On Track Delivering NRM in the SA Arid Lands 2010-11 On Track Delivering natural resources management in the SA Arid Lands 2010-11
Protecting our land, plants and animals
Understanding and securing our water resources
Supporting our industries and communities
1 Welcome
It is with great pleasure that I introduce this first edition of On Track. Having now completed the first year the achievements of former Presiding of delivery of the South Australian Arid Member Chris Reed, previous members Lands (SAAL) Regional Natural Resources of the Board, and General Manager John Management (NRM) Plan which sets the Gavin. Almost all of the activities you will direction for natural resources management read about here were initiated through their in the region to 2020, On Track is a report efforts and the current Board is building on to our community on the progress we made their endeavours. in 2010-11 on meeting the Plan’s targets. This year was also marked by the True to the SAAL NRM Board’s platform establishment of the new Department of and the spirit of natural resources Environment and Natural Resources in July management, On Track’s focus is on 2010 which brings together staff from the community. Outback office of the former Department We showcase the variety of projects and for Environment and Heritage and the staff activities where community members are of the SAAL NRM Board. working with the Board. This new integrated service will use a We share with you the experiences of landscape approach to manage natural some of the landholders and community resources across public and private land members involved with our programs and provide a single face for environment including Ecosystem Management and natural resources services in our Understanding™, Pest Management and region. Rangelands Rehabilitation, and our many This is a significant undertaking and, volunteer projects. with integration taking place behind the An Inland Bearded Dragon (Pogona vitticeps) Peter Pyman We show you how all landholders are scenes, the community will start to see the benefitting from our efforts to manage the benefits of a more coordinated approach region’s pest plants and animals, protect to the management of our region’s natural our threatened species, rehabilitate our resources. land, conserve our soils, and manage our Finally, on behalf of the Board and our water resources. dedicated staff, I thank our community, And we encourage you to get involved. volunteers, NRM Groups, Advisory Committees, funding bodies, and Indeed, On Track reveals that natural partner organisations for their efforts resources management really is about in contributing to the sustainable engaging people and working with them management of our region’s natural to improve their capacity to manage their resources and encourage you to continue backyard – and how critical it is to have to get involved with our various programs. your support to help deliver on the Plan. Enjoy the read! With all landholders in the SAAL NRM Region now paying a regional (land-based) NRM levy, the publication is also significant Janet Brook in keeping us accountable and we trust Presiding Member, that you will see that your contribution is SA Arid Lands being put to good use. Natural Resources With my first year as Presiding Member not Management Board yet complete, I would like to acknowledge
An outback 4WD convoy Matt Turner 2 On Track Delivering NRM in the SA Arid Lands 2010-11 Matt Turner Welcome Contents
Welcome 2 Our region 4 Our Plan for the Region 5 Our land & biodiversity 6 Threatened fauna program 7 Woma Python survey 8 Kowari booklet and survey 9 Pest management programs 10 Biteback program for dingo control 11 Pest Management and Rangelands Rehabilitation 12 Ecosystem Management Understanding™ 13 Significant Environmental Benefit offsets 14 National Total Grazing Pressure workshop 15 Simpson Desert National Rangeland NRM Alliance 16 Dingo Research Project 17 Wedge Tailed Eagle (Aquila audax) Our activities 18 Our water 20 Allocating and maintaining GAB water 21 An assessment of the Neales River and Cooper Creek catchments 22 Neales River catchment native fish surveys 24
An Inland Bearded Dragon (Pogona vitticeps) Peter Pyman Reg Dodd Gab spring and waterhole management survey 25 Protecting rockholes in the Gawler Ranges 26 Flinders Ranges Mogurnda survey 27 Our community 28 Industry Partnerships Program 29 Aboriginal community projects 30 NRM Education 31 NRM Volunteers 32 NRM Communications 33 Nrm Group activities 34 Our finances 36 Our performance 38 Our Board 40
An outback 4WD convoy Matt Turner Algebuckina Bridge 3 Our region
Wilpena Pound, Flinders Ranges
The South Australian Arid Lands (SAAL) Natural Resources Management (NRM) Region covers over half of South Australia and includes some of the driest parts of the State. It has the largest percentage of intact Tourism has also exploded in recent years natural resources management. Sheep and ecosystems and natural biodiversity in all as unprecedented numbers of people visit cattle are run extensively and rely on native of South Australia. The human population the region to enjoy the outback experience vegetation for feed. in this arid and semi-arid region is small including some of South Australia’s most Natural landscapes provide the basis – less than 2 per cent of the State – and environmentally significant conservation for the tourism industry, and water is a geographically dispersed. The largest reserves and National Parks, and its two critical resource supporting biodiversity, towns – Coober Pedy and Roxby Downs great inland water systems, the Lake Eyre communities and industries. Most water – are both associated with mining and are and the Great Artesian Basins. supplies in the region are sourced from the home to less than 5000 people, while the In this region more than any other, Great Artesian Basin, one of the world’s remaining scattered towns all have less communities and industries are intrinsically largest underground water reservoirs. than 1000 occupants. linked to the environment and to integrated There are 12 landholdings under Aboriginal management or co-management. The region’s environmental processes are determined by irregular rainfall and other episodic weather events that rarely follow predictable annual cycles. Vast tracts of the region – over 40,000,000 Marla hectares – are taken up by sheep and cattle stations and pastoralism remains Oodnadatta Marla - Oodnadatta the dominant land use. Although much Algebuckina Innamincka smaller in area occupied, the mining, gas Marree - Innamincka and petroleum industries have become Moomba increasingly significant land users.
Anna Creek Coober Pedy
Coward Springs
Curdimurka Marree
Kingoonya Arkaroola Village Andamooka Tarcoola Roxby Downs Leigh Creek Kingoonya Glendambo North Flinders Woomera Parachilna
Hawker Gawler Ranges Legend North East Olary Waterways and Lakes Port Augusta Iron Knob Yunta National Parks and Reserves Iron Baron Whyalla Dog Fence
4 Our Plan On Track for the Region Delivering NRM in the SA Arid Lands 2010-11
On Track presents an overview of activities delivered by the SAAL NRM Board during 2010-11. These activities contribute towards achieving the short and long-term targets contained in the SAAL Regional NRM Plan. The SAAL Regional NRM Plan is pivotal which includes an integrated framework to achieving better management of the of long- and short-term targets to achieve region’s natural assets. It outlines a range improvements in the condition of natural of programs to help protect ground resources in the region. This is reviewed and surface water; ensure sustainable every five years. industries; achieve best practice Volume 2 describes the three-year management of pastoral lands; conserve Business Plan that represents the SAAL natural ecosystems and biodiversity; and NRM Board’s contribution towards encourage community participation. The achieving the region’s vision and SAAL Regional NRM Plan is linked to both targets through the Board’s actions and the State NRM Plan and South Australia’s investments. The Business Plan identifies Strategic Plan, and provides direction, and expected sources of investment funds and outline priorities, for all partners who invest is reviewed annually. in the region. Collaboration is the key to effective delivery The SAAL Regional NRM Plan was of the SAAL Regional NRM Plan and the adopted by the Minister for Environment Board works closely with community and Conservation in August 2010. It groups, industry associations, government consists of two volumes: Volume 1 details agencies, and individuals. the state of the region assessment and the policy and regulatory framework. It also contains a 10-year Strategic Plan,
Measuring performance of the SAAL Regional NRM Plan
Saal First Annual ON TRACK Regional Focus on SAAL NRM Board activities and overall progress towards MATs Contact the Board 8648 5977 for your NRM Plan copy of the SAAL Regional NRM Plan. adopted WE ARE HERE (end of year 1)
2010 2012 2015 2020 2030
Annual activities Outputs that contribute to MATs and/or RCTs
1-5 year Management Action Targets (MATs) 50 intermediate targets that contribute towards achieving 10-year resource condition targets
10 year Resource Condition Targets (RCTs) 10 long-term targets expressed in terms of the condition of status of natural resources. Reported 5-yearly
20-year goals and vision Three overarching goals and a vision expressing the long-term overall philosophy for natural resources management in the region
5 Our land & biodiversity
157 properties participating in NRM activities
Plum-headed Finch (Neochima modesta)
394 land managers 391,241 20,589,210 772,292 participating in hectares managed hectares managed hectares managed NRM activities for weeds for pest animals for biodiversity/ (including sustainability dingoes) Terry Dennis Terry
Maintaining the soils, native vegetation and native wildlife in the SAAL NRM Region is critical to the sustainability of our industries and communities. The region contains some of the State’s as goats, camels, donkeys, horses and introductions or spread of these weeds most environmentally significant and iconic rabbits. Other pest animals include cats, could occur via floodwaters, livestock terrestrial ecosystems including Sandy pigs, foxes, and, where they occur south movements or other means. Deserts, Stony Plains, and the Gawler, of the Dog Fence, dingoes. The SAAL NRM Board is working to gain Flinders and Olary Ranges. These Declared weeds that have demonstrated a better understanding of many of the ecosystems are home to a range of unique impacts in the region are cactus species, plant and animal communities in the SAAL plants and animals, many of which are including Prickly Pear and Wheel Cactus, NRM Region recognising that the key found only within this region. They also and African Boxthorn along watercourses. to their preservation relies on good land support our tourism industry which sees thousands of people flock here each These species now occupy thousands condition and in particular, healthy and year to enjoy our unique and diverse of hectares of grazing land, undermining sustainable vegetation communities where landscapes and native wildlife. the long-term sustainability of pastoral key threatening processes such as pests production and biodiversity values of and soil erosion are managed effectively. The production of cattle and sheep here infested areas. There are also emerging Through our work with landholders to is solely dependent on native vegetation weedy threats such as Pepper Trees and undertake on-ground recovery and as the grazing resource. Pastoralists, by far the largest land users, are legally Buffel Grass as well as Weeds of National conservation, we are finding the balance responsible for maintaining land condition Significance – Athel Pine, Parkinsonia, between biodiversity management and which means managing the pressure on Prickly Acacia and Mesquite. pastoral production. native vegetation from the grazing of their While their current distribution and density stock but also from feral herbivores such is limited in South Australia, further
10 year Resource Condition Targets
1. Improve the 2. Maintain or 4. Improve the 5. Reduce 6. Maintain or average extent reduce the condition of human-induced improve the and condition risks to all at least 50% soil erosion ecological of native species and of culturally- sustainability vegetation ecological significant of natural communities natural resource-based ecosystems industries which are suffering from disturbance
6 Threatened fauna On Track program Delivering NRM in the SA Arid Lands 2010-11
The Board is committed to 19 pastoral improving our knowledge of the distribution, behaviours and habitat properties of threatened and little-known fauna Our land & biodiversity surveyed species in the SAAL NRM Region. As you will read in this snapshot of our projects in 2010-11 our work in this area relies significantly on community assistance and we extend our thanks to the many people who have contributed. For further information, to 71 community contribute a sighting or a specimen, or to get involved with our volunteer members involved groups, contact our Community in project activities Fauna Officer 8648 6977.
