Approved Recovery Plan
Eleocharis tetraquetra Nees Recovery Plan
N S W NATIONAL PARKS AND WILDLIFE October 1999 SERVICE © NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, 1999. This work is copyright. Apart from any use as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968, no part may be reproduced without prior written permission from NPWS.
NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service 43 Bridge Street (PO Box 1967) Hurstville NSW 2220 Tel: 02 9585 6444 www.npws.nsw.gov.au
For further information contact Threatened Species Unit, Northern Zone. NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service Locked Bag 914 Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Tel (02) 66515946 Email
Cover photograph: Eleocharis tetraquetra
Cover photographer: Nigel Cotsell, NPWS
ISBN 0 7313 60974 Eleocharis tetraquetra Nees Recovery Plan
Prepared in accordance with the New South Wales Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995
October 1999 Acknowledgments
This recovery plan was prepared by Greg Elks (consultant), Dianne Brown (NSW NPWS) and Nigel Cotsell (NSW NPWS) on behalf of the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service. Credit is due to the following people and organisations for their assis- tance in the preparation of this plan and management of the plant: Peter Borrelli, Greg Collins, John ODonnell, Jill Christy and others from the NSW Roads and Traffic Authority for their contributions to the plan and ongoing support and commitment for the management and protection of the Boambee populations. Statewide Road Engineers and Leighton Contractors Pty Ltd for their on-site protective measures of E. tetraquetra. Van Klaphake, Paul Sheringham (NSW NPWS) and Peter Richards (NSW NPWS) for helpful discussions about the species ecology and habitat, and for rediscovering the species in New South Wales. Nick Sheppard and Kane Goodwin of NSW NPWS for support and editorial comment. David Dutton, former owner of the Boambee land, for his help in determining the full extent of the population, and for his useful com- ments and observations as to the ongoing management of the Boambee population. Representatives of Coffs Harbour City Council, Telstra, Optus, NorthPower and the Rural Fire Service. Henry James for providing information on the site near Murwillumbah. Karen Wilson, NSW National Herbarium. Phillip Sharpe, Queensland Herbarium Margaret Brock, University of New England, Armidale
4 Foreword
The conservation of threatened species, populations and ecological communities is crucial for the maintenance of this States unique biodiversity. In NSW, the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act) provides the framework to conserve and recover threatened species, populations and ecological communities through the preparation and implementation of recovery plans. The preparation and implementation of recovery plans is identified by both the Na- tional Strategy for the Conservation of Australias Biological Diversity and the draft NSW Biodiversity Strategy as a key strategy for the conservation of threatened flora, fauna and invertebrates. The object of a recovery plan is to document the research and management actions required to promote the recovery of a threatened species, popula- tion or ecological communities and to ensure its ongoing viability in nature. The Eleocharis tetraquetra recovery plan describes our current understanding of Eleocharis tetraquetra, documents the research and management actions undertaken to date, and identifies the actions required and parties responsible to ensure the ongoing viability of the species in the wild. The preparation of the Eleocharis tetraquetra recovery plan has been a joint effort of the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service and the Roads and Traffic Authority and has been assisted by a large number of people. I thank these people for their efforts to date and I look forward to their continued contribution to the recovery of the species.
BOB DEBUS MP Minister for the Environment
5 Executive Summary
Introduction
Eleocharis tetraquetra Nees is a tufted herbaceous perennial distinguished primarily by its slender four angled stem and broad spikelet. E. tetraquetra was thought to be extinct in New South Wales until plants were located near Coffs Harbour in 1997. Subsequently, populations have been discovered north of Grafton, and near Murwillumbah. This recovery plan describes our current understanding of E. tetraquetra, documents the research and management actions undertaken to date, and identifies the actions required and parties responsible in addressing the conservation of the species in the wild. Legislative context
E. tetraquetra is listed on Schedule 1 Part 1 of the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act) as endangered in NSW. Prior to the species rediscovery in NSW it was listed on Schedule 1 Part 4 as presumed extinct. Preparation of plan
This recovery plan was prepared by Greg Elks, Dianne Brown and Nigel Cotsell with assistance from the NPWS Threatened Species Unit, Northern Zone and the Roads and Traffic Authority. The information in this recovery plan was accurate to the best knowledge of the NPWS on the date that it was approved. The plan will be reviewed and updated three years from the date of publication. Current species status
E. tetraquetra was regarded as extinct in NSW prior to its rediscovery in 1997. In Queensland E. tetraquetra has a scattered distribution between Noosa and Bundaberg, and also occurs in the Moreton and Wide Bay pastoral districts. Recovery objectives
The overall objective of this recovery plan is to maintain viable wild populations of E. tetraquetra in the long term. Specific objectives of this recovery plan are to: protect and maintain wild populations and their habitat from human-induced threat- ening processes; determine if any further populations exist, and provide suitable protection for fur- ther populations and their habitat;
6 understand the ecology and biology of the species; ensure that known populations achieve long-term viability; and establish representative ex situ populations in botanic gardens and in other suitable locations. Recovery criteria
The recovery criteria are that: wild populations are protected by suitable measures; the location, condition and extent of known populations are adequately mapped; potential habitat is searched, and any new populations and their habitat are pro- tected by suitable measures; knowledge of the ecology and biology of the species is sufficient to enable manage- ment for long term survival of the species in NSW; and representative ex situ populations exist within botanic gardens and in other suitable locations. Recovery actions
Recovery actions will be directed towards: implementing management programs which ensure the survival of known wild popu- lations; undertaking surveys of potential habitat for previously undetected occurrences of the species; research on the population ecology and genetics of the species; and propagating and establishing ex situ collections within suitable botanic gardens. Biodiversity benefits
The occurrence of E. tetraquetra contributes to the high biodiversity of the flora of the north coast of NSW. Other rare or threatened species are likely to benefit from the conservation of E. tetraquetra where they share its habitat. Through awareness of the fate of E. tetraquetra, the profile of all threatened plant species is raised in the general community. This in turn leads to greater opportunities for the conservation of threatened species and increased protection of biodiversity.
