to major population centres. The effort associated with minimising ecological, social and sulfur- crested cockatoo most preferred firewood is also often the preferred habitat economic. The most damaging invasive species are the Song Birds/smaller birds Grey shrike-thrush, striated pardalote, spotted Breeding/refuge at night for many wildlife species. Fallen timber provides refuge, mammalian predators. Through predation, competition, pardalote, brown tree creeper, tree martin. forage substrate and homes for many fauna species. Dead hybridisation and disease, invasive mammalian predators Frogmouths and nightjars Australian owlet-nightjar, boobook owl, masked owl, Refuge during the day/breeding branches and dead trees provide perches, nesting hollows are among the most damaging of all invasive species, eastern barnowl. Waterbirds Chestnut teal, pacific black duck, wood duck Breeding/refuge at night and habitat for birds, mammals, amphibians, reptiles contributing heavily to the decline of biodiversity and Kingfishers Kookaburra Breeding/refuge at night and invertebrates. extinction of species impacts (Doherty, Dickman, Nimmo, MARSUPIALS Brushtail possum, ringtail possum, pygmy possum Refuge during the day/breeding Ritchie 2015). Amongst the most damaging predatory BATS Microbats – chocolate wattled bat, inland freetail bat, Refuge during the day Among the existing agricultural and rural zones throughout invasive species include the domestic cat (Felis catus) lesser long-eared bat, little forest bat. the District, there are often intact vegetation and/or and the red fox (Vulpes vulpes).These species have a REPTILES, AMPHIBIANS & FISH If appropriate in the environment i.e. significant scattered tree. Many large and significant trees, disproportionate impact on global biodiversity. fallen on ground or in waterbody. mainly from the Eucalypt genus in Australia, contain cavities INSECTS Bee and numerous invertebrates Bee Hive

or hollows. Natural hollows take approximately 100 years The main methods currently used to control invasive Table 3.1 Local fauna that are hollow dependent or hollow associated. to form and occur when a combination of invertebrates species are the combination of exclusion fencing and and external impacts such as fire, lightening, wind, heat lethal control; culling and the implementation of baiting or rain. Hollows are valuable regardless of size. The size programs. These methods focus on removing individual of the hollow can vary from a small crack that is a few species to reduce or eliminate predation pressure on millimetres large to deep and wide cavities. They also have wildlife. Some of these programs have reduced predator different orientations and heights and provide an extremely impact they have not arrested the ongoing declines of important habitat function for wildlife. native fauna.

The most common trees that contain hollows within the Effective control of foxes and cats must be carried out in area are blue gums (Eucalyptus leucoxlylon) and rough- conjunction with rabbit control. The decreased predation barked manna gums (Eucalyptus vimminalis) and pink from foxes and cats results in increased rabbit numbers.

Black Cockatoo Image by Kevin Williams

64 Biodiversity Strategy - Wildlife 65 3.3.4 Diseases 3.3.7 Occasional seasonal over abundance of native species 3.3.8 Illegal hunting of native animals

Emerging infectious diseases (EID) in wildlife populations Conflict between animals and humans usually occur when As the urban environmental expands, conflict between wildlife are increasing due to anthropogenic environmental change. animals move closer to humans and in greater numbers, and humans can occur when fauna is seeking food, water, The driving factor of this increase is due to the movement of which are usually due to the lack of suitable native habitat shelter and space. Examples of the impact wildlife can have on populations triggered by a change in climate and a reduction elsewhere (Guy and Banks 2012). Changing land use and humans in the district include: of suitable habitat. These infectious diseases in wildlife urban expansion sometimes results with certain species ultimately cause direct and indirect loss of overall biodiversity competing with humans for food, water, refuge and space. • aggressive animal behaviour, usually birds swooping to in an ecosystem (Daszak, Cunnigham & Hyatt 2001). Wildlife management includes managing conflict between defend their young in the nest; wildlife and human interests (DEWNR, 2015). • damage to the property and assets; 3.3.5 Grazing competition • damage to vegetation (overgrazing and damage to Native species can cause significant concern when they occur trees); and Damage caused by rabbits is a major concern throughout the in large numbers. Overabundant species in the area include • damage to crops, produce and horticulture. District and there has been an increase in rabbits finding safe galahs, little corellas, long-billed corellas and sulphur-crested refuge in urban areas. Rabbits occur in high numbers and cockatoos. An emerging local issue is the abundance of the By understanding the behaviour of wildlife, it is often possible provide direct competition with grazing animals, domestic Little Corella. Like other Australian parrots, the Little Corella to live amicably with them. The Department of Environment, livestock, and native fauna. For example, eight rabbits exert population has noticeably increased, and consequently is Water and Natural Resources promotes a “living with wildlife” the same grazing pressure as one sheep equivalent. A number now described as an overabundant species. Problems occur approach. This approach aims to: of studies on rabbit grazing have been undertaken which when some species become overabundant and the flock indicate that rabbits have a severe impact on native grasslands collectively utilises the majority of available resources that • promote positive attitudes toward wildlife; and the regeneration of some species. other species also require for survival. Some of these species • encourage people to understand the necessity of are listed as threatened. Little Corellas are granivores and wildlife conservation; Hares are more difficult to control than rabbits since they do like to eat seed, fruit and grain. This can cause issues for • consider the welfare of all wildlife; and not live in burrows and cannot be controlled by baiting. farmers in agricultural areas, resulting in the loss of crops and • promote humane and non lethal methods as the way damage to property. In urban areas, the two most common to manage problems with wildlife. Deer occur in limited numbers in some areas of native complaints tend to be firstly, damage caused to trees and vegetation and forests in Adelaide Hills, and are controlled secondly, the noise produced by corellas. There have been 3.3.9 Road kill by shooting in conjunction with the relevant NRM board. minimal studies of overabundant Australian parrots in urban areas and agricultural areas. The studies that have been Urban growth demands the increase of infrastructure, Feral goats also occur in low numbers and are localised in undertaken highlight that additional information is required services and facilities to meet the requirements of a growing their distribution. regarding factors that have influenced the expansion of population. Unmade road reserves are ultimately sealed to these populations into urban areas. Climate change, rainfall provide thoroughfares for the community. Roads can be a 3.3.6 Competition from introduced birds patterns, drought, flooding and bushfires are amongst source of mortality for wildlife, particularly certain species some of the factors being considered to be influencing the that use roads as a migration pathway, basking and foraging Introduced birds occur when they have been transported population increase and expansion of the Little Corella. for seed. The variety of wildlife that is killed on Australian to an area in which they do not originate. These birds can roads is diverse with birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians compete with native birds for space, nests, food and water. Conservative approaches to wildlife management include the and invertebrates. Larger animals with restricted and declining This can be discouraged by planting native species that are use of firearms to scare animals, use of gas guns, or other distributions are at particularly at risk of a negative population less utilised by introduced birds, and reducing invasive weed commercial scaring devices to scare animals, modifying impact. Fauna sensitive road designs should be investigated species as a food source. habitat or removing resources, placement of nest boxes when threatened and declining populations are at risk. This in trees to provide refuge for hollow-dependent animals, can include the consideration of fences with underpasses or create alternate roosting sites for displaced species, create culverts (QLD Government, n.d). alternative fencing or gates for wildlife, netting high value crops, planting decoy crops and tree collaring (DEWNR, 2015).

66 Biodiversity Strategy - Wildlife 67 3.3.10 Air Pollution 3.3.12 Climate change Common name Scientific name Aus (EPBC ) SA AMLR Recently Recorded within District Ecological research has strongly suggested that air To date, changes in the Australian climate have been AMPHIBIAN pollution can adversely affect biota and ecosystems relatively moderate. Despite this, the distribution, Brown Toadlet Pseudophryne bibronii R V 2002 (Barker and Tingey 1992). Commonly used industrial, behaviour and timing of events of some species have Southern Bell Frog Litoria raniformis V Last record 1974 agricultural and domestic chemicals pose a risk to fauna already been observed (Cabrelli, Beaumont & Hughes BIRD and flora. Air pollution can impact both terrestrial and 2015). In South Australia, the expected changes to the Australasian Bittern Botaurus poiciloptilus EN V V P aquatic environments, which can cause death of species, climate include an increase in carbon dioxide levels, Australasian Darter Anhinga novaehollandiae R P pollution tolerant species dominance by a few species, mean temperature, high fire danger days and extreme Australasian Shoveler Anas rhynchotis R P altered food webs and opportunity for invasive species weather events. A decrease in rainfall is expected as well Australian Little Bittern Ixobrychus dubius E P to infiltrate ecosystems. as seasonal weather patterns. This will ultimately impact Australian Painted Snipe Rostratula australis EN wildlife by altering breeding patterns, migration timing Baillon's Crake Porzana pusilla R P Bassian Thrush Zoothera lunulata R V (2005) 3.3.11 Light and Noise Pollution and distribution patterns (DEWNR 2010). Beautiful Firetail Stagonopleura Bella R 2000 Blue-billed Duck Oxyura australis R  Development as a part of expanding cities in urban 3.4 Fauna of Conservation Brown Quail Coturnix ypsilophora V V and peri-urban environments can significantly effect Significance in the District. Brown Treecreeper Climacteris picumnus V biodiversity (Newport, Shorthouse & Manning 2014). Brown-headed Honeyeater Melithreptus brevirostris U  Noise and light pollution are impacts of urbanisation that In South Australia, a Regional Species Conservation Brush Bronzewing Phaps elegans U have the potential to impact the physiology, behaviour and Assessment framework was developed in two phases Buff-banded Rail Gallirallus philippensis V  reproduction of a range of animal taxa. to contribute to the knowledge base and management Cape Barren Goose Cereopsis novaehollandiae R of threatened species and ecological communities at a Cattle Egret Ardea ibis Mi(Ma) Mi(W) R  (1987) Artificial light pollution can be defined as any artificial light regional level. The aim was to provide a standardised Chestnut-rumped Calamanthus (hylacola) EN Heathwren Pyrrhopygius that alters the natural light and dark of ecosystems and approach to assessing and prioritising SA’s native species Chestnut-rumped Calamanthus (hylacola) E therefore the biological rhythms of fauna. The main three to guide species conservation and recovery, in each of the Heathwren (ML Ranges ssp) Pyrrhopygius Parkeri categories of light pollution include: Natural Resource Management (NRM) regions across the Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos R  state. Each region was assessed according to the Interim Crested Shrike-tit Falcunculus frontatus R V  • street, house and public area lighting; Biogeographical Regionalisation for Australia (IBRA) Diamond Firetail Stagonopleura guttata V V  (2003) • floodlights/car lights; and subregions falling within or across the regional boundary. Elegant Parrot R  • direct glare from reflective surfaces. Fairy Martin Petrochelidon ariel U  A search of the EPBC Act online database provides an Fan-tailed Cuckoo Cacomantis flabelliformis V  Noise pollution is any man made sound that alters indication of the threatened fish, frog, mammal and bird Flame Robin Petroica phoenicea V Last recorded 2001 Fork-tail swift Apus pacificus Mi(Ma) behaviour and interferes with the functioning of wildlife. species that may occur in the district. These species are Freckled Duck Stictonetta naevosa V  The three broad categories of noise pollution source are: listed in table below. The South Australian Museum also Chestnut-rumped Hyloacola pyrrhopygia parkeri EN holds a database of observational records for birds, reptiles Heathwren • vehicular traffic; and amphibians, and mammals found across the state. Glossy Black-cockatoo Calyptorhynchus lathami EN (South Australian) halmaturinus • human voice; and Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus R  • game (sporting) sirens. Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus R  Great Egret Ardea alba Mi(Ma)Mi(W) Despite the potential consequences of these impacts on Grey Currawong Strepera Versicolor  biodiversity, an increase in the understanding of these Hooded Robin Melanodryas Cucullata disturbances and possible mitigation strategies need to Horsfield's Bronze-Cuckoo Chalcites basalis V  be explored. Intermediate Egret Ardea intermedia R  (2001)

68 Biodiversity Strategy - Wildlife 69 Common name Scientific name Aus (EPBC ) SA AMLR Recently Common name Scientific name Aus (EPBC ) SA AMLR Recently Recorded within Recorded within District District Jacky Winter Microeca fascinans R V  Yellow Thornbill Acanthiza nana U  Latham's Snipe Gallinago hardwickii Mi(Ma)Mi(W) R  Yellow-rumped Thornbill Acanthiza chrysorrhoa U Lewin's Rail Lewinia pectoralis V V  Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoo Calyptorhynchus funereus V V  Little Lorikeet Glossopsitta Pusilla E Zebra Finch Taeniopygia guttata U Little Wattlebird Anthochaera chrysoptera U  FISH Malleefowl Leipoa ocellata V Murray Hardyhead Craterocephalus fluviatilis EN Musk Duck Biziura lobata R  Murray Cod Maccullochella peeii V Painted Buttonquail Turnix Varius R Last recorded 1985 MAMMAL Painted Snipe Rostratula benghalensis Mi (W) Common Brushtail Possum Trichosurus vulpecula R  Pallid Cuckoo Cacomantis pallidus V  Southern Brown Bandicoot (SA Isoodon obesulus obesulus EN V V (2004) mainland and KI ssp) Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus R R  Western Pygmy-possum Cercartetus concinnus V Rainbow Bee-eater Merops ornatus Mi(T)  Yellow-footed Antechinus Antechinus flavipes V Last record 2000 Red-capped Robin Petroica goodenovii V  REPTILE Red-rumped Parrot Psephotus haematonotus U  Cunningham's Skink Egernia Cunninghami E Regent Honeyeater Anthochaera Phrygia EN E 1900 Eastern Tiger Snake Notechis scutatus V Restless Flycatcher Myiagra inquieta R E (1995) Flinders Worm-lizard Aprasia Pseudopulchella V Rofous Fantail Rhipidura rufifrons Mi(T) Heath Goanna Varanus rosenbergi V V  Rufous Whistler Pachycephala rufiventris U  Pygmy Blue-tongue Lizard Tiliqua adelaidensis EN Satin Flycatcher Myiagra cyanoleuca Mi(T) Pygmy Copperhead Austrelaps labialis V Sacred Kingfisher Todiramphus sanctus U  Scarlet Robin Petroica boodang R V  Table 3.2 Regional, state and nationally threatened species with the district. Shining Bronze-Cuckoo Chalcites lucidus R Southern Emu-wren Stipiturus malachurus EN Conservation Status: intermedius Aus: Australia (Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act, 1999); Southern Whiteface Aphelocephala leucopsis V EX = Extinct Spotted Quail-thrush Cinclosoma Punctatum CE CE = Critically Endangered. Species is facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild in the immediate future. Spotless Crake Porzana tabuensis R U  EN = Endangered. Species is not critically endangered, but is facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild in the near future. VU = Vulnerable. Species is not critically endangered or endangered, but is facing a high risk of extinction in the wild in the medium-term future. Striped Honeyeater Plectorhyncha lanceolata R  Mi(Ma): Migratory Marine; Mi(W): Migratory Wetland; Mi(T): Migratory Terrestrial. Tawny Frogmouth Podargus strigoides U  Tree Martin Petrochelidon nigricans U  SA: South Australia (National Parks and Wildlife Act, 1972). Varied Sittella Daphoenositta chrysoptera U E = Endangered. Taxa that are likely to become extinct in SA unless the circumstances and factors threatening their abundance, survival or evolutionary development cease to operate. Western Whipbird Psophodes nigrogularis V leucogaster V = Vulnerable. Taxa that are likely to move into the Endangered category in SA in the near future unless the circumstances and factors threatening their abundance, survival or evolutionary development cease to operate. Whistling Kite Haliastur sphenurus U  R = Rare. Taxa that occur in small populations in South Australia, that are not at present endangered or vulnerable but are at some risk due to their low numbers. White-bellied Sea-Eagle Haliaeetus leucogaster Mi(T) E  These taxa are usually localised within restricted geographical areas or are thinly scattered over a more extensive range. This may include taxa which are White-browed Babbler Pomatostomus superciliosus U perceived to be at risk for which there is insufficient information available to assign them to any other category, and taxa that are considered to be dependent White-fronted Chat Epthianura albifrons U on ongoing conservation programs to prevent them moving into the endangered or vulnerable categories. Populations of rare taxa in SA may be contiguous with populations interstate that are considered to be secure. The rare category does not include taxa that are considered to be vagrants in South Australia. White-naped Honeyeater Melithreptus lunatus U  Note that freshwater fish are not currently listed under the NPW Act Schedules, White-throated Gerygone Gerygone olivacea R Last recorded 1998 White-throated Needletail Hirundapus caudacutus Mi (T) AMLR: Regional rating for Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges (AMLR) sourced from Wilson based on Willson and Bignall (2009) White-throated Treecreeper Cormobates leucophaea E = Endangered. In danger of becoming extinct in the wild in the immediate future given current trends in populations and reasons for decline. V = Vulnerable. Likely to become Endangered in the immediate future given current trends in populations and reasons for decline. White-winged Chough Corcorax melanorhamphos R V  R = Rare. At risk due to low numbers of individuals even though no or little decline in distribution has been detected.  Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola R U = Uncommon. Animals or vegetation types which are inadequately conserved or declining but are not yet sufficiently threatened to be listed as rare.

70 Biodiversity Strategy - Wildlife 71 3.5 Fire Control

Fire has an important role in reproduction of many Other fires in the Mount Barker District area were the Australian plants, although their responses to fire are Wistow fires of November 1983 and January 1985, and the variable and not always well understood. Changes to the Ash Wednesday fires of February 1980 and February 1983. natural fire regime, particularly since human settlement, Since these horrific fires the District has been spared any have greatly reduced a number of ecological processes, major infernos. These fires occurred in drought years and potentially reducing regeneration of some species. were fanned by hot, dry winds, which appear to be the catalysts for large fires. The statistics show that the causes Fire prevention focuses on the protection of both urban of fire in the District are relatively constant, with more developments and natural assets (e.g. remnant patches fires occurring during the two months of autumn, when of vegetation); however this can have implications for people tend to become complacent, than during the hotter natural ecosystem processes. In the MLR fire prevention months. Current expectations are for approximately 30-40 works often involve regular clearance of potential fire fuels vegetation fires in an average year during the fire danger by mechanical removal, grazing by stock, or by regular season. Of these usually only 5-10 burn in excess of 1 ha prescribed fire use, however these actions can significantly and only a very small number in excess of 10 ha. There are impact upon natural ecosystems. Alternatively, in other no specific trends as to size and location of fires, although areas where there has been prolonged use of fire and arsonists target roadsides, but this occurs over the whole other fire prevention measures, a build up of fuel loads district and not in any specific location (District Council of has occurred, primarily comprising woody weeds such as Mount Barker Bushfire Prevention Plan 1999). broom, gorse, olives and blackberry. With greater concern and awareness on the potential Council slashes roadsides in the lead up to the fire season. catastrophic impacts of bushfire it remains important that Strategic/Main Arterial roads are cut to the fence where biodiversity assets are not unnecessarily degraded through possible. All other sealed roads are cut to the white posts. inappropriate fire prevention activities (e.g. indiscriminate Gravel roads may be cut if they are included on the priority clearance and frequent burning). roadside list, which was developed in conjunction with the local CFS. The CFS may conduct roadside fuel reduction Important factors in determining whether fire is beneficial burning in strategic areas to create fuel reduced or disadvantageous to a habitat include: fire frequency, intensity and timing, the ecosystems involved and the Council does not have a high frequency of extensive degree of disturbance already occurring in the area uncontrolled fires. The most recent fire of note was in Mt (e.g. by weeds). Bold in 2007 threatening homes in Kangarilla and Echunga burning some 2000 hectares, one house, numerous sheds, livestock, horses and equipment. While the fires do occur annually, detection and response occurs quickly. Incidents generally impact rural properties and associated infrastructure such utilities, also livestock, fencing and implement sheds.

Frog Image by Kevin Williams

72 Biodiversity Strategy - Wildlife 73 BIODIVERSITY MANAGEMENT │KEY THEME 1: HABITAT PRESERVATION AND CONNECTIVITY│ “To maintain and good quality habitat for flora and fauna”

Action Priority Timeframe Responsibility Partners Funding Link to Strategic Plan Action Priority Timeframe Responsibility Partners Funding Link to Strategic Plan Source Source HP1 Develop conceptual Very 2016/2017 Open Space & - Staff Time NE 3.2 Integrate human HP7 Seek greater Low Ongoing Open Space & Wider community Staff time NE 1.3 Promote linkages for fauna High Environment environments with natural community Environment environmental education to habitat (and (PLANNING & areas using urban ecology engagement in (PLANNING & and awareness potential habitat) DEVELOPMENT) principles environmental DEVELOPMENT) management NE 3.1 Promote It Systems NE 3.3 Design buffers and understanding and use of (CORPORATE interfaces between built natural areas and provide SERVICES) and natural areas learning opportunities

NE 3.4 Further develop NE 3.5 Increase community and enhance vegetation awareness regarding its corridors impact on the natural environment HP2 Seasonal surveys to Very Yearly Open Space & NRM Existing NE 4.1 Ensure up- capture all species High Environment Bush For Life Budget to-date knowledge NE 3.6 Influence (spring) (PLANNING & Goolwa To Lines (& and understanding of community behaviours and DEVELOPMENT) Wellington Proposed environmental conditions attitudes to achieve global Local Action Biodiversity and context and local environmental Planning Inc Plan targets Landcare & Budget) Bushcare Groups NE 3.7 Facilitate and HP3 Education on High 2016/2017 Open Space & - Staff Time NE 1.3 Promote support active volunteer importance of Environment $2500 environmental education involvement from the habitats of listed (PLANNING & design & and awareness community in preserving, species (events, DEVELOPMENT) printing rehabilitating and brochures etc.) (WO289) NE 3.5 Increase community enhancing the natural Community awareness regarding its environment & Customer impact on the natural HP8 Weed management Medium 2017/2018 Open Space & NRM Existing NE 1.2 Lead biodiversity Service (COUNCIL environment guidelines Environment budgets protection and restoration SERVICES) (protecting (PLANNING & initiatives NE 3.6 Influence native plants, DEVELOPMENT) community behaviours and identification of NE 3.4 Further develop attitudes to achieve global native species) Field Services and enhance vegetation and local environmental (COUNCIL corridors targets SERVICES) HP4 Value and protect High Ongoing Open Space & Bush For Life Included NE 3.1 Promote NE 3.2 Integrate human revegetation Environment Goolwa To in existing understanding and use of environments with natural projects, (PLANNING & Wellington Local budgets natural areas and provide areas using urban ecology especially those DEVELOPMENT) Action Planning Inc (FIELD learning opportunities principles involving funding Field Services NRM SERVICES and volunteer (COUNCIL Landcare & NE 3.7 Facilitate and NE 4.1 Ensure up- participation. SERVICES) Bushcare Groups support active volunteer to-date knowledge involvement from the and understanding of community in preserving, environmental conditions rehabilitating and and context enhancing the natural HP9 Maintain Medium Ongoing Open Space & State Government Staff Time NE 1.1 Demonstrate environment partnerships with Environment leadership in sustainability, HP5 Prioritise weed High 2016/2017 Open Space & NRM Proposed NE 1.1 Demonstrate state governments (PLANNING & environmental management and Environment Bush For Life Biodiversity leadership in sustainability, and organisations in DEVELOPMENT) enhancement and integrate with (PLANNING & Landcare & Implemen- environmental regard to projects protection existing programs DEVELOPMENT) Bushcare Groups tation enhancement and that Council has and projects Field Services Department of Plan protection limited control. NE 1.2 Lead biodiversity (COUNCIL Transport, Planning Budget protection and restoration SERVICES) & Infrastructure mainten- NE 1.2 Lead biodiversity initiatives ance protection and restoration budgets) initiatives NE 4.2 Identify and respond to environmental HP6 Dedicated specialist High 2017/218 Open Space & - Existing NE 1.1 Demonstrate risks and vulnerabilities on-ground team Environment Budgets leadership in sustainability, that are trained and (PLANNING & environmental HP10 Information to High 2016/2017 Open Space & NRM Existing NE 1.3 Promote have experience in DEVELOPMENT) enhancement and developers, nursery Environment budgets environmental education land conservation protection and residents on (PLANNING & Staff time and awareness and management. Field Services environmental DEVELOPMENT) (COUNCIL NE 1.2 Lead biodiversity weeds/species NE 3.5 Increase community SERVICES) protection and restoration awareness regarding its initiatives impact on the natural environment NE 3.1 Promote understanding and use of NE 3.6 Influence natural areas and provide community behaviours and learning opportunities attitudes to achieve global and local environmental NE 3.2 Integrate human targets environments with natural areas using urban ecology principles

74 Biodiversity Strategy - Habitat Preservation and Connectivity 75 Action Priority Timeframe Responsibility Partners Funding Link to Strategic Plan Action Priority Timeframe Responsibility Partners Funding Link to Strategic Plan Source Source HP11 Alert and respond High 2016/2017 Open Space & NRM Existing NE 3.4 Further develop HP15 Continue Medium Ongoing Open Space & Bush For Life Existing NE 1.3 Promote to emerging weeds Environment budgets and enhance vegetation and expand Environment Goolwa To budgets environmental education (PLANNING & Staff time corridors environmental (PLANNING & Wellington Local and awareness DEVELOPMENT) volunteer programs DEVELOPMENT) Action Planning Inc NE 3.2 Integrate human NRM NE 3.5 Increase community environments with natural Community Landcare & awareness regarding its areas using urban ecology & Customer Bushcare Groups impact on the natural principles Services (COUNCIL Wider Community environment SERVICES) NE 4.1 Ensure up- NE 3.6 Influence to-date knowledge community behaviours and and understanding of attitudes to achieve global environmental conditions and local environmental and context targets