Dusk Hopping Mice at Mundowdna Station, near Marree Outback Field Naturalists near Irrapapana
effort to better understand the northern
Terry Dennis Terry Plains Wanderer still eludes us and south-eastern extent of this species. The Greenfield family of South Gap Station The quest to find out more about the Dusky was thrilled to find the Pernatty Knob- Plains Wanderer (Pedionomus torquatus), Hopping Tailed Gecko on their patch with kids Nic a nationally endangered and poorly Mouse and John contributing huge enthusiasm understood bird that is virtually impossible extends its to find during the day, turned up just and labour to install and check trap lines range one confirmed sighting despite enlisting and capturing a range of other interesting the assistance of nocturnal workers and local critters. landholders from key parts of the Plains Wanderer range. Plains Rat and Woma Python surveys Superficially resembling quail, the Plains Pastoralists and other residents Wanderer is a ground-dwelling bird found Ten members of the Outback Field played a crucial role in surveys in the in sparse open plains. It is well-known in Naturalists from Roxby Downs and North East Pastoral, North Flinders South Australia in a few areas of the North Coober Pedy, five staff from Anna Creek and southern Marree-Innamincka NRM districts which confirmed the East Pastoral district. There are other Station and four William Creek residents southerly range of the Dusky Hopping scattered records across the arid zone but participated in Plains Rats (Pseudomys Mouse (Notomys fuscus) has expanded little is known about the Plains Wanderer’s australis) and Woma Python (Aspidites significantly in recent years. distribution or status in these areas. ramsayi) surveys near William Creek during A great deal of work during the 1990s Three kangaroo shooters and six trips in January and April 2011. suggested that this species was nationally vulnerable and restricted to a few key landholders from the Marla-Oodnadatta The surveys recorded the nationally refuges, but since this time their range and Marree-Innamincka NRM districts vulnerable Plains Rat in abundance has extended to the south-west to areas were shown Plains Wanderer, quail and during night-time spotlighting, as well as well inside the Dog Fence and in habitats other bird skins. Of five reported sightings where they have not previously been many signs and captures of other small recorded including stony plains and hilly several were followed up with spotlight mammals, including Spinifex Hopping Mice areas. searches across three properties. (Notomys alexis). An exciting capture also The surveys were carried out across included a female Ampurta (Dasycercus 13 pastoral properties with 42 local Pernatty Knobtailed cristicauda), the most southerly record of landholders, kangaroo shooters and other this species to date. Showing the critters residents contributing many valuable Gecko surveys specimens found dead on the road – Found only within a small area of sand to Anna Creek Station staff and William or brought in by the cat – as well as dune country to the south-west of Lake Creek locals led to further specimens and anecdotal information and important local Torrens in South Australia, the known sightings of Plains Rats and other small knowledge. range of the Pernatty Knobtailed Gecko mammals over the ensuing months. It is not known whether this current range expansion will be long-lasting. (Nephrus deleani) was extended this year Although no definite signs of Woma Future works will focus on revisiting the by about 30 kilometres south. Pythons were found during the survey, the monitoring sites and investigating the In December and March, 10 volunteers interest of locals was sparked and four influence of predators and competition with feral herbivores such as rabbits. from the Outback Field Naturalists and additional sightings have been contributed four local land managers participated in since, representing important records from The survey was commissioned by the SAAL NRM Board and carried out by spotlighting surveys and trapping on the south-west extreme of their known ecologists Rick Southgate (Envisage Bosworth and South Gap Stations in an distribution (see p. 8 for further details). Environmental Services) and Katherine Moseby (Ecological Horizons). 7 Woma Python survey
Woma Python
>150 public 89 Woma Python sightings 24 records of enquiries from the general public other snake species 31 confirmed 48 credible 10 possible sightings sightings sightings Paul Waring
The Woma Project, a unique N idea to offer the general public the chance to win a fuel voucher in return for Woma Python sightings, finished up in Oodnadatta 2011 after more than doubling ? ? the number of confirmed records of the species held in the SA Biological Databases Coober Pedy ? ? ? ? and significantly adding to the Marree 0 50 100 200 knowledge held on this species Existing Records ? km SA Biological Databases Lyndhurst? in our State. ? This Study Nearly 90 Woma Python sightings were Confirmed (photo) received since the call for sightings of Positive ID these iconic desert pythons was first ? Possible issued in Across the Outback in late 2009 and the offer of fuel vouchers grabbed the interest of local and national media. Many of the sightings came from the but the species has declined substantially north-east parts of the region, particularly in many areas and is now regarded as from along the upper Strzelecki and threatened in Western Australia, New Birdsville Tracks, areas well known for the South Wales and Queensland. species in South Australia. Its status in South Australia is not A handful of sightings were also received well understood despite its apparent from other areas not necessarily regarded disappearance from some areas, while as ideal Woma habitats, including stony remaining a commonly observed inhabitant plains and rocky areas – some a long way in others, and the sightings by the public from any other known records. have made a significant contribution to our knowledge. Womas were formally widespread across arid Australia, particularly in sandy habitats, Woma Python 8 Kowari booklet On Track and survey Delivering NRM in the SA Arid Lands 2010-11
Paul Waring Kowari Kowari facts
Land managers in the Marree-Innamincka NRM district who have Kowaris on their patch will be better able to recognise and manage this enigmatic critter after the release in May of the booklet Kowari Country. Produced with support from the Marree- While the number of Kowaris was well Innamincka NRM Group, the booklet is down on previous years, this is thought Kowaris (Dasyuroides byrnei) are a aimed at increasing understanding of to be due to the good season – the threatened native marsupial that belong to the same family as the Tasmanian Kowaris, the types of habitat that they use, monopolisation of the traps by the native Devil (Sarcophilus harrisii) and Quoll and the land management practices which rats and the exceptionally high amount (Dasyurus sp.). may benefit them. of food available to Kowaris made them Once occurring more widely, within South much less interested in the fish oil and dog Australia these small but feisty carnivores The booklet contains general information are now only found in the pavement on Kowaris as well as information on biscuit baits on offer. gibber areas of Sturt’s Stony Desert. recognising and managing Kowari country. If you would like a copy of Kowari Country Over the last decade or so, much work The booklet was launched at Cowarie contact the Board 8648 5977. has gone into trying to learn more about Kowaris and to monitor their population Station with 10 participants from Birdsville numbers and distribution. Track properties taking part in trapping They are an icon in the Marree-Innamincka demonstrations and looking at Kowari NRM district and their survival relies on habitat on the gibber plains. continued good management of their habitat. Unfortunately some Kowari skins on loan from the South Australian Museum were the closest participants got to seeing a Kowari with formal surveys carried out in May and June capturing about 650 native Long-haired (or Plague) Rats (Rattus villosissimus).
Searching for Kowari’s on Cowarie Station on the Birdsville Track 9 Pest management programs
1,252 hectares 389,489 1,666,586 managed for hectares managed hectares Weeds of National for Opuntia managed for feral Signficance herbivores 500 hectares The Board works with landholders, of Buffel Grass volunteers, and contractors on a controlled variety of pest animal and plant control programs. We provide a snapshot of the year’s activities Weeds of National program to manage outlier populations here including case studies on Significance of African Rue (Peganum harmala), a our Biteback program for dingo declared weed native to North Africa that control and Pest Management and This year we have continued our work is difficult to eradicate once established. Rangelands Rehabilitation program. with Rural Solutions to minimise the This year, African Rue has been managed Community participation is critical spread of three Weeds of National on five properties in the North East to the success of our projects and we Significance, working in the North East Pastoral and North Flinders NRM districts encourage you to contact our Pest Pastoral, Marree-Innamincka and North where it has most likely spread by vehicles Management Officer 8648 5977 to see how you can get involved. Flinders NRM districts to minimise the or machinery from the original infestation. spread of Athel Pine (Tamarix aphylla) A workshop was held at Yunta in October along watercourses, and in the Kingoonya bringing together various agencies with and North Flinders districts to eradicate control programs for African Rue in place. pasture on 11 properties in the North Mesquite (Prosopis spp.) and Parkinsonia Flinders and North East Pastoral NRM (Parkinsonia aculeata). Work has been Goats districts where rabbit warrens have been undertaken on 10 properties with several The SAAL NRM Board combined its progressively destroyed. There has been hundred trees removed or sprayed. resources with the Department of excellent regeneration after the year’s rain Environment and Natural Resources events and improvements to properties Pepper Tree (DENR) to strategically remove over 6000 particularly where rabbit control programs One of the few trees in the region that goats (Capra hircus) from the Flinders and are maintained and warrens actively provides shade, the introduced Pepper Olary Ranges, the majority of them in the destroyed to prevent a ready home for Tree (Schinus areira) is becoming SAAL NRM Region. future rabbits. increasingly weedy in the SAAL NRM Twenty-seven properties (including Parks Region. We are currently reviewing the and properties in the Northern and Yorke Pigs threat of this species along watercourses NRM Region) were targeted including For the first time, landscape-scale pig and assisting landholders with their 19 in the SAAL NRM Region. DENR’s (Sus scrofa) control is being undertaken removal with work occurring initially on one Bounceback program has been particularly on pastoral properties in the SAAL NRM property in the North Flinders. successful in reducing the impact of goats, Region with the commencement of a a declared pest, on native vegetation feral pig control program that responds to African Boxthorn and increasing Yellow-Footed Rock concerns raised by the Marree-Innamincka Work has also been undertaken to remove Wallaby (Petrogale xanthopus) numbers NRM Group and local landholders in African Boxthorn (Lycium ferocissimum), a in the North Flinders and Olary Ranges. the far north-east of the State. The declared weed which congests waterways This year’s removal program has been program is a cooperative effort driven by and competes with native vegetation, from important to keep goat populations at low landholders, the SAAL NRM Board and two properties in the North East Pastoral levels. Desert Channels Queensland which aims district. to prevent their spread into South Australia Black Rats from Queensland – where the majority of Buffel Grass Black Rats (Rattus rattus) are currently feral pigs occur – along the Diamantina The SAAL NRM Board has also been being managed on a property in the catchment. An aerial survey to assess working with landholders and the Marree-Innamincka NRM district after current pig densities in the Diamantina Department of Planning, Transport, Energy inadvertently being introduced in fodder catchment was delayed by rain but will and Infrastructure to manage infestations for horses. The introduced Black Rat is take place in November 2011. DENR is of Buffel Grass (Cenchrus ciliaris) along not known to occur in the region and managing a similar program along the roadsides, the main pathway by which this a trapping and baiting program is now Cooper Creek system. plant is spreading in the region. This work underway on the property to eradicate this was funded after the Kingoonya NRM species. The SAAL NRM Board has been Group raised with the Board their concern providing technical advice and assistance that Buffel Grass is heading south. The to prevent the spread of the rats and is Board has also initiated Buffel Grass continuing to monitor the situation. control along the railway line between Get involved Tarcoola and Kingoonya. Rabbits Help keep our region pest-free. Report any new plant or animal sightings to the Board 8648 5977 and Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) always maintain good property and vehicle hygiene. African Rue management plans have been paying The SAAL NRM Board has an ongoing off this year with a notable recovery to
10 Biteback program On Track for dingo control Delivering NRM in the SA Arid Lands 2010-11 Here’s a snapshot of what happened in your district in 2010-11
North Flinders/Marree An initiative of the community-based North Flinders NRM Group, Biteback has been running in this district for two years. Since then maps plotting 2009 and 2010 dingo sightings, movements and control measures have been developed and printed. Over 50 landholders were supplied meat at the October and March meat injection service. North East/Kingoonya Biteback commenced in both these districts in late December with four workshops held in the North East and 42 per cent of properties represented, and one workshop held in the Kingoonya district with 37 per cent of properties in attendance. Attendees discussed Local Area Plans; current dingo sightings, movements and control measures; trials of PAPP (para-aminopropiophenone), a new toxin for dingo control; the use of M44 94 landholders 20,000,000 42 meat injection ejectors, a baited, spring-activated control committed to Local hectares involved services device; aerial baiting; the employment of doggers; and the use of freezers, drying Area Planning in dingo control racks and injection stations. Eastern Gawler Ranges 13 applications 21 local area Biteback commenced in the eastern dingo control for dogger Gawler Ranges with a Local Area Planning groups funding workshop in Port Augusta in December. Twelve landholders are involved in the eastern side and 25 per cent of properties were represented at the workshop. The Biteback program for dingo control increased its foothold in Local Area Planning workshops involved the collection of information on current the SAAL NRM Region this year with 21 local area dingo control dingo sightings, movements and control groups now operating in the districts south of the Dog Fence. measures. Nearly one hundred landholders are now Another big achievement was a policy actively participating in Biteback which change by the Minister for Environment was progressively rolled out to the eastern and Conservation to allow private Gawler Ranges, Kingoonya and North East landholders to aerially dispense baits on Pastoral districts during the year, having their properties to manage dingoes. previously been established in the North Biteback has become a shining example Get involved Flinders-Marree NRM districts. of how landholders can work together The region experienced terrific rainfall in One of this year’s key highlights was an and with government and industry to drive 2010-11, increasing the available food source additional $25,000 of funds from Australian decisions on land and pest management in for dingoes and providing an alternative to Wool Innovation to supplement existing their districts and it is nationally recognised lambs and ewes, but unless dingoes are Sheep Industry Fund support allowing the for improving participation in dingo control. controlled now stock loss will occur when the inevitable dry times return and the current food Board to bring forward the roll out of the Heather Miller, Biteback Coordinator source drops off. Biteback program to the Gawler Ranges and the SAAL NRM Board’s Dingo Dingoes are a declared species south of the district where landholders had reported an Project Manager, won the Animal Control Dog Fence and the Biteback program offers increasing issue with dingoes. Technologies Australia Award for Practical a coordinated landscape-scale approach to With trapping shown to be most effective Pest Management Excellence before control efforts. when it follows a coordinated baiting 300 attendees at the Vertebrate Pest Landholders in the SAAL NRM Region south of program, landholders were also given Conference in Sydney in June. the Dog Fence who are not currently involved access to a dogger, a professional trapper, with the Biteback program are encouraged to get in touch with the Board 8648 5977 to find to specifically target dingoes that have not out how they can get behind the initiative. taken baits.