BRIAN GILLIGAN Director-General
7 Table of Contents Acknowledgements ...... 4 Foreword ...... 5 Executive Summary ...... 6 List of figures...... 10 List of tables ...... 10 1 Current conservation status ...... 11 2 Description...... 11 2.1 Taxonomic description ...... 11 2.2 Taxonomic significance ...... 11 3 Distribution ...... 11 3.1 Current and historical distribution...... 11 3.1.1 Local Government areas...... 13 3.2 Tenure ...... 13 3.3 Critical habitat...... 13 4 Ecology ...... 13 4.1 Habit, growth rate and longevity...... 13 4.2 Reproductive biology...... 14 4.2.1 Vegetative reproduction ...... 14 4.2.2 Breeding system...... 14 4.2.3 Fruiting and flowering ...... 14 4.2.4 Seed production and viability ...... 14 4.2.5 Seed dispersal ...... 15 4.2.6 Seed germination and establishment...... 15 4.3 Population structure ...... 16 5 Disturbance ...... 16 5.1 Clearing ...... 16 5.2 Grazing ...... 16 5.3 Fire ...... 17 5.4 Flood...... 17 5.5 Past mechanical disturbance...... 17 6 Habitat ...... 18 6.1 Topography...... 18 6.2 Soil ...... 18 6.3 Vegetation ...... 18 6.3.1 Plant communities at Boambee ...... 18 6.3.2 Plant communities at Fortis Creek National Park ...... 20
8 6.3.3 Plant communities at Copmanhurst ...... 21 6.3.4 Plant communities at Murwillumbah...... 21 6.4 Light intensity...... 22 7 Relevant legislation ...... 22 7.1 State legislation...... 22 7.1.1 Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act) ...... 22 7.1.2 Native Vegetation Conservation Act 1997 (NVC Act) ...... 23 7.1.3 Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 ...... 23 7.1.4 Rural Fires Act 1997 ...... 23 7.2 Federal legislation ...... 24 7.3 NSW policies ...... 24 7.3.1 NSW Wetlands Management Policy ...... 24 8 Management issues ...... 24 8.1 Lack of knowledge of the life history of E. tetraquetra...... 24 8.2 Intrinsic habitat specificity...... 24 8.3 Threats to and reasons for decline of the species...... 25 8.3.1 Changes to disturbance regime ...... 25 8.3.2 Loss and modification of habitat ...... 25 8.3.3 Loss of dispersal vectors ...... 25 8.4 Threats specific to known populations ...... 26 8.4.1 Threats to the Boambee population ...... 26 8.4.2 Threats to other populations ...... 26 8.5 Social and economic considerations ...... 26 8.5.1 Intrinsic ecological value ...... 27 8.5.2 Scientific and taxonomic value ...... 27 8.5.3 Pharmaceutical value...... 27 8.5.4 Social benefits...... 27 8.5.5 Commercial value ...... 27 8.6 Biodiversity benefits ...... 28 9 Previous actions undertaken ...... 28 9.1 Commissioning of recovery plan ...... 28 9.2 Ecological research ...... 28 10 Species ability to recover...... 28 11 Recovery objectives and performance criteria ...... 29 11.1 Objectives of the recovery plan ...... 29 11.2 Recovery performance criteria ...... 29 12 Recovery actions ...... 29 12.1 General ...... 30
9 12.2 Site management of the Boambee population...... 30 12.2.1 Site management of publicly-owned land at Boambee ... 30 12.2.2 Site management of private land at Boambee ...... 31 12.3 Site management of the Fortis Creek National Park, Copmanhurst and Murwillumbah populations...... 31 12.4 Targeted survey...... 32 12.5 Research ...... 32 12.5.1 Census data ...... 32 12.5.2 Population dynamics ...... 33 12.5.3 Disturbance regimes ...... 33 12.6 Legislative protection...... 33 12.7 Ex situ collections...... 34 12.8 Community awareness ...... 34 13 Implementation...... 35 14 Preparation details...... 39 14.1 Date of last amendment ...... 39 14.2 Review date ...... 39 References ...... 40 List of figures Figure 1 Eleocharis tetraquetra locations ...... 12
List of tables Table 1 Species commonly associated with E. tetraquetra at Boambee...... 19 Table 2 Species commonly associated with E. tetraquetra at Fortis Creek ...... 20 Table 3 Species commonly associated with E. tetraquetra at Copmanhurst ...... 21 Table 4 Species commonly associated with E. tetraquetra at Murwillumbah ...... 22 Table 5 Implementation schedule ...... 35 Table 6 Cost of implementation ...... 37 Table 7 Cost to public authorities ...... 38
10 1 Current conservation status
Eleocharis tetraquetra Nees of the family Cyperaceae was listed on Schedule 1 Part 4 of the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act) as presumed extinct in New South Wales (NSW) prior to its rediscovery near Coffs Harbour in 1997. As a result of this rediscovery, the species was listed on Schedule 1 Part 1 of the TSC Act as endan- gered in NSW in July 1999. E. tetraquetra is not listed under the Commonwealth Endan- gered Species Protection Act 1992. 2 Description
2.1 Taxonomic description
The following description is modified from Harden (1993). E. tetraquetra is a tufted herbaceous perennial, with culms or stems arising from a short rhizome. The culms are four-angled, lax, growing 30-100 cm high and 1-1.5 mm diameter. Leaves are located at the base of the culm and are reduced to a tubular sheath. The uppermost leaf is thick- ened. The spikelet is ellipsoid to ovoid, 10-20 mm long and 3.5-5 mm diameter. The fruit is a shining yellowish or brown nut approximately 1.5 mm long and 1 mm wide, which is crowned by the persistent style base. Distinguishing characteristics of the species are primarily the slender four-angled stem, and the spikelet which is much broader than the stem. 2.2 Taxonomic significance
Eleocharis is a cosmopolitan genus with approximately 150 species worldwide. Australia is estimated to have 30 species, ten of which are endemic. Twenty species are known from NSW, three of which are introduced. 3 Distribution
3.1 Current and historical distribution
E. tetraquetra was recently discovered at four localities in NSW. These are Boambee, six kilometres south-west of Coffs Harbour; Fortis Creek, 25 km north-west of Grafton; near Copmanhurst, 27 km north-west of Grafton; and near Murwillumbah (Figure 1). Prior to these discoveries E. tetraquetra was regarded as extinct in NSW, where it was known only from a NSW Herbarium specimen dated 1895 from the upper Richmond River, the precise location of which is unknown.
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12 In Queensland E. tetraquetra occurs in swampy areas between Noosa and Bundaberg (P. Sharpe pers comm.). Until recently it was recorded only from the Moreton and Wide Bay pastoral districts (Queensland Herbarium 1994), but is now known to occur also in the Leichhardt pastoral district (Queensland Herbarium 1997), centred on the town of Emerald. It is represented in the Queensland Herbarium by 16 speci- mens. It also occurs in New Guinea, Melanesia, and Asia (Queensland Herbarium 1994; 1997). More specific details of its distribution are not known.
3.1.1 Local Government areas
In NSW E. tetraquetra is known to occur in the following local government areas: Coffs Harbour City Copmanhurst Shire Tweed Shire 3.2 Tenure
A significant proportion of the known population of E. tetraquetra in NSW occurs at Boambee, on private property and on land currently owned by the Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA). Part of this population also extends to a public road reserve managed by Coffs Harbour City Council. Prior to subdivision for road construction, the entire E. tetraquetra population occurred on land held by one family since early this century. In the Fortis Creek locality, two sites occur in Fortis Creek National Park. In the vicinity of Copmanhurst, at least seven sites are known. These are on privately- owned land. Near Murwillumbah, the E. tetraquetra population occurs on land owned by the NSW Housing Commission.
3.3 Critical habitat
There is currently no declared critical habitat for E. tetraquetra in NSW. 4 Ecology
4.1 Habit, growth rate and longevity
E. tetraquetra is a clumping spike-rush with four-angled and effectively leafless culms (stems) arising from a short rhizome (Harden 1993). Observations at Boambee indicate that approximately five to seven new culms arise from the rhizome, grow up to one metre in height, and complete flowering and fruiting
13 in one year, after which the culms die and decay (G. Elks pers obs). The plant is very hard to detect at times of the year when there is no inflorescence or infructescence present. This is generally in the cooler months (April to October). There is insufficient information at this stage to enable an estimate of the age of a clump. However, some populations of E. tetraquetra have occupied their current loca- tion in Boambee since the late 1950s (D. Dutton pers comm.). 4.2 Reproductive biology
4.2.1 Vegetative reproduction
Dissection of a clump of E. tetraquetra indicates that culms arise from the continued formation of axillary buds from established rhizomes (G. Elks pers comm.). Axillary buds appear to be capable of elongating up to 100 mm before forming a new rhizome and tuft of culms. Vegetative reproduction may be an essential strategy for maintenance of a local popula- tion following initial establishment from seed.
4.2.2 Breeding system
E. tetraquetra exhibits floral characteristics typical of anemophily (pollination by wind). These include exposed flowers, insignificant perianth, absence of obvious attractants, exposed anthers and stigmas, and one ovule per flower (Faegri & van der Pijl 1966). In the Boambee population the majority of flowers set seed regardless of the size of the clump or the distance from other clumps, suggesting that the species is not an obligate outbreeder. This hypothesis could be tested by examination of specimens from the sparser populations at Fortis Creek or Murwillumbah.
4.2.3Fruiting and flowering
The fruits of E. tetraquetra develop from a spikelet on the end of each stem. Typically, species in the family Cyperaceae flower in spring and summer (Harden 1993). At Boambee, E. tetraquetra spikelets are present and obvious in October, and flowering is completed by the end of April (D. Dutton pers comm).
4.2.4 Seed production and viability
On average a spikelet of E. tetraquetra at Boambee contained approximately 60 flowers, of which 45 (or 75%) contained a seed (G. Elks pers comm.). This is in contrast to the locally common E. equisetina, which produced a similar number of flowers per spikelet, but fewer than 20% of those contained a seed. Mature seed of E. tetraquetra was found in spikelets collected in early January and at the
14 end of April. The pale colour and softness of some seed indicated that not all seed was fully ripe by the end of April. The longevity of the seed of E. tetraquetra is not known, however, seeds of many species in the genus Eleocharis are long-lived (M. Brock pers comm.).