HP12 Provide an area Very 2015/2016 Open Space & Developers Existing NE1.1 Demonstrate NE 3.7 Facilitate and for rescuing and high Environment Threatened Plant facility and leadership in sustainability, support active volunteer relocating species (PLANNING & Action Group budgets environmental involvement from the (council nursery) DEVELOPMENT) enhancement and community in preserving, protection rehabilitating and Field Services enhancing the natural (COUNCIL NE 1.2 Lead biodiversity environment SERVICES) protection and restoration initiatives HP16 Collect and Low 2018/2019 Open Space & Bush For Life Existing NE 1.3 Promote propagate Environment Goolwa To budgets environmental education NE 3.2 Integrate human local seed for (PLANNING & Wellington Local and awareness environments with natural revegetation DEVELOPMENT) Action Planning Inc areas using urban ecology projects and for NRM NE 3.5 Increase community principles community use. Landcare & awareness regarding its Bushcare Groups impact on the natural NE 4.2 Identify and environment respond to environmental risks and vulnerabilities NE 3.6 Influence community behaviours and HP13 Partner with Medium Ongoing Open Space & Universities As project NE 1.4 Support attitudes to achieve global external and Environment NRM Boards pportunities environmental research on and local environmental research (PLANNING & arise local issues targets organisations to DEVELOPMENT) trial alternative NE 3.1 Promote NE 3.7 Facilitate and invasive species understanding and use of support active volunteer control programs. natural areas and provide involvement from the learning opportunities community in preserving, rehabilitating and NE 3.2 Integrate human enhancing the natural environments with natural environment areas using urban ecology principles HP17 Develop a policy to High 2016/2017 Open Space & - Staff time NE 1.1 Demonstrate protect vegetation Environment leadership in sustainability, NE 4.1 Ensure up- on council (PLANNING & environmental to-date knowledge land, including DEVELOPMENT) enhancement and and understanding of creeklines. protection environmental conditions and context NE 1.2 Lead biodiversity protection and restoration HP14 Encourage and Medium 2017/2018 Open Space & NRM Boards Existing NE 1.3 Promote initiatives support landowners Environment Goolwa To budgets environmental education that have remnant (PLANNING & Wellington Local and awareness NE 2.4 Conserve water, vegetation to DEVELOPMENT) Action Planning Inc maximise recycled protect these NE 3.5 Increase community water use and practice areas by providing Field Services awareness regarding its appropriate Water information and (COUNCIL impact on the natural Sensitive Urban Design support. SERVIES) environment NE 3.2 Integrate human NE 3.6 Influence environments with natural community behaviours areas using urban ecology and attitudes to principles achieve global and local environmental targets NE 3.3 Design buffers and interfaces between built and natural areas

NE 3.4 Further develop and enhance vegetation corridors

NE 4.2 Identify and respond to environmental risks and vulnerabilities

76 Biodiversity Strategy - Habitat Preservation and Connectivity 77 Action Priority Timeframe Responsibility Partners Funding Link to Strategic Plan Action Priority Timeframe Responsibility Partners Funding Link to Strategic Plan Source Source HP18 Develop threatened Very 2016/2017 Open Space & NRM Boards Staff time NE 1.2 Lead biodiversity HP21 Developed of a Very 2015/2016 Open Space & - Staff time NE 1.1 Demonstrate species and High Environment and existing protection and restoration hollow protection High Environment and existing leadership in sustainability, management (PLANNING & budgets initiatives and protection (PLANNING & budgets environmental requirements DEVELOPMENT) policy DEVELOPMENT) enhancement and within the district. NE 3.2 Integrate human protection environments with natural areas using urban ecology NE 1.2 Lead biodiversity principles protection and restoration initiatives NE 3.3 Design buffers and interfaces between built NE 3.2 Integrate human and natural areas environments with natural areas using urban ecology NE 3.4 Further develop principles and enhance vegetation corridors NE 4.2 Identify and respond to environmental NE 4.2 Identify and risks and vulnerabilities respond to environmental risks and vulnerabilities NE 4.3 Evolve strategy, policy and operational NE 4.3 Evolve strategy, practices to ensure policy and operational appropriate adaptive practices to ensure responses to climate appropriate adaptive change responses to climate change HP22 Provision of nest Very 2015/2016 Open Space & Developers $5000 NE 1.1 Demonstrate boxes when High Environment leadership in sustainability, HP19 Use local Eucalypts Low Ongoing Open Space & - Staff time NE 1.1 Demonstrate removal of trees (PLANNING & environmental as street trees Environment and existing leadership in sustainability, might provide DEVELOPMENT) enhancement and where possible. (PLANNING & budgets environmental hollows/drays/ protection DEVELOPMENT) enhancement and nests. Field Services protectio (COUNCIL NE 1.2 Lead biodiversity SERVICES) protection and restoration NE 3.2 Integrate human initiatives environments with natural areas using urban ecology NE 3.2 Integrate human principles environments with natural areas using urban ecology NE 3.4 Further develop principles and enhance vegetation corridors NE 4.2 Identify and respond to environmental NE 4.3 Evolve strategy, risks and vulnerabilities policy and operational practices to ensure HP23 Develop and Medium 2016/2017 Open Space & Department of Staff time NE 3.2 Integrate human appropriate adaptive adopt policies and Environment Planning, Transport environments with natural responses to climate procedures for (PLANNING & & Infrastructure areas using urban ecology change minimal disruption DEVELOPMENT) principles when undertaking Field Services HP20 Replace exotic grass Low Ongoing Open Space & Bush For Life Staff time NE 1.1 Demonstrate tree maintenance. (COUNCIL with native grasses Environment Goolwa To and existing leadership in sustainability, SERVICES) in areas adjacent (PLANNING & Wellington Local budgets environmental and in natural DEVELOPMENT) Action Planning Inc enhancement and areas. NRM protection Field Services Landcare & (COUNCIL Bushcare Groups NE 3.2 Integrate human SERVICES) environments with natural areas using urban ecology principles

NE 3.4 Further develop and enhance vegetation corridors

NE 4.3 Evolve strategy, policy and operational practices to ensure appropriate adaptive responses to climate change

78 Biodiversity Strategy - Habitat Preservation and Connectivity 79 Action Priority Timeframe Responsibility Partners Funding Link to Strategic Plan BIODIVERSITY MANAGEMENT │KEY THEME 2: ROAD RESERVE AND ROADSIDE VEGETATION Source “Implement best practise roadside vegetation management to support biodiversity goals and road safety” HP24 Develop education Medium 2017/2018 Open Space & - $5000 NE 1.1 Demonstrate brochures on Environment leadership in sustainability, biodiversity (PLANNING & environmental Action Priority Timeframe Responsibility Partners Funding Link to Strategic Plan (chemicals, wildlife, DEVELOPMENT) enhancement and Source wildlife & humans, protection RV1 Review and audit Very 2016/2017 Open Space & - Staff time NE 1.2 Lead biodiversity domestic animals) RMS sites (all to be High Environment protection and restoration NE 1.2 Lead biodiversity marked by blue or (PLANNING & initiatives protection and restoration green) DEVELOPMENT) initiatives NE 3.2 Integrate human Field Services environments with natural NE 1.3 Promote (COUNCIL areas using urban ecology environmental education SERVICES) principles and awareness NE 3.3 Design buffers and NE 3.1 Promote interfaces between built understanding and use of and natural areas natural areas and provide learning opportunities NE 3.4 Further develop and enhance vegetation NE 3.2 Integrate human corridors environments with natural areas using urban ecology RV2 Update the Very 2016/2017 Open Space & - Staff time NE 1.2 Lead biodiversity principle roadside vegetation High Environment protection and restoration plan (PLANNING & initiatives NE 3.3 Design buffers and DEVELOPMENT) interfaces between built NE 3.2 Integrate human and natural areas Field Services environments with natural (COUNCIL areas using urban ecology NE 3.4 Further develop SERVICES) principles and enhance vegetation corridors NE 3.3 Design buffers and interfaces between built NE 3.5 Increase community and natural areas awareness regarding its impact on the natural NE 3.4 Further develop environment and enhance vegetation corridors NE 3.6 Influence community behaviours and RV3 Implement a High 2017/2018 Open Space & Department of Staff time NE 1.3 Promote attitudes to achieve global process to ensure Environment Planning, Transport environmental education and local environmental communication (PLANNING & & Infrastructure and awareness targets between all DEVELOPMENT) Bush For Life stakeholders Landholders NE 3.1 Promote HP25 Ensure fauna have High Ongoing Open Space & Bush For Life Existing NE 3.2 Integrate human that may Field Services Utilities understanding and use of adequate habitat Environment Goolwa To budgets and environments with natural modify roadside (COUNCIL natural areas and provide (dense understory) (PLANNING & Wellington Local staff time areas using urban ecology vegetation. SERVICES) learning opportunities to protect DEVELOPMENT) Action Planning Inc principles themselves against Field Services NRM NE 3.2 Integrate human invasive species (COUNCIL Landcare & NE 3.3 Design buffers and environments with natural such as the fox and SERVICES) Bushcare Groups interfaces between built areas using urban ecology feral cats. and natural areas principles

NE 3.4 Further develop NE 3.5 Increase community and enhance vegetation awareness regarding its corridors impact on the natural environment HP26 Fauna sensitive High Ongoing Open Space & Department of Considered NE 1.1 Demonstrate road designs should As per Environment Planning, Transport and leadership in sustainability, NE 3.6 Influence be investigated project (PLANNING & & Infrastructure incorporated environmental community behaviours and when threatened opportunity DEVELOPMENT) (DPTI) in project enhancement and attitudes to achieve global and declining scopes protection and local environmental populations are (Capital Programs) targets at risk. PROJECTS & NE 1.2 Lead biodiversity INFRASTRUCTURE protection and restoration NE 3.7 Facilitate and initiatives support active volunteer involvement from the NE 3.2 Integrate human community in preserving, environments with natural rehabilitating and areas using urban ecology enhancing the natural principles environment

NE 3.3 Design buffers and interfaces between built and natural areas

NE 3.4 Further develop and enhance vegetation corridors

NE 4.2 Identify and respond to environmental risks and vulnerabilities

80 Biodiversity Strategy - Habitat Preservation and Connectivity Biodiversity Strategy - Road Reserve and Roadside Vegetation 81 Action Priority Timeframe Responsibility Partners Funding Link to Strategic Plan Action Priority Timeframe Responsibility Partners Funding Link to Strategic Plan Source Source RV4 Develop an internal High 2017/2018 Open Space & NRM Staff time NE 1.2 Lead biodiversity RV8 Education on Low 2018/2019 Open Space & - $2000 NE 1.3 Promote system to GPS, map Environment Threatened Plant protection and restoration bushfires and how Environment environmental education and register listed (PLANNING & Action Group initiatives different species (PLANNING & and awareness flora species DEVELOPMENT) (native versus DEVELOPMENT) NE 3.2 Integrate human exotic) burns NE 3.1 Promote IT Systems environments with natural Field Services – understanding and use of (CORPORATE areas using urban ecology Fire Prevention natural areas and provide SERVICES) principles (COUNCIL learning opportunities SERVICES) NE 3.3 Design buffers and NE 3.5 Increase community interfaces between built awareness regarding its and natural areas impact on the natural environment NE 3.4 Further develop and enhance vegetation NE 3.6 Influence corridors community behaviours and attitudes to achieve global RV5 Develop a citizen Low 2018/2019 Open Space & NRM $5000 NE 1.3 Promote and local environmental science project for Environment environmental education targets tree register (PLANNING & and awareness DEVELOPMENT) R9 Roadsides within Low 2018/2019 Open Space & - Staff time NE 1.2 Lead biodiversity NE 3.1 Promote developed areas Environment protection and restoration understanding and use of are identified as a (PLANNING & initiatives natural areas and provide “no access”. DEVELOPMENT) learning opportunities NE 3.2 Integrate human environments with natural NE 3.5 Increase community areas using urban ecology awareness regarding its principles impact on the natural environment NE 3.3 Design buffers and interfaces between built NE 3.6 Influence and natural areas community behaviours and attitudes to achieve global NE 3.4 Further develop and local environmental and enhance vegetation targets corridors

NE 3.7 Facilitate and RV10 Protection of High 2018/2019 Open Space & - Staff time NE 1.2 Lead biodiversity support active volunteer unmade road Environment protection and restoration involvement from the reserves (new (PLANNING & initiatives community in preserving, development areas DEVELOPMENT) rehabilitating and having road and NE 3.2 Integrate human enhancing the natural water reserves environments with natural environment need to be claimed) areas using urban ecology principles RV6 Information kit on Medium 2017/2018 Open Space & - Staff time NE 1.3 Promote vegetation to new Environment environmental education NE 3.3 Design buffers and residents (PLANNING & and awareness interfaces between built DEVELOPMENT) and natural areas NE 3.1 Promote understanding and use of NE 3.4 Further develop natural areas and provide and enhance vegetation learning opportunities corridors

NE 3.5 Increase community RV13 Develop agreement Medium 2018/2019 Open Space & Department of Staff time NE 1.2 Lead biodiversity awareness regarding its between the Environment Planning, Transport protection and restoration impact on the natural Council and DPTI for (PLANNING & & Infrastructure initiatives environment roadside vegetation DEVELOPMENT) management NE 3.2 Integrate human NE 3.6 Influence environments with natural community behaviours and areas using urban ecology attitudes to achieve global principles and local environmental targets NE 3.3 Design buffers and interfaces between built RV7 Implement a Medium 2017/2018 Open Space & - Staff time NE 1.3 Promote and natural areas process to alert Environment environmental education the open space (PLANNING & and awareness NE 3.4 Further develop and environment DEVELOPMENT) and enhance vegetation team on new land NE 3.1 Promote corridors purchases. Development understanding and use of Services natural areas and provide (PLANNING & learning opportunities DEVELOPMENT) NE 3.5 Increase community awareness regarding its impact on the natural environment

NE 3.6 Influence community behaviours and attitudes to achieve global and local environmental targets 82 Biodiversity Strategy - Road Reserve and Roadside Vegetation 83 BIODIVERSITY PLANNING│KEY THEME 3: FIRE MANAGEMENT “Maintain native vegetation of habitat and conservation value while reducing bushfire fuel load”

Action Priority Timeframe Responsibility Partners Funding Link to Strategic Plan Source FM1 Education on Low 2018/2019 Open Space & CFS $2000 NE1.3 Promote RV8) bushfires and how Environment environmental education different species (PLANNING & and awareness (native versus DEVELOPMENT) exotic) burns NE 3.1 Promote Field Services – understanding and use of Fire Prevention natural areas and provide (COUNCIL learning opportunities SERVICES) NE 3.5 Increase community awareness regarding its impact on the natural environment NE 3.6 Influence community behaviours and attitudes to achieve global and local environmental targets FM2 Educate and Medium 2018/2019 Open Space & CFS Staff time NE1.3 Promote communicate in Environment & existing environmental education conjunction with (PLANNING & budgets and awareness CFS DEVELOPMENT) NE 3.1 Promote Field Services – understanding and use of Fire Prevention natural areas and provide (COUNCIL learning opportunities SERVICES) NE 3.5 Increase community awareness regarding its impact on the natural environment NE 3.6 Influence community behaviours and attitudes to achieve global and local environmental targets FM3 Liaise with bushfire High 2016/2017 Open Space & CFS Staff time NE 1.2 Lead biodiversity officer and CFS and Environment & existing protection and restoration direct toward highly (PLANNING & budgets initiatives flammable low DEVELOPMENT) biodiversity areas NE 3.2 Integrate human Field Services – environments with natural Fire Prevention areas using urban ecology (COUNCIL principles SERVICES) FM4 Manage bushfire High 2016/2017 Open Space & CFS Staff time NE 1.2 Lead biodiversity risk by developing Environment & existing protection and restoration site specific (PLANNING & budgets initiatives management DEVELOPMENT) plans and timing of NE 3.2 Integrate human slashing etc. Field Services – environments with natural Fire Prevention areas using urban ecology (COUNCIL principles SERVICES) FM5 Buffer against Medium 2017/2018 Open Space & CFS Staff time NE 1.2 Lead biodiversity adjacent zones Environment NRM & existing protection and restoration surrounding (PLANNING & Department of budgets initiatives residential (high DEVELOPMENT) Environment, conservation Water & Natural NE 3.2 Integrate human zones i.e. Totness) Field Services – Resources environments with natural - explore options Fire Prevention areas using urban ecology for natives species (COUNCIL principles in bushfire buffer SERVICES) zones. NE 3.3 Design buffers and interfaces between built and natural areas

84 Biodiversity Strategy - Fire Management 85 4.1 Catchments within the District the remaining vegetation has secure conservation status, although some is secured within Heritage Agreement 4.1.1 Murray River Catchment areas (Dowie 1998). BIODIVERSITY PLANNING In general remaining vegetation in the Bremer Barker 4.1.2 Onkaparinga Catchment catchment is restricted to roadside verges or rocky gullies 4.0 Watercourses and Waterbodies that are inaccessible to stock, for example along sections The Onkaparinga Catchment enters the Mount Barker of the Mount Barker Creek. In most agricultural areas, District Council at the Onkaparinga River at Hahndorf Hydrological processes are essential to not only maintain however, there is also a large portion that is located on remnant vegetation only comprises isolated mature before it flows into Mt Bold Reservoir. Water is then biological diversity, but are also fundamental to the private land. The management of creeks and riparian trees (BBCG 1996b). released downstream of Mt Bold Reservoir to Clarendon survival of humans (Pert and others 2010). Catchments zones is therefore inconsistent and uncoordinated due Weir where it is diverted to Happy Valley Reservoir for and watercourses provide habitat for a number of plants to multiple land ownership. The Angas River Catchment has great diversity in soil filtration and water treatment before being supplied for and animals particularly in the aquatic environments and types, topography, and climate; hence this diversity is metropolitan consumption (SKM 2003). Before European riparian zones, the land surrounding or adjoining and reflected in the native vegetation of the area. Along the settlement, the upper portion of the Onkaparinga River influenced by, a body of water. A catchment is an area of river there is a fringing canopy of red gums, over wetland was ephemeral. The hydrology today is influenced by land that collects water, which drains to the lowest point plants that are dominated by reeds (Phragmites australis) the operation of the Metropolitan Adelaide Water in an area. As rain falls, it makes its journey to that lowest and bulrushes (Typha domingensis). Various sedges, Supply System. creek via creeks, rivers, lakes and dams. It also includes rushes, grasses, and smaller herbaceous native plants groundwater, stormwater, wastewater and water related are also found along the river. In the upper Angas River The catchment includes the Mount Barker LGA townships infrastructure (Onkaparinga Waterwatch Network). catchment (near Macclesfield) there are woodland or of Hahndorf and Echunga. This area is semi-rural including open forest associations. In the higher rainfall sections land uses such as viticulture, horticulture, grazing. These There are two broad categories of surface water the canopy is dominated by stringy bark (E. obliqua and E. land use practises has resulted in degradation, isolation resources within the district. These categories can baxteri). Blue gums are also dominant, with Manna gum and fragmentation of ecosystems which contribute to a be distinguished by creeks that drain in a southwest and red gum also occurring, but as less dominant species. decrease in biodiversity in the Onkaparinga Catchment direction and form part of the Onkaparinga Catchment; The understorey comprises wattles such as golden wattle (SKM 2003). which includes Echunga Creek, Hahndorf Creek and the and kangaroo thorn, and hakeas such as H. carinata, H. Biggs Flat area, and those streams and rivers that drain in rostrata and H. rugosa (Dowie 1998). There is no precise The environmental condition of the Hahndorf Creek, an easterly direction towards Lake Alexandrina and form estimate for the amount of remnant vegetation remaining Echunga Creek and Biggs Flat area is described as poor, part of the River Murray Catchment; this includes the in the Angas River catchment, but an estimate made by heavily impacted and modified by historic and current Bremer River and the Angas River. Council is responsible the Department for Environment and Heritage suggests development (SKM 2003). for sections of watercourses throughout the District; that 98% of vegetation has been cleared. Very little of

86 Biodiversity Strategy - Watercourses and Waterbodies 87 4.2 Aquatic Biodiversity Catchments within the Mount Barker District Flow regime is regarded to be the key driver for river, The main ecological asset identified in Mount Barker creek and wetland ecosystems. Flows are the major Creek Sub Catchment is mountain galaxias (river blackfish determinant of habitats in streams, which contributes to also occurred historically), with a monitoring site on the survival of aquatic organisms. Altered flow regimes Mt Barker Creek just below Adelaide Road. Significant also facilitate the invasion of exotic species, causing pollution has occurred as a result of mining activities addition predation and competition for native species, along-side Dawesley Creek at Brukunga and stock access particularly in fish, crustaceans and macroinvertebrates is commonplace in areas that are not urbanised. (Bunn and Arthington 2002). The ecological assets in Rodwell Creek are under Fauna that inhabit aquatic and riparian environments in increasing threat and river blackfish would more than the watercourses in the district include fish, invertebrates, likely have been lost without artificial watering. amphibians, birds, reptiles and mammals. Table 4.1 Much of the land in the Angas River Catchment has describes an array of water dependant and water been cleared and dedicated to stock grazing, dairy or associated species and their specific requirements. viticulture. Much of the catchment consists of alluvial red gum lined tributaries, with spring fed upper reaches near 4.3 Fish Macclesfield. Mount galaxias have strong recruitment but low survivorship at the Quarry Road monitoring site. Native fish are an important component of ecosystems and of aquatic biodiversity; hence they can be good The watercourses through the Finnis River Catchment indicators of habitat quality (Hammer 2007). Large scale including Meadows Creek, Eastern Creek and Western hydrologic modifications have resulted in the reductions Creek are dominated by exotic vegetation with scattered in fish populations. There are many factors associated River Red Gums (Miles 2007). Fifteen native fish species with this decline, although the presence of alien fish were recorded near Meadows including Mountain species is a major contributing factor. Carp is often Galaxias, Flathead Gudgeons and Southern Pygmy Perch. seen as the dominant fish species in the Murray Darling The Meadows Creek Rehabilitation Plan will address weed Basin systems. In addition another introduced species, control, stock exclusion and revegetation. mosquito fish (Gambusia hollbrooki) are abundant in the system and are resilient against low flows. Additional Further monitoring, with relevant native fish experts is threats to fish in the district include habitat degradation, recommended, with the development of a specific fish reduced water quality barriers, exploitation of fish, action plan for the watercourses within the District. disease and translocation of stock.

In 2009, Hammer completed an Environmental Flow Requirements for the Eastern Mount Lofty Region that included monitoring of the Bremer River Catchment (Mt Barker Creek sub catchment that includes Mt Barker, Western Flat, Nairne, Dawesley creeks) and Rodwell Creek; and the Angas River Catchment (Quarry Road).

Map 4.1 Catchments within the Mount Barker Local Government Area

88 Biodiversity Strategy - Watercourses and Waterbodies 89 Species requirements (habitat, diet, breeding) breeding) diet, (habitat, Species requirements A common inhabitant of wetlands and rivers across a range of habitats. of habitats. a range across and rivers of wetlands inhabitant A common soils. During dry periods it spends its time in the in loamy It burrows rains. Commonly seen after and breed feed to and emerges burrow dug up in in the Adelaide Hills. It is often nights on rainy roads crossing urban gardens. 4000 eggs in up to containing nest foam a large in spring, laying Breeds flaps have special Females vegetation. to aquatic attached often water, carry to are used which called flanges, fingers two of skin on their first nest. the foam into of the water the surface air bubbles from under numbers singularly or in low found Generally terrestrial. Largely debris, not necessarily in the presence and grassy litter logs, leaf stones, of small hillsides, edges forested on lightly Found water. of permanent and grassy-debris leaf-litter where and depressions creeks ephemeral dams and temporary utilises small, Occasionally has accumulated. characterised which are lines and ditches, drainage roadside vegetated and grassy-debris. a build up of deep leaf-litter by heavy especially after August, to through February from call Generally usually takes Breeding the year). throughout call (although may rain 200 approximately lays The female and May. February place between creeks e.g. beside swamps, level water (above eggs in damp areas large after occurs Hatching litter. or leaf usually under logs, rocks and ditches) in development their complete Tadpoles area. rains flood the sufficient site. near the nest formed pools of water in size to decrease continuing or stable are if populations It is uncertain and range. Occupies a wide variety of habitats, and is commonly associated with associated and is commonly of habitats, Occupies a wide variety under vegetation, ground, in found on the Often human habitation. in a Lives and in urban gardens. waterbodies near permanent rocks gardens. and also in urban bush habitats of different variety rains. Eggs are heavy following year, during the anytime Breeds on water, of 10-40, usually in still small clumps in numerous deposited is Spawn of plants. or leaves stems underwater vegetation, submerged 10-40 eggs. each containing clumps, laid in many mallee, open including woodland, of habitats, in a wide variety Found to and emerges underground Burrows areas. and disturbed grassland to level ground below metres several down Can burrow night. at feed dry summer conditions. from escape autumn). (generally rains heavy after breeds that breeder Opportunistic with submerged laid in a chain entwined eggs are About 1000 yellow vegetation. Rocks, vegetation and debris at the edge of creek, wetland and wetland of creek, at the edge and debris vegetation Rocks, during dry sources water from away be found May of seepage. areas with eggs mid-summer, except the year throughout periods. Breeds water. moving still or slow in shallow, vegetation laid on submerged one month. approximately takes frog egg to from Development Adults frequent wet and dry forest, woodlands, shrublands, and open woodlands, and dry forest, wet Adults frequent during spawn they where water the from long distances often areas; swamps, in water in still found are season. Eggs and tadpoles breeding ponds, and lagoons. dams, streamside Marshy country, creek edges and wetlands. Shelters under logs, stones, under logs, stones, Shelters and wetlands. edges creek country, Marshy (e.g. water and temporary of permanent on the edges debris and grass in rocks under numbers found in large Often pools and creeks). swamps, dry periods. foam A and March. August between particularly year, time of the Any to submergent attached water in of 90-1300 eggs is laid floating nest vegetation. Forages in shallows or hunts in deeper waters from platforms of bent- platforms from in deeper waters or hunts in shallows Forages reedbeds of flooded shrubbery, vegetation heavy Prefers reeds. over and sedges. vegetated shallow, preferring preferences, habitat narrow Fairly wet in exceptionally frequently Most swamps. or brackish freshwater occupy and they increases size the population possibly because years, on a wide range night mainly at Forage wetlands. ephemeral isolated yabbies, snails, mammals, fish, frogs, of small animals, including birds, cups well-constructed are Sep-Dec. Nests Breed insects and spiders. beds. in reed made of reed, Fresh or brackish wetlands that have tree lined or vegetated banks. banks. lined or vegetated tree have that wetlands or brackish Fresh is The Darter bays. and sheltered in estuaries Occur less commonly is Breeding only while breeding. pairs forming bird, usually a solitary suitable, food supplies are and levels water happening whenever erratic, usually solitary, are Nests in spring and summer. occurs often but most that birds with other water within loose colonies nest may but Darters commonly spoonbills and ibis. They such as cormorants, in trees, nest sites nest and will move in water, standing are that in trees build nests smooth, open dry up. It prefers begin to if the waters deeper waters to fringing or posts stumps branches, trunks, with tree feeding, for waters, seen inland, often and drying its wings. Most resting for the water, half a meter least bodies at water and temporary permanent around foraging. for vegetation with sparse open waters require deep, as they fish species such as Carp, and feed on introduced often Darters Because reduce to attempts by affected be adversely may they Perch, Red-fin of these fish species. numbers         Water Water Dependent?          Water Water associated?        DCMB within Recorded Recorded V V AMLR R R V SA Aus Scientific name Scientific Limnodynastes dumerilii Limnodynastes Crinia signifera Litoria peronii Litoria Limnodynastes tasmaniensis Limnodynastes Botaurus poiciloptilus Botaurus Anhinga novaehollandiae Pseudophryne bibronii Pseudophryne ewingii Litoria Neobatrachus pictus Common name AMPHIBIAN Banjo Frog AMPHIBIAN Common Froglet Peron's Tree Frog Tree Peron's Spotted Marsh Frog Marsh Spotted BIRD Bittern Australasian Australasian Darter Australasian Brown Toadlet Brown Frog Tree Brown Burrowing frog Burrowing