11 Pest Management and Rangelands Rehabilitation
Wheel Cactus control
Forty landholders took part in the Pest Management and CASE STUDY CASE STUDY Rangelands Rehabilitation David (PMRR) program in 2010- and Carol 11, undertaking a variety Warwick, Gary Fuller, Holowiliena Wabricoola of activities including rabbit South Station Station control, weed control, and soil conservation works.
The PMRR program offers landholders David and Carol Warwick of Gary Fuller has ripped in excess of a terrific opportunity to participate in a Holowiliena South Station in the North 6500 rabbit warrens and destroyed 250 coordinated land and pest management Flinders NRM district have ripped African Boxthorn on Wabricoola in the about 4000 rabbit warrens since 2008. North East Pastoral NRM district with program where the Board shares in the Financial assistance from the Board’s the support of the SAAL NRM Board’s costs, helps with the paperwork, and PMRR program has enabled them to PMRR program. provides technical support, and the vastly expand earlier work that had Gary has seen a great improvement in landholder selects the contractor to carry been undertaken privately. natural vegetation over the area ripped out the work at a time that suits them. By running their rabbit control program during the drought years, and particularly in conjunction with the Board’s other since the spring rains of 2010. Two landholders who participated in the programs for dingo (Biteback), rabbit, ‘Areas that were once damaged by rabbits PMRR program in 2010-11 share their and goat control, the Warwicks have and drought are now covered with bushes experience here. taken an integrated approach to and grasses and there is no evidence of their property management, seeing rabbits on large areas of the property. the benefits of this work through the With low stocking rates much of this regeneration of native vegetation, vegetation should be retained which will Get involved especially following the drought. minimise dust storms and erosion in years Land degradation, weeds and feral animals are Without this financial assistance they say to come.’ they would never have been able to treat significant problems facing all land managers. We The rabbit control program started in mid- such an extensive area. have funding available to assist ‘land managers’ 2007 with time set aside each year until so if you’re a Progress Association or community ‘We have got great value for money ripping was completed in mid-2011. from the PMRR program with the group, or manage Aboriginal or pastoral land, you Gary encourages land managers to apply monies going directly into the program are eligible to apply. for funding for similar pest control or land and not wasted in other areas such as rehabilitation projects under the PMRR There are a range of activities that will be administration.’ program, stating that the support the considered including a number of priority pest They also credit the programs for being program offered made his long-term goals animal and weed species that are serious threats to ongoing and not just one-offs allowing affordable and achievable. rangelands condition. Land rehabilitation projects them to work with their neighbours and ‘Without the support of the Board’s staff may include erosion control and revegetation, local groups such as Cradock Landcare and funding this work would not have contour furrowing, water ponding, and revegetation. to combine their treatment efforts and gone ahead under the economic climate coordinate the use of contractors/ of the last decade.’ Contact one of the Board’s NRM Officers for more equipment. information 8648 5977. 12 Ecosystem Management On Track Understanding™ Delivering NRM in the SA Arid Lands 2010-11
CASE STUDY
Douglas Lillecrapp, Todmorden Station
Douglas Lillecrapp from Todmorden Station was one of the first South Australian rangelands pastoralists to take part in EMU™ in 2009, with An aerial view of funding from the SAAL NRM Board EMU™ in action on and Centralian Land Management Todmorden Station Association. While Douglas has focused on getting value for money out of the EMU™ process 14 properties 719,000 772,292 and concentrated on the most cost- covering hectares of pest hectares managed effective interventions he has also taken a longer-term, whole-of-landscape approach 3,742,600 animal control for biodiversity/ with most of the restoration works on hectares sustainability Todmorden focused on protecting and under EMU™ enhancing healthy landscapes. management ‘One of the benefits of EMU™ is it focuses on your best and healthiest country, not your most degraded country.’ ‘But I was also keen to include an area of Todmorden showing signs of topsoil The EMU™ process, an approach to land management and stripping and lost productivity – it’s an area I personally want to see fixed and I can try property planning which combines local knowledge of country out different approaches that I can share with scientific expertise, was running on 14 properties in 2010-11 with other land managers in the area.’ including pastoral leases and conservation reserves. Through his participation in the EMU™ process, Douglas says he is better able to Five new properties joined the EMUTM processes and key areas of the property balance productivity and conservation. program and there is growing interest are further investigated with a fly-over and ‘EMU™ has given me a much across the region. site visit and a visual record is developed greater appreciation of the ecological of air and ground photos. management on Todmorden as well as Preparation is well underway for a field the incentive and confidence to undertake day on Todmorden Station planned for These activities provide a way of tracking land rehabilitation.’ November 2011, an initiative of the Marla- landscape processes, condition and ‘I have learned to identify and read Oodnadatta NRM Group and station trend, helping the land manager to make landscape processes, condition and owner Douglas Lillecrapp. timely, strategic and relatively simple trend and apply this information to daily management practices.’ management interventions in specific areas or sites that can have far-reaching positive And he credits the program for allowing So how does EMU™ work? the land manager to guide the process. consequences. An initial property visit identifies baseline ‘EMU™ is a helpful management tool property features and areas of concern Read what Douglas Lillecrapp has to say as landholder experience is central to which are plotted on clear plastic overlays about his involvement with the EMU™ the success of the EMU™ concept. My project and how it has changed the way opinions are recognised and incorporated to develop a property map. Landscape into my new daily management program.’ he manages Todmorden Station. And, according to Douglas, the building block approach means the more you do Get involved the more confidence you gain. ‘Access to expertise was critical to get things started, If you are a land manager in the SAAL NRM Region who is keen to combine but I am now starting to feel confident in your knowledge with ecological science to develop sustainable land managing and coordinating restoration management practices on your property contact the Board’s NRM Officers activities, albeit with access to expert 8648 5977 to find out the opportunities to get involved. advice periodically.’ 13 Significant Environmental Benefit offsets
Prominent Hill What is a Prominent Hill Significant Environmental With part funding from the Native Vegetation Council (NVC) and Benefit? State NRM Program, the SAAL NRM Board appointed its Industry Support Officer in July to explore innovative ways to achieve Significant Environmental Benefits (SEBs) in the SAAL NRM Region under the Native Vegetation Act 1991. Increased mining activities in the region The Industry Support Officer is also a one- When an application to clear are resulting in some large offsets to stop-shop for native vegetation issues native vegetation is approved by the Native Vegetation Council, compensate for loss of vegetation. in the region and is involved in reporting conditions are attached to ensure This presents opportunities for pastoralists or commenting on native vegetation that the clearance is offset by and other landholders to become the clearances. restoration work that provides a significant environmental benefit. custodians of areas of native vegetation In the SAAL NRM Region two major mines Examples of works commonly being preserved or enhanced to have been under development this year – undertaken to offset authorised compensate for clearances. Peculiar Knob and Wilcherry Hill – where clearance include: Over the last 12 months the Board and there is the potential to return over $1m in »» the establishment and the NVC have been working with mining environmental works. management of a set-aside and petroleum companies, pastoralists area to encourage the natural regeneration of native vegetation and other holders of large tracts of land in »» the protection and management the SAAL NRM Region to explore ways in of an established area of native which they can partner on joint projects vegetation that derive SEBs. »» entering into a Heritage The chief focus for this year has been the Get involved Agreement on land where native vegetation is already established The SAAL NRM Board and the Native Vegetation Gawler Craton minerals area – the area to further preserve or enhance roughly between Port Augusta, Marla and Council recognises that landholders have a unique the area in perpetuity and often intimate knowledge of their country and Tarcoola – where most of the region’s »» a payment to the Native are keen to hear ideas for how SEBs could be set up mining activities are occurring. Vegetation Fund (only where the and managed in a manner that is both appropriate above options are not possible). to the region and sustainable for landholders. To submit your ideas contact the Board’s Industry Support Officer 8648 5977. 14 National Total Grazing On Track Pressure workshop Delivering NRM in the SA Arid Lands 2010-11
What is total Sheep in the Flinders Ranges SATC grazing pressure?
Prominent Hill A national workshop was held in Adelaide in February bringing together producers who are managing total grazing pressure on their properties. The goal of the workshop was to Participants were also keen to see greater discuss how best producers can be recognition at a national level of the value Total grazing pressure refers to the supported by government and industry to of total grazing pressure management in combined effects of all grazing animals, manage total grazing pressure, and how improving land condition in the rangelands native or introduced. other pastoralists can be encouraged of Australia. It is important to manage in the to undertake total grazing pressure rangelands because it is the major This will be coordinated in conjunction with driver of sustainable land management, management. the National Rangeland NRM Alliance (see resulting in positive results for production, The workshop attracted nearly 50 p. 16) as part of their initiative to raise the environment and people. people from across the country with 17 profile and investment in the rangelands. Total grazing pressure is managed in pastoralists participating from South The SAAL NRM Board provided funds different ways by different producers but Australia, Western Australia, New the over-riding principle is to understand for the coordination and facilitation of and manage the impact of grazing animals South Wales and Queensland and the event which was managed by Rural to improve vegetation diversity and cover. other attendees including government Solutions SA and supported by the representatives and staff from various Cooperative Research Centre for Remote NRM organisations. Economic Participation. Participating pastoralists supplied case studies on how they manage total grazing pressure on their properties, what they see as the biggest issues regarding total grazing pressure management, and possible solutions to be considered. The types of activities being used by the pastoralists to manage total grazing Get involved pressure ranged from implementing If you missed out on this workshop, make sure new infrastructure, to controlled grazing you check out Grazebook, a web-based forum for rangelands producers which was established after regimes across their properties, harvesting the workshop by pastoralists Ben Forsyth (WA) and feral animals and implementing more Ashley McMurtrie (NSW), to continue discussions. strategic grazing practices through Visit www.grazebook.com property planning. 15 National Rangeland NRM Alliance
About the National
Georgina Gidgee (Acacia georginae) in the Simpson Desert Rangeland Matt Turner NRM Alliance
Members of the National Rangeland NRM Alliance met three times during the year with their main achievement being the progression of the Australian Rangeland Initiative (ARI). ARI is being driven by a collaboration of »» 1. Building a national rangelands The National Rangeland NRM Alliance organisations, agencies, land managers agenda is a collaboration of 14 natural resources management bodies from and interest groups to increase recognition This will create a national awareness of across Australia, including the SAAL that the Australian rangelands, with the importance of Australia’s rangelands, NRM Board. its inherent links between productivity, leading to a commitment to implement Established in 2008, the National biodiversity, social and financial issues, Rangeland NRM Alliance provides a the National Principles for Sustainable needs to be seen and approached in a forum for rangeland NRM bodies from Resource Management in the Rangelands different manner. Western Australia, Northern Territory, as endorsed by the Natural Resource South Australia, New South Wales A workshop in Sydney in April brought Management Ministerial Council in 2010. and Queensland to meet, share and together representatives from a range collaborate for better outcomes. With its »» 2. Improving ground cover/biodiversity of organisations with an interest in the member groups presiding over 80 per The ARI will work to improve ground cover cent of Australia, the driving force behind rangelands (eg Australian Government, the Alliance is the recognition that national National Farmers Federation, Australian and therefore biodiversity across the extent issues require a national approach and Wool Innovation, Meat and Livestock of the Australian rangelands. This will have that regional competition for funding Australia, Australian Collaborative a significant impact on erosion including around these issues can be counter- preventing soil leaving the landscape productive. The Alliance works with the Rangelands Information System) who Australian Government and other funding showed strong support for such an through dust storms and increasing carbon bodies to get rangelands management on initiative and its two key result areas. storage across Australia’s rangelands. the national agenda. For further information contact the Board’s National Rangeland NRM Alliance Coordinator 8648 5977.