4.2.5 Seed dispersal
The seed of E. tetraquetra is partially enclosed by a glume and attached to a spikelet, and seeds remain on the spikelet until the glume and its enclosed flower separate from the spikelet, releasing the seed for dispersal. Most of the spikelets observed had not begun to separate by the end of April, whereas separation of spikelets from the previous years flowering was generally complete. Infructescences appear to be present for most of the year, and dispersal could possibly take place at any time. Infructescences in the family Cyperaceae are typically present for much longer than the flowering period (Harden 1993). It is not known how E. tetraquetra seed disperses, although several mechanisms may be involved. These include dispersal by water, attachment to or ingestion by birds and myrmecochory (dispersal by ants). Other wetland species are dispersed by a range of vectors including mammals (Carter 1993) and birds (Vivian-Smith & Stiles 1994). Many wetland and swamp plant species are dispersed as seed attached to the feet of migratory water birds (K. Wilson pers comm.).
4.2.6 Seed germination and establishment
No germinating seeds or seedlings have been observed at any of the known E. tetraquetra sites. This suggests that vegetative reproduction is important for the maintenance of a local population. It is not known whether E. tetraquetra exhibits seed dormancy and if so, what role this may play in the ecology of the species. If E. tetraquetra displays seed dormancy, it is important to understand the factors that might be responsible for breaking dormancy leading to seed germination. Such factors may include scarification (possibly by water) or specific temperature treatments of the seed. Many wetland species which exhibit seed dormancy germinate in response to increased light (Bell 1993; Schütz 1997a, 1997b) and increased temperature (Baskin et al. 1993; Schütz 1997a, 1997b; Thullen & Eberts 1995). Seed-coat impermeability is a possible cause of dormancy in seeds of Carex kobomugi (Ishikawa et al. 1993). Several wetland sedge species are able to accumulate a persistent soil seedbank (Brock 1998; Hendry et al. 1995; Schütz 1997a). A viable soil seedbank may be important for the local survival of E. tetraquetra if conditions become unsuitable for survival of live plants.
15 4.3 Population structure
Any determination of a population age structure would probably need to be based on assumptions as to the relationship between the age of a plant and its size. Further, plants appear to be predominantly reproducing vegetatively and therefore it is difficult to determine a population age structure. Only reproductively mature plants have been located so far. 5 Disturbance
5.1 Clearing
The Boambee sites were cleared of forest cover by ringbarking about 1890 (D. Dutton pers comm.) whereas at Fortis Creek no clearing or logging has been undertaken. At Copmanhurst, light and patchy clearing has occurred. The Murwillumbah site is lo- cated in a wetland adjacent to cleared farmland. Removal of forest cover and the subsequent use of the cleared land could be expected to substantially modify fire regime, light intensity, nutrient loadings and moisture avail- ability. 5.2 Grazing
Following clearing, the Boambee property was used to graze cattle. Impressions of the hooves of cattle were seen in the mud of E. tetraquetra habitat. This site continues to be dominated by species characteristic of natural grassland (Table 1), suggesting that it has not been subject to the pasture improvement or heavy grazing characteristic of farm- land in the district. Grazing of the area ceased with the commencement of the adjacent upgrade of the highway in late 1997. There is evidence of grazing by macropods at the Fortis Creek site. Patchy light grazing by cattle is undertaken in the Copmanhurst vicinity. The Murwillumbah site is grazed by cattle. Heavy grazing has the potential to destroy E. tetraquetra habitat by trampling, through associated erosion and changes to drainage, moisture and nutrient availability. Con- versely, light grazing may provide both a seed dispersal mechanism and a disturbance regime suitable for establishment of new seedlings. It may also prevent established plants from being eliminated by more competitive, taller species. This is illustrated by a sec- tion of pasture at Boambee. One side of a fence has not been grazed for 20 years (D. Dutton pers comm.) and is dominated mainly by herbs whereas the other side has had regular light grazing and contains a sedge and grass cover.
16 5.3 Fire
The fire frequency and intensity at the four locations is not accurately known, however, fire is (or was) a feature of the landscape at all sites. The vegetation assemblages at each site were probably maintained by fire. E. tetraquetra sites are located in ephemeral wet- lands and small watercourses, and therefore would be subject to occasional fire during dry periods. The regeneration response of E. tetraquetra to fire is not known, however, the plants have a fine, shallow root system which may make them susceptible to fire. 5.4 Flood
At Boambee, E. tetraquetra habitat is likely to be inundated for short periods following heavy rainfall. The small size of the catchment and the low erodibility of the soils at the site (Soil Conservation Service 1989) suggests that the physical disturbance arising from flooding of the populations is likely to be small. There is no evidence of salt water incursion from the Boambee Creek estuary. At Fortis Creek and Copmanhurst, physical disturbance arising from flooding of the habitat is likely because of the relatively large size of the catchments and loose sandy soils, although these factors are mitigated somewhat by the flat terrain and low hydrau- lic gradient. The Murwillumbah site is located in a wetland which is a tributary of the Tweed River, and is likely to experience flooding periodically. Baskin et al. (1993) found that the major effect of flooding on four species of Cyperaceae was the prevention of germination while mudflats were underwater. As E. tetraquetra generally does not occupy mudflat habitats, it is not known how relevant this work is to the germination of E. tetraquetra. Scarification by water may be a factor involved in germination of E. tetraquetra seed. Ishikawa et al. (1993) found that scarification of seed of Carex kobomugi improved germination rates significantly. 5.5 Past mechanical disturbance
Evidence of ploughing, digging and movement of heavy machinery exist at Boambee. As part of the Pacific Highway upgrade project, some soil compaction would be ex- pected from the movement of machinery and construction of temporary roads. The impact on E. tetraquetra habitat is difficult to determine. One site at Boambee is mowed periodically. Chivenge (1992) found that survival of the Purple Nutsedge (Cyperus rotundus L.) was influenced by the intensity of tillage method and the frequency of tillage. No evidence of mechanical disturbance is apparent at the other three sites.
17 6 Habitat
6.1 Topography
The known populations of E. tetraquetra occur in and on the margins of freshwater swamps and on the margins of streams, at about the level of the wet season water table. At Boambee the plants occur within relatively small catchments of between two and ten hectares. Two locations are on the margins of permanent freshwater swamps. In the Copmanhurst and Fortis Creek locations, E. tetraquetra occurs on slow flowing swampy creeks or still backwater niches along faster flowing streams. It appears to be rare along major creeks with a greater water volume, faster flow, lack of still water areas and high flood levels. The most likely habitat for E. tetraquetra is on tributary creeks with low gradient, swampy, weakly incised channels and a good water flow. The topography of the Murwillumbah site has a low gradient. 6.2 Soil
At Boambee the most dense and extensive E. tetraquetra populations are on humic gleyed silts (Soil Conservation Service 1989). Plants also occur on plastic mottled clays but are generally sparser there with a higher proportion of cover of sedges, other rushes and introduced grasses. At Fortis Creek, soils supporting E. tetraquetra are sandy alluvium (P. Sheringham pers comm.) and peaty sand (P. Richards and P. Sheringham pers comm.). These soils are shallow and occur on sandstone bedrock. The Copmanhurst locations occur on similar soils. The soil at the Murwillumbah location is massive black and grey coastal clays (Depart- ment of Land and Water Conservation 1995), and has impeded drainage. At Boambee and Murwillumbah, E. tetraquetra occurs on areas mapped as Potential Acid Sulphate Soil (Department of Land and Water Conservation 1998). 6.3 Vegetation
The known populations of E. tetraquetra in NSW occur in landscapes which are natu- rally dominated by Eucalyptus or Melaleuca forest or woodland. Details of vegetation at each of the sites are provided in the tables below.