90 Biodiversity Strategy - Watercourses and Waterbodies 91 Species requirements (habitat, diet, breeding) breeding) diet, (habitat, Species requirements Dense cover, wetlands, at times far from water. Usually keeps to keeps Usually water. far from times at wetlands, Dense cover, nearby out onto will venture in day late but early to dense reedbeds, Nomadic. vegetation. and floating mudflats open water, shallow Lakes, wetlands, dams, flooded paddocks. Largely terrestrial. Feeds terrestrial. Largely dams, flooded paddocks. wetlands, Lakes, wetlands. in shallow obtained vegetation and aquatic on pasture pasture. fresh brought have rains Jul-Oct, once winter Breeding: breeding during winter disperse Flocks mate. to water Comes to tree large are there where territories establishing season, with pairs nesting. for near water) (generally hollows Occupies almost every reedbed, large or small. Migratory into the SE into or small. Migratory large reedbed, every Occupies almost winter through Some remain in summer. breed to of its range and SW Common. quiet. but are Inhabits open country, natural and cleared. Common. and cleared. natural Inhabits open country, Usually wetlands with abundant aquatic vegetation. After breeding, After vegetation. aquatic with abundant Usually wetlands and Widespread waters. on open numbers in large gathers often Sep – Jan. rain winter regular follows varies, Breeding common. by reeds, anchored vegetation aquatic is small pile of floating Nest debris. plant waterlilies, branches, submerged roadsides. grassy woodland, clearings, grassy forest Grassland, nomadic. or locally Sedentary on the ground. and nests roosts Feeds, Common. Gregarious wader. Dispersive or nomadic. Dispersive wader. Gregarious Favours freshwater swamps with aquatic plants, especially Triglochin especially plants, with aquatic swamps freshwater Favours spp., Baumea spp. and spp., Potomageton Vallisneria procerum, on aquatic Feeds comm.). pers. Bolmoshoenus sp. (G. Carpenter Migratory plants. shoots of aquatic insects, molluscs and green reeds, grasses, of dense vegetation Aug- Jan. Requires Breeder. build nest. to or lake in swamp level water above plants water gullies, gardens vegetated heavily and woodland, forest Eucalypt Wet litter around Scratch litter. and thick leaf canopy with dense overhead Aug- Breed or dispersive. soil and insects. Sedentary moist expose to low limbs/trunk. tree between of stumps, on top Dec. Build cup nests depression in shallow to 15 m. Nest up off the ground sewage rivers, lakes, of wetlands, margins in the shallow Found near It is normally always and marshes. drains storm farms, or a family a pair, a single bird, sedentary, Generally freshwater. or less permanent on a more of habitat a stretch occupying group considerable travel some individuals appear to basis, however areas. food-rich in congregate will sometimes and flocks distances, its insects. Lays terrestrial and as aquatic small molluscs as well Eats to close and quite on pebbly ground often eggs scrape, in a shallow season Breeding per year. than one brood more have It may water. time when the any place at take Aug-Dec but can is usually from suitable. are conditions in times of drought. Move wetlands. and temporary Permanent in dense ground Aug-Dec. Build nest Breed: Nomadic, irruptive. reeds and leaves. stems, made of vegetation, Diverse habitats, including temporary wetlands. Feeds on aquatic on aquatic Feeds wetlands. including temporary habitats, Diverse after year time of any Nomadic. Breeds waters. of shallow vegetation winter usually begins early-mid breeding swamps; and fills lakes rain water, reeds, in shallow largely pile of vegetation, is a large in S, Nest in reeds or other plants amongst on an island, or floating deeper water. Shallow wetlands and pasture. Sedentary, dispersive. Sedentary, and pasture. wetlands Shallow Widespread. Found in grasslands, open woodlands, wetlands, wetlands, open woodlands, in grasslands, Found Widespread. It is also and bays. in inlets coast and along the flooded pastures rice fields, as around with dams, as well on farmland common found around be It will often ponds and in urban parks. sewage foraging, other waterbirds' for be unsuitable may that deeper lakes and other herbs, clover grasses, on land. Eats forage to as it prefers to preferring seen on open water, insects. It is rarely and occasionally, Forms and crops. or in grasslands water, dabbling in shallow by forage in It nests round. year together stay that pairs breeding monogamous re-using the same site. often or near water, holes, above tree Gregarious. Nomadic, dispersive. Breeds Aug-Nov, and when heavy and when heavy Aug-Nov, Breeds Nomadic, dispersive. Gregarious. Will use any on small islands, estuaries. Breeds levels. water lifts rain of water. or small area large Found in all kinds of wetlands, preferring large undisturbed heavily heavily undisturbed large preferring in all kinds of wetlands, Found and on open waters It is also found swamps. freshwater vegetated about but little is known Dispersive, along the coast. occasionally and a variety insects, crustaceans for feeder, Filter their movements. This specialised bill limits the Shoveler’s the water. from of plants or soft mud in water on open habitats aquatic to range foraging wetlands. fertile reeds. through glimpses rare catch Only bittern. A small secretive in emerges rarely edge; water’s at dense vegetation through Skulks sedges tall with dense reedbeds, wetlands open. Inhabits freshwater margins. vegetated and well partly cleared rivers, vicinity of tree-lined woodland, Usually eucalypt Jun-Dec. Builds Breed territory. defending groups, in family lands. Live in or near foliage of slender upper branches, forks in upright pole, usually 5 to or on power in dead tree occasionally of crown, 20 m up.               Water Water Dependent?                 Water Water associated?                 DCMB within Recorded Recorded AMLR E R SA Aus Porzana fluminea Porzana Tadorna tadornoides Tadorna Acrocephalus australis Acrocephalus Anthus novaeseelandiae Anthus Anas rhynchotis Tachybaptus novaehollandiae Tachybaptus Corvus coronoides Ixobrychus dubius Ixobrychus tibicen Gymnorhina conspicillatus Pelecanus Scientific name Scientific Threskiornis molucca jubata Chenonetta pusilla Porzana lunulata Zoothera atratus Cygnus melanops Elseyornis ventralis Tribonyx himantopus Himantopus Australian Spotted Crake Spotted Australian Australian Shelduck Australian Australian Reed-Warbler Australian Australasian Pipit Australasian Shoveler Australasian Common name BIRD Grebe Australasian BIRD Ibis White Australian Duck Wood Australian Baillon's Crake Bassian Thrush Black Swan Dotterel Black-fronted Black-tailed Native-hen Stilt Black-winged Australian Raven Australian Australian Little Bittern Australian Magpie Australian Pelican Australian

92 Biodiversity Strategy - Watercourses and Waterbodies 93 Species requirements (habitat, diet, breeding) breeding) diet, (habitat, Species requirements Prefers permanent fresh water with heavy growth of cumbungi growth with heavy water fresh permanent Prefers swamps temporary in large Breeds (bullrushes), lignum or tea-tree. (non- from ephemeral moves floods. During drier times, by created Generally waters. permanent more to swamps breeding permanent) Feed during long inland droughts. Disperses in dense cover. rests and small plants seeds, aquatic on algae, dusk and night, dawn, at invertebrates waters. on small or shallow Uncommon of water. expanses On large Common. flocks. large or in small to Solitary commonly Most deep open bodies of freshwater. large Favours saltfields, reservoirs, swamps, lakes, lagoons, inhabiting rivers, found water. by diving in clear caught on fish, feeds Diet: and bays. estuaries may be seen particularly when flowing, but water, shallow Prefer in a Reported including damp grasslands. area, watered on any and saline, permanent freshwater habitats, of wetland wide range and and small, natural large open and vegetated, and ephemeral, wading water, in Usually hunts groups. in at night Roost artificial. at stabbing motionless before or standing the shallows, through moving birds with northern hemisphere migratory, Partially prey. are Australia across Populations winters. with cold areas south from variable of the highly recognition in in size fluctuate to considered habitat. wetland of suitable availability or temporary. permanent wetlands, any uses almost habitats, Varied Highly mobile and opportunistic. flocks. huge or small to In pairs usually in vegetation, floating feeds amongst Mainly aquatic; Nomadic, dispersive. shallows. on inland Inland species, which nests Nomadic, highly dispersive. caused rain has heavy where water temporary uses Often waters. and lagoons season prefers flooding. Out of breeding extensive on small islands of shallow in colonies Breeds near coast. saltmarshes built (depression) Nest Oct-Dec mostly Sep-May, Breed inland waters. or sand ridges. on mud banks swamps parts of lakes, Favours in deep water. feed duck; able to True rainfall. to Responds vegetation. aquatic with abundant or temporary of permanent open areas usually on large Wetlands, spiders, dragonflies, bugs and beetles, includes yabbies, Prey water. is a floating Aug-Jan. Nest Breeds plants. water small fish and some to shore out weeds, usually some distance water of platform and other plants. reeds among sparse anchored Almost wholly aquatic, and is seldom seen on land. Non-breeding and is seldom seen on land. Non-breeding wholly aquatic, Almost in dams and lakes deep open freshwater on large, congregate flocks concealed within spend time along, they autumn. During daylight, from the shore. far rafts exposed communally in large or vegetation their from each year disperse birds Seasonally nomadic. Young non-breeding to South Wales on inland New (birth) swamps natal and of Victoria lakes and coastal system River on the Murray areas be to tend moult. Experienced breeders they where South Australia sedentary. pastures. wetlands, of mainland, margins islands, nearby Offshore on islands Jun-Oct. breed mainland to Leaves on water. Occasionally on or close to Nest territories. defend and aggressively form Pairs or shrubbery. tussocky grass amongst ground, and has a preference and wetlands, woodlands in grasslands, Found and the open wetlands, or shallow grass, with tall areas moist for especially and croplands, It also uses pastures of wetlands. margins stock. and other cattle seen with Often is poor. drainage where Feeds on invertebrates, during winter. moving migratory, Partially and some small mammals. lizards frogs, open waters Prefers wetlands. uses diverse common, Widespread, in suburban Often water. usually fresh margins; vegetated with well reeds, of sticks, is a bulky bowl Nest usually Sep-Nov. Breed parks. rank tall in a clump of reeds, level water above slightly bark and grass butt or log. shrub, tree low-forked grass, Wetlands, with preference for salt and brackish estuaries, lakes, tidal lakes, estuaries, salt and brackish for with preference Wetlands, Spend dabbling in shallows. at dusk and dawn, Feed mostly mudflats. Usually sedentary. water. time beside the Waterbird. Occurs widely on wetlands. Forages in shallow to deep to in shallow Forages widely on wetlands. Occurs Waterbird. Sometimes material. plant for it up-ends or dives where water season Breeding near water. on grassland feed land to onto emerges by surrounded wetlands in Nests rain, usually Aug-Mar. by influenced vegetation. weeds and other water building up a heap of often water, low or on a water of shallow bottom built from or are float, Nests or log. stump submerged barely Resident and locally nomadic. Singly or in pairs, in dense reeds, and in dense reeds, nomadic. Singly or in pairs, and locally Resident Feed on crustaceans, wetlands. types of many bordering vegetation early feeds Mostly and refuse. carrion mollusc, insects, fruit, frogs, rushes or crops. tussocks, in long grass, Nest morning and evening. Sep-Feb. Breed               Water Water Dependent?                Water Water associated?             DCMB within Recorded Recorded V AMLR V R R R R SA Aus Mi(W) Mi(W) Mi(Ma) Mi(Ma) Scientific name Scientific australis Oxyura Gallirallus philippensis Cereopsis novaehollandiae Ardea ibis Anas castanea Gallinula tenebrosa atra Fulica Stictonetta naevosa Stictonetta carbo Phalacrocorax cristatus Podiceps Ardea alba Anas gracilis Gelochelidon nilotica australis Aythya Poliocephalus poliocephalus Common name BIRD Blue-billed Duck Rail Buff-banded Goose Cape Barren Egret Cattle Teal Chestnut Dusky Moorhen Coot Eurasian BIRD Duck Freckled Cormorant Great Grebe Crested Great Egret Great Teal Grey Gull-billed Tern Hardhead Grebe Hoary-headed

94 Biodiversity Strategy - Watercourses and Waterbodies 95

Species requirements (habitat, diet, breeding) breeding) diet, (habitat, Species requirements is not tolerant of disturbances, especially when breeding. of disturbances, is not tolerant areas. wetlands in some artificial from It has benefited Mostly marine habitats but also large inland wetlands. Sedentary, Sedentary, inland wetlands. but also large marine habitats Mostly mainly on Feeds long distances. over will disperse birds but young are feathers their by diving. Because underwater prey catching fish, with their seen perched regularly are cormorants not waterproof, coastal colonies on Breeds in fishing. dry after to wings outstretched on artificial and sometimes plains, mangroves islands, flooded tree from is constructed nest The large such as beacons. structures and is with droppings, together cemented twigs or sticks seaweed, or on the ground. placed in a tree On floodwaters. and temporary open, muddy wetlands Uses shallow, seldom on land. water; rising from on logs and limbs or loafs water nomadic. Widespread, shallows. through work Groups and margins lake vegetated well typically wetlands, Uses diverse mainly Jul-Dec in south of months, most Breeds grassland. adjacent above reeds just in clump of Nests broods. rearing two often range, includes the soft Diet in small groups. found Generally level. water and and rushes small animals, such as frogs shoots of reeds ducklings and will also eat egg stealer it is a reputed snails. However, them. catch when it can between move but it may poorly known, are Movements Resident. molluscs, for be seen foraging May and inland wetlands. the coast sandy beaches on mudflats, and some vegetation, small crustaceans and salt-marsh. Large wetlands. and saltwater Uses fresh Australia. unique to Wader on then feed salt lakes, shallow on large, congregate to tend numbers water. shallow through brine shrimp. Wades the shallows working wetlands, freshwater vegetated Uses well wades muddy shoreline; around Probes vegetation. among emergent response nomadic in Resident, feeding. swims while and sometimes rainfall. to grass, over inland scrub. Hovers farmland, woodland, Open forest, when perched. and logs. Restless branches foliage, tree shrubbery, or nomadic. Sedentary grasslands. wet and mud flats intertidal wetlands, in shallow Found inland birds coast, on the wetlands. Sedentary Will also use artificial Feeds mainly on fish in availabilities. with changing water move insects. The and aquatic other crustaceans it will also eat freshwater; is less than 40 cm that in water feeding of its bill limits it to structure feed and can in murky water even items prey for feel deep. It can remove objects to hard against It will bash shrimps or night. day by the duration for pairs monogamous forms their shells. Breeding: other alongside many in colonies season and nest of the breeding and Spoonbills, ibises, herons including Yellow-billed waterbirds, and twigs is built of sticks nest A solid bowl-shaped cormorants. and is usually placed in the plants and water lined with leaves and rushes. or among high reeds water over of a tree crown Spoonbill Royal The year. after year be reused may sites Nest It eats fish, frogs, crustaceans and insects. The Intermediate Egret Egret and insects. The Intermediate crustaceans fish, frogs, It eats including water, fresh or coastal shallow in methodically prey its stalks flooded fields. of usually on platforms colonies with other herons, in nests It often or shrubs. in trees sticks preferring wetlands, or brackish of freshwater Uses a variety including in-stream cover, vegetation protective be close to to shelter which provide areas and adjoining grassy/sedgy vegetation wetlands, also use artificial They feeding. whilst predators from among areas and wet and swamps, creeks including highly degraded of their daylight spending most night, mainly at Feed grasslands. Migrates in Northern Hemisphere. Breeds Migratory. roosting. hours during spring and summer. Australia eastern to or saline of either fresh wetlands, ephemeral to Inhabit permanent also They or fringing vegetation. dense emergent but require water, along vegetation dense suitable contain which use artificial habitats and creeks along freshwater habitats Rail prefers Lewin’s their banks. reeds and sedges. especially vegetation, with dense native swamps feeding on vegetation, in dense skulks species that a cryptic are They frogs. and occasionally of invertebrates a range Most dams. Gregarious. such as farm Uses smaller bodies of water fish. Diet: on inland waters. common Feeds in plains. and adjacent watercourses use tree-lined flocks Large strip the leaves. to on trees congregates on ground; flocks in or beside vegetation, of dense inhabitant skulking Secretive, grass. cumbungi, cane with rushes, lignum swamp, wetland dispersive. Sedentary, fish. on introduced dams. Feed Wetlands, swamps. Inland, uses lakes, open, short- but typically habitat, Varied resident. Common breeding in southern areas. July – Nov Breed water. beside often sites, grassed Aggressively ground. on bare in open areas nest Builds a scrape nest. defend still deep, prefer They highly aquatic. seen outside water; Rarely beds. and reed of both open water with areas and wetlands lakes on on dry land. Stay awkward and are the water from Seldom emerge land. When not breeding, out from sleeping well night, at the water with rainfall season varies Breeding solitary. generally adults are Jul-Jan, with the greatest between but is typically levels, and water laid in Sept-Oct. number of clutches Wetlands. Widespread, nomadic. Widespread, Wetlands.       P P P P P P P P P  Water Water Dependent?        P P P P P P P P P  Water Water associated?        P P P P P P P P  DCMB within Recorded Recorded E V AMLR R R R R V SA Aus Mi(W) Scientific name Scientific Ardea intermedia Gallinago hardwickii pectoralis Lewinia Phalacrocorax sulcirostris sanguinea Cacatua Megalurus gramineus Microcarbo melanoleucos miles Vanellus Biziura lobata Anas superciliosa varius Phalacrocorax Malacorhynchus membranaceus porphyrio Porphyrio Charadrius ruficapillus Recurvirostra novaehollandiae cinctus Erythrogonys Myiagra inquieta regia Platalea Common name BIRD Egret Intermediate Snipe Latham's Rail Lewin's Little Black Cormorant Little Corella Little Grassbird Little Pied Cormorant Lapwing Masked Musk Duck Black Duck Pacific Pied Cormorant Duck Pink-eared Swamphen Purple Plover Red-capped Avocet Red-necked Dotterel Red-kneed Flycatcher Restless Spoonbill Royal

96 Biodiversity Strategy - Watercourses and Waterbodies 97 Species requirements (habitat, diet, breeding) breeding) diet, (habitat, Species requirements Nomadic. Found in the shallows of freshwater wetlands, dams, wetlands, of freshwater in the shallows Nomadic. Found can use much It in dry pasture. and sometimes and swamps, lagoons on aquatic Spoonbill. Feeds than the Royal of water smaller areas colonies with in nests Often water. in shallow insects and their larvae, of Spoonbills, in high forks such as ibises and Royal birds, other water beds. or in among reed water, over trees amphibious mammals only two is one of Australia's The Water-rat bodies of water. near permanent and is usually found Hatchlings habitat. of aquatic Eggs laid in early summer the banks predation. and fish to bird Prone later. months five to three present Adult of predators. a long list face The eggs hatchlings and newborn to next in a burrow layed enemies. Eggs are natural few turtles have invertebrates. aquatic is mostly source the river.Food and swamps primarily streams, habitat, with moist Associated tadpoles, including fish, of vertebrates on a variety . feed lagoons and mammals. snakes lizards, frogs, The MLR population is considered to be in decline, but it is frequently to be in decline, but it is frequently considered is The MLR population to riparian well respond to It is likely in riparian vegetation. sighted reptiles, Feeds on insects, land. pastoral over Feeds rehabilitation. for pairing only solitary, fish. Mostly and sometimes crustaceans summer for southern Australia to Migrates season. Breed: breeding mounds, in termite Nest March. to – Dec, occasionally Sept breeding, or banks. trunks dead trees hollows, dams, swamps, lagoons, of edges muddy wetlands, saltwater or Fresh floodwaters. temporary saltmarshes swamps, including lakes, of wetlands in a range Found containing areas vegetated and only occur in well and mangroves, Feed on aquatic vegetation. and other aquatic rushes, reedbeds wetlands, of in the shallows foraging by insects and vegetation vegetation. and floating fallen and climbing over swimming wading, occasionally pasture, or dry), irrigated (wet habitats Grassland Nomadic flocks. on dead trees. perch Often of wetlands. shallows of beds and open water reed over Glides low habitats. Wetland and nomadic or migratory. Sedentary swamps. small take diving to Shallow wetland. freshwater Usually shallow prey. aquatic species which a coastal Sea-eagle is predominantly The White-bellied are. coaastline to the confined is generally of swamps, margins wetland, Common, usually in or near shallow Sep-Dec. Nests Breed damp or flooded pasture. dams and lakes, fork. high on horizontal quite of shallows grassland, wet water, flood swamp, wetland, Shallow widespread after or eruptive dispersive migratory, Widespread, lakes. dead often built in tall, Nests Usually in colonies. Aug-Feb. Breed rain. in water. standing trees August between seen in Australia Mostly non-breeder. Migratory with wetlands/ponds freshwater inland shallow and April. Prefer or dead trees plants tall by surrounded and grass, reeds emergent Feed feed. to at the surface in mud or pick Probe timber. and fallen insects, insect larvae. mainly on aquatic  P P P        Water Water Dependent?  P P P P          Water Water associated?  P P P P           DCMB within Recorded Recorded U U AMLR E R R SA Aus Mi(T) Platalea flavipes Platalea Scientific name Scientific sanctus Todiramphus Calidris acuminata tabuensis Porzana Threskiornis spinicollis Circus approximans Chlidonias hybrida leucogaster Haliaeetus novaehollandiae Egretta Ardea pacifica glareola Tringa

Water associated and water dependent species likely in the LGA (Incomplete) in the LGA species likely dependent and water associated Water Common name BIRD Kingfisher Sacred Sharp-tailed Sandpiper Spotless Crake Ibis Straw-necked Harrier Swamp Tern Whiskered White-bellied Heron White-faced Heron White-necked Sandpiper Wood Sea-Eagle BIRD Spoonbill Yellow-billed MAMMAL rat Water REPTILE Common Long-necked Tortoise tortoise Short-necked bellied black snake Red Table 4.1 Table

98 Biodiversity Strategy - Watercourses and Waterbodies 99 4.4 Altered Aquatic Environments 4.5 Riparian Zones

Changes in water and land use since European settlement Studies have shown that intact riparian zones have and urbanisation have resulted in modifications to the high nutrient removal efficiency, and consequently the physical, chemical and biological state of watercourses in improvement of aquatic ecosystem health has been the region. The causes for these changes are due to: achieved by the rehabilitation of the riparian zones. Riparian vegetation is also an important factor for • the use of insecticides; stabilising the bank, regulating water temperature and • the draining of wetlands for development; providing habitat and corridors for fauna. The loss of • physical changes such as the introduction of pipes, riparian habitat has an impact of the functioning of culverts, channelling and straightening; the entire aquatic systems. • converting ephemeral ponds to dams; • grazing of streams by exotic livestock, resulting in degradation ; • invasive fish species; • loss of snags; • introduction of barriers affecting aquatic/terrestrial movements; • clearance of riparian vegetation; • introduction and colonising of streams by weeds and other exotic species; • modified hydrological conditions: reduction in summer flows, possibly as a result of increased groundwater use and by capture of runoff in both on stream and off stream dams; • increases in the peak flow rate of streams due to land clearance and township and road development, increasing runoff and resulting in degraded creeks; • increased water temperatures due to loss of shading; • urban development on flood plains; • poor management; • construction of diversion banks to prevent flooding or to collect water for dams, resulting in changed flow patterns and reduced stream flows; and • deterioration of water quality caused by pollutants, chemicals, turbidity and sedimentation.