16 Dingo Research On Track Project Delivering NRM in the SA Arid Lands 2010-11
Why are we doing this research? A juvenile dingo takes shelter in a cow carcass
Now in its third year, the SAAL NRM Board’s Dingo Research Project continued its trials on unbaited and baited paddocks on The SAAL NRM Board’s Dingo four cattle stations situated north of the Dog Fence in 2010-11. Research Project has been operating since 2008 on four cattle stations And thanks to Santos we now have funds to see the project situated north of the Dog Fence in the SAAL NRM Region – Lambina, Cordillo,
Matt Turner through to completion in 2014. Quinyambie and Todmorden. Every year the Dingo Research Project in New South Wales and Queensland and North of the Dog Fence dingoes are conducts pregnancy tests on cattle from contribute to the possible registration of neither specifically protected or declared, 1080 baited and unbaited paddocks to PAPP for dingo control. but are regarded as legitimate wildlife establish the effectiveness of dingo baiting species with a valuable ecological role. Meanwhile, the Marla-Oodnadatta NRM In this area they are only baited at times in reducing calf loss. This year pregnancy Group initiated a flow chart for the process necessary to provide temporary protection tests occurred only on Todmorden, Cordillo of obtaining dingo bait approvals north to calves when alternative prey sources and Lambina Stations as Quinyambie‘s of the Dog Fence. This is currently under are low due to seasonal conditions. treatment paddocks had been destocked review with the Marla-Oodnadatta and In order to develop best practice dingo during the drought. management strategies it is crucial to Marree-Innamincka NRM Groups. understand the role that dingoes play in The baited and unbaited paddocks on The SAAL NRM Board thanks the the ecosystem in this part of the region. all four properties also continue to be State NRM Program and Santos for Each of the participating properties surveyed for wildlife activity (native and their support. Santos made a further maintain 1080 baited and unbaited introduced animals) and their relative commitment of $625,000 over three years paddocks so that we can investigate abundance, with surveys occurring on the relationship between dingoes, 1080 after an initial contribution of $125,000 baiting, calf predation and biodiversity. We each property four times throughout the through the Board’s Industry Partnerships are identifying the proportion of calf losses year. These surveys include the collection Program (see p. 29). attributable to dingoes, the environmental and examination of dingo scats (or poos) factors associated with increased calf to observe dingo diet. predation, and the ability of baiting to protect against predation. And we are Quinyambie was central to a new collecting information on dingo movement partnership with the Invasive Animals and dingo diet to help establish the role Cooperative Research Centre and the of dingoes in the regulation of other trial of new poison baits containing PAPP predator and prey species (eg foxes, cats, kangaroos and rabbits). (para-aminopropiophenone). PAPP is On completion of this project in 2014, selectively more toxic to wild dogs than it the Board expects to have gathered the is to native species and has an effective necessary data to better manage dingoes antidote. The results of the Quinyambie for cattle production while maintaining trial will build on work already conducted populations of dingoes as a wildlife species and for any biodiversity services they may provide. 17 Our activities Mapping the SAAL NRM Board’s influence in 2010-11
Searching for Kowari’s Marla on Cowarie Station on the Birdsville Track Oodnadatta
This map shows the location of NRM activities delivered across the region by the SAAL NRM Board during 2010-11. Each icon represents a project or activity undertaken on a property but is not representative of the area covered. Innamincka
Biodiversity projects Water projects (non-GAB) Projects in which community members Covers the evaluation of the ecological have participated, such as surveys, characteristics of permanent water monitoring, research and workshops holes that are not part of the Great which have contributed information about Artesian Basin (GAB), including fish, threatened species in the region, including flora and fauna surveys, vegetation the Dusky Hopping Mouse, Kowari, condition assessment, hydrological Coober Pedy Pernatty Knob-tailed Gecko, Plains measurements, and threat assessment. Wanderer, Woma Python, Bronzeback Legless Lizard and Plains Rat. Water projects – (GAB) Marree Aboriginal community Shows GAB springs that have projects been assessed, resulting Projects undertaken across five Aboriginal in robust hydrological, communities, including pest animal and hydrogeological and ecological plant control, fencing and plant surveys, data. This is part of a longer- all of which help reduce threats to local term project funded through the Roxby Downs flora and fauna as well as opportunities National Water Initiative and the for sharing of scientific and traditional map shows all sites assessed ecological knowledge. over the past three years.
Land management – Weed control TM EMU Activities include the management of Activities relating to the delivery of the Cactus, Prickly Acacia, Parkinsonia, Buffel EMUTM process for land management and Grass, African Rue, African Boxthorn and property planning. Pepper Tree.
Land management – Pest animal other control – dingo Hawker A range of other activities focused on Relates only to the management of sustainable productivity for pastoral dingoes, both north and south of the lands management, such as landscape- Dog Fence. scale property management planning workshops, erosion control, feral animal Pest animal control – Port Augusta and plant control and biodiversity other conservation. Relates to the management of rabbits, camels, goats and pigs.
18 On Track Delivering NRM in the SA Arid Lands 2010-11
Marla Oodnadatta
Innamincka Ralph Coulthard and Bobby Brown dig for evidence of Marsupial Moles (Notoryctes typhlops)
Coober Pedy
Marree
Roxby Downs Ampurta (Dasycercus hillieri)
Hawker
Port Augusta
Dingo (Canis lupus)
19 Our water
16 waterholes 301 GAB springs 25 new species (non-GAB) mapped and plant of macro- managed to reduce surveys completed invertebrates threats and enhance discovered Lake Eyre DENR habitat condition, associated with resilience and GAB springs connectivity
In the SAAL NRM Region water is the magnet that attracts people, biodiversity and industry. It is the key resource in an otherwise dry environment. For a region where rainfall is so low, there is an amazing ability to support a huge diversity of life through a phenomenon known as ‘boom and bust’. North of the Dog Fence the region is largest groundwater basins in the world. the tourism and mining sectors for water dominated by four major catchments – The GAB is characterised by groundwater- requirements. Neales-Peake, Cooper Creek, Georgina- fed springs which support unique aquatic In such an unpredictable climate with high Diamantina, and Macumba – large surface life forms. Dalhousie Springs, a popular variability from year to year and with so draining networks which terminate at Lake tourist destination, is one of the best much life dependent on a healthy water Eyre. In ‘boom’ periods floodwaters from examples of a GAB spring complex in supply, careful management of water interstate and major rainfall events enter Australia. It supports a number of endemic in the region is critical. The SAAL NRM the catchments and recharge the region’s aquatic species. Board is responsible for the region’s lakes, dams and wetlands including the In the southern region, including the Water Allocation Plan and is committed RAMSAR-listed Coongie Lakes. Gawler Ranges and North Flinders, the to understanding and maintaining healthy Plants regenerate and waterbirds and rainfall is low and the catchments are water flows, preserving and restoring water fish use the opportunity to breed in generally small. Surface water flows are quality, recording local knowledge about large numbers attracting thousands of generated on hilly-rocky headwaters and the region’s water resources, and providing visitors wishing to experience this unique the majority is rapidly lost as the flows physical protection from feral plants, phenomenon. pass onto the plains or into shallow animals, and erosion. The Board is actively During frequent and prolonged terminal lakes where it is lost through working to understand how these systems droughts or ‘bust’ periods, waterbodies evaporation. Rain-fed rockholes and function by collecting valuable baseline with permanent fresh water such as groundwater-fed springs are important data to determine the health and status Algebuckina Waterhole in the Neales River cultural and ecological features in these of these systems and maintain them for catchment and Cullyamurra Waterhole landscapes. future generations. in the Cooper Creek catchment provide The water resources of the SAAL NRM critical refuges for plants and animals. Region are to a large extent unmodified Underlying the Lake Eyre Basin is the and in good condition. However, there is a Great Artesian Basin (GAB), one of the threat from pest species and pressure from
10 year Resource Condition Targets
3. Improve or maintain the 7. Improve or maintain the 8. Improve or maintain flow extent and condition of at average quality and regimes and water quality least 50% of priority pressure of groundwater in surface water systems aquatic ecosystems
20 Allocating and On Track maintaining GAB water Delivering NRM in the SA Arid Lands 2010-11
Date Palm removal by fire at Dalhousie Springs DENR
Tail of The Bubbler mound spring CASE STUDY 4691 GAB springs 25 new species 360-470 mapped to survey of macro- megalitres per 2500 Date Palms standard (since invertebrates year returned in removed from 2008) discovered environmental Dalhousie associated with flows through GAB springs weed removal
The completion of the second phase of Date Palm (Phoenix dactylifera) removal at Dalhousie Springs in August The $17 million multi-disciplinary ‘GAB project’ had a busy third 2010 is a massive win for the spring year with the various agencies involved wrapping up their field environment. work for what will be an intense period to bring the research Just under 2500 palms have been removed from the springs since removal together into a series of reports. efforts began in 2005 which has seen Coordinated by the SAAL NRM Board, Commencing in 2008, the four-year the return of environmental flows and the recolonisation of springs by sensitive the ‘GAB project’ aims to further our project has engaged staff from various wetland fauna, including the endemic knowledge of groundwater processes agencies, including some of the world’s Dalhousie Yabbie (Cherax albidus). in the western margins of the Great best hydrogeologists, ecologists, spatial Date Palms are voracious consumers of Artesian Basin to increase our capacity to analysts and geophysicists. water with individual palms using as much sustainably manage the resource. as 180,000 litres of water per year and the The reports – on hydrogeology; removal of the Date Palms at Dalhousie The GAB provides essential water supplies groundwater recharge and groundwater Springs is conservatively estimated for pastoralists, rural communities and flow; groundwater discharge; remote to have returned between 360-470 industries and it is therefore vital to have sensing and spatial mapping; management megalitres per year in environmental flows. an accurate understanding of the system of spring ecosystems; and spring Date Palms also wage chemical war on in order to balance user requirements with classification and risk assessment – will other plants in the area by releasing toxic substances into the soil and water that those of the environment. be available in 2012. suppress the growth of rival plants. Principally, the data will refine the current The ‘GAB project’ is a partnership with This kills the phytoplankton which causes Water Allocation Plan for the Far North the National Water Commission, SA the death of nearly all of the fauna Prescribed Wells Area thereby increasing Department for Water, SA Department associated with the spring. At Dalhousie Springs this has resulted in the localised our capacity to sustainably allocate the of Environment and Natural Resources, extinction of several endemic species in resource. This will become increasingly NT Department of Natural Resources, springs badly affected by Date Palms. important in coming years as the demands Environment, the Arts and Sport, and the An outcome of the ‘GAB project’, the on the Great Artesian Basin intensify Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial 2010-11 removal work was a partnership due to the projected growth in mining, Research Organisation. between the SAAL NRM Board, National petroleum and geothermal industries in the Water Commission and Traditional Owners with on-ground work coordinated by the region. Department of Environment and Natural Resources. 21 An assessment of the Neales River and Cooper Creek catchments
Cooper Creek, near Innamincka SATC
The SAAL NRM Board is working to identify, maintain and secure priority aquatic ecosystems associated with important drainage lines, floodplains and wetlands in the SAAL NRM Region. The Board currently has two projects The projects work with local communities, Other key outcomes included: underway – in the Neales River and industries and government bodies, »» The ‘cease-to-flow’ depths of 20 Cooper Creek catchments – that are providing recommendations for on-ground surveyed waterbodies (dams, GAB establishing baseline information that will management at priority sites that address springs, waterholes) revealed that increase our understanding and inform threats such as erosion, over-grazing, Algebuckina Waterhole is the deepest, the management of these catchments to invasive pests, and tourism and mining largest and most persistent waterhole ensure they are sustainably managed for impacts. in the Neales River catchment future generations. Here is a snapshot of the Neales River and (see p. 23) Cooper Creek catchment projects. One of the key objectives of these projects »» Algebuckina Waterhole contained 10 is to identify the catchments’ ‘critical species of fish, more than any other refugia’. Critical refugia are bodies of Neales River catchment waterbody surveyed in the Neales permanent surface water (eg springs, Fortuitously timed to coincide with the River catchment, and had the highest waterholes) that provide oases for aquatic breaking of the drought in the region, the habitat variability plants and animals during periods of Neales River catchment project results »» The salinity level of waterbodies in the drought. The values of these as refuge emphasise a significant variability in the Neales River catchment increases with areas have rarely been assessed and characteristics of this system (eg water the proximity to Lake Eyre while the an understanding of the processes that flow) since records have been kept species diversity drops influence these systems will help with over the last 10-20 years. It is critical to setting management priorities for the region. continue to monitor flows, assess refugia »» There would be catchment-wide extinction of a number of fish species The projects draw from a wide range of characteristics, and manage impacts from if there was a period of no flow of 24- technical expertise including hydrology, tourism and industry. 30 months which would result in the aquatic ecology, terrestrial ecology, The work has highlighted the importance complete drying of all waterholes geomorphology, and cultural landscape of maintaining natural flow regimes within assessment to identify the key processes the catchment to assist in the conservation »» Artificial bore-fed wetlands (see p. and threats that influence the health of the and protection of this system’s social, 25) and GAB springs are source catchments. cultural and ecological values. populations for Gambusia (or Mosquito Fish, G. holbrookii) – a highly invasive and aggressive introduced fish that out-competes native fish and
22 On Track Delivering NRM in the SA Arid Lands 2010-11
Q u e e n s ll a n d
N o rr tt h e rr n T e rr rr ii tt o rr y Mount Isa .