6.3.1 Plant communities at Boambee
At Boambee, examination of nearby remnant forest indicates that the area was a com- plex of moist sclerophyll, swamp sclerophyll and grassy open forest.
18 The permanently wet area supports large sedges, grasses and ferns (Table 1). The peri- odically wet area adjacent to this supports smaller sedges, grasses and ferns. E. tetraquetra occupies a narrow band between these two communities. It is possible that the greater height of associated plant species in wetter areas may be outcompeting E. tetraquetra. This may be the reason for the sparsity of the species in this area, however this would need to be confirmed by research into the response of E. tetraquetra to competition.
Table 1 Species commonly associated with E. tetraquetra at Boambee Scientific name Common name Wetland species: Bulbostylis densa a sedge Cyperus haspan spp. juncoides a sedge Cyperus pilosus a sedge Cyperus sanguinolentus a sedge Cyperus unioloides a sedge Eleocharis equisetina Horsetail Spike-rush *Eleocharis minuta a spike-rush Hydrocotyle peduncularis a pennywort Isachne globosa Swamp Millet Ischaemum australe var. villosum Thigh-socket Grass Juncus prismatocarpus a rush Paspalum orbiculare Ditch Millet Sacciolepis indica Indian Cupscale Grass Species of adjoining forest remnant: Corymbia intermedia Pink Bloodwood Eucalyptus acmenoides Narrow-leaved White Mahogany Eucalyptus microcorys Tallowwood Eucalyptus pilularis Blackbutt Lophostemon confertus Brushbox Melaleuca quinquenervia Broad-leaved Paperbark Syncarpia glomulifera Turpentine *Introduced species
19 The other two locations of E. tetraquetra at Boambee occur in open grassland/sedgeland in natural drainage lines without permanent water. In these situations it forms vigor- ous, spreading clumps in pure stands or mixed with sedges and grasses. E. tetraquetra is more dominant at these sites than the site adjacent to the highway. This may be due to light grazing by cattle in the past which reduced competition from other species. Inves- tigations are needed to study the impact of disturbance regimes on E. tetraquetra and its habitat. Three other sedge species reach their southern distribution in NSW at the Boambee site. These are Cyperus pilosus, Cyperus haspan spp. juncoides, and Cyperus unioloides. Bulbostylis densa occurs on drier hillsides next to these locations and is considered rare on the north coast, usually occurring on the tablelands.
6.3.2 Plant communities at Fortis Creek National Park
At Fortis Creek and Copmanhurst, the vegetation surrounding E. tetraquetra habitat is dry sclerophyll woodland with a heathy understorey. In the creek margin habitat at Fortis Creek, the shrub Leptospermum brachyandrum and the fern Gleichenia dicarpa are dominant on the bank above water level (Table 2). Below water level, Eleocharis sphacelata and Myriophyllum sp. occur. A range of other grasses and wetland species occur in both Fortis Creek locations. Table 2 Species commonly associated with E. tetraquetra at Fortis Creek Scientific name Common name Creek margin species: Eleocharis equisetina a Spike-rush *Eleocharis minuta a Spike-rush Eleocharis sphacelata Tall Spike-rush Gahnia sp. Saw Sedge Gleichenia dicarpa Pouched Coral-fern Hydrocotyle peduncularis Pennywort Isachne globosa Swamp Millet Ischaemum australe var. villosum Thigh-socket Grass Juncus prismatocarpus a rush Leptospermum brachyandrum Tea-tree Myriophyllum sp. a water milfoil Paspalum orbiculare Ditch Millet Sacciolepis indica Indian Cupscale Grass Species of adjoining woodland: Angophora paludosa Narrow-leaved Apple Banksia aemula Wallum Banksia Eucalyptus bancroftii Orange Gum Eucalyptus signata Scribbly Gum *Introduced species
20 6.3.3 Plant communities at Copmanhurst
Forest vegetation surrounding the Copmanhurst locations is open forest and woodland dominated by Eucalyptus bancroftii, Lophostemon suaveolens, Angophora subvelutina and E. resinifera (Benwell 1999). Low Melaleuca alternifolia occurs along the drainage lines. The ground layer of swamp grasses and sedges is diverse in composition (Table 3).
Table 3 Species commonly associated with E. tetraquetra at Copmanhurst Scientific name Common name Creek margin species: Cyperus haspan spp. juncoides a sedge Eriocaulon australe Fimbristylis dichotoma Fimbristylis nutans Fuirena ciliaris Gahnia sieberana Saw Sedge Gleichenia dicarpa Pouched Coral-fern Isachne globosa Swamp Millet Ischaemum australe var. villosum Thigh-socket Grass Leptospermum juniperinum a tea tree Philydrum lanuginosum Frogsmouth Rhynchospora sp. Schoenoplectus sp. Species of adjoining forest: Angophora subvelutina Broad-leaved Apple Eucalyptus bancroftii Orange Gum Eucalyptus resinifera Red Mahogany Lophostemon suaveolens Swamp Box
6.3.4 Plant communities at Murwillumbah
Vegetation at the Murwillumbah location consists of Melaleuca quinquenervia low open forest to woodland with a dense ground stratum of sedges and rushes (Table 4). E. tetraquetra is confined to the edge of the wetland, where there may be no standing water at some times of the year (James 1998). The ground stratum at this position is generally less tall and the cover less dense than throughout the rest of the community, in part due to grazing and trampling by cattle. The transition from dryland to wetland at this site is relatively sharp.
21 Table 4 Species commonly associated with E. tetraquetra at Murwillumbah Scientific name Common name Baumea rubiginosa a twig rush Blechnum indicum Swamp Water Fern Cyclosorus interruptus a fern Cyperus lucidus a cyperus Leersia hexandra Swamp Ricegrass Lepironia articulata a large sedge Melaleuca quinquenervia Broad-leaved Paperbark Typha orientalis Broad-leaved Cumbungi 6.4 Light intensity
Most Eleocharis species are leafless emergent aquatic plants in which the green stem provides the photosynthetic tissue. They are thus not well adapted to heavy shade, and tend to occupy open habitats in full sun (Wrigley & Fagg 1996). Studies have shown that many other wetland sedge species have higher germination rates with increased light intensity (Bell 1993; Schütz 1997a, 1997b; Williges & Harris 1995), however, most studies indicate a correlation between light intensity and tempera- ture (higher temperatures stimulating germination). This may be significant for E. tetraquetra as it may indicate a requirement for relatively high light conditions for germi- nation. High light conditions may be provided in habitats which are subject to some form of disturbance which may provide opportunities for colonisation by E. tetraquetra. Distur- bance may be an important factor in the maintenance of habitat suitable for the sur- vival of the species. 7 Relevant legislation
7.1 State legislation
7.1.1 Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act)
E. tetraquetra is listed as Endangered under Part 1 of Schedule 1 of the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act). The TSC Act makes provision for the identification and declaration of critical habitat for species, populations and ecological communities listed as endangered. Once de- clared, it becomes an offence to damage critical habitat (unless the TSC Act specifically exempts the action) and a species impact statement is mandatory for all developments and activities proposed within critical habitat. To date, critical habitat has not been declared for this species under the TSC Act. 22 Recovery plan preparation
The TSC Act requires that the Director-General of National Parks and Wildlife prepare recovery plans for all species, populations and ecological communities listed as endan- gered or vulnerable on the TSC Act schedules. The TSC Act includes specific require- ments for both the matters to be addressed by recovery plans and the process for prepar- ing recovery plans. This plan satisfies these provisions.
Recovery plan implementation
The TSC Act requires that a government agency must not undertake actions inconsis- tent with an approved recovery plan. The government agencies responsible for actions in this plan are NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), the Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA), Telstra, Optus, State Bushfire Council, and NSW Housing. Consequently, these public authorities must manage E. tetraquetra populations in accor- dance with this recovery plan. Other agencies may be involved in the future if new populations are discovered on public land.
