AUTUMN 2013 Issue 55 FROM GROUND A land management publication for the South East

Welcome to the new look FTGU! We felt that now From IN THIS EDITION the Ground Up is into its 50’s it was starting to look a little Feral Pigs squidgy around the edges and so it was probably time for After years of rumour, the presence of feral pigs a facelift. in the South East has now been confirmed

FTGU was initially a collaborative promotion of land management projects that were being PAGE 3 implemented in the region as a result of funding provided by the State and Australian Governments. It still continues in this vein and is currently supported by the Australian Governments Caring for SE Field Days Our Country program and Natural Resources South East. Natural Resources South East is your one stop While things may look a little different now, we are intent that the content remain true to its shop for all natural resources information original aim of presenting “information about land management issues, programs and funding opportunities in the south east”. From the Ground Up has been published quarterly since 1999 PAGE 7 and since its inception, has focused on providing relevant, local information for landholders.

Our regular contributors have always been local project staff implementing a combination of Native Veg Funding sustainable agriculture and environmental projects. The most noted being Wayne Hawthorne - Native vegetation management funding for rural our regular “Raising Your Pulse” author - who has never missed an edition from 1999! I’d like to landholders take this opportunity to thank Wayne and all our regular contributors, the original editorial team PAGE 8 of Donna Bartsch, Melissa Hunter, Ben Bruce and Bryan Haywood and you the reader for creating, supporting and helping this small local tradition continue. Protein Supplement Protein Supplementation assists Dry Paddock Cathy Ashby, Editor Feed and Stubble Utilisation

PAGE 10 Introducing some new faces!

Ken Baker Cross-border Community Nursery & Seed Collections Project Co-Ordinator Hello everyone. In February I took on the job of coordinating the Cross-border Community Nursery & Seed Collections Project for Nature Glenelg Trust, having taken over from the very talented Becky McCann. The focus of this Project is working with and supporting native seed collectors, growers, direct seeding contractors, and anyone else with an interest in revegetation across South East South and Victoria’s South West. The aim is to improve the diversity of plants available to revegetation projects in the area. I have recently moved down from Coonabarabran NSW, where I was the Regional Landcare Facilitator for the East Namoi. I’ve previously worked on a wide range of NRM projects in various parts of Australia including water quality in the Border River’s catchment of NSW/QLD, Shorebirds and feral cats on King Island and riparian revegetation in South West Victoria. I am really looking forward to working with Becky and other NGT staff and supporters and getting out and meeting everyone involved in creating productive and biodiverse local landscapes. You can contact me by phone 0437 597 685 or email: [email protected].

Michael Dent On Ground Works Officer Hi there my name is Michael Dent I am the new on ground works officer at Natural Resources SE, based in . For the last four years I have been working at Forestry SA in a variety of roles but mainly the research section. I am currently studying a Bachelor of Applied Science and am due to complete it by the end of 2013. My role at DEWNR is in the Sustainable Landscapes Team and my role will include undertaking field works such as weed control and revegetation for a number of sites. I will also be involved with Kalangadoo and Penola primary and Millicent High schools helping out with their plant propagation programs. I am really enjoying my role so far and am looking forward to continuing my work. You can contact me on (08) 8735 1177 or email [email protected].

Libby Mapletoft Fire Management Officer I am very excited to have joined Natural Resources SE and to be living and working in the South East having recently moved from the Adelaide Hills. My passion for the environment led me to return to university to study Environmental Science and undertake a mid-life career change. Having recently completed my degree, I have taken up the position of Fire Management Officer. I will be working with the Regional Fire Management Officer, Kay Richardson, to plan and implement our prescribed burn program designed to conserve and protect our remnant bushland in the numerous parks throughout the South-East. We will also be monitoring the effects of fire to increase our knowledge base of how Australian flora and fauna respond to fire. You can contact me on (08) 8735 1177 or email [email protected].

FROM THE GROUND UP FROM GROUND

ACT NOW for effective rabbit management

The combination of high , minimal breeding and low feed resources are ideal to aid in the effective management of rabbit populations.