G eorg in a
Alice Springs R Longreach i . v . e r r e v i R a in t n a
m ia D
. Birdsville
er iv M R acum n ba o t R r CASE STUDY i u per C ve rb oo re .Oodnadatta r Wa C ek N . P ea Lake Eyre e les R (North) Innamincka ak iv e Creek er
Lake Algebuckina . Coober Pedy Gregory Algebuckina Lake Blanche Waterhole Waterhole S o u tt h A u s tt rr a ll ii a Lake Eyre . Marree Lake (South) Callabonna L. Boolka Lake L. Muck Frome N e w S o u tt h W a ll e s
This project has confirmed that the . Broken Hill .! most important refuge in the Neales Port Augusta . River catchment is the Algebuckina Waterhole. SATC Situated on the Neales River about 55km Lake Eyre Basin south-east of Oodnadatta, the Algebuckina Adapted from the Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts, August 2010 Waterhole is a key refuge in the SAAL NRM Region for wildlife and tourists alike and it is a significant site for Aboriginal people. frogs – and a simple control strategy is Cooper Creek catchment The permanent nature of the waterhole to regulate open bores which have no means that in times of drought, long after other waterholes have become dry, it production value The SAAL NRM Board commenced a new project this year investigating the natural provides a critical safe haven for fish, birds »» Hookeys and Algebuckina Waterholes and other native animals. features and human influences on key are priorities for investment due to For tourists travelling the Oodnadatta waterholes and wetlands along the Cooper their importance in the catchment as Track, it is also a tourism drawcard as it Creek. aquatic refugia is home to the longest bridge in South The Cooper Creek is an important but Australia which used to take the Ghan train »» Tree removal and reduced leaf litter over the Neales River, and its shady banks relatively poorly understood wetland system are causing severe impacts at certain provide welcome relief and good fishing. and the project uses the rare opportunity of waterholes (eg reduced habitat The impact of increased tourist numbers the large 2010-11 flood to gather important and increased soil erosion) and it is being seen at Algebuckina. The removal ecological information to improve our of key species (eg Coolabah) for firewood is recommended that grazing and understanding of how the Cooper Creek can upset the vegetation canopy, and recreational activities are restricted at catchment responds during flooding. compaction of the waterhole banks these sites through camping and vehicles can lead to Fieldwork will involve fish identification and erosion and loss of groundcover, in turn »» Pastoral lessees within the Neales leading to increased sedimentation. River catchment are participating monitoring, plant identification, and looking Litter reduces the aesthetic appeal and in the EMU™ program (see p. 13), for evidence of pest animals, such as Gambusia, and pig and rabbit activity. there is potential for contamination of the improving the capacity of land waterhole through human waste. managers to identify key management Fieldwork sites include Cullyamurra Through its work on the Neales River issues and carry out restoration works Waterhole, a permanent waterhole and catchment, the Board has a better that will improve catchment condition popular fishing and camping spot, Lake understanding of the importance of and minimise soil loss and gullying, as Hope, Coongie Lakes and a number of Algebuckina to the health of the Neales River catchment and the communities and well as improving the production value other waterholes closer to Lake Eyre. wildlife it supports. of their land. The data gathered is expected to Management recommendations aim to Technical reports which summarise inform management strategies for the lessen impacts from recreational activities the results of the project in the area of catchment including parks and tourism. and pest species and to maintain sustainable grazing management. geomorphology, hydrology, aquatic ecology, The Board plans to present information terrestrial ecology and cultural landscape gathered about the key pest threats to the The challenge will be to maintain the visitor experience while also protecting assessment will be available on the Board’s catchment at a community workshop in the ecological value of this critical wildlife website www.saalnrm.sa.gov.au in 2012. Innamincka in 2013. refuge. 23 Neales River catchment native fish surveys
Spangled Grunters (Leiopotherapon unicolor) pushing upstream across the Oodnadatta Track at Stuart Creek causeway Common native fish of the Lake Eyre In conjunction with the South Australian Research and Development Basin rivers Institute (SARDI), the SAAL NRM Board has completed its report on a survey of native and introduced fish populations in the Neales- Peake River catchment, providing important data to understanding the fish resources, their condition and their habitat use in the region. The survey was conducted in drought Collectively the surveys captured 40,000 A new brochure Common native fish of the Lake Eyre Basin rivers highlights conditions when there had been several fish representing nine species. the importance of taking care of years of low flow. It was repeated in 2010 Of these only one introduced fish species waterholes in the SAAL NRM Region after the drought had broken and water was captured – Gambusia – which and profiles 20 native species of fish found in the Lake Eyre Basin. was returning to the region’s waterholes occurred in low numbers in waterholes in after rain events. the Neales and Peake Rivers but in greater It also profiles Gambusia, a highly-invasive and aggressive introduced fish that Twenty-two refuge waterbodies in the numbers in some springs and bore drains presents a serious threat to native fish and catchment were surveyed along with The surveys revealed that the recovery frogs in the region. nine GAB springs and artificial bore-fed from drought occurred across the Neales- Developed by the SAAL NRM Board in wetlands. Peake River catchment and the rapid conjunction with SARDI, the brochure will be of interest to the entire Arid Lands recolonisers (eg Spangled Perch, Bony community but particularly schools, Herring, Desert Rainbow Fish and pest anglers, landholders and tourists. Gambusia) were present throughout the To obtain a copy contact the Board entire catchment. 8648 5977. Interestingly, Golden Perch were found in all the waterholes throughout the catchment during 2009 but only observed at Algebuckina Waterhole in the 2010 Golden Perch (Macquaria sp.) survey. Understanding the association between the region’s waterbodies and its fish communities, and where those fish are likely to be found in drought and wet conditions, will help to appropriately and sustainably manage these sites for future generations. Bony Herring (Nematalosa erebi) The report will be available on the Board’s website in 2012 and look out for future editions of Across The Outback or next year’s On Track when we report on the native fish surveys in the Cooper Creek catchment.
Desert Rainbow Fish (Melanotaenia splendida)
24 Gab spring and waterhole On Track management survey Delivering NRM in the SA Arid Lands 2010-11
Waterhole on the Neales Bore-fed Muloorina Wetlands River catchment wetlands
Thirty-nine groups and individuals with a stake in the management of the Great Artesian Basin (GAB) springs and waterholes in the Marla-Oodnadatta district were canvassed in a survey commissioned by the SAAL NRM Board to gather their views on the ecological, social and cultural importance of these In consultation with landholders, waterbodies. draft management plans have been completed this year on five properties Those surveyed included representatives conservation. No single management for six bore-fed wetlands – Coward of the pastoral and mining industries, prescription can be described as Springs, Callana and Morphetts Bore, Aboriginal communities, and government management objectives may differ from Muloorina Wetlands, Dulkaninna and non-government organisations. one spring or spring group to another. Wetlands and Clayton Wetlands. The survey questions were informed by a Trials involving controlled grazing and The SAAL NRM Board has been describing the values of each wetland to literature review of grazing of waterholes controlled burns, and fencing selected provide a basis for determining their water and GAB springs and a review of the sites to assess the impacts of grazing allocation under the Water Allocation Plan native Common Reed (Phragmites pressure, would be useful. Further for the Far North Prescribed Wells Area australis) and its influence on GAB springs. collection of baseline data is needed, and drafting management plans to ensure these values are protected. The survey confirmed that where stock particularly for waterholes, and ongoing monitoring is critical. Bore-fed wetlands are man-made habitats is excluded from GAB springs this can resulting from flowing artesian bores. promote the growth of Common Reed and Responses also indicated a strong cultural There are 19 bore-fed wetlands identified Bulrush (Typha domingensis) suppressing connection with both the GAB springs in the SAAL NRM Region fed by the Great the growth of other native species and waterholes and the importance of Artesian Basin, some of which were drilled over a century ago to access groundwater and affecting the flow of GAB springs. involving local Aboriginal people in their for watering stock. Today many of However, where stock have access to the management. these wetlands have significant social, springs there can be damage from grazing, The survey results will contribute to recreational, amenity and environmental trampling and fouling of the wetland areas. values that are important to landholders, a model for best-practice grazing regional visitors and tourists. The survey also showed that pastoral management for biodiversity benefits and managers have employed a conservative production. approach to the stocking of GAB springs A report will be available on the Board’s and waterholes, and waterholes tend to be website www.saalnrm.sa.gov.au in 2012. more important than springs from a stock- watering perspective. Active management of GAB springs is needed in order to strike an appropriate balance between resource use and
25 Protecting rockholes in the Gawler Ranges
About A Gawler Ranges rockholes rockhole site SA Native Title Service
In collaboration with Traditional Owners and local pastoralists, the SAAL NRM Board has completed an inventory of culturally- important rockholes in the Gawler Ranges Native Title Claim Area. The project was initiated in response Developed with input from Aboriginal to the limited cultural and ecological representatives and pastoralists at a Rockholes are of significant value to information available on rockholes across workshop on Mt Ive Station in August Aboriginal people living in arid areas of the SAAL NRM Region; to enhance the 2010, the project contributed to the Australia. They provide a crucial water knowledge and understanding of the Gawler Ranges Caring for Country Plan supply in an otherwise dry landscape cultural, ecological and pastoral value of 2010-15 which sets the priorities for where there is little permanent surface rockholes; and to allow for the protection the collaborative and culturally-sensitive water, assisting in travel across the landscape and access to a larger range and management of those rockholes that management of the Gawler Ranges Native of resources. In the early years of are culturally significant. Title Claim Area, and identifies appropriate pastoralism, before the advent of bores Eighteen surface water sites (rockholes, protection works, such as rockhole and wells, they were also important water resources for stock. claypans, soaks and pools) were assessed cleaning, regulating vehicle access, across seven pastoral leases. The plants and pest control. Regular site visits by and animals associated with those sites Traditional Owners are also recommended. were also recorded to help us understand The Board commissioned the SA Native how these ecosystems function. Title Services and Department for Water A key outcome of the project was the to carry out the work with support from development of a cultural database that the Gawler Ranges Title Management is actively being used to store, record Committee. and manage ecological and traditional The report will be available on the Board’s knowledge. Access to this sensitive website www.saalnrm.sa.gov.au in 2012. information and data is regulated. See p. 30 for examples of other projects The project also developed protocols where the Board has been working with that allowed the project to be undertaken Aboriginal communities. within a framework that respectfully met the needs of individual pastoralists and the Gawler Ranges Aboriginal community.