7.1.2 Native Vegetation Conservation Act 1997 (NVC Act)
The purpose of the Native Vegetation Conservation Act 1997 (NVC Act) as defined by the legislation is the conservation and sustainable management of native vegetation, and in particular the protection of native vegetation of high conservation significance (Part 1, Section 3(c)). Part 3, Sections 24-27 of the NVC Act require that the Director-General of National Parks and Wildlife be consulted in the matter of threatened species and their habitat when a regional vegetation management plan is prepared. To date, no regional vegetation management plan which includes habitat for E. tetraquetra has been prepared.
7.1.3 Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979
The TSC Act amendments to the environmental assessment provisions of the Environ- mental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act) require that consent and determin- ing authorities consider relevant recovery plans when exercising a decision-making func- tion under Parts 4 & 5 of the EP&A Act. The considerations applying to proposed development on land containing threatened species and their habitat are outlined in Sections 77, 90 and 112A-E of the EP&A Act.
7.1.4 Rural Fires Act 1997
A Bush Fire Management Committee is required to prepare a draft bush fire manage- ment plan for the rural fire district (Sections 52-62). The plan may restrict or prohibit
23 the use of fire or other particular fire hazard reduction activities in all or specified circumstances or places to which the plan applies. 7.2 Federal legislation
The Endangered Species Protection Act 1992 (ESP Act) provides the framework for the protection of endangered and vulnerable species across Australia. E. tetraquetra is re- garded as having a widespread distribution in Queensland and is not listed under Fed- eral legislation. 7.3 NSW policies
7.3.1 NSW Wetlands Management Policy
The NSW Wetlands Management Policy aims to minimise any further loss or degrada- tion of wetlands and, where possible, restore degraded wetlands. As E. tetraquetra is predominantly a wetland species, the ecologically sustainable use and management of wetlands in accordance with the Wetlands Management Policy may assist with the protection of E. tetraquetra and its habitat. E. tetraquetra is not known to occur in any wetlands mapped under State Environmental Planning Policy 14 (Wetlands). 8 Management issues
8.1 Lack of knowledge of the life history of E. tetraquetra
E. tetraquetra is considered rare in NSW. No information exists about the former distri- bution of the species, and it is therefore not known whether the species has declined in NSW, or whether it is naturally rare. Lack of knowledge of the life history of E. tetraquetra will continue to hamper efforts directed to the recovery and conservation of the species. 8.2 Intrinsic habitat specificity
There is very little information about the habitat requirements of E. tetraquetra, and the following discussion is therefore largely speculative. In NSW, the species occupies a habitat with specific parameters; that is, at or below the normal (non-flood) wet season level of the water table (Section 6). The zone is characterised by vegetation successions arising from the disturbance associated with erosion and/or deposition. The riparian habitat that E. tetraquetra occupies suggests that the species may be no-
24 madic and colonise newly disturbed areas arising from erosion or deposition, or may become locally extinct because of changes to the water regime or vegetation succession and subsequent decrease in light intensity (Wrigley & Fagg 1996; V. Klaphake pers comm.). 8.3 Threats to and reasons for decline of the species
8.3.1 Changes to disturbance regime
The persistence of E. tetraquetra at a site may depend upon a specific disturbance re- gime. It is possible that the substantial modification to, or exclusion of, disturbance regimes such as grazing, fire and flood at a site may not maintain appropriate habitat for E. tetraquetra. A reduction in light intensity may be a threat to its continued survival. Eleocharis species are not well adapted to heavy shade, tending to occupy open habitats with full sun (Wrigley & Fagg 1996) (Section 6.4). Therefore, any shading from large plants may be a threat to the survival of the species. There is no information available regarding the persistence of E. tetraquetra in the soil seedbank. A viable soil seedbank may enable E. tetraquetra to persist at a site through periods when the site is unsuitable for the species.
8.3.2 Loss and modification of habitat
The loss of habitat through land clearing for agriculture, urban development and road construction is an ongoing potential threat and may have contributed to a decline of E. tetraquetra, particularly in the Boambee and Murwillumbah localities, where habitats have been substantially modified. Habitats associated with freshwater swamps and stream margins, such as that occupied by E. tetraquetra, are often highly productive, and therefore particularly valuable for agriculture. They may also constitute a drought refuge for grazing animals, and freshwa- ter swamps are often drained to increase their utility as pasture. In urban areas these habitats are often highly modified by drainage or infilling. The introduction of new plant species, especially weedy introduced species and com- petitive exotic pasture grasses, may have changed the nature of the vegetation in E. tetraquetra habitat. Disturbance of acid sulphate soils and the potential for the release of acid water through developments such as subdivisions and road construction may pose a threat to E. tetraquetra populations.
8.3.3 Loss of dispersal vectors
No information is available on the vectors responsible for the dispersal of E. tetraquetra. It is possible that habitat loss and fragmentation have reduced the species ability to disperse. 25 8.4 Threats specific to known populations
Threats to populations of E. tetraquetra vary from site to site. An overall potential threat to all populations may arise from a change to the disturbance regime resulting in pro- cesses which are unsuitable for the continued survival or regeneration of E. tetraquetra.
8.4.1 Threats to the Boambee population
E. tetraquetra at two of the Boambee locations are potentially threatened by activities associated with major roadworks. These threats arise from the movement and storage of large quantities of soil in the catchments of E. tetraquetra, and include changes to hydro- logical regimes, changes to soil nutrient levels, sedimentation, and introduction of weed species. Measures have been adopted by the RTA in consultation with the NPWS to eliminate these threats or mitigate their effects. Mitigation measures include creation of fenced buffer zones, erection of sedimentation fencing and hay bales to control sediment run- off, and revegetation of soil stockpiles. A potential indirect threat is associated with the recent change of landuse from agricul- ture to land owned by the RTA. This arises from the cessation of the prior management regime which was relatively stable for one hundred years. The RTA is keen to develop appropriate management strategies for the site but is hampered by a lack of knowledge. The previous landholder of the Boambee sites regularly controlled weeds such as Ground- sel Bush Baccharis halmifolia and Parramatta Grass Sporobolus indicus in areas where E. tetraquetra occurred. This may have reduced the competition from more dominant spe- cies and maintained a habitat suitable for E. tetraquetra. The third site at Boambee is potentially threatened by activities such as mowing and spraying.
8.4.2 Threats to other populations
The Murwillumbah site is potentially threatened by housing development, grazing and drainage of wetlands. Populations in the Copmanhurst locality are potentially threatened by subdivisions, land clearing activities, inappropriate fire regimes and grazing. Direct threats to the Fortis Creek population appear to be minimal. 8.5 Social and economic considerations
Costs of implementing the actions identified in this recovery plan can be located in Table 6.
26 8.5.1 Intrinsic ecological value
The ecological function of E. tetraquetra is not known. The species, however, has intrin- sic ecological values, and has a right to exist independently.
8.5.2 Scientific and taxonomic value
The populations of E. tetraquetra in NSW represent the most southerly extent of the known distribution of a species that has a patchy distribution in Australia. Further, the Boambee locations contain several other species which are at their southern-most limit. Further study may uncover the reasons for the distribution of E. tetraquetra and clarify the relationships between environment and population underlying the rarity of this and similar species.
8.5.3Pharmaceutical value
There are no known pharmaceutical values of E. tetraquetra or of other species in the genus Eleocharis.
8.5.4 Social benefits
The preparation of this recovery plan will provide an information base for future re- search and management of E. tetraquetra and similar species. The benefits derived from this knowledge and ability to manage E. tetraquetra can be enjoyed by current and future generations, and may be applicable to similar species. Increased public awareness and understanding of the species may raise awareness of the status of other species, particu- larly in the context of ecologically sustainable development.
8.5.5 Commercial value
E. tetraquetra has no known commercial value, however it may have horticultural value for garden or pond cultivation. Three of the eighteen native spike-rushes in NSW are currently in cultivation for their horticultural value (Wrigley & Fagg 1996). Other species in the genus Eleocharis seem capable of competing with a wide range of submerged aquatic plants (Sainty & Jacobs 1981) and can be used to stabilise a channel bed or to replace species that are more obstructive or more difficult to control. There may be some potential for E. tetraquetra to be used for such purposes. Some species of Eleocharis are used for matting. E. dulcis (Chinese Water Chestnut) is cultivated for its edible tubers (Harden 1993). It is not known if E. tetraquetra has any value for these purposes.