100 Biodiversity Strategy - Watercourses and Waterbodies 101 Demonstrate leadership in sustainability, in sustainability, leadership Demonstrate initiatives restoration and protection Lead biodiversity areas with natural human environments Integrate built and between and interfaces Design buffers and risks to environmental respond and Identify to practices policy and operational strategy, Evolve Integrate human environments with natural areas areas with natural human environments Integrate built and between and interfaces Design buffers Demonstrate leadership in sustainability, in sustainability, leadership Demonstrate initiatives restoration and protection Lead biodiversity issues on local research Support environmental areas with natural human environments Integrate built and between and interfaces Design buffers of and understanding knowledge up-to-date Ensure and risks to environmental respond and Identify to practices policy and operational strategy, Evolve Design buffers and interfaces between built and between and interfaces Design buffers corridors and enhance vegetation Further develop LINK TO STRATEGIC PLAN STRATEGIC LINK TO NE 1.1 - and protection enhancement environmental NE 1.2 - NE 3.2 - principles using urban ecology NE 3.3 - areas natural NE 4.2 - vulnerabilities NE 4.3 - change to climate responses adaptive appropriate ensure NE 3.2 - principles using urban ecology NE 3.3 - areas natural NE 1.1 - and protection enhancement environmental NE 1.2 - NE 1.4 - NE 3.2 - principles using urban ecology NE 3.3 - areas natural NE 4.1 - context and conditions environmental NE 4.2 - vulnerabilities NE 4.3 - change to climate responses adaptive appropriate ensure in sustainability, leadership - Demonstrate NE1.1 and protection enhancement environmental initiatives restoration and protection - Lead biodiversity NE 1.2 areas with natural human environments - Integrate NE 3.2 principles using urban ecology built and between and interfaces - Design buffers NE 3.3 areas natural - Integrate human environments with natural areas areas with natural human environments - Integrate NE 3.2 principles using urban ecology NE 3.3 - areas natural NE 3.4 - awareness and education environmental - Promote NE1.3 and areas and use of natural understanding - Promote NE 3.1 learning opportunities provide its impact regarding awareness community - Increase NE 3.5 environment on the natural to attitudes and community behaviours - Influence NE 3.6 targets environmental global and local achieve involvement volunteer and support active - Facilitate NE 3.7 and in preserving, rehabilitating the community from environment enhancing the natural in sustainability, leadership - Demonstrate NE1.1 and protection enhancement environmental initiatives restoration and protection - Lead biodiversity NE 1.2 areas with natural human environments - Integrate NE 3.2 principles using urban ecology built and between and interfaces - Design buffers NE 3.3 areas natural and risks to environmental respond and - Identify NE 4.2 vulnerabilities to practices policy and operational strategy, - Evolve NE 4.3 change to climate responses adaptive appropriate ensure FUNDING SOURCE Staff time Staff Staff time Staff $3000 time Staff Staff Time Staff Time Staff $1000 time Staff PARTNERS Developers - NRM Catchment Groups - - NRM Catchment Groups Developers RESPONSIBILITY Open Space & Environment Open Space & Environment (PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT) Health & Public Safety Safety Health & Public SERVICES) (CORPORATE Open Space & Environment (PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT) Open Space & Environment (PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT) Programs Capital (INFRASTRUCTURE & PROJECTS) Open Space & Environment Open Space & Environment (PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT) IT Systems SERVICES) (CORPORATE Open Space & Environment (PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT) Open Space & Environment Open Space & Environment (PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT) Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing 2016/2017 2017/2018 2016/2017 2017/2018 TIMEFRAME (project based) (project PRIORITY Very High Very Medium Medium High Very High Very Low High Very Discourage changing flow changing flow Discourage in development regimes Investigate and manage and manage Investigate water source diffuse point and quality of (quantity to an increase run off due due to surfaces in hard development) Local management management Local fish local for strategies (hot spots) communities • Snag piles and rock plants and aquatic groins studies case • Investigate for Mosquito and options Fish and Carp control regular • Undertake fish monitoring habitat for Link with WSUD value Conceptual linkages linkages Conceptual habitat to of fauna habitat) (and potential longitudinal and lateral considerations connectivity Harness MDPA opportunities watercourses management for Increase the profile on the profile Increase fish and aquatic native habitats ACTION WH7 WH6 WH3 WH5 WH1 (HP1) WH4 WH2 BIODIVERSITY PLANNING│KEY THEME 4: WATERCOURSE HEALTH HEALTH PLANNING│KEY THEME 4: WATERCOURSE BIODIVERSITY in the district” of watercourses state and biological chemical physical, to optimise practise management best “Develop

102 Biodiversity Strategy - Watercourses and Waterbodies 103

Increase community awareness regarding its impact regarding awareness community Increase to attitudes and community behaviours Influence areas with natural human environments Integrate built and between and interfaces Design buffers corridors and enhance vegetation Further develop Lead biodiversity protection and restoration initiatives restoration and protection Lead biodiversity areas with natural human environments Integrate Promote environmental education and awareness awareness and education environmental Promote LINK TO STRATEGIC PLAN STRATEGIC LINK TO Demonstrate leadership in sustainability, in sustainability, leadership NE1.1 - Demonstrate and protection enhancement environmental initiatives restoration and protection NE 1.2 - Lead biodiversity areas with natural human environments NE 3.2 - Integrate principles using urban ecology built and between and interfaces NE 3.3 - Design buffers areas natural and risks to environmental respond and NE 4.2 - Identify vulnerabilities NE1.3 - NE 3.5 - environment on the natural NE 3.6 - targets environmental global and local achieve NE 3.2 - principles using urban ecology NE 3.3 - areas natural NE 3.4 - Demonstrate leadership in sustainability, in sustainability, leadership NE1.1 - Demonstrate and protection enhancement environmental initiatives restoration and protection NE 1.2 - Lead biodiversity use and water recycled maximise water, NE 2.4 - Conserve Urban Design Sensitive Water appropriate practice areas with natural human environments NE 3.2 - Integrate principles using urban ecology built and between and interfaces NE 3.3 - Design buffers areas natural corridors and enhance vegetation NE 3.4 - Further develop and risks to environmental respond and NE 4.2 - Identify vulnerabilities NE 1.2 - NE 3.2 - principles using urban ecology - Demonstrate leadership in sustainability, in sustainability, leadership - Demonstrate NE 1.1 and protection enhancement environmental restoration and protection - Lead biodiversity NE 1.2 initiatives areas with natural human environments - Integrate NE 3.2 principles using urban ecology built and between and interfaces - Design buffers NE 3.3 areas natural and risks to environmental respond and - Identify NE 4.2 vulnerabilities to practices policy and operational strategy, NE 4.3 - Evolve change to climate responses adaptive appropriate ensure areas with natural human environments - Integrate NE 3.2 principles using urban ecology built and between and interfaces - Design buffers NE 3.3 areas natural corridors and enhance vegetation - Further develop NE 3.4 FUNDING SOURCE Staff time Staff Existing budgets Existing budgets Staff time Staff Existing budgets $3000 Existing budgets PARTNERS Landholders - - - - Goolwa To To Goolwa Wellington Action Local Planning Inc Life Bush For To Goolwa Wellington Action Local Planning Inc NRM & Landcare Bushcare Groups RESPONSIBILITY Open Space & Environment Open Space & Environment (PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT) Open Space & Environment Open Space & Environment (PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT) Open Space & Environment (PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT) & Operations Water Waste & Planning (INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS) Open Space & Environment Open Space & Environment (PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT) Field Services SERVICES) (COUNCIL Open Space & Environment Open Space & Environment (PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT) Field Services (COUNCIL SERVICES) Open Space & Environment (PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT) arise Ongoing Ongoing 2017/2018 2017/2018 2016/2017 2016/2017 opportunities TIMEFRAME Ongoing and as Ongoing PRIORITY High Medium Low High Medium Very high Very High Negotiate with landholders with landholders Negotiate linear riparian develop to connectivity. for reserves Develop indictors to assess to indictors Develop health conditions stream an education Implement community for program into discharge wastewater system sewer Education program for program Education riparian species selection (developers/landholders) cleaning and Regular of drainage clearance reduce (to system pollution) Develop strategic strategic Develop best guidelines for practise environmental and of riparian planting (GOOLWA management LOCAL WELLINGTON TO ACTION PLANNING INC guidelines) linear parks Incorporate along corridors and green where watercourses appropriate ACTION WH14 WH10 WH13 WH9 WH12 WH8 WH11

104 Biodiversity Strategy - Watercourses and Waterbodies 105 eucalypt communities, despite the significant modification 5.2.1 Vegetation communities of the understorey structure by woody weeds and grazing. There is a need to ensure that new development doesn’t Eighteen broad vegetation communities have been further erode the biological health of the region and that mapped and described across the MDPA land and opportunities to restore local biodiversity are assisted immediate surrounds (Table 5.1). Condition varies, BIODIVERSITY PLANNING through the design and function of the new development with several of the larger remnants located outside the areas. It is anticipated that the information yielded from MDPA land in good condition, whilst many of the smaller 5.0 Monitoring and Evaluation this study will inform landowners, developers and planning remnants scattered across farming land are highly modified authorities when considering and planning development by grazing and weed invasion. A number of the broad 5.1 Ministerial Development Plan Amendment (MDPA) within the MDPA land. vegetation communities have been described below and their locations displayed in figure 5.1. The 30 Year Plan for Greater Adelaide identified Mount The new growth area comprises lands that have been 5.2 Flora Barker as a regional centre for the eastern Mount Lofty progressively cleared and utilised for agriculture since Ranges, highlighting a number of growth areas for European settlement and subsequently the biological Vegetation across the MDPA land and surrounds has urban expansion including approximately 50 hectares value of these areas has steadily declined. This is more been thoroughly analysed during a number of previous for Nairne and approximately 1,150 hectares for Mount broadly consistent with the biodiversity degradation studies. Data from various studies including Hyde (1999), Barker. Most of these growth areas were rezoned by the occurring across the Mount Lofty Ranges, with a University of Adelaide (2010) and Jury et al. (2010 – Ministerial Mount Barker Urban Growth Development significant number of local extinctions, especially amongst 2014), along with recent field investigations, has been Plan Amendment (2010). The impacts associated with small mammal species, birds and plants species. The consolidated to provide accurate profiles on each of the the new development on both communities and the remaining native vegetation is predominantly confined major vegetation associations. Species lists have also been environment need to be considered and appropriately to roadsides and the rail corridor, with the exception of developed for each of the communities as well as for each managed, including issues such as climate change and a small number of isolated and fragmented blocks which patch assessed within and around the MDPA land. the need for food production that supports an expanding are often severely degraded by weeds or modified by urban environment. The Structure Plan identified the grazing. Some pockets of valuable and diverse roadside need to undertake a detailed biodiversity study of vegetation have been maintained by the Trees for the area as a matter of priority, to better inform good Life Bush for Life program and identified through the development that adequately addresses these issues Department for Planning Transport and Infrastructure associated with the protection and management of (DPTI) Roadside Marker Scheme. Scattered mature biodiversity. EBS Ecology was contracted to investigate eucalypts, which provide valuable habitat, persist and report on the biodiversity assets of the Mount throughout cleared paddocks but with little population Barker Ministerial Development Plan Amendment. recruitment occurring overall. Many of the watercourses dissecting the landscape still maintain their original

106 Biodiversity Strategy - Biodiversity Planning 107 Veg Description Assoc. #

1 Callitris gracilis (Southern Cypress Pine)/ Allocasuarina verticillata (Drooping Sheoak)/ Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum) woodland +/- Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon (SA Blue Gum)

2 Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon (SA Blue Gum) woodland

3 Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon (SA Blue Gum) / Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum) open woodland

4 Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon (SA Blue Gum) / Eucalyptus obliqua (E. obliqua) +/- Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink Gum) woodland

5 Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon (SA Blue Gum) / Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. cygnetensis (Rough- bark Manna Gum) woodland

6 Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis (Red Gum) woodland

7 Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis (Red Gum) / Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon (SA Blue Gum) woodland

8 Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis (Red Gum) / Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon (SA Blue Gum) / Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. cygnetensis (Rough-bark Manna Gum) woodland

9 Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. cygnetensis (Rough-bark Manna Gum) / Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis (Red Gum) open woodland

10 Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. cygnetensis (Rough-bark Manna Gum) open woodland over Allocasuarina verticillata (Drooping Sheoak)

11 Planted Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon (SA Blue Gum) / Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. cygnetensis (Rough-bark Manna Gum) / Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis (Red Gum) open woodland

12 Scattered Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon (SA Blue Gum)

13 Scattered Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon (SA Blue Gum) and Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. cygnetensis (Rough-bark Manna Gum)

14 Scattered Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis (Red Gum)

15 Scattered Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis (Red Gum) and Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon (SA Blue Gum)

16 Scattered Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis (Red Gum) and Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. cygnetensis (Rough-bark Manna Gum) over Acacia retinodes (Wirilda) and Acacia melanoxylon (Blackwood)

17 Scattered Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis (Red Gum) , Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon (SA Blue Gum) and Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. cygnetensis (Rough-bark Manna Gum)

18 Triglochin procera (Water-ribbons) Herbland

Table 5.1 Vegetation communities mapped across the MDPA land and immediate surrounds. broad vegetation communities have been described below and their locations. and their locations. been described below have communities vegetation broad Map 5.1

108 Biodiversity Strategy - Biodiversity Planning 109 Vegetation Association 1 Vegetation Association 2 Table 5.3. Association 2 summary. Astroloma humifusum (Cranberry Heath) and Dianella Callitris gracilis / Allocasuarina verticillata / Eucalyptus Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon woodland revoluta (Black-anther flax-lily), and annuals represented Landscape position Gentle hills south and west of fasciculosa woodland +/- Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. by Arthropodium strictum (Common vanilla-lily), Bulbine The association is considered regionally vulnerable in the the MDPA land leucoxylon Bremer Barker Catchment (Hyde 1999) and considered to bulbosa (Bulbine-lily) and Caesia calliantha (Blue Conservation listing The association is considered be poorly conserved in the Mt Barker district (Crompton Grass-lily). This roadside reserve in particular should regionally vulnerable in the A small patch was mapped on the eastern side of and Williams 1998, as cited in Hyde 1999). Bremer Barker Catchment be recognised as a valuable remnant and retained and Wellington Road on private land confined to a gentle managed in the Roadside Marker Scheme (RMS). Vegetation condition Good - Poor upper slope. The overall trend of the association is Much of this association has been removed and modified ‘declining’, mainly due to invasion of weeds at expense through clearance and agricultural practices, however Threatened flora Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink species Gum) – Rare in SA of native species. Likewise, the small remnant is highly there are a number of patches of Eucalyptus leucoxylon Table 5.4. Association 3 summary. degraded, most probably due to having been grazed for ssp. leucoxylon woodland remaining throughout the Landscape position South of the MDPA land on over a century. The resulting condition of the understorey MDPA land and surrounding properties. These types of roadside reserve and gentle is extremely poor and dominated with exotic pasture E. leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon woodland would normally hills in the eastern side of the of Vegetation Association 3 the MDPA land species with the odd small patch of scattered native possess a grassy ground layer of Austrostipa spp. (Spear Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon / Eucalyptus grass, Austrostipa mollis (Soft Spear-grass). Preservation Grass), Rytidosperma spp. (Wallaby Grass), Themeda Conservation listing The association is considered fasciculosa open woodland regionally vulnerable in the and management of this patch is extremely important triandra (Kangaroo Grass), Poa clelandii (Matted Bremer Barker Catchment given the rarity of remaining native pine remnants in Tussock-grass), including a number of Lomandra spp. Two small patches contain the association which is the district. There are also a number of isolated mature (Irongrass), Lepidosperma semiteres (Wire Rapier-sedge) Vegetation condition Moderate listed as vulnerable in the Provisional List of Threatened native pine trees in the vicinity that are considered and Dianella revoluta var. revoluta (Black-anther Flax- Threatened flora Rare in South Australia - Ecosystems of South Australia (DEH, in progress) and important to retain, despite not fitting the ‘Significant’ or lily). Smaller shrubs can also be prominent including species Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink both E. fasciculosa and E. leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon Gum), Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. ‘Regulated’ Tree size criteria under the Development Act, Acrotriche serrulata (Cushion Ground-berry), Hibbertia associations are rated as vulnerable for the Bremer viminalis (Manna Gum). 1993. Even when native pines reach 200 years old, they spp. (Guinea-flower), Pultenaea pedunculata (Matted Barker Catchment (Hyde, 1999) and considered to be will never grow to more than 2 metres in circumference Bush-pea), Gonocarpus tetragynus (Small-leaf Raspwort) Rare in AMLR region – Acacia poorly conserved in the Mt Barker district (Crompton and retinodes (Wirilda), Lomandra and will therefore have no protection from that and a number of climbers such as Cassytha melantha Williams, 1998, as cited in Hyde, 1999). The community collina (Sand Mat-rush) legislation (Crompton, 2010). (Coarse Dodder-laurel) and Clematis microphylla (Old is typically a grassy woodland with an open midstorey of Man’s Beard). Near Threatened in AMLR Allocasuarina verticillata (Drooping Sheoak) and Acacia region - Eucalyptus leucoxylon pycnantha (Golden Wattle), with a number of sedges ssp. leucoxylon (South Some of the larger examples of E. leucoxylon ssp. Australian Blue Gum), Table 5.2. Association 1 summary. and irongrasses in the understorey. The community has leucoxylon woodland are located south of the MDPA Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. experienced heavy grazing due to its grassy understorey cygnetensis (Rough-bark Landscape position Gentle upper slope land, one of which is adjacent to the railway reserve layer and therefore most remaining examples are highly Manna Gum), Bulbine bulbosa and Native Avenue and is in very good condition. It (Bulbine-lily), Lepidosperma Conservation listing The association is considered modified. regionally endangered in the contains a high level of plant species diversity, low levels curtisiae (Little Sword-sedge), Bremer Barker Catchment and Lomandra sororia (Sword of weeds and possesses a structure reminiscent of the listed as vulnerable for South Interim flora lists compiled in 2010 by Dury et al in Mat-rush), Rytidosperma pre-European community. Other remnants however, are erianthum (Hill Wallaby-grass), Australia under the Provisional association with the EBS Ecology field survey, show that List of Threatened Ecosystems lacking the native grassy understorey species, replaced Convolvulus angustissimus of South Australia (DEH, in the remnant along Harrop Road retains a reasonable ssp. angustissimus (Australian by exotic grasses and herbs. Smaller remnants located progress). diversity despite high infestation levels of exotics. Bindweed), Cynoglossum along Wellington Road and off Hawthorn Road vary in suaveolens (Sweet Hound’s- Vegetation condition Moderate - Poor Reasonable patches of Lepidosperma viscidum (Sticky condition, based on current management. One of these tongue), Epilobium Sword-sedge) dominate the understorey in patches with billardierianum ssp. (Robust Threatened flora Eucalyptus fasciculosa (Pink is protected under Heritage Agreement since 1998. Rhytidosperma spp. (Wallaby Grass) and Austrostipa Willow-herb), Melaleuca species Gum) – Rare in SA decussata (Totem-poles). sp. (Spear Grass), along with a number of scattered individuals including Lomandra densiflora (Soft Tussock Mat-rush), Lomandra multiflora ssp. dura (Hard Mat- rush), Acrotriche serrulata (Cushion Ground-berry),

110 Biodiversity Strategy - Biodiversity Planning 111 Vegetation Association 4 Xanthorrhoea semiplana ssp. semiplana (Yacca), Vegetation Association 5 Vegetation Association 6 Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon / Eucalyptus Platylobium obtusangulum (Holly Flat-pea), Pultenaea Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon / Eucalyptus Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis woodland obliqua +/- Eucalyptus fasciculosa woodland daphnoides (Large-leaf Bush Pea). A number of native viminalis ssp. cygnetensis woodland grasses are also present within this association including The association is considered regionally endangered This vegetation association is confined to hilltops and Austrostipa spp. (Spear grass), Rytidosperma caespitosum The Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon (South in the Bremer Barker Catchment and the Mt Barker hill slopes on the north-western area of the Bremer (Common Wallaby-grass) and Poa sp. (Meadow-grass/ Australian Blue Gum) community intersperses Eucalyptus district (Crompton and Williams 1998, Hyde 1999) with Barker Catchment and is considered regionally vulnerable Tussock-grass). Annual species such as Arthropodium viminalis ssp. cygnetensis (Rough-bark Manna Gum) in no examples known to be conserved (Hyde 1999). The in the Bremer Barker Catchment (Hyde, 1999) and strictum (Common Vanilla-lily), Bulbine bulbosa (Bulbine- the higher rainfall western edge of the Bremer Barker community is known to occupy flats and hillslopes, poorly conserved in the Mt Barker district (Crompton lily), Caesia calliantha (Blue Grass-lily) and many species Catchment, and was once much more prominent prior and dominate creeks and watercourses. The remnants and Williams, 1998, as cited in Hyde, 1999). The main of native orchids are widespread throughout. to clearance and modification for agricultural pursuits mapped under Association 6 represent the former examples are contained within the larger remnants to the since European settlement. Both the .E leucoxylon ssp. community, whereas the Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. north west of the MDPA land connected to the Totness Weeds are frequent around the edges of remnants, leucoxylon and E. viminalis ssp. cygnetensis associations camaldulensis (Red Gum) associated with riparian areas RP where they are zoned “Conservation” under the particularly woody weeds including Genista are considered to be poorly conserved in the Mt Barker are more appropriately covered under Association 14. Mount Barker Development Plan (2013). It is managed monspessulana (Montpellier Broom), Ulex europaeus district (Crompton and Williams 1998, as cited in primarily for the conservation and enhancement (Gorse) and Rubus ulmifolius var. ulmifolius (Blackberry). Hyde 1999) and regionally vulnerable and endangered The E. camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis community of the natural environment and natural ecological Watsonia meriana var. bulbillifera (Bulbil Watsonia) respectively in the Bremer Barker Catchment (Hyde 1999). frequently intersperses with other eucalypt species processes for their historic, scientific, landscape, infestations are also frequent in more degraded areas. The E. viminalis ssp. cygnetensis community represents such as Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon (South faunal habitat, biodiversity and cultural values; it also the eastern extremity of its distribution Australian Blue Gum), (Associations 7, 15 and 17) and provides opportunities for the public to experience and Buffering and linking these existing large remnants within the region. Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. cygnetensis (Rough-bark appreciate the significance of the native vegetation and to some of the native remnant areas within the Manna Gum) (Association 8, 9 and 10). Much of this original remnant natural habitat of the area through low MDPA land creating wildlife corridors, is one of the One small remnant is located on the eastern side of association has been removed and modified through impact recreational activities and interpretive facilities recommendations made in the University of Adelaide’s Flaxley Road. The patch has an intact overstorey but clearance and agricultural practices, however there (Government of South Australia, 2013). The quality of the analysis of the effect of urban encroachment on has been heavily modified by grazing. It would have are a number of patches of the woodland remaining remnants varies considerably, from poor along the edges, biodiversity and existing ecological systems (2010). previously possessed a grassy understorey, but is throughout the MDPA land and surrounding properties, to excellent and virtually weed-free toward the centres. now mainly dominated by pasture weeds and a few albeit in fairly poor condition. The understorey would These remnants represent a core area of important Table 5.5. Association 4 summary. scattered patches of native grasses and sedges, including have possessed taller understorey species such as Acacia habitat to native species within the district. Rytidosperma caespitosum (Common Wallaby Grass), retinodes (Wirilda), Acacia melanoxylon (Blackwood) Landscape position Hilltops and hill slopes to the north-west Frequent variations in the overstorey dominance of the MDPA land Themeda triandra (Kangaroo Grass) and Juncus and Acacia pycnantha (Golden Wattle) over a mixture between the two main eucalypt species, Eucalyptus kraussii (Sea Rush). Conservation The association is considered regionally of native grasses such as Austrostipa spp. (Spear Grass), leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon (South Australian Blue listing vulnerable in the Bremer Barker Rytidosperma spp. (Wallaby Grass) and Themeda triandra Catchment Gum) and Eucalyptus obliqua (Messmate Stringybark) Table 5.5. Association 5 summary. (Kangaroo Grass). Understorey would also have consisted occur throughout, with scattered State rare Eucalyptus Vegetation Excellent - Poor of sedges and iron grasses including Lomandra spp. (Iron condition Landscape position The Western Flat district of Mt fasciculosa (Pink Gum) occurring also. The midstorey is Barker (Hyde, 1999) Grass), Lepidosperma semiteres (Wire Rapier-sedge) characterised by: Allocasuarina verticillata (Drooping Threatened flora Rare in South Australia - Eucalyptus and a number of common annual species including species fasciculosa (Pink Gum) Conservation The association is considered Sheoak), Acacia pycnantha (Golden Wattle),Exocarpos listing regionally vulnerable and/or Arthropodium strictum (Common Vanilla-lily) and Rare in AMLR region – Xerochrysum cupressiformis (Native Cherry) and a dense shrubby endangered in the Bremer bracteatum (Golden Everlasting),Acacia Barker Catchment Burchardia umbellata (Milkmaids). understorey consisting of: Acacia myrtifolia (Myrtle retinodes(Wirilda), Lomandra collina (Sand Mat-rush) Vegetation Moderate Wattle), Acrotriche serrulata (Cushion Ground-berry), The six patches described as E. camaldulensis ssp. Near Threatened in AMLR region - condition Astroloma humifusum (Cranberry Heath), Bursaria Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon camaldulensis woodland vary in condition from having (South Australian Blue Gum), Bulbine Threatened flora Near Threatened in AMLR region spinosa ssp. spinosa (Sweet Bursaria), Dianella revoluta completely modified understories to being degraded bulbosa (Bulbine-lily), Hibbertia sericea species - Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. var. revoluta (Black-anther Flax-lily), Lepidosperma (Silky Guinea-flower), Pultenaea leucoxylon (South Australian Blue with scattered natives persisting amongst the exotics. pedunculata (Matted Bush-pea), Cassytha Gum), Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. semiteres (Wire Rapier-sedge), Hibbertia exutiacies melantha (Coarse Dodder-laurel) and cygnetensis (Rough-bark Manna One patch in particular, located directly east of the (Prickly Guinea-flower), Lomandra spp. (Irongrass) Lomandra fibrata (Mount Lofty Mat-rush). Gum) Victor Harbor railway line on the northern boundary

112 Biodiversity Strategy - Biodiversity Planning 113 of the MDPA land (Area 69) (Figure 5), contains a number Vegetation Association 7 Exocarpos cupressiformis (Native Cherry) andClematis Vegetation Association 8 of State and regionally threatened plants persisting in the Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis / Eucalyptus microphylla (Old Man’s Beard), Bursaria spinosa (Sweet Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis / Eucalyptus understorey; despite high levels of weeds and disturbance leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon woodland Bursaria), Platylobium obtusangulum (Holly Flat-pea), leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon / Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. to the natural hydrology (Table 5.6). Other species present Dianella revoluta (Black-anther Flax-lily), Acrotriche cygnetensis woodland include Allocasuarina verticillata(Drooping Sheoak), Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis (Red Gum) humifusum (Native Cranberry),Lomandra sororia (Sword Bolboschoenus caldwellii (Salt Club-rush), Austrostipa communities frequently intersperse with Eucalyptus Mat-rush), Lomandra micrantha ssp. tuberculata (Small This vegetation association is similar to Association 7, but blackii (Crested spear-grass), Austrodanthonia racemosa leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon (South Australian Blue Gum) Flower Mat-rush), Lepidosperma semiteres (Wire Rapier- where Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis (Red var. racemosa (Slender wallaby-grass) Austrodanthonia on the higher slopes across the district. Independently, sedge), Lomandra densiflora (Fox-tail Spear-grass) and Gum) and Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon (South geniculata Kneed wallaby-grass Austrodanthonia caespitosa both associations are considered regionally endangered Lepidosperma ‘Narrow leaf’ (Narrow Rapier-sedge). Australian Blue Gum) have interspersed with Eucalyptus (White-top wallaby-grass), Juncus pallidus (Pale Rush), Ficinia and regionally vulnerable in the Bremer Barker A number of native grasses are also present including viminalis ssp. cygnetensis (Rough-bark Manna Gum). nodosa (Knobby Club-rush) and Juncus bufonius (Toad rush) Catchment (Hyde 1999). Much of this association has Microlaena stipoides (Weeping Rice-grass), Themeda Independently, all these associations are considered (Attachment 1). been removed and highly modified through clearance triandra (Kangaroo Grass) and Austrostipa sp. Spear regionally threatened in the Bremer Barker Catchment and agricultural practices, as it occupied highly valued Grass). Numerous other native species have been (Hyde 1999). It has likewise been highly modified and Table 5.6. Association 6 summary. grazing land due to its grassy understories. There recorded along Martin Road by local experts removed through clearance and agricultural practices, as Landscape position South of the MDPA land on are a number of patches of the woodland remaining (see list for Area 33, Attachment 1). it occupied highly valued grazing land due to its grassy roadside reserve and gentle hills in the eastern side of the of the throughout the MDPA land and surrounding properties, understories. There are a two recorded patches of the Table 5.7. Association 7 summary. MDPA land albeit in fairly poor condition. The understorey would woodland within the MDPA land both of which are