26 Flinders Ranges On Track Mogurnda survey Delivering NRM in the SA Arid Lands 2010-11
Disease-free Flinders Ranges Mogurnda
In partnership with the South Australian Research and Development Institute, the SAAL NRM Board has completed its investigation of the extent and population of the Flinders Ranges Mogurnda, a species of fish that is listed as vulnerable under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. The project was initiated after evidence A rapid assessment of vegetation and that individuals in remaining populations habitat condition was also undertaken at may be suffering from a disease. spring sites where the Mogurnda are likely Review of The Flinders Ranges Mogurnda (Mogurnda to occur as part of a wider assessment of surface and clivicola) has been recorded in only three spring condition in the northern Flinders groundwater Little Bubbler mound spring separate locations in a small area of the Ranges. monitoring Vulkathunha-Gammon Ranges National The Board has made a number of requirements Park which lies approximately 750km north recommendations to protect and manage of Adelaide and 110km from Leigh Creek. the existing Mogurnda populations The survey found that there are now including determining whether the species only two populations remaining where is genetically distinct from other interstate they can be found in adequate numbers populations; investigating the potential for The SAAL NRM Board is responsible for monitoring the surface and to sustain viable population sizes. The relocating the species to other suitable habitats; confirming the cause of the groundwater resources of the region Nepouie Spring population is thought in cooperation with other agencies to be translocated while the population disease; undertaking regular population including the Bureau of Meteorology, at Weetootla Spring is known to be a and habitat monitoring; and establishing Environment Protection Authority and remnant population. Fourteen other the importance of the Mogurnda to the Department for Water. springs were surveyed with no new local Aboriginal community. Our primary goal is to understand and protect the hydrology and related populations recorded. The report will be available on the Board’s environments within the region. website www.saalnrm.sa.gov.au in 2012. Populations remain stable with estimates The Board commissioned a report in of approximately 4000 individuals similar to 2010-11 to review all historical and those made a decade ago. current monitoring activities; identify partnerships and stakeholders currently Fish appeared to be in relatively good involved in monitoring work; establish a physical condition but up to 20 per cent committee to coordinate and optimise of adult fish in both populations exhibited monitoring activities, including data discolouration and growths posing a storage; and recommend appropriate monitoring programs to assess surface significant threat to population stability due and groundwater in the region. to the species’ limited range. The report is located on the Board’s website www.saalnrm.sa.gov.au 27 Our community
4439 hours contributed by volunteers – equivalent of $100,617
548 participants in 19 community 40 communications NRM activities groups supported products developed to deliver projects
Friends of Mound Springs volunteers 14 training/ at The Peake Station awareness raising events
While the SAAL NRM Region’s vastness and remoteness have provided crucial protection to our native plants and animals and ensured the region retains some of the State’s most intact ecosystems, with few on-ground managers in proportion to the region’s size their continued conservation and management can be problematic. The SAAL NRM Board recognises that Specifically, the Board: property planning, and fencing people are a critical element to ensuring »» develops and disseminates up-to- sensitive sites that our natural resources are managed date information on best practice »» provides advice, support and sustainably – we all have a role to play management of nrm issues through opportunities to individual volunteers in adopting sustainable practices, and in newsletters, factsheets, reports, site and community groups, including supporting and participating in programs visits, workshops, forums and field planning and delivery of projects such and projects as groups and individuals. days as community gardens, weed control, Effective engagement between the Board »» provides advice and other support fencing areas of high conservation and local communities is essential for to land managers to help improve value, and participation in field trips meeting targets identified in the SAAL knowledge and skills in NRM »» develops and delivers appropriate Regional NRM Plan and we recognise practices, including sustainable information on nrm issues and and salute the outstanding efforts of our pastoral productivity, grazing their management for inclusion in community striving to reach these shared management, pest animal and plant school programs, such as local fauna goals. control and property planning and flora ecology, and interactive Previous sections in On Track have already »» encourages the participation of workshops to learn how to identify highlighted the range of activities which Aboriginal people in NRM activities, fauna species and class books are primarily driven and delivered by including biodiversity conservation »» engages with industry operating in our community, including industry, local projects, sharing traditional and the area (including mining and tourism landholders, schools and volunteers. scientific ecological knowledge, companies) to negotiate mutually satisfactory nrm outcomes. The SAAL NRM Board will continue this 10 year Resource Condition Targets commitment to improving the capacity of all landholders, residents and industry 9. Equip all people who are 10. Increase by 30% the number in the region to manage their backyard actively involved in NRM with of people actively involved effectively, by providing support to develop the information, knowledge in NRM and supporting the necessary skills and ensure access and skills needed to support the achievement of the to appropriate information, expertise and the achievement of SAAL SAAL Regional NRM Plan programs. Regional NRM Plan priorities priorities
28 Industry Partnerships On Track Program Delivering NRM in the SA Arid Lands 2010-11
Brachina Gorge, Flinders Ranges SATC
The SAAL NRM Board launched its Industry Partnerships Program in late 2010 – and it quickly attracted the attention of Australian energy pioneer Santos. A unique initiative in South Australia, Tourism, mining and petroleum and the Industry Partnerships Program sees pastoral companies are big players in the businesses partner with the SAAL NRM region and the Board is keen to work with Board to accelerate the achievement of the them and for them to get behind natural region’s natural resources management resources management. goals, particularly where these are issues And, while the security and sustainability of of concern to industry. the region’s natural resources will ultimately The $750,000 funding provided by Santos be the big winner, participating businesses in 2010-11 supports important research will be rewarded with an improved into the economic impacts and ecology triple bottom line as they derive social, Get involved of dingoes in northern SA – this will assist ecological and financial benefits from the land managers to develop optimum dingo Program. With just two criteria to meet, joining the SAAL management strategies while maintaining NRM Board’s Industry Partnerships Program is The Industry Partnerships Program simple. the animal’s valuable ecological role in this addresses priority issues at the most region (see p. 17). As long as the business operates within the appropriate scale and utilises best SAAL NRM Region and utilises or impacts ‘Santos is delighted to support natural available knowledge. natural resources as part of its operations, then resources management in the north of It combines both the interests and the Board would be keen to explore partnership South Australia in this way,’ said Mr Trevor investment of industry and government opportunities. Whitelaw, Stakeholder Advisor. ‘Through with the expertise of scientists and natural There are a wide variety of programs that could this investment, the biodiversity of the resource managers to address issues and be addressed via the Industry Partnership region and the tourism and pastoral drive improvements in the condition of key Program including aspects of water security, industries will benefit.’ natural resources. pest management, threatened species ‘Important knowledge will flow back to conservation and community engagement. the regional community with the research Interested organisations are encouraged to also informing our own approach to dingo contact the Board 8648 5977 to discuss how they might get involved. management at Moomba.’ 29 Aboriginal community projects
Keep updated with Aboriginal NRM News
With three editions produced this year and a growing mailing list, Aboriginal NRM News is increasingly becoming an important read for the region’s Aboriginal communities as it bring updates on community NRM projects and other relevant NRM news. Contact the Board if Identifying plants you would like a copy 8648 5977. during a workshop at Aroona (Copley)
The SAAL NRM Board supported five of the region’s Aboriginal Nipapanha (North Flinders) communities this year – Umoona, Aroona, Dunjiba, Iga Warta Three culturally sensitive rockholes and Nipapanha – to help develop, fund and implement the polluted from animals falling into the water communities’ ideas for local NRM projects. have been cleaned and surrounded by uniquely designed cages that will provide Each project was developed by the earlier plant survey. The knowledge access to water for animals while avoiding community in partnership with the gained from the plant survey is owned further pollution. An irrigation system has Aboriginal Engagement team. The team by the community and will be stored also been installed on the outskirts of uses participatory planning methods at the Aroona Aboriginal Council for the community to reduce the impact of meaning community members play an future reference and to continue sharing dust and erosion caused by local traffic. integral role in the planning, development, knowledge with young people in the Revegetation and stabilisation with local implementation and reporting phases of community. native plants will occur next year. the project. Here’s a snapshot of what was The project was carried out in partnership This project was carried out in partnership achieved. with Aroona Aboriginal Council with with the Nipapanha Community Council. Umoona (Coober Pedy) the assistance of members of the local Community Development Employment Dunjiba (Oodnadatta) A common area within the Umoona Program and the local copper mine. Aboriginal community has been Hookeys Waterhole, a significant site for transformed after a revegetation project Iga Warta (North Flinders) the Dunjiba Aboriginal community and an saw the planting of 200 local native plants. important permanent refuge for wildlife, Several significant trees under threat from An important native bush plot established has been re-fenced after a flood took erosion and destruction of new growth, to restore dwindling populations of Iga the fence away. The project responds were also fenced, and walking trails and (Native Orange, Capparis mitchellii), Uti to community concerns about gaps in a viewing platform that looks over the (Quandong, Santalum acuminatum) and the existing fencing which allowed cars community and the town were erected. Udlura (Native Sandalwood, Santalum access to the site, destabilising the banks lanceolatum) has been protected from in areas. There are also plans to remove This project was carried out in partnership the impacts of rabbits after community the bamboo that has encroached on the with the Umoona Aboriginal Council who members fenced the area. A community waterhole once the water levels return to put together a ’green team’ of community workshop resolved that fencing and safe levels. A sign will soon be erected to members to carry out the work. trapping were the best methods for inform visitors of the significance of the site Aroona (Copley) controlling the rabbits which are difficult to and the importance of protecting it from manage due to the terrain and proximity further damage. A community workshop Members of the Aroona Aboriginal of Iga Warta to tourist campgrounds. The was held in May to discuss options for community saved their cemetery after community is now monitoring the area to preventing further impact to the waterhole. it was nearly washed away by floods at determine the success of the program. the end of 2010. The project saw the This project was carried out in partnership reinstatement of existing levee banks and with Dunjiba Aboriginal Council with the creation of new ones to protect the support from the Oodnadatta Aboriginal cemetery from future flood waters. The Get involved School and Allendale Station for the soil was stabilised with the planting of community workshop. Does your community have a project in mind? around 150 local native plants using seed Call the Board’s Aboriginal Engagement Officers See p. 26 for another example where the collected by members of the Nipapanha 8648 5977 or look out for the car when they are on Board has been working with Aboriginal and Aroona communities during an community. communities. 30 NRM On Track Education Delivering NRM in the SA Arid Lands 2010-11
Oodnadatta police Jeff Page and Bobby Bailes pitch in with planting
Greening our towns
Tracks & Scats A Tracks & Scats recognition workshop was held with 18 School Residents of Andamooka, Blinman of the Air students (and their and Oodnadatta may be feeling a parents) at Carriewerloo Station little cooler in summers to come. Six hundred locally sourced native plants, to showcase the power of animal including Eucalytpus and Acacia trees, tracks in increasing our understanding of Andy were planted in the towns thanks to the arid zone critters and to foster the interest the Ant’s work of the local Progress Associations of the land managers of tomorrow in the Arid Adventures and funding from the SAAL NRM Board. natural environment around them. The gardens will offer recreational and Andy the Ant’s Arid Adventures is a terrific aesthetic pleasure while helping hold Kids were given a structured activity sheet activity pad which helps school-aged kids together the towns’ soils and reducing to complete which involved identifying and understand the unique natural resources dust in the summer months. recording the various animal tracks they of the region, its people, and the pastoral, Residents of the townships and members saw (eg sheep, foxes, small mammals, mining and tourism industries that the of the Progress Associations were all birds and reptiles) and collecting animal natural resources support. involved in the planting days leading to a real sense of ownership and commitment scats (or poo!), a very useful method The free, 20 page, full colour activity pad to care for the plants. for identifying critters of all sorts. The is perfect for keeping the kids inspired – In Oodnadatta, where twenty residents workshop also included demonstrations and occupied – while travelling through turned out to help with the planting and of pitfall and Elliot traps. The students the SAAL NRM Region. Kids follow Andy the installation of a watering system, successfully set and checked the traps to the Ant across the region, meeting Robby Dunjiba Council Chair, Anthony Smith, find some Sandy Inland Mice (Pseudomys remarked that ‘the kids who helped plant the Rascally Rabbit, Camilla Camel, Barry the trees are now encouraging other kids hermannsburgensis), as well as a few the Bearded Dragon, Wanda the Wedge- to make sure they aren’t damaged so their common House Mice (Mus musculus). Tailed Eagle, and Pete and Pam the work is protected.’ All participants in the workshop received Pastoralists and test their knowledge with Here, the trees will be watered at least a copy of the manual Tales in the Sand activities including sudoku, crosswords, once a week by Community Development which aims to increase our understanding dot-to-dot and find-a-word. Employment Project workers and Oodnadatta Progress Association of the distribution and abundance of Andy the Ant’s Arid Adventures was members. a range of threatened and introduced developed by the SAAL NRM Board with In Blinman, now 260 plants greener, not animals in the arid zone through input from former teachers and will be a plant went to waste with those left over examination of their tracks, scats, burrows available in the major Visitor Information from the community garden planted in other gardens around the town. or diggings. Centres from October 2011. In Andamooka, the project was combined with a grant from Planning SA to purchase Get involved a solar-powered watering system to pump water to the native garden. If you are a resident of the SAAL NRM Region and would like to know how your school can take part in a Tracks & Scats workshop or you would like a copy of Tales in the Sand or Andy the Ant’s Arid Adventures, contact the Board 8648 5977. 31 NRM Volunteers 86 volunteers