27 8.6 Biodiversity benefits
The occurrence of E. tetraquetra contributes to the high diversity of the flora of the north coast of NSW. Other rare or threatened plants will benefit from conservation of E. tetraquetra including three species of sedge (Cyperus pilosus, C. haspan spp. juncoides and C. unioloides) at their southern limit at Boambee, the sedge Bulbostylis densa consid- ered rare on the north coast, and the endangered fern Lindsaea incisa which occurs in the Copmanhurst area. Threatened fauna such as frogs may benefit from the conserva- tion of E. tetraquetra habitat. 9 Previous actions undertaken
9.1 Commissioning of recovery plan
Following the discovery of the population at Boambee in December 1997, on-site in- spections were undertaken with representatives from the RTA, Statewide Roads Pty Ltd, Leighton Contractors Pty Ltd and NPWS. The preparation of the E. tetraquetra recovery plan was commissioned jointly by NPWS and RTA in March 1998. 9.2 Ecological research
The previous owner of the land, Mr D. Dutton, initially determined the extent of the E. tetraquetra population at Boambee, and provided a sketch map of the area. As part of the recovery plan preparation, investigation was undertaken on site at Boambee to provide the initial description of the habitat of E. tetraquetra. Material was collected from the largest population of E. tetraquetra to obtain a preliminary understanding of the growth rate and reproductive ecology of the species. This material was successfully propagated ex situ from division of clumps, and continues to grow. This suggests that it is possible to cultivate E. tetraquetra ex situ. Targeted survey was undertaken in 1999 to provide detailed documentation of the popu- lations of the known sites, and search potential habitat for previously unrecorded popu- lations (Benwell 1999). As a result of this work, seven new sites of E. tetraquetra were located in the Copmanhurst area north-west of Grafton. It is probable that other unre- corded populations of this species occur in swampy habitats on the north coast of NSW. 10 Species ability to recover
The underlying reasons for the apparent rarity of E. tetraquetra in NSW are unknown, but may include loss of suitable habitat due to clearing, invasion by exotic weeds, modi- fied disturbance regimes and reduction of dispersal ability. Alternatively, the species may be naturally rare. A paucity of survey of likely E. tetraquetra habitat may also explain
28 the apparent rarity of the species. The ability of E. tetraquetra to persist in the soil seedbank is unknown (Section 4.2). The species ability to recover is likely to be dependent on the successful development of research activities and implementation of appropriate management strategies. 11 Recovery objectives and performance criteria
11.1 Objectives of the recovery plan
The overall objective of this recovery plan is to maintain viable wild populations of E. tetraquetra in the long term. Successful recovery of this species is largely dependent on the identification, protection and knowledge of the biology of extant populations. Specific objectives are to: protect and maintain wild populations and their habitat from human-induced threat- ening processes; determine the location, condition and extent of known populations; determine if any further populations exist, and provide suitable protection for those populations and their habitat; improve the knowledge of the ecology and biology of the species; ensure that known populations achieve long-term viability; and establish representative ex situ populations in botanic gardens or other suitable loca- tions. 11.2 Recovery performance criteria
The recovery criteria are that:
wild populations are protected by suitable measures; the location, condition and extent of known populations is adequately mapped; potential habitat is searched, and any new populations and their habitat are pro- tected by suitable measures; the understanding of the ecology and biology of the species is sufficient to enable management for long term survival of the species in NSW; and representative ex situ populations exist within botanic gardens or other suitable lo- cations. 12 Recovery actions
Recovery actions will be directed towards: implementing management programs which promote the survival of known wild populations; undertaking surveys of potential habitat for previously undetected occurrences of the species;
29 research on the population ecology and genetics of the species; and propagating and establishing ex situ collections within suitable botanic gardens. In the absence of full scientific information, the following actions are considered neces- sary for adequate management of E. tetraquetra. The public authorities responsible for these actions are identified in Section 13 and Table 5. 12.1 General
Until the appropriate disturbance regimes for the conservation of E. tetraquetra and its habitat are determined, relevant public authorities and private land-holders will under- take the following actions when conducting activities in the vicinity of any known popu- lations of E. tetraquetra: 12.1.1 adopt the Precautionary Principle, which means if there are threats of serious or irreversible environmental damage, lack of full scientific certainty should not be used as a reason for postponing measures to prevent environ- mental degradation; 12.2 Site management of the Boambee population
12.2.1 Site management of publicly-owned land at Boambee
12.2.1.1 evaluate the size and general condition of the known E. tetraquetra popula- tion in the Boambee area; 12.2.1.2 prepare detailed maps showing the location and distribution of the E. tetraquetra population; 12.2.1.3 ensure that on-ground managers, field staff and other contractors who may be required to enter the area are aware of the location of E. tetraquetra by marking the site; 12.2.1.4 ensure that site management actions such as the use of herbicides or ma- chinery do not have an adverse impact upon E. tetraquetra; 12.2.1.5 manage existing stock-piles of soil on site in a manner that does not inter- fere with hydrological patterns, water quality or soil nutrient status by en- suring that run-off is directed away from E. tetraquetra and its habitat. This is particularly important in regard to limiting the flow of silt onto the site. The current sediment fences and hay bale protective measures should be kept in place and maintained; 12.2.1.6 minimise the alteration of existing drainage patterns; 12.2.1.7 monitor the population and the impact of the above regimes on E. tetraquetra every three months at times of the year when the plant is fertile, and thus detectable, during the life of the adjacent Pacific Highway upgrade con-
30 struction, and once yearly until the plan is reviewed three years from the date of publication (this could be achieved through the RTAs Environmen- tal Safety and Quality Audit); 12.2.1.8 in conjunction with the NPWS, reconsider the nature of works if the popu- lation appears to be in decline; 12.2.1.9 control exotic weeds which invade E. tetraquetra habitat; 12.2.1.10 include the above actions and management recommendations in public authorities Environmental Management Plans; and 12.2.1.11 investigate the appropriateness of translocating specimens to a suitable site at the site immediately adjacent to the roadworks if the E. tetraquetra plants at this location appear to be in decline.
12.2.2 Site management of private land at Boambee
Subject to the availability of funding, the following actions will be under- taken: 12.2.2.1 evaluate the size and general condition of the known E. tetraquetra popula- tion at a time of the year when the plant is either flowering or fruiting (to assist with identification); 12.2.2.2 prepare detailed maps showing the location and distribution of the E. tetraquetra population at the Boambee location; 12.2.2.3 identify any potential or perceived threats to E. tetraquetra and its habitat; 12.2.2.4 monitor the population once yearly until the plan is reviewed three years from the date of publication; and 12.2.2.5 in the absence of scientific research, continue management practices cur- rently in existence. 12.3 Site management of the Fortis Creek National Park, Copmanhurst and Murwillumbah populations
Subject to the availability of funding, the following actions will be under- taken: 12.3.1 evaluate the size and general condition of the known E. tetraquetra popula- tions at a time of the year when the plant is either flowering or fruiting; 12.3.2 prepare detailed maps showing the location and distribution of the E. tetraquetra populations;
31 12.3.3 identify any potential or perceived threats to E. tetraquetra and its habitat; 12.3.4 monitor the population once yearly until the plan is reviewed three years from the date of publication; and 12.3.5 in the absence of scientific research, continue management practices cur- rently in existence. 12.4 Targeted survey
Targeted survey should be undertaken for other populations of E. tetraquetra, initially within the catchments of known populations, and extending to other likely locations when the environmental parameters limiting the distribution of E. tetraquetra are ad- equately understood. 12.5 Research
Research on E. tetraquetra populations will be undertaken within the framework of a program to be developed and implemented by public authorities identified in Section 13. There is an urgent need for research which will provide information to guide man- agement. The following points indicate broad areas where research is needed: census data on known populations; flowering and seed production; germination, seedling establishment and survivorship; seed viability, seed dormancy and seed dispersal; impacts of disturbance regimes including flooding, fire, grazing and competition; and investigation of the most appropriate methods for controlling weeds, either exotic or native species, which have the potential to invade E. tetraquetra habitat. 12.5.1 Census data
In order for management to maintain populations of E. tetraquetra, there is a need for better census data on populations and research on population dynamics and the ecological requirements for successful recruitment. A population census will aim to collect accurate demographic data at all locations. The distribution of E. tetraquetra plants at each location should be mapped and data recorded on population structure, flowering and fruit- ing and threats. These data are needed to provide a more comprehensive assessment of the species conservation status and a reference point for assessing the effectiveness of management initiatives such as habitat reha- bilitation.