Conservation The association is considered likely have possessed scattered taller species such as Landscape position South and south-eastern sections of situated in road reserves (Flaxley Road and Hunt Road). listing regionally vulnerable in the Allocasuarina verticillata (Drooping Sheoak), Acacia the MDPA land on roadside reserve The understorey in these remnants is degraded by weed Bremer Barker Catchment and higher slopes retinodes (Wirilda) and Acacia pycnantha (Golden Wattle) invasion, however there are some small areas where the Vegetation Moderate - Poor over a mixture of native grasses such as Rytidosperma Conservation The association is considered condition of the understorey is reasonable and contains condition listing regionally vulnerable and/or spp. (Wallaby Grass), Themeda triandra (Kangaroo Grass) endangered in the Bremer Barker good cover of native species including Allocasuarina Catchment Threatened flora Rare in South Australia - and Microlaena stipoides var. stipoides (Weeping Rice- verticillata (Drooping Sheoak), Acacia pycnantha (Golden species Rytidosperma laeve (Smooth Wallaby-grass) grass). The understorey also have included sedges and Vegetation Moderate – Poor Wattle), Bursaria spinosa (Sweet Bursaria), Lepidosperma condition Vulnerable in AMLR region iron grasses including Lomandra multiflora ssp. dura semiteres (Wire Rapier-sedge), Lepidosperma curtisiae - Rytidosperma fulvum (Leafy (Stiff Mat-rush) and Lomandra densiflora (Soft Tussock Threatened flora Rare in AMLR region – Acacia (Little Sword-sedge), Lomandra densiflora (Soft Tussock Wallaby-grass) species retinodes (Wirilda) Mat-rush), Lepidosperma viscidum (Sticky Sword-sedge), Mat-rush), Pultenaea pedunculata (Matted Bush-pea), Rare in AMLR region – Near Threatened in AMLR region Bolboschoenus caldwellii (Salt Kennedia prostrata (Running Postman) and Bursaria - Eucalyptus camaldulensis Platylobium obtusangulum (Holly Flat-pea), Lomandra Club-rush), Acacia retinodes spinosa (Sweet Bursaria). A number of common annual ssp. camaldulensis (Red Gum), multiflora ssp. dura (Stiff Mat-rush), Hibbertia sericea (Wirilda), Atriplex paludosa ssp. Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. paludosa (Marsh Saltbush), Carex species are likely to include Arthropodium strictum leucoxylon (South Australian Blue (Silky Guinea-flower), Dianella revoluta (Black-anther bichenoviana (Notched Sedge), Gum), Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. Juncus flavidus (Yellow Rush), (Common Vanilla-lily), Chamaescilla corymbosa var. cygnetensis (Rough-bark Manna Flax-lily), Daviesia leptophylla (Narrow-leaf Bitter- Schoenus nitens (Shiny Bog-rush) corymbosa (Blue Squill) and a number of Drosera spp. Gum), Acaena ovina (Downy pea), Acrotriche serrulata (Cushion Ground-Berry) Near Threatened in AMLR region Sheep’s Burr), Convolvulus - Acaena ovina (Downy Sheep’s (Sun Dew). angustissimus ssp. angustissimus and Xanthorrhoea semiplana (Yacca). Numerous other Burr), Rytidosperma erianthum (Australian Bindweed), Lomandra species have been recorded (Crompton, 2010) from the (Hill Wallaby-grass), Convolvulus sororia (Sword Mat-rush), angustissimus ssp. angustissimus The eight patches recorded are predominantly in poor Melaleuca decussata (Totem-poles), Flaxley Road reserves within and surrounding this area Hardenbergia violacea (Native (Australian Bindweed), Epilobium condition with their understories almost completely including the regionally rare Acacia retinodes (Wirilda), billardierianum ssp. (Robust Lilac), Juncus pauciflorus (Loose- Willow-herb), Poa labillardieri var. modified. The exceptions include several roadside flower Rush). Pimelea humilis (Low Rice-flower), Scaevola albiflora labillardieri (Common Tussock- grass), Austrostipa scabra ssp. reserves along Barker Road and Martin Road, which have (Pale Fanflower) and Allocasuarina muelleriana (Common scabra (Rough Spear-grass), a number of natives persisting despite a high level of Oak-bush). Recent plant lists have also been recorded for Austrostipa setacea (Corkscrew Spear-grass), Eucalyptus woody and grassy weeds. These include Allocasuarina Hunt Road made and unmade road reserve (Jury, 2010) camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis verticillata (Drooping Sheoak), Acacia melanoxylon (Red Gum), Isolepis platycarpa (Flat-fruit Club-rush), Lachnagrostis (Blackwood), Acacia pycnantha (Golden Wattle), Acacia aemula (Blown-grass) and Triglochin procera (Water-ribbons) retinodes (Wirilda), Acacia paradoxa (Kangaroo Thorn),

114 Biodiversity Strategy - Biodiversity Planning 115 Table 5.8 Association 8 summary. possessed a well developed shrub layer and taller shrubs Vegetation Association 10 Wattle). The understorey is highly degraded by pasture / trees such as Acacia melanoxylon (Blackwood), Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. cygnetensis open woodland weeds with further disturbance from a number of Landscape position South and south-western sections of the MDPA land on roadside Exocarpos cupressiformis (Native Cherry) and Banksia over Allocasuarina verticillata rabbit warrens. reserve marginata (Silver Banksia). One remnant located south Conservation The association is considered of the MDPA land, is managed as a Bush for Life site, This association is considered regionally endangered listing regionally vulnerable and/or listed as Category 1 Significant Roadside Vegetation for in the Bremer Barker Catchment (Hyde 1999), poorly Table 5. 11 Association 11 summary. endangered in the Bremer Barker Catchment the District Council of Mt Barker and protected under the conserved in the Mt Barker district (Crompton and Landscape position Gentle mid slope along fenceline South Australian Roadside Marker Scheme. This remnant Vegetation Moderate Williams 1998, as cited in Hyde 1999) and represents the condition has a good diversity of native understorey species eastern extremity of its distribution within the region. Conservation None listing Threatened flora Rare in AMLR region – Acacia including a number of state and regionally threatened It is represented by a small remnant around a house species retinodes (Wirilda), species (Table 5.9). and driveway. It has been highly modified by grazing and Vegetation Moderate condition Near Threatened in AMLR region weeds and planting many non-local plant varieties. The - Eucalyptus camaldulensis Threatened flora Near Threatened in AMLR region ssp. camaldulensis (Red Gum), overstorey trees are mature and possess some hollows. Table 5.9. Association 9 summary. species - Eucalyptus camaldulensis Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. The understorey contains Olives in association with ssp. camaldulensis (Red Gum), leucoxylon (South Australian Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. Blue Gum), Eucalyptus viminalis Landscape position Lower lying land in close proximity Allocasuarina verticillata (Drooping Sheoak) and Acacia leucoxylon (South Australian Blue ssp. cygnetensis (Rough-bark to riparian areas pycnantha (Golden Wattle). Gum), Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. Manna Gum), Hibbertia sericea cygnetensis (Rough-bark (Silky Guinea-flower),Pultenaea Conservation The association is considered Manna Gum). pedunculata (Matted Bush-pea) listing regionally endangered in the and Lepidosperma curtisiae (Little Bremer Barker Catchment Sword-sedge) Table 5.10 Association 10 summary. Vegetation Poor condition Landscape position Low lying land in close proximity to riparian areas Threatened flora Rare in South Australia- Eucalyptus The following vegetation associations were distinguished Vegetation Association 9 species fasciculosa (Pink Gum) Conservation The association is considered by the low and scattered density of the dominant listing regionally endangered in the Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. cygnetensis / Eucalyptus Rare in AMLR region – Acacia eucalypt species throughout mainly paddock retinodes (Wirilda), Carex Bremer Barker Catchment camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis open woodland bichenoviana (Notched Sedge), environments and degraded watercourses. They have Vegetation Poor Lomandra collina (Sand Mat-rush), been mapped as ‘scattered tree’ communities due to the Acacia acinacea (Wreath Wattle) condition Association 9 is a further variation of the previously almost complete modification of their native understories Near Threatened in AMLR region Threatened flora Rare in AMLR region – Acacia discussed communities whereby Eucalyptus camaldulensis - Eucalyptus camaldulensis species retinodes (Wirilda) through clearance, grazing and/or cropping, combined ssp. camaldulensis (Red Gum), ssp. camaldulensis (Red Gum) and Eucalyptus viminalis Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. Near Threatened in AMLR with the loss of neighbouring trees which once formed ssp. cygnetensis (Rough-bark Manna Gum), display co- leucoxylon (South Australian Blue region - Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. part of the original woodland communities. The drier of Gum), Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. cygnetensis (Rough-bark Manna dominance, however it is possible that further eucalypt cygnetensis (Rough-bark Manna Gum). these scattered tree communities are mapped as: species were present prior to clearance and disturbance to Gum), Convolvulus angustissimus ssp. angustissimus (Australian the surrounding land. Independently, all these associations Bindweed), Lomandra sororia • Vegetation Association 12 - Scattered Eucalyptus (Sword Mat-rush), Hardenbergia are considered regionally endangered in the Bremer Barker violacea (Native Lilac),Epilobium Vegetation Association 11 leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon; Catchment (Hyde 1999) and the E. viminalis ssp. cygnetensis billardierianum ssp. (Robust Willow- Planted Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon / • Vegetation Association 13 - Scattered Eucalyptus herb), Bulbine bulbosa (Bulbine-lily), as an association, represent the eastern extremity of its Cynoglossum suaveolens (Sweet Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. cygnetensis / Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon and Eucalyptus viminalis distribution within the region. Hound’s-tongue) and Lepidosperma camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis open woodland ssp. Cygnetensis; curtisiae (Little Sword-sedge) • Vegetation Association 15 - Scattered Eucalyptus Two mapped remnants are considered in poor condition This association is represented by a small shelterbelt strip camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis and Eucalyptus with most of the understorey completely modified by of planted native vegetation, situated along a fence line leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon and grazing and weeds. Only the regionally rare Acacia retinodes on the eastern border of the MDPA land. The vegetation • Vegetation Association 17 - Scattered Eucalyptus (Wirilda) was recorded along the Newenham Road amongst contains three of the local eucalypt species as well as a camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis, Eucalyptus a significant woody weed infestation (Attachment 1). reasonable midstorey containing Allocasuarina verticillata leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon and Eucalyptus viminalis Prior to disturbance, the understorey would likely have (Drooping Sheoak) and Acacia pycnantha (Golden ssp. cygnetensis.

Biodiversity Strategy - Biodiversity Planning 117 There are a number of scattered native understorey species The scattered tree communities dominating the riparian Table 5.13 Associations 14 and 16 summary. grass cover can be reduced through slashing and spot persisting in small pockets or as scattered individuals areas such as watercourses and the low lying wetter areas spraying and replaced with indigenous grasses and low Landscape position Watercourses and wet areas including Allocasuarina verticillata (Drooping Sheoak), Acacia are mapped as: indigenous understorey flora over time. Most native pycnantha (Golden Wattle), Acacia paradoxa (Kangaroo Conservation None. Note: Many of the original grasses can be slashed down after seeding and there listing woodland communities that the Thorn) and Acacia melanoxylon (Blackwood); Regionally • Vegetation Association 14 - Scattered Eucalyptus scattered trees once belonged is scope for re-establishing a biodiverse reserve while threatened Rytidosperma fulvum (Leafy Wallaby-grass), camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis and to associations that are currently simultaneously managing for low biomass to appease any considered regionally vulnerable Acacia retinodes (Wirilda), Convolvulus angustissimus ssp. • Vegetation Association 16 - Scattered Eucalyptus and/or endangered in the Bremer public fire concern. The typical approach to developing Barker Catchment angustissimus (Australian Bindweed) and Rytidosperma camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis and Eucalyptus open space of lawn and ornamental plantings will destroy pilosum (Velvet Wallaby-grass) also occurred as scattered viminalis ssp. cygnetensis over Acacia retinodes Vegetation Poor most biodiversity as the site. Great care also needs to be condition individuals within this association. A number of additional and Acacia melanoxylon. taken with redesigning the Newenham Road entry so that species include Rytidosperma racemosum var. racemosum Threatened flora Vulnerable in AMLR region valuable areas with retained in-situ or protected from species - Rytidosperma fulvum (Leafy (Slender Wallaby-grass), Kennedia prostrata (Scarlet Runner), There areas are typically degraded due to a history of Wallaby-grass) development should be rescued and planted into reserves Acaena echinata (Sheep’s Burr) and Typha domingensis mismanagement. Over grazing and trampling of the Rare in AMLR region – Acacia or safe suitable habitat nearby Blackwood, Wirilda, Mat- Narrow-leaf (Bulrush) and Juncus kraussii (Sea Rush) in some sensitive banks has led to erosion and loss of biodiversity. retinodes (Wirilda), Senecio rush, lilies and grasses are retained. Remnant indigenous squarrosus (Squarrose Groundsel), of the wetter areas. The understories of these areas are Woody and grassy exotics have proliferated at the further Thelymitra nuda (Sun Orchid) flora that cannot be largely dominated by exotic pasture weeds such as Dactylis expense of native species, where many watercourses Near Threatened in AMLR region - Eucalyptus camaldulensis glomerata (Cocksfoot), Phalaris aquatica (Phalaris), Bromus are now exhibiting a completely modified understorey. ssp. camaldulensis (Red Gum), Indigenous species diversity can be increased through de- catharticus (Prairie Grass), Lolium sp. (Ryegrass) and Vulpia The open woodland overstorey which used to dominate Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. stocking, management and revegetation. Augmentation leucoxylon (South Australian Blue sp. (Fescue), with scattered Ulex europaeus (Gorse) and these communities is now mostly reduced to scattered Gum), Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. and translocation options for rare and threatened plant Crataegus sp. (Hawthorn) prominent in places. mature individuals due to a significantly reduced ability cygnetensis (Rough-bark Manna species should be investigated. Gum), Epilobium billardierianum to recruit. There are, however small threatened pockets ssp. (Robust Willow-herb), Austrostipa scabra ssp. scabra Table 5.12 Association 12, 13, 15 and 17 summary. which have persisted under these conditions. Some of the (Rough Spear-grass) and Melaleuca Red gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis var. camaldulensis) natives in these areas includeAllocasuarina verticillata decussata (Totem-poles) (probably Woodland on seasonally inundated flats is considered Landscape position Gentle mid slopes and hill tops planted) (Drooping Sheoak), Acacia melanoxylon (Blackwood) ‘Vulnerable’ for South Australia, and is considered to Conservation None. Note: Many of the original and regionally threatened Rytidosperma fulvum (Leafy have a declining ecosystem trend having been “reduced listing woodland communities that the scattered trees once belonged Wallaby-grass), Acacia retinodes (Wirilda), Senecio in extent and still threatened by drainage, extensive to associations that are currently squarrosus (Squarrose Groundsel), Thelymitra nuda (Sun clearance and grazing” (DEH 2001). Given the agricultural considered regionally vulnerable Western Flat Creek and/or endangered in the Bremer Orchid), Epilobium billardierianum ssp. (Robust Willow- land use history and past grazing this site still supports Barker Catchment herb) and Austrostipa scabra ssp. scabra (Rough Spear- Botanist, Tim Jury was engaged to survey Western Flat a fair diversity of more than 30 indigenous plant species Vegetation Poor grass). Other species suited to riparian environments Creek in November 2014, a modified Red gum (Eucalyptus including trees, shrubs, rushes, grasses and aquatic herbs. condition include Typha domingensis Narrow-leaf (Bulrush), Juncus camaldulensis var. camaldulensis) Woodland with an The creek contains several rated plant species, including Threatened flora Vulnerable in AMLR region kraussii (Sea Rush) Juncus bufonius (Toad Rush) and understorey of native and introduced shrubs, rushes, Blunt Pondweed which is considered rare for South species - Rytidosperma fulvum (Leafy Wallaby-grass) Lythrum hyssopifolia (Lesser Loosestrife). A number grasses and aquatic herbs. The land forms include creek Australia and a priority threatened species in the Adelaide Rare in AMLR region – Acacia of native grasses have also been recorded from these lines and adjoining floodplain flats. and Mount Lofty Ranges Region (Willson & Bignall 2009). retinodes (Wirilda), Eucalyptus areas: Themeda triandra (Kangaroo Grass), Rytidosperma diversifolia ssp. diversifolia (Coastal White Mallee) (probably planted) racemosum var. racemosum (Slender Wallaby-grass), The site still possesses sufficient diversity for restoration The opportunistic fauna observed included Yellow-tail Near Threatened in AMLR region Rytidosperma caespitosum (Common Wallaby-grass) and as a future council nature reserve but urgently requires Black Cockatoo (SA Vulnerable), Sulphur-crested cockatoo, - Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis (Red Gum), Microlaena stipoides var. stipoides (Weeping Rice-grass). protection from housing and adequate buffers for periodic Eastern Rosella, Tree martin, Galah, Magpie, Grey fantail, Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. The woody weeds commonly invading these environs floods as well as indigenous revegetation and weed Superb blue fairy-wren, Wattlebird, White faced heron, leucoxylon (South Australian Blue Gum), Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. include Rubus ulmifolius var. ulmifolius (Blackberry), Ulex management. Creek banks need to be stabilized with Sacred ibis, Pacific black duck, Red-bellied black snake, cygnetensis (Rough-bark Manna europaeus (Gorse), Crataegus sp. (Hawthorn), Acacia locally provenant indigenous shrubs i.e. Blackwood, rather spotted marsh frog, Lesser monarch butterfly, Blue Gum), Convolvulus angustissimus ssp. angustissimus(Australian dealbata ssp. dealbata (Silver Wattle),Prunus sp. (Plum) than conversion to drains or engineering structures if grass butterfly, Dragonfly, Arachnids, other insects Bindweed) and Rytidosperma pilosum (Velvet Wallaby-grass) and Salix sp. (Willow). hydrophytes and riparian flora are to remain. Introduced and invertebrates.

118 Biodiversity Strategy - Biodiversity Planning 119 Mount Barker Creek or protected from development should be rescued and Vegetation Association 18 planted into reserves or safe suitable habitat nearby. Triglochin procera (Water-ribbons) Herbland Botanist Tim Jury was engaged to undertake the survey of a section of the Mount Barker Creek in February 2015, a The creek contains several rated plant species, including This association is listed as the Freshwater wetlands e.g. mixed, modified riparian vegetation with remnant Red gums Purple loosestrife which is considered rare for South Triglochin procerum Herbland which is endangered for South (Eucalyptus camaldulensis var. camaldulensis), introduced Australia and rare for the region (2009). Australia under the Provisional List of Threatened Ecosystems and native trees, shrubs, rushes, grasses and aquatic herbs. of South Australia (DEH, in progress). The community is Landforms include creek channel, banks, adjoining flats, Opportunistic Observed Fauna included Sulphur-crested considered to be in decline and is often threatened by hard surfaces and built-up urban areas. Given the land use cockatoo, Eastern Rosella, Galah, Magpie, New Holland clearance, drainage, build up of herbicides and fertilisers history and past disturbances this section still supports a fair honeyeater, Dusky Moorhen, Pacific black duck, Lesser from adjacent agricultural land, salinity, grazing and trampling diversity of indigenous plant species including trees, shrubs, Monarch butterfly, Fish, Dragonfly, Arachnids, Isopods by stock, and weed invasion. Although not recorded within rushes, grasses and aquatic herbs. and other invertebrates. the MDPA land, there were small occurrences of Triglochin procera (Water-ribbons) within some of the riparian areas To date, opportune flora surveys have revealed a total of 40 however it did not represent an intact community. One small indigenous plant species and 64 introduced plant species for area was located just south of the MDPA land on private this section. Fifteen species (37.5 %) of the total indigenous property, associated with a small watercourse leading to flora are obligate wetland plant species (hydrophytes, a small dam. The dam was partially surrounded with a macrophytes etc.), which are restricted to permanent water number of native sedges andTriglochin procera (Water- of in-stream channels, creek banks. Overall 5 species (8%) ribbons) was prominent within the dam; this continued up of observed indigenous flora are rated for conservation the watercourse which became dominated by Eucalyptus significance. camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis (Red Gum).

This section of creek still possesses sufficient diversity for Table 5.14 Association 18 summary. ecological restoration for nature/recreation Landscape position Watercourses, dams and open reserve, but indigenous flora and natural watercourse water features (banks, pools, sediment bars etc.) require protection Conservation Endangered for South Australia from stormwater management infrastructure and drainage listing under the Provisional List of construction. Adequate buffers for periods of high flow Threatened Ecosystems of South Australia (DEH, in progress). volume, indigenous revegetation and weed management are highly recommended. Vegetation Moderate condition

Threatened flora Near Threatened in AMLR region Creek banks need to be stabilized with locally provenant species - Eucalyptus camaldulensis indigenous trees, shrubs (i.e. Blackwoods) rather than ssp. camaldulensis (Red Gum) , Triglochin procera (Water-ribbons) converted to drains or engineering structures if riparian and wetland flora is to remain. Weed cover can be reduced targeted control measures and replaced with appropriate riparian flora over time. The development of strait, impermeable conduits will destroy most biodiversity so great care needs to be taken with redesigning drainage infrastructure so that valuable areas with indigenous trees, shrubs, sedges, rushes, and hydrophytes are retained. Remnant indigenous flora that cannot be retained in-situ

120 Biodiversity Strategy - Biodiversity Planning 121 5.3 Threatened Flora Species

There were no nationally threatened flora species detected within the MDPA land during the recent 2014 survey however there were seven State rare species and 47 regionally threatened. Numerous threatened flora species were also identified by the BDBSA records < 5kms of the site.

Map 5.2 Threatened flora species locations (BDBSA records – 5km clip).

122 Biodiversity Strategy - Biodiversity Planning 123 5.4 Threatened Ecological Communities

Six main vegetation associations have been listed as regionally or state threatened (Table 5.15). Some of the other associations that exhibit co-dominance between eucalypt species are listed as threatened when they present as a pure association but not when interspersed with other eucalypt species.

Table 5.15 Threatened Ecological Communities occurring within the MDPA land and immediate surrounds.

Veg assoc. # Threatened Conservation status Aus** SA** AMLR*** 1 Callitris gracilis / Allocasuarina verticillata / Eucalyptus fasciculosa V E Woodland +/- Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon 2 Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon woodland V 3 Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon / Eucalyptus fasciculosa open V V woodland 6 Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis woodland E 10 Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. cygnetensis and/or E. viminalis ssp. V E viminalis woodland 18 Triglochin procerum Herbland CE1 E

* Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. ** DEH (in progress), Unpublished and Provisional List of Threatened Ecosystems of South Australia ***Present Status in the Bremer Barker Catchment 1 Critically Endangered in IBRA Subregion KAN2 only (Fleurieu) Conservation Codes: CE: Critically Endangered. EN/E: Endangered. VU/V: Vulnerable. R: Rare.

5.5 Fauna

Threatened fauna records (BDBSA) within the MDPA wetlands. Local expert, Kevin Williams, has compiled land and surrounds and surrounds are visually shown an extensive list of bird and amphibians that have been in Figure 2. Threatened fauna records are scattered observed at the wetlands and provided an excellent overview throughout the area, with particular hotspots being of the variety of birds that frequent this system. This list was noted during vegetation surveys. These hotspots also used as a base of what could be found within the region were then assessed for bird presence at 22 different as it removes temporal issues by providing data collected point count sites. Local knowledge was also used, over a number of years, and in different seasons. This can with detailed bird observations being undertaken by assist in providing an insight into species that are only community members within sites such as the Laratinga present at certain times, during certain climatic conditions.

Map 5.3 Threatened fauna BDBSA records (BDBSA records – 5km clip).

124 Biodiversity Strategy - Biodiversity Planning 125 5.5.1 Mammals Three common terrestrial mammal species were Three species of bat, not recorded in this survey, 5.5.3 Birds opportunistically observed during the EBS Ecology field potentially occur in the area. These are the Little Forest Eighteen (18) native mammal species have records within survey: Western Grey Kangaroo (Macropus fuliginosus), the Bat (Vespadelus vulturnus), Inland broad-nosed Bat One hundred and ninety three (193) bird species have the BDBSA within the Mt Barker LGA, one of which is introduced European Brown Hare (Lepus europaeus) and (Scotorepens balstoni) and Yellow-bellied Sheath-tail Bat records in the BDBSA within the Mt Barker LGA; this considered regionally extinct (The Greater Bilby). An the introduced European Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus). (Saccolaimus flaviventris) (Armstrong et al. 2003). The includes some historic records of species that are additional species, the Southern Forest Bat (Vespadelus Inland broad-nosed Bat is considered a common species considered regionally extinct. regulus) was recorded by EBS Ecology during field survey whereas the Yellow-bellied Sheath-tail Bat is State rare (see sub-section “Bats”). The following threatened species and is infrequently picked up in the area. Three species with a State conservational listing were identified in the BDBSA search are assessed as potentially observed within the MDPA land and surrounds during occurring within the MDPA land and surrounds: The Mount Barker area contains good quality bat habitat, the EBS survey. These were the White-winged Chough with woodlands which contain varied sized hollows as well (Corcorax melanorhamphos) (State rare), the Yellow- • Southern Brown Bandicoot, Isoodon obesulus as other habitat resources providing excellent foraging tailed Black Cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus funereus) (State obesulus (nationally vulnerable); areas. The scattered trees and fragmented patches and vulnerable) and the Restless Flycatcher (Myiagra inquieta) • Yellow-footed Antechinus, Antechinus flavipes roadside vegetation are in reasonable proximity to larger (State rare).The MDPA land and surrounds may also have (SA vulnerable); remnants within the district, including the Totness CP and transient species that move through the site due to its • Common Brushtail Possum, Trichosurus vulpecular the Mt Barker summit vegetation corridor. proximity to larger remnant vegetation pockets such as (SA rare); Mt Barker summit. Species such as the Diamond Firetail • Common Ringtail Possum, Pseudocheirus peregrinus (Stagonopleura guttata), Elegant Parrot (Neophema (regionally rare); elegans), Hooded Robin (Melanodryas cucullata), and • Euro, Macropus robustus (regionally rare) and Jacky Winter (Microeca fascinans) have been observed • Water Rat, Hydromys chrysogaster (regionally rare). in close proximity and can be assumed, although rare, to utilise the site opportunistically. 5.5.2 Bats Other national and state threatened species as identified Eight bat species were recorded over the two nights of targeted AnaBat survey (Matthews 2015). None of the species in the BDBSA search that have been assessed are recorded were conservation significant at national or state level and are considered common species in the Adelaide confirmed within the MDPA land and surrounds include: Hills / Southern Lofty region. • Crested Shrike-tit Falcunculus( frontatus frontatus); Table 5.18 Bat observations for Mt Barker MDPA land and surrounds. • Australian Shoveler (Anas rhynchotis) and Scientific Name Common name Survey Site • Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus) 1 2 3 4 5 6 Austronomus australis White Striped Free-tail Bat ● ● ● ● ● ● An additional 10 regionally rated bird species (i.e. regional

Chalinolobus gouldii Gould's Wattled Bat ● ● ● ● ● ● rating of rare or greater) are assessed as being possible to Chalinolobus morio Chocolate Wattled Bat ● ● ● ● ● occur within the MDPA land and surrounds *Mormopterus sp4 Southern Freetail Bat ● ● ● ● ● Dedicated bird surveys were undertaken in early Nyctophilus geoffroyi Lesser Long-eared Bat ● ● ● ● ● December 2014 by EBS Ecology Ornithologists. The Vespadelus darlingtoni Large Forest Bat ● ● ● ● ● bird surveys were undertaken across the majority of Vespadelus regulus Southern Forest Bat ● ● ● ● ● vegetation associations found within the MDPA land. Vespadelus sp.* ● The bird species present and the number of individuals

*Unconfirmed between species due to similar frequencies. observed were recorded for 22 sites. Opportunistic Site 1, 4 & 5 - Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon woodland. Site 2 & 3 - Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon / observations across the site were also recorded. Eucalyptus obliqua +/- Eucalyptus fasciculosa woodland. Site 6 - Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. cygnetensis open woodland over The table below shows the locations of the bird survey Allocasuarina verticillata and Olea europaea sites and shows corresponding vegetation associations.