CASE STUDY
Tim Webb, Critter 4439 hours Catcher
The Board was fortunate to have the continued support of three volunteers this year to assist our Coober Pedy Opal Shaft Fauna Monitoring project which sees modified nine litre plastic buckets sunk into abandoned, uncapped opal mine shafts around Coober Pedy to catch, identify and monitor the sorts of $100,617 critters that are falling in. Volunteers on Alpana Station show off their new safety gear contributed Tim Webb, a retired opal miner, has (equivalent) dedicated hundreds of hours to the project since it began in 2008 and shares The SAAL NRM Board supports Mitsubishi his experiences as a volunteer here. a number of volunteer groups Tim’s involvement in the project is simply 4WD Club motivated by a healthy curiosity in the and their contribution to natural Eleven natural world around him. resources management in the volunteers Having retired from the opal mining were involved game several years ago, a venture that region can not be overstated. also saw him live in Lightning Ridge and in cactus control for the second year The majority of the Board’s volunteers are Mintabie, he pursued his interest in plants, as well as some infrastructure/general photographing and cataloguing the local either involved in our pest plant and animal maintenance work on Moolooloo Station plants of Coober Pedy, and amassing a control programs or with our threatened in the North Flinders in October. collection of 5000 photographs in five fauna work. years as well as impressive records of local birdlife. In 2010-11 a significant amount of work Overland 4WD Club This interest in the local environment led on cactus control was completed by Eight members visited Oratunga Station Tim to Janet Walton, a NRM Officer with volunteers in the SAAL NRM Region who in the North Flinders in June to provide the SAAL NRM Board based in Coober were kept busy removing hundreds of follow-up treatment of Wheel Cactus, Pedy, who soon introduced him to Reece seedlings that had germinated due to Pedler, our Community Fauna Officer, supporting the BPPPCG project. thus beginning the transfer of Tim’s plant extensive rains. Here’s a snapshot of the recording and recognition skills to the activities that took place. Toyota Landcruiser Club town’s local animals. French’s Forest Baptist Twenty-six volunteers continued their work Every week Tim undertakes a 60-90 minute supporting the BPPPCG project on Gum round trip to check his twenty-five buckets Church, NSW with the furthest located 11 kilometres from Creek Station in June. Fifteen young adults undertook cactus Coober Pedy. His photography skills have come in handy: and feral animal control, and general Threatened fauna program ‘After checking the buckets I catalogue any maintenance, on Bullyaninnie Station in the A number of local residents also provided finds, photograph any unusual animals to North East Pastoral NRM district in July. volunteer support to the Board’s send to Reece for identification, and then release them.’ threatened fauna program (see p. 7 and Australian Retired Persons Tim’s weekly dedication to the project is Association & 4 Seasons Case Study, this page). important and his concern for the welfare Bushwalking Club of the animals is clear: ‘The buckets need to be checked every week, otherwise Seventeen members treated several the animals will die – we put food in the hundred Wheel Cactus plants in harsh buckets for the rats and mice but nothing country through Parachilna Gorge on will survive too long in the hot weather.’ Alpana Station in the North Flinders in This year, Tim has been trialling the use of deeper traps made from PVC stormwater August. pipe to target small mammals and larger reptiles. These have captured a range Adelaide Bushwalking Club Thank you of species not previously caught in the original trap design. Sixteen members continued their work The Board extends its gratitude to all its volunteers supporting the Blinman Parachilna Pest Tim’s catalogue now includes 25 different for their contributions this year. species of reptiles and small mammals, Plant Control Group’s (BPPPCG) project If you would like to find out what opportunities exist including a Mallee Black-headed Snake on Gum Creek Station in the North Flinders for volunteering with the Board please contact our (Parasuta spectabilis) previously only in August. This year marked the fourth year Community Engagement Officer 8648 5977.T here known from south of Port Augusta, and that this group has been involved in the one of several species of reptile that has are a variety of activities – office and field-based – had its known range significantly increased cactus control program, allowing them to that you can get involved with. through Tim’s dedicated efforts. He has complete the first cycle of their four-year also been greeted by a Stripe-faced treatment rotation. Dunnart (Sminthopsis macroura) and a one- metre long Sand Goanna (Varanus gouldii). 32 NRM On Track Communications Delivering NRM in the SA Arid Lands 2010-11
Sharon Bell (Dulkaninna Station) speaks with Petria Ladgrove (ABC North & West)
NRM in the media and on the web
The local media (eg ABC North & West, the Roxby Downs papers, and the Port Augusta Transcontinental) remains an important avenue for raising community awareness about a range of NRM issues and the SAAL NRM Board regularly issues media releases about its programs, particularly where it is looking for community involvement. Our staff are regularly approached to comment on emerging issues and for project news with stories picked up by local media often getting a run in Adelaide metropolitan and national media outlets. This year there were reports in the media in relation to our dingo research and >1000 people Biteback program, pest control programs (feral pigs, rabbits, and the spread of on the Across weeds African Rue and Boneseed), The Outback and threatened fauna programs (Woma mailing list Python, Flinders Ranges Purple-Spotted Gudgeon), as well as general reports on the booming populations of native Across The Outback wildlife as a result of the good season, the adoption of the SAAL Regional NRM The SAAL NRM Board has continued Plan, consultation on the Board’s draft its support of Across The Outback, a 2011-12 Business Plan, and the Industry Partnerships Program. 57 media respected newsletter of 20 years standing opportunities that provides our community with a ‘one-stop-shop’ to information from the SA Government agencies operating in the region. Issued six times per year to over 1000 individuals or Check out our website organisations with a stake or interest in the region, the Our website is a hub of activity containing the latest newsletter has become an essential read, particularly NRM news, publications and events as well as for local pastoralists and the local media but also providing the background to our operations. 4436 unique conservation, recreation and tourist groups. If you are after NRM Group or Board meeting details, a factsheet, report or newsletter, positions vacant, website visitors In 2010, the SAAL NRM Board expanded the newsletter information for schools or volunteers or just the to make room for more ad hoc contributions from other latest on NRM in the region, check out the Board’s government agencies or community groups operating in website www.saalnrm.sa.gov.au the region. In addition to the Board’s website it remains the chief source of information for all things NRM. If you would like to join the mailing list contact the Board’s Communications Officer 8648 5977. 33 Nrm Group activities
Innamincka causeway
The SAAL NRM Board is supported in its role by five active NRM Groups at the district level which each provide a vital link in relaying community issues to the Board and a local perspective on implementing on-ground projects. A sixth NRM district has been gazetted in the North East Pastoral district and the Board has advertised for community members.
North Flinders Marla-Oodnadatta Kingoonya The NF Group continued their support for The MO Group gave advice on a new The K Group continued their support for the Biteback program for dingo control landholder-driven project aimed at the Western Myall White Fly (Zaphanera which they first initiated in 2009 with two controlling the spread of Mimosa Bush paprocarpae) program – in its second year of the members now the contact for their (Acacia farnesiana) in The Peake Creek in 2010-11 – providing on-site support for Local Area Planning group (see p. 11). catchment, purchasing a spray unit for contractors as they continued to monitor The Group also provided feedback to the use by the district’s landholders to control infestation sites across the district. Board’s Pest Management Officer on the Mimosa Bush and other weeds. Feedback on the draft Kingoonya weed draft North Flinders weed strategy which The EMU™ process is now in operation strategy which sets the priorities for weed sets the priorities for weed management in on five properties in the MO district – management in the district for the next the district for the next five years. Todmorden, Evelyn Downs, Allendale, five years led to the decision to purchase Concerns were raised about the Wintinna and The Peake – and the Group a portable spray tank for the district’s invasiveness of Pepper Trees in the district continues to be a strong proponent of landholders to use for weed control. The and the Group proposed and provided this approach to land management with Group also provided input into the roll- input into a Pepper Tree removal workshop members promoting the project to other out of the Biteback program for dingo to take place in Blinman in September landholders in the area (see p. 13). control and how to maximise landholder 2011. The Group also provided input into participation in the district (see p. 11). Members raised their concern about Buffel The Group also considered how goat the development of a procedure for Grass spreading from the north leading trailers in the region could be managed landholders to obtain baits for dingo the Board to fund some work along the to improve landholder access for private control in areas of the SAAL NRM Region Kingoonya roadsides. control programs and continued their that are north of the Dog Fence (see p. support and involvement in Wheel Cactus 17), while representatives from OZMinerals The Group also held a meeting at and Oleander removal as part of the presented to the Group to raise awareness Prominent Hill with the visit including a Blinman-Parachilna Pest Plant Control about its copper-gold mine operations at tour of the OZMinerals copper-gold mine, program. Prominent Hill, situated 130 kilometres including its Significant Environmental south-east of Coober Pedy. Benefits area (see p. 14), and a presentation Keith Slade took on the position of Chair from an OZMinerals representative. in April taking over from Leonard Nutt who Mark Fennell took on the position of Chair is now a SAAL NRM Board member. Ian in December taking over from Douglas Group members continued support to Ferguson joined the Group this year. Lillecrapp. New member were Caroline EMU™ projects in the district (see p. 13) Thomas and Simon Hilder replacing Kylie and provided feedback on the Trialing Fuller (who is now a Board member) and Landscape Assessment Tools project Gordon Warren. which uses remote sensing for monitoring and GIS for landscape assessment. Julie Mould remains the Chair and Peter Paisley joined the Group. 34 On Track Delivering NRM in the SA Arid Lands 2010-11
Interested in becoming a Group member? Marree-Innamincka In May the Group combined their meeting with a tour of a revegetation trial on Thurlga The MI Group’s activities were dominated Station which compared direct seeding by the continued development of Birdsville and ripping methods to identify the most Strzelecki: Legendary tracks of the Marree efficient method of reintroducing Bladder Innamincka District, an informative and Saltbush (Atriplex vesicaria) to pastures. concise brochure for travellers on the EMU™ is operating on one property in the Do you live or have Strzelecki and Birdsville Tracks. This full- district and the Group has maintained its an interest in the colour, 12-page brochure promises to be a interest in this program and its progress in useful resource for tourists and includes a Arid Lands region? the region (see p. 13). summary of history and origin, environment Are you interested in providing a local and ecology, and contemporary landuse The Group was also represented at Mt perspective to the Board on key NRM issues in as well as maps showing points of interest Ive Station where local pastoralists and your district or driving NRM projects? along the Tracks. Look out for it in 2012! members of the Gawler Ranges Native Title NRM Groups are skills-based with members Management Committee came together to selected based on their knowledge of one or The Group also provided support to Innamincka causeway discuss how they could work to manage more of the following areas the Innamincka Progress Association’s the district’s rockholes (see p. 26). »» Community affairs at a district level application for funds to conduct an opportune biological survey of plants and Sandy Morris remains the Chair. Leonard »» Primary production or pastoral land animals in the far north east of the Marree- Newton left the Group in 2010-11. management Innamincka district following exceptional »» Soil conservation and land management rainfall events across the north of the North East Pastoral »» Water resource management State. A plant survey targeting species There may not be an operating NRM »» Business administration for which there are limited collections Group in the North East Pastoral district, »» Local governance or administration was carried out by a team from the State but the Board has been undertaking »» Aboriginal interest in land and water, and Herbarium of South Australia in May. several programs in this area. Aboriginal heritage A number of new observations were Cactus, African Boxthorn and rabbit »» Pest animal and plant control made and the collected plant specimens control have been undertaken on several (including seed) will be incorporated »» Natural and social science properties with a number of pastoral into the herbarium. Further animal and »» Mining and petroleum exploration lessees participating through the Board’s plant surveys are due to take place in »» Tourism Pest Management and Rangelands September 2011. Rehabilitation program (see p. 12); Board Contact the Board’s NRM Officers 8648 5977 The Group also continued its input into the staff conducted a workshop in Yunta on the to register your interest. MI fish ladder project, a collaborative effort management of the invasive weed African between the local community, Santos, the Rue; and a volunteer group from French’s Department of Environment and Natural Forest Baptist Church in Sydney assisted Resources and other government agencies with pest control and general maintenance to investigate the feasibility of modifying on Bullyaninnie Station (see p. 32). the existing Innamincka Causeway to allow The Biteback program for dingo control was fish to move across during low Cooper rolled out to the NEP district in December Creek flows. (see p. 11) and Dusky Hopping Mouse Maree Morton took on the position of surveys (see p. 7) took place on several Chair in April taking over from Janet Brook sites in the northern parts of the district. who became the SAAL NRM Board’s The Board’s Industry Support Officer has Presiding Member. Jacqueline Ogilvy been building relationships with exploration replaced Murray Tyler. and mining companies in the NEP and encourages any landholders with issues Gawler Ranges relating to exploration or mining, or ideas The GR Group were involved in a for Significant Environmental Benefits range of activities, with one of their key offsets (see p. 14), to get in touch. achievements alerting the Board to a There has also been an expression of growing dingo problem and supporting the interest to participate in EMU™ (see p. Board’s application for industry funding to 13) and the Board held a public meeting bring forward the roll-out of Biteback to the in Yunta as part of its annual review of its eastern Gawler Ranges (see p. 11). Business Plan in February (see p. 37). Members also provided feedback on the draft Gawler Ranges weed strategy which Volunteer Tom Davidson (Australian Retired Persons Association) conducts cactus sets the priorities for weed management in removal on Alpana Station the district for the next five years. 35 Our finances