32 12.5.2 Population dynamics
To understand the population dynamics of E. tetraquetra, further research is required to determine the relative importance of seed and vegetative re- cruitment within populations. The relative importance of these forms of reproduction will be reflected in the genetic variability between individu- als. DNA techniques are available to determine the extent of clonality in plant populations (e.g. Peakall 1994). When combined with demographic studies of the fate of seeds and patterns of seedling recruitment, a picture of the population dynamics of E. tetraquetra should begin to emerge, which will allow appropriate management decisions to be made regarding viable population size and genetic structure. Research on population dynamics will aim to improve understanding of the life history of E. tetraquetra. In particular, rates of recruitment (input of new individuals to populations), frequency of seed and vegetative (clonal) recruitment, environmental conditions under which recruitment occurs and the mortality rate within populations should be determined. This in- formation will allow management strategies to be designed which optimise recruitment opportunities and the long-term viability of populations. The research methodology will entail the monitoring of demographic attributes such as number, height and condition of established plants, juveniles and seedlings, flowering, seed production etc., in permanently marked, repli- cated plots. Monitoring should be undertaken for three to five years.
12.5.3Disturbance regimes
The precise ecological role of E. tetraquetra is not known (e.g. whether the species is a coloniser of newly disturbed habitats, or is able to persist under conditions of minimal disturbance). Information is needed to determine the appropriate disturbance regimes to maintain viable populations of E. tetraquetra. In particular, research needs to be conducted into the response of E. tetraquetra to grazing, mowing, fire and flooding, and whether a par- ticular disturbance regime is required to maintain the species and its habi- tat. 12.6 Legislative protection
12.6.1 The Director-General of National Parks and Wildlife will consider the ap- propriateness of listing critical habitat for E. tetraquetra under the TSC Act. 12.6.2 The relevant bushfire management committees will consider the Boambee, Fortis Creek, Copmanhurst, Murwillumbah and any new populations of E. tetraquetra in amendments or preparation of any Bush Fire Management Plan under the Rural Fires Act 1997 or National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974.
33 12.7 Ex situ collections
12.7.1 Investigations should be made into the need to establish ex situ plants and a seed-bank of E. tetraquetra in appropriate locations (e.g. the North Coast Regional Botanic Gardens). This measure would act as insurance against loss in the wild due to a catastrophic disturbance or series of disturbances. 12.8 Community awareness
12.8.1 A community education and awareness program should be developed and implemented to encourage community awareness concerning the status of E. tetraquetra. Landholders who have known or potential habitat of E. tetraquetra on their properties should be contacted to provide information concerning threats to E. tetraquetra and to ensure that the plant is managed appropriately. A brochure for public distribution should be prepared.
12.8.2 The community should be encouraged and assisted to identify and report additional populations of E. tetraquetra.
34 13 Implementation
The following table allocates responsibility for the implementation of recovery actions specified in this plan to relevant stakeholders for a period of three years following Min- isterial approval of the recovery plan. Each action is costed in Table 6 and the public authority responsible for that action identified in Table 7. Priority is categorised as 1 (essential), 2 (highly desirable), or 3 (desirable).
Table 5 Implementation schedule Section Description Responsibility for Timeframe Priority implementation 12.1 General
12.1.1 Precautionary principle RTA, NPWS, Telstra, Optus, RFS, NorthPower, H.Comm, landholders Life of plan 1
12.2 Site management at Boambee 12.2.1 Site management of public land at Boambee 12.2.1.1 Evaluate population size NPWS, RTA Year 1 1 12.2.1.2 Prepare maps RTA Year 1 1 12.2.1.3 Mark sites RTA Year 1 1 12.2.1.4 No adverse impacts from site management actions RTA, Telstra, Optus, NorthPower Life of plan 1 12.2.1.5 Manage stock-piles of soil RTA Life of plan 1 12.2.1.6 Maintain drainage patterns RTA Life of plan 1 12.2.1.7 Monitor population NPWS, RTA, Life of plan 1 12.2.1.8 Reconsider works if the population is in decline NPWS, RTA, Life of plan 1 12.2.1.9 Control invasive weeds RTA Life of plan 1 12.2.1.10 Environmental management plan RTA, Telstra, Optus, NorthPower Year 1 2 12.2.1.11 Investigate translocation NPWS, RTA Year 1 & 2 3 12.2.2 Site management of private land at Boambee 12.2.2.1 Evaluate population size NPWS Subject to funding 2 12.2.2.2 Prepare maps NPWS Subject to funding 2 12.2.2.3 Identify threats NPWS Subject to funding 1 12.2.2.4 Monitor population NPWS Subject to funding 1
12.2.2.5 Continue current management landholders Subject to funding 1
35 Section Description Responsibility for implementation Timeframe Priority
12.3 Site management at Fortis Creek National Park, Copmanhurst and Murwillumbah 12.3.1 Evaluate population size NPWS Subject to funding 2 12.3.2 Prepare maps NPWS Subject to funding 2 12.3.3 Identify threats NPWS Subject to funding 1 12.3.4 Monitor population NPWS Subject to funding 1 12.3.5 Continue current management landholders, H. Comm Subject to funding 1 12.4 Targeted survey NPWS Subject to funding 2 12.5 Research 12.5.1 Census data NPWS, RTA Year 1 & 2 2 12.5.2 Population dynamics NPWS, RTA Year 1 & 2 2 12.5.3 Disturbance regimes NPWS, RTA Year 1 & 2 2 12.6 Legislative protection 12.6.1 Critical habitat NPWS Year 1 2 12.6.2 Fire management NPWS, RFS Year 1 1 12.7 Ex situ collections 12.7.1 Establish ex situ collection NPWS, RTA Year 1 3 12.8 Community awareness 12.8.1 Community education and awareness program NPWS Life of plan 1 12.8.2 Identify and report new sites NPWS, landholders Life of plan 1
Legend: Public Authorities: H. Comm = Housing Commission NPWS = National Parks and Wildlife Service NorthPower Optus RFS = Rural Fire Service Management Centre RTA = Roads and Traffic Authority Telstra
36 Table 6 Cost of implementation Task Item Pr. Year Year Year 1 2 3 12.1 General 12.1.1 Precautionary principle 1 - - - 12.2 Site management at Boambee 12.2.1 Site management of public land at Boambee 12.2.1.1 Evaluate population size 1 1000 - - 12.2.1.2 Prepare maps 1 1000 - - 12.2.1.3 Mark sites 1 750 - - 12.2.1.4 No adverse impacts from site management actions 1 - - - 12.2.1.5 Manage stock-piles of soil 1 2000 1000 1000 12.2.1.6 Maintain drainage patterns 1 500 500 500 12.2.1.7 Monitor population 1 1000 1000 1000 12.2.1.8 Reconsider works if the population is in decline 1 - - - 12.2.1.9 Control invasive weeds 1 2000 2000 1000 12.2.1.10 Environmental management plan 2 - - - 12.2.1.11 Investigate translocation 3 1000 - - 12.2.2 Site management of private land at Boambee 12.2.1 Evaluate population size 2 500* - - 12.2.2 Prepare maps 2 500* - - 12.2.3 Identify threats 1 500* - - 12.2.4 Monitor population 1 1000* 1000* 1000* 12.2.5 Continue current management 1 - - - 12.3 Site management at Fortis Creek National Park, Copmanhurst and Murwillumbah 12.3.1 Evaluate population size 2 1000* - - 12.3.2 Prepare maps 2 1000* - - 12.3.3 Identify threats 1 500* - - 12.3.4 Monitor population 1 1000* 1000* 1000* 12.3.5 Continue current management 1 - - - 12.4 Targeted survey 2 3000* - - 12.5 Research 12.5.1 Census data 2 1000 - - 12.5.2 Population dynamics 2 2000 - - 12.5.3 Disturbance regimes 2 3000 - - 12.6 Legislative protection 12.6.1 Critical habitat 2 - - 12.6.2 Fire management 1 12.7 Ex situ collections 12.7.1 Establish ex situ collections 2 1000 - - 12.8 Community awareness 12.8.1 Community education and awareness program 1 12.8.2 Identify and report new sites 1 Annual cost of implementing recovery plan 25250 6500 5500 Total cost of implementing recovery plan 37250 = Cost covered by agency core duties * = Subject to availability of funding