126 Biodiversity Strategy - Biodiversity Planning 127 Table 5.19 Bird survey site information

Site # Location Vegetation Association

1 Corner Frampton Road / Native Avenue Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon woodland

2 Native Avenue Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. cygnetensis open woodland over Allocasuarina verticillata and Olea europaea

3 Hunt Road Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. cygnetensis open woodland over Allocasuarina verticillata and Olea europaea

4 Martin Road Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis and Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon open woodland

5 Barker Road Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis and Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon open woodland

6 Hunt Road Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. cygnetensis open woodland over Allocasuarina verticillata and Olea europaea

7 Fidler Lane Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis and Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon and Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. cygnetensis woodland

8 Sims Road Exotic Pines

9 Williams Road Scattered Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis

10 Harrop Road Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon / Eucalyptus fasciculosa open woodland over Allocasuarina verticillata and Acacia paradoxa

11 Remnants around Totness CP Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon / Eucalyptus obliqua +/- Eucalyptus fasciculosa woodland

12 Ironstone Road Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon woodland

13 Barker Road Unmapped Eucalyptus woodland

14 Fidler Lane Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis and Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon and Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. cygnetensis woodland

15 Pinchbeck Fire Track Unmapped Eucalyptus woodland

16 Dam - Pinchbeck Fire Track Unmapped Eucalyptus woodland

17 Pinchbeck Fire Track Unmapped Eucalyptus woodland

18 Hunt Road Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. cygnetensis open woodland over Allocasuarina verticillata and Olea europaea

19 Dam Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. cygnetensis open woodland over Allocasuarina verticillata and Olea europaea

20 Williams Road Scattered Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis

21 Yunkunga Road Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis and Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon open woodland

22 Haines Fire Track Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon / Eucalyptus obliqua +/- Eucalyptus fasciculosa woodland

Map 5.4 Location of EBS Ecology Bird and Bat survey sites, 2014.

128 Biodiversity Strategy - Biodiversity Planning 129 5.5.4 EPBC Migratory species area, and may only be present for a single day. Many of 5.5.5 Amphibians known to be teaming with native fish including Gudgeon, these species have very specific habitat requirements, such Galaxias, Perch, Bream, Blackfish and Goby (EBS Ecology, The MDPA land and surrounds may be frequented by as salt lakes or large heavily vegetated wetlands. As such, Eight frog species have been recorded within the Mt 2011). A total of 30 native and 9 exotic freshwater fish a number of migratory species, as identified by the many migratory species would also be unlikely to occur Barker LGA; six of these species have records within species have been recorded within freshwater water bodies Protected Matters Search (EPBC Act) as well as accounts within the MDPA land and surrounds, due to lack of these 5 km of the MDPA land and surrounds.The nationally within the Mount Lofty Ranges although some of these by local experts. Many of the species that could be present habitats (Laratinga Wetland is excluded) vulnerable Southern Bell Frog (Litoria raniformis) is spend part of their life cycle in marine waters (McNeil and within the study are would simply be passing through the considered regionally extinct and there is uncertainty as Hammer 2007). Several of these species hold a current to whether the species is native to the area. The Brown conservational listing under the South Australian National Table 5.20 Migratory species identified by EPBC Protected Matters Search Tool as possibly utilising or flying over the project area. Toadlet (Pseudophryne bibronii) is rated rare in SA and Parks and Wildlife Act 1972. is considered as vulnerable in the Mount Lofty Ranges. Species name Common name Conservation status Likelihood of occurrence There are no records of the Brown Toadlet within 5 km of Of the 30 native fish species, one, the Purple-spotted Aus SA within survey area the MDPA land and surrounds however the species could Gudgeon (Mogurnda adspersa), is now classified as extinct BIRDS possibly occur. It is often associated with larger patches of in the Mount Lofty Ranges although breeding programs Apus pacificus Fork-tailed Swift Mi Possible fly-over vegetation and is most often found in damp areas such as are in place to reintroduce it from interstate populations Haliaeetus leucogaster White-bellied Sea-eagle Mi E Unlikely the edges of creeks and depressions where there is a cover (Hammer 2007). Hirundapus caudacutus White-throated Needletail Mi Possible fly-over of leaf-litter and grass. It is occasionally found in temporary Merops ornatus Rainbow Bee-eater Mi Possible in summer dams, vegetated roadside drainage lines and ditches For any fish species to survive in any given area, they Myiagra cyanoleuca Satin Flycatcher Mi E Possible associated with leaf-litter and grassy debris (DEH 2008). must be able to tolerate the general physical and chemical Rhipidura rufifrons Rufous Fantail Mi Unlikely characteristics present with their specific water bodies. Ardea alba Great Egret Mi Possible 5.5.6 Reptiles It is necessary for fish species to be able to tolerate all Ardea ibis Cattle Egret Mi R Unlikely conditions present within any given habitat in order to Gallinago hardwickii Latham’s Snipe Mi R Unlikely Thirty-two (32) reptile species have been recorded within persist; fish often persist within refuge habitats where Rostratula benghalensis Painted Snipe Mi, E V Unlikely local patchiness allows some comparatively benign areas Actitis hypoleucos Common Sandpiper Mi R Unlikely the Mt Barker LGA, some being historic records and one Plegadis falcinellus Glossy Ibis Mi R Unlikely being an exotic species (DEWNR 2014). Sixteen of the 32 to persist in which less tolerant fish may survive until Tringa glareola Wood Sandpiper Mi R Unlikely species have records within 5 km of the MDPA land conditions improve. It is generally acknowledged that and surrounds. Australian native species must be fairly tolerant of high Aus: Australia (Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999). SA: South Australia (National Parks and temperatures, low oxygen and high salinity to have survived Wildlife Act 1972). Conservation Codes: CE: Critically Endangered. EN/E: Endangered. VU/V: Vulnerable. R: Rare. The following national and state threatened reptile species the harsh and variable Australian climate (McNeil and identified in the BDBSA search are assessed as potentially Hammer 2009). However due to changes in landscape in Ballion’s Crake Image by Kevin Williams occurring within the MDPA land and surrounds: the form of farming practices, nutrient changes in creeks and streams can cause issues with the fish, reducing • Flinders Worm-lizard, Aprasia pseudopulchella available oxygen and as such making the water inhabitable. (nationally vulnerable); The instigation of dams or altering flows also acts as • Cunningham’s Skink, Egernia cunninghami barriers, which can affect many species which need to (state endangered); move throughout systems during their life-cycles (Mallen- • Heath Goanna, Varanus rosenbergi (state vulnerable) Cooper 1993). • Murray Short-necked Turtle, Emydura macquarii (state vulnerable). The fish listed were recorded within the Mt Barker LGA from BDBSA records and recent local studies. Most of An additional eight regionally rated reptile species (i.e. rare the records are from perennial watercourses, such as the or greater regional rating) are assessed as having potential Onkaparinga River, however some are from the Mt Barker to occur within the MDPA land and surrounds. Creek and Laratinga Wetlands. A recent study of the Mt The creeks and rivers of the Adelaide Hills were once Barker Creek by Aquasave Consultants (2013) yielded low

130 Biodiversity Strategy - Biodiversity Planning 131 fish numbers, however eight species were recorded in total and abundance after anthropogenic changes. Large scale Heathy woodland provides habitat for numerous fauna isolated paddock trees. This is due to the trees being less (5 native and 3 introduced species) including the state changes to accommodate farming practices or residential species such as the Southern Brown Bandicoot Chestnut- accessible to most species, particularly species which would vulnerable Mountain Galaxias and Congoli (Hammer et al. developments often result in fragmentation of habitats, rumped Heathwren, Painted Button-quail and Bassian need to traverse open paddocks such as the Common 2009), the Western Carp Gudgeon, Big-headed Gudgeon, with only small native patches remaining such as road and Thrush. These species all rely on the dense cover that Brushtail Possum. and the less common Dwarf Flathead Gudgeon. Mountain rail corridors. While these may contain suitable remnants is provided by woodland communities and its intact Galaxias are still likely to occur in any small streams in the of vegetation, many are isolated by surrounding cleared understorey. Species such as the Yellow-tailed Black 5.6.2 Roadsides region (Hammer pers. comm. 2011). Fish records identified agricultural land, which severely limits movement of many Cockatoo forage in the understorey plants however will from minor creeks and tributaries are likely to persist in species to these areas. Most of the smaller remnants are utilise the upperstorey of these woodlands by using large There are a number of roadside reserves which contain larger waterholes over the summer period. also further compromised by ‘edge effects’, whereby the hollow-bearing trees for nesting. Historically, records of the dense remnant vegetation along the verges. Some of perimeter to area ratios are increased, further exposing the MLR Spotted Quail-thrush were from woodland with dense these are managed under the Bush For Life program, Additional freshwater species recorded included remnant’s integrity to weed invasion and predation. understorey, highlighting that the mass reduction in this whilst others are merely assigned a ‘category’ under the freshwater shrimp, freshwater prawns and common habitat type across the Mount Lofty Ranges have resulted Roadside Marker Scheme (RMS). Road reserves along yabbies (Aquasave Consultants, 2013). Understorey strata can comprise many valuable in the possible extinction of this species. Flaxley Road, Martin Road, Harrop Road, Barker Road, Hunt components, such as native grasses and flowering shrubs Road and Native Avenue contain examples of woodland Maintenance and development of broader habitat which provide an important food source, protective cover Woodlands tend to have a greater spread of trees that communities which still contain areas of native understorey connectivity are promoted in the 2013 Mount Barker and materials for nest building and physical protection and flower, such as eucalypts, acacias, hakeas and grevilleas, vegetation. The quality of this understorey obviously varies Creek study, as important objectives necessary to preserve refuge from predators. Removal and degradation of the all of which are utilised by nectar-feeding birds such between diverse, intact and virtually weed-free, to highly these ecological assets. Broader habitat improvements native understorey reduces many niches for small birds, parrots and honeyeaters. Differences in composition and degraded and currently under serious threat from woody, (e.g. weed control, revegetation and stock exclusion) are reptiles, and potentially small mammals such as the Yellow- diversity of plant species between woodland communities herbaceous and grassy exotics. Many of the roadsides suggested to enhance the local riparian environments. footed Antechinus (Antechinus flavipes) and the Brown helps supply nectar at different times of the year which in contain largely unmanaged remnant vegetation, which has Bandicoot (Isoodon obesulus obesulus). turn supports a greater diversity of birds within the area. been exposed to the degrading impacts of edge effects and 5.5.7 Opportune fauna assessment Woodlands also provide opportunity for insectivorous other damaging practises such as rubbish dumping, wood Although many native species respond negatively to birds, with many small native birds feeding on the insects collection and impacts from dirt road dust. Thus, some All native and exotic fauna species or their traces vegetation clearance and overall reduction of woodland and lerps in the foliage of eucalypts, and on spiders and of the road reserve now exhibit understorey vegetation (tracks, scats, burrows, nests and other signs of presence) cover, a number of species have shown an increase in ants that live among the bark. which is completely modified. Road reserves along Simms were recorded during the survey. Potential fauna refuge range and population, such as the Galah, Little Corella, the Road, Paech Road, Harper Road, Fidler Lane, Potts Road, sites, such as hollows, rock crevices and creek lines were Crested Pigeon and Noisy Miner (Gammage, 2009). Some Mature eucalypt trees often produce numerous hollows, Caitness Road and small sections of Wellington Road, noted as an indication of availability of suitable habitat. of these ‘increaser species’, particularly the Noisy Miner, with many species relying on these hollows for nesting contain original woodland overstorey with limited native Particular attention was paid to potential habitat for can have an effect on smaller bird species, outcompeting and den sites. This can vary between very small (<5cm understorey and is predominantly dominated by exotics. threatened species. and aggressively defending their new territories diameter) being used by bats and small birds such as (Ford et al 2006). Pardalotes, up to large (>40cm diameter) which are Although roadside vegetation may provide suitable habitat 5.6 Fauna Habitats commonly occupied by Cockatoos, Possums or Owls. It is for many species, resident fauna species are more exposed 5.6.1 Intact woodlands considered highly likely that species such as the Common to high levels of traffic noise, visual disturbance from Although many species of Australian fauna tend to be Brushtail Possum and the Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoo passing vehicles and the risk of collision with cars and considered generalists in their habitat requirements, most Large mature woodlands are likely to provide a vast may utilise the trees in the MDPA land for breeding or as trucks. This can restrict movements, as well as reduce the are quite particular and require certain desired factors of resources base for the greatest diversity of native fauna. roosting sites. Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoos were observed species efficiency in communicating, which is especially different ecological aspects. Some species prefer habitats These woodlands allow suitable areas for feeding as well during the field survey, however these were observed important for many bird species (Parris and Schneider that are open and dry, while others will prefer closed in, as roosting and nesting requirements of a variety of native flying across an open paddock in close proximity to an 2009). Roads can also fragment populations by forming wet forests. Others species are water dependent, and will species. Woodlands such as Totness Recreation Park are exotic pine plantation. barriers to movement, isolating them from resources and be found in close proximity to water bodies at all times. a stronghold for many species, and have a variety of flora potential mates (Ramp et al 2006). species which would greatly increase species richness in Trees in closer proximity to blocks of vegetation or higher As such, many species react to changes to their preferred birds, reptiles, mammals and invertebrates. densities of other scattered trees on the MDPA land are habitats poorly, which results in a reduction of richness likely to be utilised by a higher number of species than the

132 Biodiversity Strategy - Biodiversity Planning 133 5.6.3 Native Grasslands and shrublands 5.6.4 Exotic grasslands / paddocks (YTBC) to rely on a native diet of Hakea, Banksia and Despite the degradation, riparian areas are still important Allocasuarina species wherever possible, the value of for a range native fauna within the area, as it provides a Native grasslands support a wide variety of bird types with These cleared and modified land types occupy the Aleppo Pines as an alternate food source cannot be diverse range of habitats through the provision of a number many species using these as their primary habitat. These majority of the MDPA land. Generalists such as Galahs, understated. This is particularly relevant when suitable of food sources as well as refuge. Most of the watercourses habitats form a source of food and shelter for many species Crested Pigeons and Australian Magpies have increased woodlands used for foraging have been cleared and are ephemeral, however a number of waterholes exist and threatened woodland birds, such as the Diamond in abundance and range with the creation of derived are fragmented across the region. The annual census along their lengths, providing some low level habitat and Firetail, Black-chinned Honeyeater, Restless Flycatcher and grasslands such as cropping lands. These species have completed each year by the Department of Environment refuge to native aquatic fauna, such as fish and frogs during Crested Shrike-tit. They also provide habitats for numerous shown a high tolerance for these new artificial habitats and Natural Resources indicated that YTBC occur in the drier summer months. declining species including Chestnut-rumped Thornbill, however other ‘less common’ native species also frequent relatively low abundance across the region (EBS Southern Whiteface, Jacky Winter, Hooded Robin and these areas. Species of parrot, such as the Red-rumped Ecology 2012). A number of frog species were detected during the field Brown Treecreeper. Ground dwelling species which could Parrot can be observed feeding in open paddocks, while a survey and several species of conservation significance are be classified as grassland specialist include the Stubble group of the State vulnerable White-winged Chough were 5.6.6 Watercourses and riparian areas known to occur in the riparian zones within and around the Quail, the Brown Quail and Red-chested Button-quail. observed in paddocks south of Hunt Road on the boundary MDPA land including the Mountain Galaxias and the Brown of the MDPA land. Other native grassland specialists are Changes to the surface water resources since European Toadlet. The State vulnerable Murray Short-necked Turtle Historically these were also important for the nationally also known to use open paddocks and grasslands, such as settlement have been significant. The construction of was recorded during a recent study in the Mt Barker Creek threatened Regent Honeyeater, a species which is now the Stubble Quail. numerous dams and diversion banks to prevent flooding, (Aquasave Consultants, 2013), however it is likely that this classified as extinct in the MLR and the Swift Parrot, coupled with the increased use of groundwater has individual was an escapee or deliberately released. a species which is a very rare visitor. Grasslands also However many species avoid these areas, due to lack of seen reductions in summer flows to local watercourses. supported birds such as the Bustard and Bush-stone intact overstorey and often modified understorey. Small Conversely, increases to peak flow rates of streams, 5.6.7 Other Key Habitat Curlew, both of which are classified as extinct in the mammals such as the Southern Brown Bandicoot would be as a result of land clearance and township and road Mount Lofty Ranges. highly restricted in its movement within these habitats, due development, increases runoff. Deterioration of Additional key habitat features within the MDPA land and to a lack of protection from predators. water quality by pollutants, chemicals, turbidity and surrounds included: It is important that grasslands are connected to other sedimentation has also been symptomatic of agricultural habitats such as shrublands, woodlands, open forests 5.6.5 Scattered trees and urban expansion across the landscape. The invasion • Waterholes and perched bog relics - providing riparian and rocky areas, as many animals rely on these areas for of watercourses by weeds and grazing and trampling by refuge areas potentially utilised by a range of terrestrial shelter and breeding. Many species that are not typically Scattered or isolated trees offer minimal habitat to many domestic stock have all resulted in severe degradation. and aquatic fauna. None of the creeks were flowing classified as a grassland species will utilise grasslands as a faunal species, apart from species that may be tolerant at the time of the survey however pooled surface food source, especially when they are in close proximity to habitat changes (Galahs, Magpies and Rosellas etc). As Sections of the Western Flat Creek and the shallow waters were present across the MDPA land. Relics of to native intact woodlands. This may include species such such, once the original woodlands become fragmented watercourse west of Harper Road have been completely the perched bogs are located in the western section as the Southern Brown Bandicoot. Similarly, many birds or reduced to scattered trees, they will not support a high cleared of native vegetation. Some areas have seen the of the Mt Barker MDPA, west of Flaxley Road and and bats that forage over open grassy areas require tree diversity of animals. However, the large hollow bearing proliferation of exotic woody perennials in the understorey have previously been damaged through dam and hollows for shelter and as breeding sites. eucalypts can still provide suitable nesting habitat for many which has completely altered the native composition and road construction and creation of a subdivision species whilst flowering Eucalypts, Wattles, Native Pine, restricted the recruitment of native flora, in particular (Crompton, pers. comm 2015); Practically all examples of native grasslands throughout Native Cherry, Banksia and Sheoak provide feeding habitat eucalypts. There are sections of watercourse which • Dams – providing an artificial water source and foraging this area of Mt Barker have been cleared through grazing to a number of native species, including possums, birds have retained their native overstorey and in some cases, habitat for bats; and other agricultural practises. Grasslands probably and invertebrates. small sections of degraded and fragmented understorey. • Surface and exposed rock outcropping in pasture historically occupied the wetter valley floors, mostly Examples of this are found along the Western Flat Creek, and woodland areas and large exposed rock faces forming the grassy understorey in association with The Aleppo Pine (Pinus halepensis) is an introduced and a small Mt Barker Creek tributary which dissects the in woodland – providing habitat for reptiles and refuge open Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis (Red declared plant within South Australia due to its threat as steamranger railway line and further upstream south of for threatened plants and Gum) and Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon (South a significant environmental weed however the species the Fidler Land, although the latter is outside of the • Tree hollows – present in all woodland sites, in Australian Blue Gum) woodlands (Hyde, 1999). There are provides an important artificial food source for the State MDPA land. live, standing and fallen dead trees, providing habitat now only very small and highly fragmented and degraded vulnerable Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoo. Whilst it is particularly for birds, bats, small mammals and reptiles. patches within and surrounding the MDPA land. important to encourage the Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoo

134 Biodiversity Strategy - Biodiversity Planning 135 The low levels of remnancy displayed within the MDPA birds, mammals and reptiles moving across the landscape, and providing corridors and buffer zones linking remnant land reflect the damaging impacts initiated by farming may only require 40m (Horn, 2003), however a more patches, this will assist in maintaining threatened fauna practises since European settlement. The most important narrow corridor, particularly with an open understorey will species. Possingham and Field (2001) predicted that whilst implications relating to the level at which woodland less likely be successful than a wide corridor with a dense the Mt Lofty Ranges remnant vegetation sits under the communities have disappeared or have been degraded, understorey; it is also more susceptible to edge effects critical thresholds necessary to provide wildlife habitat, that is that management must emphasize the maintenance (predators, noise disturbance, light pollution, predators as many as 32 additional bird species will likely disappear of existing patches, as well as focus on the regeneration and invasive species). from the region. Restoring habitat therefore may provide a of areas between fragments, to increase native habitat critical refuge for populations of these species in the future. area, connectivity and ecosystem function. By increasing The Totness Recreation Park Management Plan (2007) the size of the woodland patches and remnants along states the importance of maintaining connectivity between Management requirements, applicable to remnant existing made and unmade roadsides, the number of other nearby vegetated areas to collectively form a vegetation throughout the Southern Lofty Ranges, broadly species they can support, will likely increase and the wildlife corridor, encouraging park managers to liaise with include the control of environmental weeds and feral negative impacts of ‘edge effects’ dissipate (Haddad, 2009). the owners and managers of adjacent areas regarding animals (particularly cats and foxes). It also outlines the Thus, future regeneration and restoration projects in the opportunities for collaborating on biodiversity conservation management of total grazing pressure (both introduced and area should ideally focus on enlarging or joining existing programs. Ultimately, the overall amount of habitat can native species), fire management, lack of habitat hollows remnant patches, with a view to increase the overall even be increased to the long-term benefit of the local and competition for existing hollows from introduced area of contiguous native forest. Revegetation using local native wildlife. species and revegetation to provide corridors and buffer provenance seed will improve the local biodiversity and zones (Armstrong et al, 2003). restore existing habitats or provide additional habitat In addition to encouraging the dispersal of wildlife across for native fauna species. It will also help in reinstating the landscape and connecting remnant patches, habitat The identification of five ‘corridor zones’ have been representative areas of the pre-European vegetation corridors can serve both as a refuge for native animals and highlighted in Figure 21. These ‘zones’ (Zones A-E) are associations. This can be achieved by reintroducing plant as a gene pool for recolonisation (DEH, 2007). Following the identified as key areas in which to direct biodiversity and species once common to the region, improving good 1983 Ash Wednesday bushfire, the southern portion of the conservation and/or recreation (open space). Management quality remnant vegetation by infilling and buffering existing Totness RP was burnt leaving the northern section intact options assigned to patches of remnant woodland, roadside remnants, and by establishing wildlife corridors and small due to the South Eastern Freeway providing a partial barrier vegetation and high density areas of scattered trees within clusters of vegetation as habitat refuge, for native fauna to the spread of fire throughout the whole park. While the the zones have been discussed in Table 32 species within areas devoid of native vegetation. southern section of the park has since recovered well, the adverse impacts on biodiversity of any future fires could Wildlife corridors, or ‘biodiversity corridors’, are areas be ameliorated by the restoration of other areas of native of land planted with local native vegetation, which can vegetation within the local area (DEH, 2007). help facilitate the movement of flora and fauna across the landscape. This will then allow wildlife to respond to Goolwa to Wellington Local Action Planning Association, environmental variability, population pressure and access in collaboration with local council, SAMDB Authorised a wider range of breeding partners, thus preventing Officer/s, District Ranger for Totness RP, local volunteers inbreeding and loss of genetic diversity in a and local flora experts with knowledge of the sites, recently local population. undertook a project focussing on restoring important remnants and creation of wildlife corridors (Flaxley to Creation of corridors will need to consider a number Totness Biodiversity Management Corridor). This was to of factors. The attributes of an effective corridor will improve the condition of various woodland communities essentially depend on the purpose of the corridor; what with biodiversity conservation significance (GWLAP, 2010). species are being catered for as native wildlife species The Biological Survey of the Southern Mount Lofty Ranges, require different corridor attributes in order to utilise it for South Australia (2003) recommends that by increasing movement and dispersal. A corridor width suitable for most the area of remnant vegetation, enhancing its condition,

136 Biodiversity Strategy - Biodiversity Planning 137 Recommendations for Private Land in MDPA Area

Patch # Description Broad management opportunities

Zone A – This area encompasses the larger remnants located north-west of the MDPA land. Totness RP and a number of privately owned blocks, including a Heritage Agreement. Many of the blocks are connected to the Totness RP and some are fragmented from the larger areas by open farming land and roads. Opportunities may exist to collaborate with external organisations to restore and further link the woodland communities within this valuable core habitat area.

34 Privately owned large remnant block of Eucalyptus Weed and feral animal management leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon / Eucalyptus obliqua +/- Eucalyptus fasciculosa woodland in moderate condition. High impacts from edge effects.

35 Privately owned Heritage Agreement containing good quality Protection and management of roadside vegetation Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon open woodland along Ironstone Road to maintain connection to Hawthorn Roadside reserve vegetation and Patch 34.