Dilbert, our much loved Ampurta and regular visitor to local schools, sadly Coober Pedy passed away this year
Through the activities of the SAAL NRM Board your community What is the NRM Levy? is supported in the sustainable use of its natural resources and The Natural Resources Management Act 2004 provides for a regional (land-based) in maintaining its natural ecosystems. You and your community NRM levy and a NRM water levy to benefit from: provide additional funding for the Board to take care of our natural resources for »» improved care of sites and areas of Sturt’s Desert Pea (Swainsona formosa) future generations. environmental and cultural significance Who pays the NRM levy? »» programs that help protect valuable All landowners (including lessees) in the ground and surface waters; support SAAL NRM Region pay the regional NRM industries to operate sustainably; levy. The NRM water levy is payable on improve pastoral land management; water allocated to the mining, energy, gas and petroleum sector (collectively conserve natural ecosystems; and called industrial licences), for town water encourage community participation suppliers, irrigators and for commercial »» improved partnerships and integration operations such as tourist park operators in the Far North Wells Prescribed Area. with regional community groups as The NRM water levy is not payable well as peak body non-government on water licences held for stock and organisations (NGOs) domestic use. »» support for township economies Who collects the NRM levy? including maintaining industries, water Local councils collect the regional (land- supplies and tourism opportunities based) NRM levy annually from their »» monitoring and control of pest animals ratepayers and forward the collected funds to the Board. The levy is shown and plants both for industry and for separately on council rates notices. biodiversity Outside council areas the regional »» support to community groups involved NRM levy is collected annually by the Department of Environment and Natural in the sustainable management of the Resources. The Department for Water region’s natural resources collects the NRM water levy from water »» a coordinated and integrated licence holders. approach to managing the natural How is the NRM levy spent? resources in the SAAL NRM Region The regional (land-based) NRM levy and over the next 10 years. NRM water levy contribute less than 10 per cent of the Board’s total budget However, these benefits do require an but they are critical for leveraging extra investment of funds. funds from other sources including The Board is funded through four main State and Australian Governments. The Board is also actively promoting other sources: partnerships (eg with industry) to secure »» State recurrent funding additional funding for natural resources management (see p. 29). We apply these »» Commonwealth funding investments wisely to carry out the work, »» An NRM levy showcased in On Track, that we believe is necessary to achieve sustainability of the »» Industry and other opportunistic funds region’s natural resources. Dog Fence 36 On Track Delivering NRM in the SA Arid Lands 2010-11
Poached Egg Daisies 2010-11 Income
INCOME SOURCE Carry-over funds $3,970,577 NRM levies Regional (land-based) NRM levy Inside Council $78,750 Outside Council $80,883 NRM water levy $384,932
State Funding What State recurrent allocation – NRM Fund $1,000,000 activities would you State NRM Competitive $292,760 like to see Payroll tax refund $50,000 funded? Commonwealth Funding Caring for Our Country – base funding $1,659,000 Caring for Our Country – competitive $607,121 Australian Government Water Fund $1,180,562 The Board’s three-year Business Plan – part of the wider 10-year SAAL Other Sources $348,782 Regional NRM Plan – is reviewed annually under the Natural Resources Interest $79,767 Management Act 2004. We hold public meetings throughout the Total Income $9,733,134 region to gather feedback on how we plan Carryover to 2011-12 $3,841,000 to generate and invest our income over the following three years. These meetings are a terrific opportunity to meet with Board members and comment on how the 2010-11 Expenditure Board plans to raise and invest its income and about natural resources management issues in general. EXPENDITURE AREA Thank you Program 1: $2,223,976 The Board thanks those community Functioning Ecosystems Program members who turned out in February 2011 for regional public meetings to Program 2: $1,482,616 provide feedback on the proposed Sustainable Use Program amendments to our Business Plan for 2011-12 – 2013-14. Program 3: $996,854 The consultation period ran for 31 days Active Communities Program from 26 January to 25 February 2011 with public meetings across the region Support to Groups $125,291 the cornerstone of the process. While the wet weather and road closures forced the Board governance, communications $1,063,397 Board to revise its travel arrangements & administration and cancel meetings at Iga Warta and Nepabunna, the Board was pleased Total Expenditure $5,892,134 to meet with Aboriginal community members in Oodnadatta, Coober Pedy, Leigh Creek and Copley. The feedback and contribution from Progress Have your say in 2012 Associations, especially in terms of out- The Board is consulting on the proposed amendments to its Business Plan 2012-13 – 2014-15 with of-council regional (land-based) NRM levy arrangements, was also appreciated. comments due by 10 February 2012. Contact the Board 8648 5977 for a copy Beginning 23 January 2012, public meetings will be held across the region in Leigh Creek, Marree, of the consultation report. Andamooka, Coober Pedy, Oodnadatta, Iron Knob and Yunta and you are invited to hear about the proposed amendments to the Business Plan (including changes to the NRM levy), learn more about the Board’s activities and how you can get involved, and provide comment/feedback. For details of the meetings and a copy of the draft Business Plan, Factsheet and Feedback Form please contact the Board 8648 5977 or visit our website www.saalnrm.sa.gov.au 37 ‘Our performance’ shows how the SAAL NRM Region is tracking against the 50 1-5 year Management Action Targets (MATs) that contribute to achieving the 10-year Resource Condition Targets (RCTs) and, ultimately, the longer-term goals identified in the SAAL Regional NRM Plan. It is important to note that these targets are contributed to by the actions of all those operating in the region, including all levels of government, industry organisations, land managers and members of the community. Our performance
Management Action Target Status
1. Develop register of regionally significant sites and areas that warrant specific protection measures and develop policies for management and protection by 2014 and ensure on-ground protection of priority sites/areas is under way by 2016 2. Review resource requirements associated with the Pastoral Assessment Program and ensure adequate resourcing by 2014 3. Ensure that 100% of land managers have sufficient information to incorporate biodiversity stewardship into enterprise decision-making by 2014 4. Develop a revised methodology and format for the timely production of land management plans, that avoid biodiversity decline, for the installation of new water points by 2013 5. Develop best practice guidelines and related extension programs for sustainable grazing management – taking into account land type and drought responsiveness – by 2014 6. Ensure that at least 50% of pastoralists are engaged in best practice management programs by 2014 7. Complete initial mapping of pest distributions and determine priorities for control, and establish process for updating of mapping data by 2014 8. Ensure programs are in place aimed at achieving reductions in the distribution and numbers of identified priority pests by 2014 9. Ensure high risk potential pathways for the introduction of pest animals and plants are identified; high risk and vulnerable sites are being monitored regularly; and a framework for eradication or management of potential new incursions is in place by 2014 10. Undertake risk assessment process by 2015 to identify: - pest species that could be advantaged by climate change - native species & ecological communities that may be vulnerable to climate change - potential implications of climate change for water resources management - other potential implications of climate change for natural resources management 11. Ensure all relevant land managers are engaged and supported in pest control programs by 2014 12. Develop cross boundary protocols and guidelines regarding pest control with adjoining NRM boards and equivalent adjoining interstate bodies by 2014 13. Ensure research needs in support of MATs 7 to 12 are identified by 2011 and that priority research is underway by 2014 14. Complete surveys and mapping of regional ecosystems, including environmental water requirements by 2016 15. Develop programs to support the management and recovery of 50% of the conservation priorities identified within the SAAL Biodiversity Strategy by 2016 16. Determine the current status and potential for decline of 50% of species, ecological communities and ecological processes not currently identified as conservation priorities by 2016 17. Commence research to improve knowledge regarding ecosystem function and services for priority ecosystems by 2014 18. Improve the capacity of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems to adapt to climate change through the enhancement of the public, private and indigenous protected areas network and sympathetic land management programs within 80% of all IBRA subregions by 2017 19. Identify GAB springs that warrant priority in protection from total grazing pressure by 2012 and ensure that 50% of those are protected by 2018 20. Identify other aquatic ecosystems that warrant priority in protection from total grazing pressure by 2014 and ensure that 50% of those are protected by 2018 21. Develop a regional action plan for the control of animal and plant pests in aquatic ecosystems in the SAAL NRM Region by 2014
22. Ensure that the Water Allocation Plan for the Far North Prescribed Wells Area is being fully implemented by 2014 23. Ensure that a sustainable program for monitoring and repair of leaking artesian bores is in place by 2014 24. Ensure that a management/rehabilitation plan for currently flowing artesian bores is completed by 2012 and implemented by 2016 38 No progress Limited progress On Track On track Delivering NRM in the SA Arid Lands 2010-11
Complete
Management Action Target Status
25. Ensure the policies and actions to sustain the GAB in the SAAL NRM Region are integrated within national policies and actions by 2014
26. Develop guidelines for water extraction from surface water systems for stock, domestic and other uses by 2014
27. Ensure that administrative processes re Water Affecting Activities are in place and that relevant land managers are aware of their responsibilities by 2011
28. Review the Water Affecting Activities set out in Part 4 of this plan, to ensure that they are consistent with the objectives of maintaining natural flow regimes in the SAAL NRM Region by 2014
29. Implement protection, management and/or rehabilitation measures in at least ten priority ecosystems (priority at local/ community level) by 2016
30. Develop a regional water resources research register, highlighting information gaps, priorities, responsibilities and potential funding sources by 2012
31. Ensure that high research priorities are being addressed by 2014
32. Work with Aboriginal people to establish an agreed process for their consultation and involvement in NRM planning and programs by 2013
33. Develop landscape assessment framework for the SAAL NRM Region by 2014 and ensure all development and best practice land management standards incorporate ESD principles by 2016
34. Review the extent and priority of impacts upon natural resources associated with features of cultural importance by 2016
35. Identify regional soil erosion priority areas and initiate on-ground management by 2014
36. Establish consultative arrangements for the assessment of soil conservation implications of proposed new infrastructure by 2012
37. Develop register of infrastructure sites associated with significant soil disturbance/erosion and initiate on-ground management at priority sites by 2014
38. Ensure that 50% of pastoral and other broad-acre land managers are applying best practice measures for dingo and fox control and management by 2014
39. Establish strategic response protocols regarding overabundant native species by 2014
40. Establish process for managing native vegetation clearance offsets in the SAAL NRM Region by 2014
41. Develop best practice NRM guidelines relating to tourism by 2014
42. Ensure 50% of tourism operators are accredited for Environmentally Aware Tourism by 2014
43. Review feasibility of expanded partnerships between the SAAL NRM Board and regional industry and identify priority areas/ issues for partnerships by 2014
44. Develop a predictive water demand model for the SAAL NRM Region by 2014
45. Review policies and practices for management of wastewater by 2014
46. Ensure that programs are in place to provide up-to-date NRM information to all sectors of the community in accessible and digestible form by 2014
47. Develop a support program to increase the participation of Aboriginal people in natural resources management projects that link with Aboriginal priorities by 2013
48. Establish ongoing dialogue with relevant educational bodies and ensure inclusion of regionally relevant NRM issues in local school programs by 2014
49. Review adequacy of current training programs and other opportunities for community skills development in NRM by 2012
50. Identify any significant barriers to effective natural resources management associated with infrastructure by 2014 39 On Track Delivering NRM in the SA Arid Lands 2010-11
Our Board
Section 25 of the Natural Resources Management Act 2004 provides for the appointment of the South Australian Arid Lands Natural Resources Management About this Board. The Board comprises up to nine members appointed by the Governor report of South Australia on the recommendation of the Minister for Sustainability, Environment and Conservation.
© South Australian Arid Lands Natural Resources Management Board Janet Brook Leanne Liddle Leonard Nutt December 2011 Presiding Member Cover image Simpson Desert, Matthew Turner
Disclaimer The South Australian Arid Lands Natural Resources Management Board, and its employees do not warrant or make any representation regarding the use, or results of use of the information contained herein as to its correctness, accuracy, reliability, currency or otherwise. The Kylie Fuller Daryl Bell Ross Sawers South Australian Arid Lands Natural Resources Management Board and its employees expressly disclaim all liability or responsibility to any person using the information or advice.
Copyright This work is copyright. Apart from any use permitted under the Copyright Act 1968 (Commonwealth), no part may be reproduced by any process without prior written permission obtained from the South Australian Arid Lands Natural Catherine Rick Barrett Murray Tyler Resources Management Board. Requests Hollingsworth and enquiries concerning reproduction and rights should be directed to the In addition to Regional Manager, South Australian Arid the appointment Lands Natural Resources Management of community Board, Railway Station Building, representatives, there PO Box 2227, Port Augusta, SA, 5700. are three non-voting Board members authorised by the Graphic design Minister to represent elevenacross.com.au the interests of the State. Michael Malavazos Neil Power Toni Bauer (Primary Industries and (Department for Water) (Outback Communities Resources South Australia) Authority)
Contact us
SA Arid Lands Natural Resources Management Board PO BOX 2227 Port Augusta SA 5700 08 8648 5977 [email protected] www.saalnrm.sa.gov.au 40