37 Table 7 Cost to public authorities Task Item Total NPWS RTA Tels/ RFS H. ($) Optus/ Comm NthPwr 12.1 General 12.1.1 Precautionary principle - # # # # # 12.2 Site Management at Boambee 12.2.1 Site management of public land at Boambee 12.2.1.1 Evaluate population size 1000 500 500 - - - 12.2.1.2 Prepare maps 1000 500 500 - - - 12.2.1.3 Mark sites 750 - 750 - - - 12.2.1.4 No adverse impacts from site management actions ------12.2.1.5 Manage stockpiles of soil 4000 - 4000 - - - 12.2.1.6 Maintain drainage patterns 1500 - 1500 - - - 12.2.1.7 Monitor population 3000 1500 1500 - - - 12.2.1.8 Reconsider works if population is in decline ------12.2.1.9 Control invasive weeds 5000 - 5000 - - - 12.2.1.10 Environmental management plan ------12.2.1.11 Investigate translocation 1000 - 1000 - - - 12.2.2 Site management of private land at Boambee
12.2.2.1 Evaluate population size 500* 500* - - - -
12.2.2.2 Prepare maps 500* 500* - - - -
12.2.2.3 Identify threats 500* 500* - - - -
12.2.2.4 Monitor population 3000* 3000* - - - - 12.2.2.5 Continue current management ------12.3 Site management at Fortis Creek National Park, Copmanhurst and Murwillumbah
12.2.2.1 Evaluate population size 1000* 1000* - - - - 12.2.2.2 Prepare maps 1000* 1000* - - - -
12.2.2.3 Identify threats 500* 500* - - - - 12.2.2.4 Monitor population 3000* 3000* - - - - 12.2.2.5 Continue current management ------
12.4 Targeted survey 3000* 3000* - - - - 12.5 Research 12.5.1 Census data 1000 500 500 - - - 12.5.2 Population dynamics 2000 1000 1000 - - - 12.5.3 Disturbance regimes 3000 1500 1500 - - - 12.6 Legislative protection 12.6.1 Critical habitat - - - - 12.6.2 Fire management - # # # # # 12.6.3 Development proposals - # # # # # 12.7 Ex situ collections - - - 12.7.1 Establish ex situ collections 1000 500 500
38 Task Item Total NPWS RTA Tels/ RFS H. ($) Optus/ Comm NthPwr 12.8 Community awareness 12.8.1 Community education and awareness program ---- 12.8.2 Identify and report new sites ---- Cost of implementing recovery plan 37250 19000 18250
H. Comm = Housing Commission NPWS = NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service RTA = Roads and Traffic Authority RFS = Rural Fire Service Management Centre Tels/Optus/ NthPwr = Telstra/Optus/NorthPower #=No cost, however, action must be considered my relevant public authority. - = No cost or consideration of action required by public authority or other stakeholder. = Cost covered by agency core duties * = Subject to availability of funding
14 Preparation details
This recovery plan was prepared by Greg Elks, Dianne Brown and Nigel Cotsell in consultation with and assistance from the NPWS Northern Zone and the RTA. 14.1 Date of last amendment
No amendments have been made to date. 14.2 Review date
This recovery plan will be reviewed within three years of the date of publication.
39 References
Baskin, C. C., Baskin, J. M. and Chester, E. W. (1993) Seed germination ecophysiology of four summer annual mudflat species of Cyperaceae. Aquatic Botany. 45(1), pp 41-52. Bell, D. (1993) The effect of light quality on the germination of eight species from sandy habitats in Western Australia. Australian Journal of Botany. 41, pp 321-326. Benwell, A. (1999) Field surveys to determine the locations and distribution of the Square-stemmed Spike-rush Eleocharis tetraquetra. Unpublished report to NSW NPWS, Northern Zone, Coffs Harbour. Brock, M. (1998) Are temporary wetlands resilient? Evidence from seed banks of Aus- tralian and South African wetlands. Pp 193-206 in A. J. McComb & J. A. Davis (eds) Wetlands for the Future. Gleneagles Publishing, Adelaide. Carter, R. (1993) Animal dispersal of the North American sedge Cyperus plunkenetii (Cyperaceae). American Midland Naturalist. 129 (2), pp 352-356. Chivenge, O. A. (1992) The effects of tillage methods on the survival of purple nut- sedge (Cyperus rotundus L.) tubers. Discovery and Innovation. 4(4), pp 75-77. Department of Land and Water Conservation (1995) NSW soil classification mapping. Department of Land and Water Conservation (1998) Acid Sulphate Soil Mapping for coastal NSW. Faegri, K and van der Pijl, L. (1966) Principles of Pollination Ecology. Pergamon Press, Oxford. Harden, G. (1993) (ed) Flora of New South Wales Vol 4. NSW University Press, Sydney. Hendry, G. A., Thompson, K. and Band, S. R. (1995) Seed survival and persistence on a calcarous land surface after a 32 year burial. Journal of Vegetation Science 6(1), pp 153- 156. Ishikawa, S. I., Furukawa, A., Okuda, T. and Oikawa, T. (1993) Germination require- ments in Carex kobomugi (Sea Isle). Journal of Plant Research. 106 (1083), pp 245-248. James, H. (1998) Record of Eleocharis tetraquetra at Bray Park, Tweed Shire. Report to NPWS, Northern Zone Coffs Harbour. Peakall, R. (1994) Genetic analysis of the endangered Zieria prostrata: implications for its conservation. A report prepared for the National Parks and Wildlife Service of New South Wales. Division of Botany and Zoology, Australian National University, Canberra. Unpubl. Queensland Herbarium (1994) Queensland vascular plants: names and distribution. De- partment of Primary Industries and Environment, Brisbane. Queensland Herbarium (1997) Queensland plants: names and distribution. Department of Primary Industries and Environment, Brisbane.
40 Sainty, G. R. and Jacobs, S. W. L. (1981) Waterplants of New South Wales. Water Re- sources Commission of NSW, Ultimo. Schütz, W. (1997a) Primary dormancy and annual dormancy cycles in seeds of six tem- perate wetland sedges. Aquatic Botany. 59, pp 75-85. Schütz, W. (1997b) Are germination strategies important for the ability of caespitose wetland species (Carex) to grow in forests? Canadian Journal of Botany. 75, pp 1692-1699. Soil Conservation Service (1989) Land resources survey of the Coffs Harbour Region. Coffs Harbour Council Coastal Planning Study. Thullen, J. S. and Eberts, D. R. (1995) Effects of temperature, stratification, scarifica- tion, and seed origin on the germination of Scirpus acutus Muhl. seeds for use in constructed wetlands. Wetlands. 15(30), pp 298-304. Vivian-Smith, G. and Stiles, E. W. (1994) Dispersal of salt marsh seeds on the feet and feathers of waterfowl. Wetlands. 14(4), pp 316-319. Williges, K. A. and Harris, T. T. (1995) Seed bank dynamics in the Lake Okeechobee marsh ecosystem. Ergebnisse der limnologie. 10(45), pp 79-94. Wrigley J.W. and Fagg M. (1996) Australian Native Plants. Fourth Edition. Reed Books, Melbourne.
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