Undertaking an integrated program during the warmer months (Nov – Apr) involving monitoring, baiting, warren destruction and follow-up will help to achieve the greatest impact on rabbit numbers. Monitoring will help to assess the size and location of your rabbit populations so you can undertake targeted management, continued monitoring will also help to assess the effectiveness of your management program. Free feeding is an essential component of a baiting program and should be conducted at least 3 times with a space of 2-3 days between feeds. Free feeding aids in rabbits overcoming their fear of a new food source and also helps you to assess the amount of rabbits through observing bait take. Poison baiting, typically conducted with 1080 treated bait, should be laid within 3 days of the last free feed, preferably in the early morning or evening to limit bait take by other animals eg birds and kangaroos. Do not lay poison baits if rain is expected. The warren is the key to a rabbits survival, so eliminating it will significantly contribute to your overall management program and achieving long term control. Depending on the size of your problem, you should match your implement or machinery to the task. Before undertaking any warren destruction, ensure you consider issues like cable/service locations (contact 1100 - Dial Before you Dig) and vegetation clearance. You may need to contact Natural Resources South East, your local Council and the Native Vegetation Council for advice. Multiple trails may be needed to ensure enough bait is laid, Photo I Qualmann Natural Resources South East Authorised Officers can provide a range of services, equipment

Feral pigs are extremely destructive to both material in the cages is non-toxic fermented agricultural and environmental systems and grain, fruit or vegetable. The cages are are estimated to cost Australian farmers more currently wired open to encourage movement than $100 million annually. Their impacts in and out of the cages to allow the pigs to include predation on lambs and native become accustomed to the cages and bait wildlife, spreading of weeds, competition with material. In the near future the cages will be stock and wildlife for food, harbor and spread ‘set’ to trap any pigs that enter. If you see a cage, of disease, and destruction of environmental please do not disturb it or the bait material. systems, particularly wetlands. If you have any information about the release It is believed that feral pigs were caught in of feral pigs in our region or wish to report other areas of the country and brought to any sightings of feral pigs please contact your the South East for hunting purposes. Such local Authorised officer or Natural Resources activity not only puts our natural environment South East on 8735 1177. at severe risk but also threatens the local livestock industry. Feral pigs are a declared pest under the Feral Pig Natural Resources Management Act (2004) (Sus scrofa) and it is an offence to release animals into the wild. Feral pigs are a high priority pest animal After years of rumour, the presence and significant penalties of up to $100,000 or of feral pigs in the South East has imprisonment for 2 years apply for deliberate now been confirmed. DEWNR release. Landholders are also required to control feral pigs on their land. staff are joining with local The SENRM Board and DEWNR have landholders to monitor, trap and established 3 trap cages around areas of eradicate these destructive feral known activity and are currently baiting and animals from the South East. monitoring the cages on a regular basis. Bait

Page 3 Expressions

World Wetlands Day was celebrated in February by an event showcasing some of the oldest wetlands in the South East, Karst Rising Springs. Karst Rising Springs are fed almost exclusively by groundwater that is forced out of the ground under .

The resulting pools, creeks and wet peat soils The World Wetlands Day event kicked off with many bird species that have flocked to the site around the springs provide habitat for a range a series of talks on the Wednesday evening since its restoration. of charismatic plants and animals including covering topics such as the restoration of Staff from DEWNR, the Nature Glenelg Trust the Swamp Greenhood, Glenelg Spiny Picks Swamp (part of the Piccaninnie Ponds and Birds SE spoke to participants about some Crayfish and the Ewens Pygmy Perch. Conservation Park), groundwater dependent of the most interesting species found in the ecosystems and threatened species. This was Rising springs are rare in Australia, and those springs, about the challenges of managing followed by the chance to get up close and in the South East are particularly special: the these ecosystems in a productive dairy personal with nature during a guided quantity of water that flows from the largest landscape, and steps that can be taken to at , crayfish catching at Spencer Karst Rising Spring, Ewens Ponds, is about ten conserve the springs in the future. times that of Dalhousie Spring, the largest Pond and the chance to see the recently spring in the great Artesian Basin! restored Pick Swamp and learn about the

Karst Rising Springs can support lush aquatic vegetation, an important breeding site for fish

Karst Rising Springs are the SE stronghold for the Pricklyback Karst Rising Spring pool

FROM THE GROUND UP from GROUND

2013 SE Biodiversity ‘Up Close’ events!

The ‘Up Close’ series kick starts with free walks, talks and opportunities for you and the family to meet the experts and learn about the amazing things nature offers right here in the South East.