36 Privately owned small remnant adjacent Ironstone Road Weed and feral animal management containing degraded Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon open woodland Understorey revegetation with local natives

37 Privately owned large and good quality remnants connected Weed and feral animal management to Totness Range remnants at north-western corner of MDPA land. Contains Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon / Eucalyptus obliqua +/- Eucalyptus fasciculosa woodland

48 Fence line remnant on northern boundary of MDPA land Weed and feral animal management connected to Totness Range remnants at north-western corner - Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon / Eucalyptus Understorey revegetation with local natives obliqua +/- Eucalyptus fasciculosa woodland Buffering

49 Hawthorn Road reserve – containing Eucalyptus leucoxylon Weed and feral animal management ssp. leucoxylon / Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. cygnetensis woodland Understorey revegetation with local natives

Buffering

Connection opportunity to establish link with Patch 48

50 Patch of scattered Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon and Weed and feral animal management Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. cygnetensis on private land Understorey revegetation with local natives

Buffering

Connection opportunity to establish link with Hawthorn Road reserve (Patch 52) and Patch 51over the road

51 Patch of scattered degradedEucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. Weed and feral animal management camaldulensis and Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon on private land. No understorey remaining. Understorey revegetation with local natives

Buffering

Connection opportunity to establish link with Hawthorn Road reserve (Patch 52) and Patch 50 over the road

52 Patch of scattered degraded Scattered Eucalyptus Weed and feral animal management camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis and Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon with modified understorey. Understorey revegetation with local natives

138 Biodiversity Strategy - Biodiversity Planning 139 Patch # Description Broad management opportunities Patch # Description Broad management opportunities

64 Small patch of scattered Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. Weed management camaldulensis on edge of Hawthorn Road. Probably only providing low level of habitat or ‘stepping stones’ along Understorey revegetation with local natives 29 Patch east of Flaxley Road on private land (opposite Weed and feral animal management the roadside. Newenham Road) - Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon / Buffering Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. cygnetensis woodland, with Understorey revegetation with local natives highly degraded understorey. Several natives scattered Connection opportunity to establish link with in the understorey. Buffering Hawthorn Road reserve and large Totness Range remnant (Patch 37) along Hawthorn Road. Link with good quality roadside remnants in adjacent Flaxley Road (Patch 30) and Martin Road 66 Small patch of scattered Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. Weed management (Patch 33) and Newenham Road (Patch 43). leucoxylon on edge of Hawthorn Road. Probably only providing low level of habitat or ‘stepping stones’ along Understorey revegetation with local natives 30 Flaxley Road reserve - Good quality understorey comprising Sensitive weed and feral animal management the roadside. Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis and Eucalyptus Buffering leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon and Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. Buffering on cleared land to the east and link with cygnetensis woodland overstorey remnant (Patch 29) and Newenham Connection opportunity to establish link with Road (Patch 43). Hawthorn Road reserve and large Totness Range remnant (Patch 37) along Hawthorn Road. Protect site by including in RSMS

Concentration of scattered Significant and Regulated Trees Retain trees in open space, large residential blocks 32 Scattered Red Gums along Western Flat Creek and Weed and feral animal management between Hawthorn Road and Bollen Road. or road reserves. tributaries Revegetation with local natives in and around All other scattered trees Retain trees in open space, large residential blocks existing native plants or road reserves. Remove domestic grazing animals Zone B – This area encompasses the western section of the MDPA land where a number of good quality roadside reserves and degraded fragmented remnants are scattered throughout cleared land. The degraded Western Flat Creek and its small tributaries Flood buffering from residence traverse this zone. There are opportunities to restore and buffer and reconnect the network of corridors throughout this zone to help bridge some of the isolated remnants located in the south, with the core habitat areas within the Totness Range. Connection opportunity to establish link with Hawthorn Road reserve (Patch 52) and Patch 51over 22 Patch of scattered Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. Weed and feral animal management the road camaldulensis on private land. Modified understorey. Understorey revegetation with local natives Recreational opportunities for bike/walking patch on edge of revegetation corridor – should avoid ‘typical’ Buffering open space of lawn and ornamental plantings which threaten existing biodiversity at the site. Located along valuable roadside remnant (Hunt Road unmade road reserve (Patch 46)) Augmentation and translocation options for rare and threatened plant species should be investigated. 27 Unmade Road reserve (between Martin Road to Hunt Road) - Weed and feral animal management Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis and Eucalyptus Consider formalising as a future council nature leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon woodland with completely Understorey revegetation with local natives reserve modified understorey. Buffering Stabilize creek banks

Forms part of the roadside network connecting Great care also needs to be taken with redesigning remnant roadside reserves along Martin Road the Newenham Road entry so that valuable areas (Patch 33) and Hunt Road (Patch 45). with Blackwood, Wirilda, Mat-rush, lilies and grasses are retained. 28 Patch of scattered Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. Weed and feral animal management camaldulensis and Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. cygnetensis Rescue remnant indigenous flora that cannot be woodland adjacent Flaxley Road. Highly invaded by weeds, Understorey revegetation with local natives retained and translocate into reserves or safe but a number of native species persist in the understorey. suitable habitat nearby. Buffering 33 Martin Road reserve – reasonable remnant vegetation Weed and feral animal management Forms part of the roadside network connecting comprising Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis remnant roadside reserves along Flaxley Road and and Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon woodland. Buffering on cleared land to the south Martin Road (Patch 33). Understorey fairly disturbed by woody weeds, but many examples of native species persisting. Protect site by including in RSMS

40 Hunt Road Bush for Life Site containing Eucalyptus viminalis Continue weed and feral animal management ssp. cygnetensis open woodland over Allocasuarina verticillata. Site in very good condition and actively Link with extension of Hunt Road woodland managed. community and Flaxley Road.

140 Biodiversity Strategy - Biodiversity Planning 141 Patch # Description Broad management opportunities Patch # Description Broad management opportunities

43 Newenham Road contains degraded Eucalyptus viminalis Weed and feral animal management ssp. cygnetensis / Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis woodland with highly modified understorey. Understorey revegetation with local natives 60 Small patch of scattered Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. Weed and feral animal management High levels of woody weeds. leucoxylon with completely modified understorey. Buffering Understorey revegetation with local natives

Connection opportunity to establish link with Buffering and connection with adjacent Martin Flaxley Road remnant vegetation (Patch 30), Patch Road roadside reserve (Patch 33) 29 and Western Flat Creek to the west. 61 Flaxley Road reserve with scattered Eucalyptus Weed and feral animal management 45 Hunt Road reserve – good quality vegetation comprising Sensitive weed management camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis and Eucalyptus leucoxylon Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon open woodland. ssp. leucoxylon. Understorey in very poor condition. Understorey revegetation with local natives Low levels off weed invasion at this stage, but some small Feral animal management patches of Gorse and Blackberry establishing. Buffering Buffering Forms part of the roadside network connecting Connection opportunity to establish link with Hunt remnant roadside reserves along Flaxley Road Road Patch 46 and Patch 22 in adjacent paddock. (Patch 30), Patch 29 and Newenham Road Also forms part of the roadside network connecting (Patch 43). remnant roadside reserves along Barker Road (Patch 47), Fidler Lane, Martin Road (Patch 33) and 62 Small outlying patch of scattered Eucalyptus camaldulensis Weed management fence line remnant Patch 27. ssp. camaldulensis. Understorey completely modified. Understorey revegetation with local natives Protect remnant by including in RSMS and consider formalisation as important council nature Buffering and revegetation to link up with Old Mt conservation reserve Barker Road which connects up with Western Flat Creek. 46 Hunt Road / Fidler Lane reserve - good quality vegetation Sensitive weed management comprising Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis 64 Small patch of scattered Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. Weed management and Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon and Eucalyptus Feral animal management camaldulensis on private land located along small dammed viminalis ssp. cygnetensis woodland. Low levels off weed tributary of Western Flat Creek. Understorey completely Understorey revegetation with local natives invasion at this stage, but some small patches of Gorse and Buffering modified. Blackberry establishing. Buffering and revegetation opportunity to link small Connection opportunity to establish link with Hunt tributary to the main Western Flat Creek. Road Patch 45 and Patch 22 in adjacent paddock. Also forms part of the roadside network connecting 67 Patch of scattered Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. Weed management remnant roadside reserves along Barker Road (Patch camaldulensis on private land adjacent to Western Flat 47), Fidler Lane, Martin Road (Patch 33) and fence Creek tributary. Understorey completely modified. Understorey revegetation with local natives line remnant Patch 27. Buffering and revegetation opportunity to link small Protect remnant by including in RSMS and tributary to the main Western Flat Creek. consider formalisation as important council nature conservation reserve 68 Patch of scattered Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. Weed management camaldulensis on private land adjacent to Western Flat 47 Barker Road reserve – Roadside remnant in moderate Weed and feral animal management Creek tributary. Understorey completely modified. Understorey revegetation with local natives condition. Highly disturbed by weeds but with some evidence of native understorey persisting. Remnant Understorey revegetation with local natives Buffering and revegetation opportunity to link small comprises Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis and tributary to the main Western Flat Creek. Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon open woodland Buffering Numerous Significant and Regulated Trees scattered Retain trees in open space, large residential blocks Forms part of the roadside network connecting between Martin Road and Hunt Road and north and south of or road reserves. remnant roadside reserves along Martin Road Newenham Road. (Patches 59 and 33), Hunt Road (Patch 46) and Fidler Lane and larger remnants to the south (Patch 26). Numerous scattered trees scattered between Martin Road Retain trees in open space, large residential blocks and Hunt Road and north and south of Newenham Road. or road reserves. 59 Barker Road reserve - Roadside remnant comprises Weed and feral animal management camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis and Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon woodland in poor condition. Highly disturbed Understorey revegetation with local natives by weeds. Buffering

Forms part of the roadside network connecting remnant roadside reserves along Martin Road (Patch 33) and Fidler Lane.

142 Biodiversity Strategy - Biodiversity Planning 143 Patch # Description Broad management opportunities Patch # Description Broad management opportunities

Zone C – This area encompasses the central areas of the MDPA land where a number of good quality larger remnant blocks are 42 Victor Harbor railway corridor dominated by scattered Weed management and feral animal control situated south of the MDPA land. The Victor Harbor rail reserve and small degraded Mt Barker Creek tributaries run in a southerly Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis and Eucalyptus direction and present an opportunity to connect these remnants with the network of road reserves within Zone B leading north to leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon and scattered native understorey. Understorey revegetation with local natives the larger remnants in Zone A. Condition improves further south. Buffering 21 Small area located to the south of the MDPA land comprising Weed management and feral animal control scattered Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis Linkage opportunities with large woodland associated with degraded shallow watercourse. Highly Understorey revegetation with local natives remnants (Patches 26 and 22) and important disturbed with modified understorey. remnant vegetation along Native Avenue to Buffering the south.

Linkage opportunity to Victor Harbor railway Any future bike / walking paths should be aligned reserve to the west (Patch 41). adjacent to the reserve in cleared land.

22 Large area located to the south of the MDPA land comprising Weed management and feral animal control 58 Fidler Lane - Scattered Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. Weed and feral animal management scattered Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis with camaldulensis , Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon and a highly disturbed and modified understorey. A small shallow Understorey revegetation with local natives Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. cygnetensis Understorey revegetation with local natives watercourse occurs along the western edge in reasonable condition with a number of native species, including Buffering Buffering regionally threatened Triglochin procera, (Water Ribbons) (Patch 71). Currently grazed site. Linkage opportunity between Victor Harbor railway Forms part of the roadside network connecting reserve (Patch 41) and large woodland remnant to remnant roadside and railway reserves (Martin Road, the west (Patch 26). Barker Road, Hunt Road and Flaxley Road

25 Small area located to the south of the MDPA land comprising Weed management and feral animal control 69 Small patch of riparian grassland east of railway corridor Sensitive weed and feral animal management Scattered Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis and associated with Mt Barker Creek tributary. Contains regional Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon with a highly disturbed Understorey revegetation with local natives and state threatened plants in the understorey. Sensitive revegetation with local natives in and and modified understorey. Currently grazed site. around existing native plants Buffering Flood buffering from residence Linkage opportunity between large remnant Patch 26 and the Roadside reserve network in Zone B Should avoid ‘typical’ open space of lawn and (Fidler Lane (Patch 46) and Barker Road. ornamental plantings which threaten existing biodiversity at the site. 26 Large woodland remnant comprising Eucalyptus leucoxylon Weed management and feral animal control ssp. leucoxylon open woodland located to the south of the Augmentation and translocation options for MDPA land in moderate condition. Currently grazed. Understorey revegetation with local natives rare and threatened plant species should be investigated and moved into reserves or safe Buffering suitable habitat nearby.

Linkage opportunity south along Barker Road to Consider formalising as a future counci the important road reserve vegetation along Native nature reserve Avenue and north along Barker Road to link up with the road reserve network in Zone B (Fidler Lane Stabilize creek banks with indigenous shrubs (Patch 46) and Barker Road. (of local provenance)

31 Good quality remnant comprising Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. Sensitive weed management and feral animal 71 Located south of the MDPA land, the small watercourse • Weed management and feral animal leucoxylon open woodland either side of the Victor Harbor control comprises Triglochin procerum Herbland with scattered control railway reserve and the junction of Native Avenue. Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis along the • Understorey revegetation with local Buffering watercourse. Currently dammed at the northern end. natives • Buffering Linkage opportunity north along the Victor Harbor Linkage with Patch 22 directly to the south and railway reserve (Patch 41) and large woodland larger connection opportunities exist with the remnants (Patches 26 and 22) Victor Harbor railway reserve (Patch 41) and large woodland remnant to the west (Patch 26). 41 Victor Harbor railway corridor dominated by scattered Weed management and feral animal control Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis, Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon and Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. Understorey revegetation with local natives cygnetensis and scattered native understorey. Condition improves further south. Buffering

Linkage opportunities with large woodland remnants (Patches 26 and 22) and important remnant vegetation along Native Avenue to the south . Any future bike / walking patches should be aligned adjacent to the reserve in cleared land.

144 Biodiversity Strategy - Biodiversity Planning 145 Patch # Description Broad management opportunities Patch # Description Broad management opportunities

Zone D – This area encompasses the central eastern areas of the MDPA land where a number of small degraded remnants exist, 15 Small patch of Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis Weed management and feral animal control mainly with their original overstorey intact. These include a number of roadside reserves and small privately owned blocks and woodland on private land degraded section of Mt Barker Creek tributary. There are opportunities to restore creekline environs connecting some of the smaller Understorey revegetation with local natives remnants through the Mt Barker Golf Course to the main channel of Mt Barker Creek and the Laratinga Wetlands. Buffering 1 Degraded section of the Mt Barker Creek with scattered Weed management and feral animal control Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis Linkage opportunities along Paech Road roadside Understorey revegetation with local natives reserve to Patches 14 and 7 connecting to watercourse remnants associated with the Mt Buffering Barker Creek. Currently adjacent to remnant Patch 20 south of the MDPA land. Linkage along Mt Barker Creek to Laratinga Wetlands. 16 Small Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis woodland Weed management and feral animal control remnant located adjacent Mt Barker Creek tributary east of 2 Patch of Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis Weed management and feral animal control Wellington Road. Disturbed and highly modified understorey. Understorey revegetation with local natives open woodland on private land located adjacent the Mt Barker Creek Understorey revegetation with local natives Buffering

Buffering Linkage opportunities to the Mt Barker Creek tributary connecting to other woodland remnants Linkage opportunities to nearby Mt Barker Creek leading up to Mt Barker Creek and the Laratinga to Laratinga Wetlands. Wetlands.

6 Highly degraded tributary of the Mt Barker Creek comprising Weed management and feral animal control 17 Wellington Road / Harrop Road reserve – degraded Weed management and feral animal control scattered Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis open Understorey revegetation with local natives woodland. Understorey revegetation with local natives

Flood buffering from residence Linkage opportunities to the overstorey remnants along Wellington Road and to the Mt Barker Linkage opportunities to Mt Barker Creek to Creek tributary (Patches 14 and 4) by potentially Laratinga Wetlands via native and non-local connecting Patches 56 and 16. overstorey vegetation within the Mt Barker Golf course 18 Patch of Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis and Weed management and feral animal control Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon open woodland Flood buffering from residence on private land in poor condition with a highly modified Understorey revegetation with local natives understorey. Stabilize creek banks with indigenous shrubs Linkage opportunities to Patch 17 to the east and (of local provenance) to the overstorey remnants along Wellington Road and to the Mt Barker Creek tributary (Patches 14 7 Patch of Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis and Weed management and feral animal control and 4) by potentially connecting Patches 56 and 16. Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon open woodland on private land in poor condition with completely modified Understorey revegetation with local natives 19 Located to the south of the MDPA land the Harrop Road Sensitive weed and feral animal management understorey. remnant contains good quality patches of Eucalyptus Buffering leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon / Eucalyptus fasciculosa open Buffering woodland over Allocasuarina verticillata and Acacia Linkage opportunities to Mt Barker Creek tributary paradoxa Protect site by including in RSMS (Patch 4). Linkage opportunities to Patches 17 and 18 14 Currently grazed and highly degraded watercourse Weed management and feral animal control to the north and to the overstorey remnants comprising Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis along Wellington Road and to the Mt Barker woodland overstorey Understorey revegetation with local natives Creek tributary (Patches 14 and 4) by potentially connecting Patches 56 and 16. Linkage opportunities to Mt Barker Creek tributary (Patch 4) and Remnant woodland Patch 7. 20 Located to the south of the MDPA land. Degraded Weed management and feral animal control remnant patch containing Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. Flood buffering from residence camaldulensis open woodland connected to Patch 15. Understorey revegetation with local natives

Stabilize creek banks with indigenous shrubs (of Buffering local provenance) Linkage opportunities along with Patch 15 to Paech Road roadside reserve to Patches 14 and 7 connecting to watercourse remnants associated with the Mt Barker Creek.

146 Biodiversity Strategy - Biodiversity Planning 147 Patch # Description Broad management opportunities Patch # Description Broad management opportunities

23 Patch of degraded but valuable Callitris gracilis / Weed and feral animal management Potts Road contains remnant scattered Eucalyptus Weed and feral animal management Allocasuarina verticillata / Eucalyptus fasciculosa woodland camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis and Eucalyptus leucoxylon +/- Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon on private land. Buffering ssp. leucoxylon with a highly degraded understorey. Buffering

Understorey revegetation with local natives Understorey revegetation with local natives

Linkage opportunities to overstorey remnants along Linkage opportunities to overstorey remnants along Wellington Road (Patches 57, 24 and 55) and to the Paech Road and Wellington Road remnant. Also to Mt Barker Creek tributary (Patches 14 and 4). Patches a shallow tributary associated with the Mt Barker Creek (Patch 14). 24 Patch of degraded Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon Weed and feral animal management open woodland on private land. Some natives in the Numerous Significant and Regulated Trees scattered either Retain trees in open space, large residential blocks understorey. Buffering side of Wellington Road, south of Simms Road and east of or road reserves. Paech Road. Understorey revegetation with local natives Numerous scattered trees scattered either side of Wellington Retain trees in open space, large residential blocks or Linkage opportunities to overstorey remnants along Road, south of Simms Road and east of Paech Road. road reserves. Wellington Road (Patches 57, 23 and 55) and to the Mt Barker Creek tributary (Patches 14 and 4). Zone E – This area encompasses the eastern section of the MDPA land where a number of degraded remnant blocks are situated within and adjacent the MDPA land. A small degraded Mt Barker Creek tributary traverses mainly cleared land, but presents 54 Simms Road reserve contains scattered Eucalyptus Weed and feral animal management opportunity to connect some of the existing overstorey remnants with the network of road reserves leading north-east to the core camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis with highly degraded habitat areas associated with the Mt Barker Summit. understorey Buffering 4 Scattered Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis along Weed management and feral animal control Understorey revegetation with local natives degraded watercourse (Mt Barker Creek tributary) Understorey revegetation with local natives Potential linkage opportunities if extension of Sims Road is revegetated to watercourse remnant (Patch Linkage opportunities to Mt Barker Creek and 6) connecting onto the Mt Barker Golf Course. remnant woodland Patches in the south-east of the MDPA land. 55 Wellington Road highly degraded remnant consisting of Weed and feral animal management scattered Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis and Flood buffering from residence Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon Buffering Stabilize creek banks with indigenous shrubs (of Understorey revegetation with local natives local provenance)

Linkage opportunities to overstorey remnants along 5 Patch of degraded scattered Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. Weed and feral animal management Wellington Road (Patches 24, 57 and 23) and to the leucoxylon on private land Mt Barker Creek tributary (Patches 14 and 4). Buffering

56 Small highly degraded remnant consisting of scattered Weed and feral animal management Understorey revegetation with local natives Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis and Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon with completely modified Buffering Linkage opportunities to shallow tributary understorey. associated with the Mt Barker Creek (Patch 4). Understorey revegetation with local natives 8 Planted Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon, Eucalyptus Weed and feral animal management Linkage opportunities to overstorey remnants along viminalis ssp. cygnetensis / Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. Wellington Road (Patches 24, 57 and 23). Also to camaldulensis open woodland over Acacia paradoxa and Buffering Patch 16 which is adjacent to a shallow tributary Allocasuarina verticillata along fenceline. Very weedy in the associated with the Mt Barker Creek (Patch 14). understorey. Infilling understorey with local native revegetation

57 Wellington Road reserve containing scattered Eucalyptus Weed and feral animal management Linkage opportunities to numerous woodland leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon. Highly disturbed understorey. remnants (Patches 9, 10, 70 and 12) as well as Buffering remnant vegetation along Harper Road (Patch 53)

Understorey revegetation with local natives 9 Patch of degraded Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon / Weed and feral animal management Eucalyptus fasciculosa open woodland over Acacia paradoxa Linkage opportunities to overstorey remnants along on private land Buffering Wellington Road (Patches 23, 24, and 55). Also to Patches 56 and 16 which connects onto a shallow Understorey revegetation with local natives tributary associated with the Mt Barker Creek (Patch 14). Linkage opportunities to numerous woodland remnants (Patches 10, 70 and 12) as well as remnant vegetation along Harper Road (Patch 53) and planted Patch 8.

148 Biodiversity Strategy - Biodiversity Planning 149 Patch # Description Broad management opportunities Patch # Description Broad management opportunities

10 Patch of Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis and Weed and feral animal management 70 Patch of scattered Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. Weed and feral animal management Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon open woodland on camaldulensis on private land in close proximity to other private land Buffering woodland patches. Buffering

Understorey revegetation with local natives Understorey revegetation with local natives

Linkage opportunities to numerous woodland Linkage opportunities to numerous woodland remnants (Patches 9, 10, 70 and 12) as well as remnants (Patches 9, 10, 11 and 12) connecting remnant vegetation along Harper Road (Patch 53) to core habitat areas surrounding the Mt Barker Summit via the Mt Barker Creek environs. 11 Located directly to the east of the MDPA land, this small Weed and feral animal management remnant patch of Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. cygnetensis / Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis open woodland Buffering is in poor condition with a highly modified understorey. Understorey revegetation with local natives

Linkage opportunities to numerous woodland remnants (Patches 9, 10, 70 and 12) as well as remnant vegetation along Harper Road (Patch 53) leading up to core habitat areas surrounding the Mt Barker Summit.

12 Patch of Eucalyptus viminalis ssp. cygnetensis open Weed and feral animal management woodland over Allocasuarina verticillata on private land. Many planted non-local natives as well as remnant species in Buffering the understorey. Understorey revegetation with local natives

Linkage opportunities to numerous woodland remnants (Patches 9, 10 and 70) as well as remnant vegetation along Harper Road (Patch 53) leading up to core habitat areas surrounding the Mt Barker Summit.

13 Located directly to the east of the MDPA land, this Weed and feral animal management small remnant consists of Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis and Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon Buffering open woodland. It is in poor condition with a highly modified understorey. Understorey revegetation with local natives

Linkage opportunities to numerous woodland remnants (Patches 9, 10, 4 and 70) as well as remnant vegetation along Harper Road (Patch 53) leading up to core habitat areas surrounding the Mt Barker Summit.

44 Located to the north-east of the MDPA land, this degraded Weed and feral animal management remnant is associated with the Mt Barker Creek. Buffering

Understorey revegetation with local natives

Linkage opportunities patches and smaller tributaries further south and connecting on to core habitat areas surrounding the Mt Barker Summit.

53 Roadside reserve contains scattered remnant Scattered Weed and feral animal management Eucalyptus camaldulensis ssp. camaldulensis and Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. leucoxylon along Harper Road. Buffering

Understorey revegetation with local natives

Linkage opportunities to numerous woodland remnants (Patches 9, 10, 11, 12 and 70) connecting to core habitat areas surrounding the Mt Barker Summit via the Mt Barker Creek environs.

150 Biodiversity Strategy - Biodiversity Planning 151 KEY THEME 5: URBAN DEVELOPMENT (MDPA LAND) (MDPA DEVELOPMENT KEY THEME 5: URBAN Action of Adelaide, 2010) Report (University Planning Landscape Mt Barker Group/ Reference Biodiversity from Recommendations areas. urban protected into to incorporate exists opportunity A protection SA) for (vulnerable remnant listed state existing and restore protect Retain, realigning driveways and buffering and consider relics woodland diverse Protect be retained needs to canopy tree but relict grazed Currently canopy eucalypt remnant valuable and protect Retain network corridor wider into and incorporate understorey and scattered vegetation remnant Protect Scheme Marker Roadside in Council’s remnant reserve Road Flaxley and register property in private Blue Gum patch Retain land) (align in adjoining cleared development trail recreational should not be used for remnants Important vegetation remnant of and protection restoration Immediate reserves road and blocks residential in open space, larger Retention vegetation. riparian provenance with local banks stabilise and Restore paths. bike not just revegetation, quality local good wide enough for reserves all riparian corridor Make restored could be area and affected in the exist still of this land feature relics Degrader possible) collect seed(where or and placed in other habitat council nursery in to be hospitalised flora native All reasonable zoning Totness along south side of urban from connection woodland encourage to Work with landholders areas. revegetation new and remnants existing of and enhancement Creation area and Mt Barker Farm Organic Bio Park to through flora native urban and manage establish to areas and protected urban to manage and Land Management’ team council ‘Conservation experienced and trained of a dedicated Creation sites for urban biodiversity flora local to propagate and rescued plants for hospitalising nursery flora run local a council Have SA Calendar) Butterfly to (Refer yards (smaller) in urban host plants by planting moths and butterflies Encourage gardens new in not permitted varieties weed Noxious for animals impose curfews number per household and/or cat on Restrictions “To promote urban develop that avoids the loss of biodiversity “ that avoids urban develop promote “To BIODIVERSITY PLANNING│ BIODIVERSITY

152 Biodiversity Strategy - Biodiversity Planning 153 LINK TO STRATEGIC PLAN STRATEGIC LINK TO - Integrate human environments with natural areas areas with natural human environments - Integrate NE 3.2 principles using urban ecology built and between and interfaces - Design buffers NE 3.3 areas natural - Demonstrate leadership in sustainability, in sustainability, leadership - Demonstrate NE 1.1 and protection enhancement environmental areas with natural human environments - Integrate NE 3.2 principles using urban ecology - Demonstrate leadership in sustainability, in sustainability, leadership - Demonstrate NE 1.1 and protection enhancement environmental awareness and education environmental - Promote NE 3.1 and areas and use of natural understanding - Promote NE 3.1 learning opportunities provide its impact regarding awareness community - Increase NE 3.5 environment on the natural to attitudes and community behaviours - Influence NE 3.6 targets environmental global and local achieve - Demonstrate leadership in sustainability, in sustainability, leadership - Demonstrate NE 1.1 and protection enhancement environmental awareness and education environmental NE3.1 Promote and areas and use of natural understanding - Promote NE 3.1 learning opportunities provide its impact regarding awareness community - Increase NE 3.5 environment on the natural to attitudes and community behaviours - Influence NE 3.6 targets environmental global and local achieve LINK TO STRATEGIC PLAN STRATEGIC LINK TO - Ensure up-to-date knowledge and understanding of and understanding knowledge up-to-date - Ensure NE 4.1 context and conditions environmental and risks to environmental respond and - Identify NE 4.2 vulnerabilities - Ensure up-to-date knowledge and understanding of and understanding knowledge up-to-date - Ensure NE 4.1 context and conditions environmental and risks to environmental respond and - Identify NE 4.2 vulnerabilities - Demonstrate leadership in sustainability, in sustainability, leadership - Demonstrate NE1.1 and protection enhancement environmental awareness and education environmental - Promote NE3.1 and areas and use of natural understanding - Promote NE 3.1 learning opportunities provide its impact regarding awareness community - Increase NE 3.5 environment on the natural to attitudes and community behaviours - Influence NE 3.6 targets environmental global and local achieve involvement volunteer and support active - Facilitate NE 3.7 and in preserving, rehabilitating the community from environment enhancing the natural FUNDING SOURCE Existing Existing budgets Staff time Staff Existing budgets Existing Existing budgets Existing Existing budgets FUNDING SOURCE 2017/2018 Staff time Staff Existing Existing budgets PARTNERS Community Groups - Local schools Local Wider community PARTNERS Medium Bush For Life Bush For To Goolwa Wellington Action Local Planning Inc NRM Landcare/ Bushcare Groups Threatened Action Plant Group NRM SA Birds RESPONSIBILITY Open Space & Environment Open Space & Environment (PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT Community & Customer SERVICES) Services (COUNCIL Open Space & Environment Open Space & Environment (PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT) & Strategy Policy (PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT) & Community Customer SERVICES) Services (COUNCIL Open Space & Environment Open Space & Environment (PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT) Open Space & Environment Open Space & Environment (PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT) RESPONSIBILITY Open Space & Environment Open Space & Environment (PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT Open Space & Environment Open Space & Environment (PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT) (COUNCIL IT Systems SERVICES) Open Space & Environment Open Space & Environment (PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT) Community & Customer SERVICES) Services (COUNCIL Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing programs programs Yearly as a Yearly Yearly as a Yearly 2017/2018 2017/2018 TIMEFRAME TIMEFRAME part of existing part of existing part of existing part of existing PRIORITY Low Medium High Low PRIORITY Medium Medium Medium │KEY THEME 6: BALANCED LAND USE│ │KEY THEME 6: BALANCED Education to schools on Education of high conservation areas value Minimising destruction Minimising destruction by vegetation of good alternate providing has minimal that areas and environmental value biodiversity Provision of enough open Provision considers space that and biodiversity recreation values ACTION Encouraging Encouraging friendly environmentally activities such recreational bushcare, watching, as bird projects, revegetation fish monitoring, water clean up days, surveys, etc. friends of groups Develop a database to to a database Develop on flora, information store and link etc. weeds, fauna, files. property to Liaise with GIS Officer and present capture to and data biodiversity effectively. information Interpretive signage along signage Interpretive trails. ACTION LU3 LU2 LU1 LU4 LU7 LU6 LU5 “To protect and enhance biodiversity outcomes by encouraging and supporting community participation and strengthening partnerships” community participation and and supporting encouraging by biodiversity outcomes and enhance protect “To BIODIVERSITY PLANNING BIODIVERSITY

154 Biodiversity Strategy - Biodiversity Planning 155 LINK TO STRATEGIC PLAN STRATEGIC LINK TO - Demonstrate leadership in sustainability, in sustainability, leadership - Demonstrate NE1.1 and protection enhancement environmental initiatives restoration and protection - Lead biodiversity NE 1.2 of and understanding knowledge up-to-date - Ensure NE 4.1 context and conditions environmental and risks to environmental respond and - Identify NE 4.2 vulnerabilities - Ensure up-to-date knowledge and understanding of and understanding knowledge up-to-date - Ensure NE 4.1 context and conditions environmental and risks to environmental respond and - Identify NE 4.2 vulnerabilities - Ensure up-to-date knowledge and understanding of and understanding knowledge up-to-date - Ensure NE 4.1 context and conditions environmental and risks to environmental respond and - Identify NE 4.2 vulnerabilities to practices policy and operational strategy, - Evolve NE 4.3 change to climate responses adaptive appropriate ensure in sustainability, leadership - Demonstrate NE 1.1 and protection enhancement environmental initiatives restoration and protection - Lead biodiversity NE 1.2 - Conserve water, maximise recycled water use and water recycled maximise water, - Conserve NE 2.4 Urban Design Sensitive Water appropriate practice issues on local research - Support environmental NE 1.4 - Demonstrate leadership in sustainability, in sustainability, leadership - Demonstrate NE 1.1 and protection enhancement environmental initiatives restoration and protection - Lead biodiversity NE 1.2 awareness and education environmental - Promote NE 1.3 its impact regarding awareness community - Increase NE 3.5 environment on the natural to attitudes and community behaviours - Influence NE 3.6 targets environmental global and local achieve waste practice and enable best practice - Promote, NE 2.5 systems recycling reduction and waste minimisation, - Demonstrate leadership in sustainability, in sustainability, leadership - Demonstrate NE 1.1 and protection enhancement environmental initiatives restoration and protection - Lead biodiversity NE 1.2 awareness and education environmental - Promote NE 1.3 its impact regarding awareness community - Increase NE 3.5 environment on the natural to attitudes and community behaviours - Influence NE 3.6 targets environmental global and local achieve use and water recycled maximise water, - Conserve NE 2.4 Urban Design Sensitive Water appropriate practice waste practice and enable best practice - Promote, NE 2.5 systems recycling reduction and waste minimisation, - Conserve water, maximise recycled water use and water recycled maximise water, - Conserve NE 2.4 Urban Design Sensitive Water appropriate practice waste practice and enable best practice - Promote, NE 2.5 systems recycling reduction and waste minimisation, in sustainability, leadership - Demonstrate NE 1.1 and protection enhancement environmental issues on local research - Support environmental NE 1.4 FUNDING SOURCE Internal Internal existing budgets time Staff Internal Internal existing & budgets projects Internal Internal existing budgets time Staff Internal existing budgets Internal Internal existing budgets Internal existing budgets Internal Internal existing budgets Internal existing budgets time Staff Internal Internal existing budgets Internal existing budgets Internal Internal existing budgets Internal existing budgets time Staff PARTNERS - - NRM - - Educational Institutions Goolwa To To Goolwa Wellington Action Local Planning Inc NRM Native Vegetation Council - - 20/20/20 Project NRM RESPONSIBILITY Open Space & Environment Open Space & Environment (PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT) Planning & Economic (PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT) Open Space & Environment Open Space & Environment (PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT) And Strategy Policy (PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT) Open Space & Environment Open Space & Environment (PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT) Planning & Economic (PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT) Open Space & Environment (PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT) And Strategy Policy (PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT) Capital Programs Programs Capital (INFRASTRUCTURE & PROJECTS) Open Space & Environment (PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT) Open Space & Environment (PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT) Open Space & Environment Open Space & Environment (PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT) Open Space & Environment (PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT) Open Space & Environment Open Space & Environment (PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT) Field Services (COUNCIL SERVICES) And Strategy Policy (PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT) Open Space & Environment (PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT) Open Space & Environment Open Space & Environment (PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT) Open Space & Environment Open Space & Environment (PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT) SP arise Ongoing As projects As projects 2017/2018 2016/2017 2015/2016 2016/2017 2017/2018 2016/2018 2016/2017 2017/2018 2016/2018 2017/2018 TIMEFRAME PRIORITY Medium High High High Medium Medium High High Low High High Medium 7: SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT 7: SUSTAINABLE Develop Indictors Indictors Develop health on ecological the district throughout effectively be able to to and trends evaluate progress. Identify areas that should that areas Identify and not be preserved developed Review SAMDBNRM SAMDBNRM Review Plan for Change Climate and information relevant action development Incorporate include to approvals protect that conditions on vegetation native adjoining land from (dumping of fill, damage of spread rubbish, water, weeds) Changes in rainfall/runoff in rainfall/runoff Changes (modelling and study) with research Partner to investigate organisations the impacts of light and noise pollution of biodiversity Demonstration sites for sites Demonstration biodiversity backyard for checklist Developer VEGETATION NRM, NATIVE and ESD. COUNCIL Provide native plants for plants native Provide encourage to residents in backyards. biodiversity high have to Developers efficient energy/water light (reduce properties Solar pollution, solar, design, rainwater passive plants) native tanks, More resilience and resilience More for climate connectivity resilience change cover Mapping canopy climate/heat. versus ACTION SD12 SD11 SD5 SD10 SD4 SD9 SD3 SD8 SD2 SD7 SD1 SD6 “To adopt, implement and promote best practise ecological sustainable development principles” development sustainable practise ecological best and promote implement adopt, “To BIODIVERSITY PLANNING│KEY THEME BIODIVERSITY

156 Biodiversity Strategy - Biodiversity Planning 157 to volunteers and reports to Council on site issues and Goolwa to Wellington Local Action Planning Association activities. Council staff liaise with the regional coordinator (GWLAP) has enjoyed an excellent relationship with local on a regular basis to review existing sites and add new government since incorporation of the group in 1998. sites where possible. In 2014 a total of 2,544 hours was The District Council of Mount Barker has been a key BIODIVERSITY PLANNING contributed by volunteers, the Regional Coordinator and stakeholder in the GWLAP area and has seen us work ‘Bush Action Teams’ on site specific onground field work. closely with various staff to manage natural resources. We This is equivalent to a $120,420 to the district. have had a council representative on the GWLAP board of 6.0 Partnerships 6.1 Organisational Partnerships directors for much of our existence which has assisted us 6.1.2 Goolwa to Wellington Local Action greatly in the integration of local government objectives Generally, biodiversity preservation is targeted at large 6.1.1 Trees For Life (TFL) and Bush For Life (BFL) Planning Group (GWLAP) and views and helped us deliver more to our programs; and relatively undisturbed habitats (Alvey 2006), or particularly regarding biodiversity conservation works. at least public areas with some remnant vegetation. Trees for Life (TFL) began in 1981 when Lolo Houbein and The Goolwa to Wellington Local Action Planning Utilising all types and conditions of greenspaces such as Burr Dodd gathered some friends to coordinate a visit to Association Inc is a not for profit community organisation GWLAP Project Officers have and continue to work closely parks, reserves, sporting fields, green corridors, irrigated South Australia by Richard St. Barbe Baker, founder of the that works across more than 265,000ha encompassing all with council environmental staff to provide input into agricultural areas and private gardens in residential, international environmental organisation Men of the Trees the plains and catchments running into Lake Alexandrina planning processes, take part in roadside vegetation industrial and commercial areas (Taylor, 2013) is – here the “South Australian branch of Men of the Trees” between Goolwa and Wellington. We work with local management planning, high and assist in addressing issues important for biodiversity refuge and connectivity. Urban was formed, now known as Trees For Life. communities to protect and restore biodiversity and of common concern regarding biodiversity management. greenspace plays an important functional role in urban sustainably manage our natural resources. Our vision is to landscapes by providing services such as the mitigation The first tree was planted on One Tree Hill in 1982 but create an environment where human activity and natural In the past the GWLAP has assisted the council in the of flooding and erosion, the collection of airborne and over 30 million trees, shrubs and grasses followed, forming ecosystems can sustainably co-exist. GWLAP works with delivery of a number of funding programs. A snapshot of waterborne contaminants, and provision of wildlife wind breaks, erosion control, new forests, and buffers for a wide range of community groups, local government, some more recent projects are listed below. habitat (Barnett G, Doherty M & Beaty M, n.d). the few remaining stands of original vegetation. landholders and individuals to deliver priority on-ground The protection and enhancement of biodiversity is works involving revegetation, soils management, remnant Buffers for Biodiversity the joint responsibility of all levels of government, Since then the work has extended into bush care to vegetation and lake-shore fencing, bush-care weed control the private sector and the community. protect and conserve valuable remnant vegetation. The and a wide range of education and engagement activities The GWLAP worked closely to involve and link local Bush For Life program was started in 1994 to help people including workshops, field days, training events and landholders in the district to the Buffers For Biodiversity take practical steps to conserve our bushland. planting activities. GWLAP receives funding from a wide project, which assisted in buffering and managing range of sources including Commonwealth, State and Local important roadside vegetation through fencing and the Across the 21 BFL sites there are 60 active volunteers Government and also undertakes a range of fee for service undertaking of revegetation using local native species. supported by a regional volunteer coordinator. The works and the delivery of corporate funded projects with Funding was also provided to undertake bushcare on key regional coordinator provides training, onground support community involvement along the way. roadsides and adjoining reserves and acheived a great

158 Biodiversity Strategy - Partnerships 159 deal for the Mount Barker area, particularly around Flaxley Mount Compass to Meadows government and non government organisations and weeding, revegetation, seed propagation, field visits, and Kanmantoo. This project worked in conjunction with Biodiversity Links Project groups. This will ensure a collaboratively approach to environmental monitoring, education, photography the Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure knowledge and management of biodiversity and maximise and professional environmental feedback. Participation (DPTI), Council staff and local landholders. Funded by the commonwealth government this $840,000 effort and value of funds. includes individual residents and groups that include: large scale biodiversity project, is implementing priority Meadows Creek Water Quality weed control and fencing to protect more than 2200ha The Mount Barker District Council has relatively large areas • Friends of Coppin’s Bush improvement project 2009 of high biodiversity value remnant vegetation across of habitat and conservation value. Successful biodiversity • Macclesfield Bushcare Group the landscape through multiple properties between the management takes ongoing effort and requires skilled • Nairne Creek Landcare Group This project was funded by the District Council of Mount townships of Mount Compass to Meadows. Several Mount on-ground resources familiar with endemic plant species • Dawesley Creek Catchment Landcare Group Barker and achieved over 5km of fencing, planted 11,000 Barker Council bushland reserves are receiving funding to and minimal disturbance bushcare techniques. As Council • Flaxley Landcare Group, local native plants and undertook over 250 hours of woody undertake bushcare works including Mount Ephraim and resources are limited, external funding would enable a • Kanmantoo/Callington Landcare Group weed control across more than 100ha of watercourse in Survey Hill at Prospect Hill. GWLAP has also addressed more expansive biodiversity program. Grant funding is • Northern Bremer Catchment Group the Meadows Creek Catchment. A highlight of this project several outlier woody weed populations in the Mount available to Local Government with differing assessment • Hahndorf Landcare Group was the involvement of the Meadows Primary School and Barker Council area through this project. Several national criteria, partnerships, amount available and delivery • Nairne Green Thumbs local residents Mike and Lynn Bartlett in the revegetation parks are also receiving significant restoration through mechanisms. The development of this Strategy will stand • Laratinga Volunteer Group of Battunga Park in the Meadows township, with strong this program including Cox Scrub, Finniss Conservation the Council in a better position to undertake a project • Local schools council support and involvement. Park, Mount Magnificent Conservation Park and Kyeema that aligns with State and Federal biodiversity • Sports clubs Conservation park. management objectives. • church groups Riparian restoration in the Rodwell and • Lions Clubs Mount Barker Creek Catchments The GWLAP has also recently been involved in a number 6.3 Community Partnerships • Birds SA Birdwatchers of activities with the Mount Barker council including a staff • Friends of Goyder Reserve This project worked over several years to undertake tree planting and team building day, input into planning of The Mount Barker district is also fortunate to have an • BFL/TFL members significant revegetation, fencing and restoration of the Big Green and the Biodiversity Strategy, involvement of active, experienced and skilled conservation community. • GWLAP volunteers watercourses in the Rodwell and Mount Barker Creek Greenarmy in planting and weed control and involvement Clear roles and responsibilities between these numerous • Landholders Catchments to improvement water quality and biodiversity. in a range of other activities involving seed collection, organisations and groups ensure that resources and The project has worked closely with the District Council of vegetation surveys, fee for service contracts and the actions are coordinated way in order to achieve maximum Patterns of biodiversity have been influenced by Mount Barker to undertake extensive weed control and involvement in a number of urban biodiversity projects biodiversity benefit. vegetation selection and maintenance with direct revegetation in the watercourse running through Anembo and actions. relationships between species richness and these factors. Park; Littlehampton and areas of the Mount Barker Creek. Council has developed an extensive revegetation program An opportunity exists to encourage residents to select The project involved sporting clubs, schools, Greenarmy 6.2 Government Partnerships that aims to contribute to biodiversity outcomes aesthetics native vegetation to increase biodiversity and enhance and various sponsors and has greatly improved the and beautification of the area. The program relies and connectivity between habitats. biodiversity, aesthetics and partnerships in the area. Works The SA MDBNRM board and the AMLR NRM boards forms strong partnerships with community groups and have also undertaken threat abatement on several council partner with council to achieve biodiversity outcomes volunteers. The program attracts an average of 800 The actions liated in the action plan will protect and owned reserves and improved collaboration with council across the region. Most major external grants also volunteers, with around 10,000 native seedlings planted enhance biodiversity outcomes by encouraging and regarding their management. Fish monitoring has been specify partnerships as one of the assessment criteria. each year. There are numerous groups and volunteers supporting community participation and strengthening undertaken in 45 pools along the Mount Barker Creek and If these relationships and partnerships already exist and through the district, including activities such as bushcare, government and community partnerships. has provided an excellent base line for informing future are delivering outcomes in a coordinated manner, they works and upcoming developments in the Mount Barker increase the chances of success in grant applications. area. Although recently completed in 2015, this project continues to have involvement from the GWLAP, District A combined commitment between all stakeholders council of Mount Barker and various other groups through enhances the effectiveness of each effort. In addition working bees and educational activities. to engaging and educating the wider community on the protection and enhancement of biodiversity, it is essential to maintain and strength the relationships with

160 Biodiversity Strategy - Partnerships 161

areas and areas Promote understanding and use of natural areas and areas and use of natural understanding Promote its impact regarding awareness community Increase Demonstrate leadership in sustainability, in sustainability, leadership Demonstrate initiatives restoration and protection Lead biodiversity awareness and education environmental Promote and areas and use of natural understanding Promote its impact regarding awareness community Increase to attitudes and community behaviours Influence involvement volunteer and support active Facilitate knowledge up-to-date Ensure in sustainability, leadership Demonstrate - Demonstrate leadership in sustainability, in sustainability, leadership - Demonstrate NE 1.1 and protection enhancement environmental areas with natural human environments - Integrate NE 3.2 principles using urban ecology built and between and interfaces - Design buffers NE 3.3 areas natural and areas and use of natural understanding - Promote NE 3.1 learning opportunities provide its impact regarding awareness community - Increase NE 3.5 environment on the natural to attitudes and community behaviours - Influence NE 3.6 targets environmental global and local achieve NE 3.1 - learning opportunities provide NE 3.5 - environment on the natural to attitudes and community behaviours NE 3.6 - Influence targets environmental global and local achieve Integrate human environments with natural areas areas with natural human environments NE 3.2 - Integrate principles using urban ecology built and between and interfaces NE 3.3 - Design buffers areas natural LINK TO STRATEGIC PLAN STRATEGIC LINK TO - Demonstrate leadership in sustainability, in sustainability, leadership - Demonstrate NE1.1 and protection enhancement environmental initiatives restoration and protection - Lead biodiversity NE 1.2 awareness and education environmental - Promote NE 1.3 and use of natural understanding - Promote NE 3.1 learning opportunities provide its impact regarding awareness community - Increase NE 3.5 environment on the natural to attitudes and community behaviours - Influence NE 3.6 targets environmental global and local achieve involvement volunteer and support active - Facilitate NE 3.7 and in preserving, rehabilitating the community from environment enhancing the natural responses adaptive knowledge up-to-date - Ensure NE 4.1 change climate to NE 1.1 - and protection enhancement environmental NE 1.2 - NE 1.3 - NE 3.1 - learning opportunities provide NE 3.5 - environment on the natural NE 3.6 - targets environmental global and local achieve NE 3.7 - and in preserving, rehabilitating the community from environment enhancing the natural NE 4.1 - change to climate responses adaptive NE 1.1 - and protection enhancement environmental FUNDING SOURCE New New Initiative Existing budgets time Staff time Staff time Staff Existing programs & budget Existing programs & budget Staff time/ Staff New initiative PARTNERS Community - - - Life Bush For To Goolwa Wellington Action Local Planning Inc and Landcare Bushcare groups Peramangk people Peramangk people Landholders Native Vegetation Council │ RESPONSIBILITY Open Space & Environment (PLANNING & DVELOPMENT) Open Space & Environment (PLANNING & DVELOPMENT) Open Space & Environment (PLANNING & DVELOPMENT) Open Space & Environment (PLANNING & DVELOPMENT) Open Space & Environment (PLANNING & DVELOPMENT) Community & Customer SERVICES) Services (COUNCIL Community & Customer SERVICES) Services (COUNCIL Open Space & Environment (PLANNING & DVELOPMENT) 2017/218 2016/217 2015/2016 2017/2018 2015/2016 2016/2018 2017/2018 2017/2018 TIMEFRAME PRIORITY High Medium High Low High High Medium High KEY THEME 8: COMMUNITY EDUCATION AND PARTNERSHIPS EDUCATION KEY THEME 8: COMMUNITY Citizen Science Project for Project Science Citizen register Tree community Target plan engagement Set up biodiversity up biodiversity Set - water, (email) network individuals) to landcare, biodiversity communicate plan and other ideas plan on website Ensure owned/ all council Ensure remnant managed have patches vegetation specific management site plans. cultural Indigenous sessions awareness should be held for and staff. community Liaise with the Peramangk incorporate people to culture. indigenous an incentive Provide of the development for plans on management with property private and high conservation value. biodiversity ACTION EP1 EP4 EP2 EP3 EP5 EP6 EP7 EP8 BIODIVERSITY PLANNING│ BIODIVERSITY “To protect and enhance biodiversity outcomes by encouraging and supporting community participation, education and strengthening partnerships” and community participation, education and supporting encouraging by biodiversity outcomes and enhance protect “To

162 Biodiversity Strategy - Partnerships 163 7.0 Monitoring and Evaluation undertaken within the Native Vegetation & Biodiversity Management Unit within the State Government, The strategy itself will adopt an adaptive management including clearance via clearance application, clearance approach. The implementation of strategy will be an via Regulation, potential SEB offset areas, Heritage ongoing process where the completed actions are Agreement assessments and compliance assessments. reported annually to council staff, elected members and external stakeholders. This will enable the strategy In addition birds and other taxa such as reptiles, be qualitatively assessed. mammals, amphibians and fish should be monitored and the information linked to an internal database. Council land with high conservation remnant vegetation Threatened species in the council area should be or habitat value will be assessed using the Native closely monitored. Vegetation Council’s Bush Rapid Assessment Technique (BushRAT) (DEWNR, 2012). This method is derived from The establishment of a permanent environmental the Nature Conservation Society of South Australia’s reference group and utilising the knowledge of ‘Bushland Condition Monitoring’ (BCM) methodology community groups will assist with monitoring activities. (Croft, Milne, & Pedler, 2005-2009) including a Rapid Assessment version, but uses an informal quadrat of The ongoing “plan, do, check, act” management of the approximately 1 ha rather than the 30m x 30m quadrats strategy is essential to achieve the objectives outlined used in the BCM methodology. The Rapid Assessment in the introduction of the strategy. Technique is intended for use in most assessments

Condions & Conceptual Stakeholders Requirements Models

Management Opons Performances & NTINUOUS CO Scenarios Outcomes

REVIEW

M Consolidate & Set Objecves Interpret Data O & Priories N

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Responses Plan

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O V I A T L A Events U Program

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164 Biodiversity Strategy - Monitoring and Evaluation Biodiversity Strategy - Protection Objectives 165 8.0 References

Barker JR and Tingey DT, 1992, “Air pollution effects on biodiversity”, Springer. Ministrial Mount Barker Urban Growth Development Plan, 2010. Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources (DEWNR), Government of South Australia, 2014,”The effects Morton and Hill, 2014 of fire on the Vegetation types Fire Regimes: Factors that affect the impact of fire” Mount Barker District Council, Mount Barker, Littlehampton and Nairne Structure Plan. Bunn SE and Arthington AH, 2002, “Basic principles and ecological consequences of altered flow regimes for aquatic National Strategy for the conservation of Australia’s Biological Diversity, 2010-2020. biodiversity”, Environmental Management, vol.30.no 4, pp. 492-507. Newport J, Shorthouse DJ, Manning AD, 2014, “The effects of light and noise from urban development on biodiversity: Cabrelli A, Beaumont LJ, Hughes L (2015) The impacts of climate change on Australian and New Zealand Flora and Implications for protected areas in Australia”, Ecological Management & Restoration, vol 15, no 3, pp 2004-2014. Fauna. In Austral Ark: The state of wildlife in Australia and New Zealand (eds. Stow A, Howell G, Maclean N), Cambridge University Press. Stojanovic& others, 2014, Validation of a landscape-scale planning tool for cavity-dependent wildlife, Austral Ecology, Volume 39, Issue 5, August 2014, Pages: 579–586 Crawford C, (1995a). Report on the Condition and Future Management of Yaratinga Reserve, Hahndorf. District Council of Mount Barker. Crawford C, (1995b). Stringybark Conservation Reserve Management Plan. Taylor S, 2013 ‘Urban biodiversity conservation and restoration’ School of Natural and Built Environments” Course notes.

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Department of Environment and Heritage, 2003, Newsletter. Obst, C. (2005). South Australian Murray Darling Basin Threatened Flora Recovery Plan. Report to the Threatened Species and Communities Section, Australian Government Department of the Environment and Heritage, Canberra. Doherty TS, Dickman CR, Nimmo DG, Ritchie EG, 2015, “Multiple threats, or multiplying the threats? Interactions between invasive predators and other ecological disturbances”, Biological Conservation, vol. 190, pp. 60–68. Onkaparinga waterwatch network website. Pert, P.L., Butler, J.R.A., Brodie, J.E., Bruce, C., Honzak, M., Kroon, F.J., Metcalfe, D., Mitchell, D., Wong, G. (2010). A Fuller RA, Irvine KN, Devine-Wright P, Warren PH and Gaston KJ, 2007, ‘Psychological benefits of greenspace increase catchment-based approach to mapping hydrological ecosystem services using riparian habitat: A case study from the Wet with biodiversity’, Biology Letters, vol 3, no 4, pp 390-394. Tropics, Australia. Ecological Complexity 7:378-388.

Goddard MA, Doughill AJ, Benton T, 2010 ‘Scaling up from gardens: biodiversity conservation in urban environments’ Threatened species scientific committee, 2007. Trends in Ecology and Evolution, vol 25, issue 2, pp 90-98. University of Adelaide (2010), Mount Barker Landscape Planning Report. Hyde M, 1999, The Native Vegetation of the Bremer Barker Catchment. Williams et al. 2001, Department of Environment, Australian Government, State of the Environment Report IBRA version 7 Wilson, A & J. Bignall (2009) Regional Recovery Plan for Threatened species and Ecological Communities of the Adelaide Milne T, 2011, Mount Barker Summit Conseration Reserve Management Plan. and Mount Lofty Ranges, South Australia. Department for Environment and Heritage, SA.

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