Saturday 23 March Volunteers

Butterfly ID & introduction to the threatened Silver Xenica Butterfly with Bryan Haywood, ForestrySA. Honan’s Native Forest Reserve. needed for Surveys to help try & rediscover the Silver Xenica will take place from 23 Mar-7 Apr. Further details & to register contact Bryan Haywood (08) 8724 2765. Family friendly. endangered Friday 5 April butterfly Cryptic locals: the tale of our Eared Worm Lizard with Mark Hutchinson, Curator of Reptiles, SA Museum. In conjunction with the Millicent Field Naturalist Club. Millicent (time & place TBC). survey Contact Cath Dickson 0478 121 733. This autumn get your walking boots Wednesday 10 & Thursday 18 April on and come out to some fabulous Fossils, megafauna & climate change: unearthing stories of the past & what they nature reserves and help search for an mean for the future with Dr. Liz Reed, Flinders University. Contact Becky McCann endangered butterfly called the ‘Silver 0409 842 471. Family friendly. Xenica’, pronounced ‘Zen-i-ka’. Wednesday 10 April: Presentation at Mt Gambier Library 7pm. Light refreshments provided. It is a small orange-brown butterfly (>25mm in wingspan) Thursday 18 April: Follow up guided talk/tour: Naracoorte (time TBC). which flits around damp forest environments in places like Piccaninnie Ponds and Honan Scrub (near Glencoe) in Sunday 19 May Autumn (February-April). Dawn Chorus with BirdLife South East SA. Wake up a little earlier for a morning The larvae feed on soft native grasses. It was first found in of birdsong, learn about local bird calls & ID, & enjoy a cooked breakfast. Further SA back in the 1970’s at Piccaninnie Ponds then in 2006 a details to come. Family friendly. new colony was discovered near Glencoe. Since 2007, it has not been seen at either location. Has it become locally June extinct? Did the 2006-2008 drought seal its fate? June is environment month, and we’re running a series of events focused on life in Come out this autumn and help try and re-discover the the deadwood. This includes the wonderful world of fungi; nature’s recyclers-bugs Silver Xenica and put them back on the map. and insects; what lives in hollow trees and logs and sustainable firewood options. Activities will include: Further details to come. A field day on Sat 23rd March at Honan Native Forest Reserve introducing the project and participants to butterflies. Then week day and/or weekend searches on For more details and events, keep an foot, guided by local experts in late March-early April. eye out for the calendar of events or This project is supported by ForestrySA, DEWNR and Nature Glenelg Trust along with a variety of members from local subscribe to Nature Glenelg Trust’s blog at natural history groups, and is part of the 2013 South East www.natureglenelg.org.au Biodiversity Up Close event series. For more information contact: Bryan Haywood, Conservation Planner, ForestrySA, (08) 8724 2765 or email [email protected]

Page 5 Ramsar Listing for Piccaninnie Ponds

Piccaninnie Ponds Conservation Park has just received world recognition with the announcement by Senator Don Farrell on the 25th of January 2013.

Piccaninnie becomes Australia’s 65th Ramsar 110 metres. The water rising from the ground that the Park is now a summer refuge of Wetland and the first to be listed in Australia is around 15 degrees Celsius all year around thousands of water birds. New restoration for 6 years. The word Ramsar comes from the and very clear. The wetland has also been works that will restore a further 25ha of name of the Iranian city where the first world recognised because of it rich species diversity convention on wetlands of international which includes over 60 species of threatened wetland and retain more spring water on the importance was held in 1971. flora and fauna and is also a refuge of the land are programmed to start this month.. The recognition is timely as the South East has Australasian Bittern which is a bird that is The Ramsar Listing will not only give the lost over 90% of all its wetlands. threatened internationally. The Conservation Park also has amazing beauty and attracts Piccaninnie global recognition but will also Piccaninnie Ponds are well known as a world 20,000 visitors annually. class diving venue but few know that the afford more protection for this exceptional Karst Rising spring, which give the wetland its The State Government also recognises the type of rising spring wetland and all the water, is rare in Australia, let alone the world. importance of Piccaninnie by ongoing species that rely on it. While most of the wetland is generally shallow restoration. Works, started in 2006, to restore some parts of the Karst system go as deep as parts of the wetland have been so successful

Natural Resources South East has developed The nrmPROJECT website is a great way for Free Soil & Water Testing at the SE Field Days New website the site called nrmPROJECT, to showcase the the board and community to build a stronger many successful projects that have improved transparent relationship. the region’s natural resources since the board highlights was formed in 2005. The website contains Funded largely by the Australian Governments’ various information on past and present Caring For Our Country program, the website projects including pictures, site locations and has been developed by Natural Resources NRM project descriptions. South East in conjunction with the South The nrmPROJECT website is part of the larger East Resource Information Centre (SERIC) but nrmSPACE website which hosts several requires Adobe Flash Player to be installed on achievements programs to assist landholders in their the viewers computer. enterprises and natural resource management The nrmPROJECT website can be seen at http:// A new website has been launched such as a program for weather, irrigation, mapping tools, farm records and asset se.nrmspace.com.au and click on nrmPROJECT highlighting the achievements of management. icon. The board undertakes many great projects the South East Natural Resources For people who do not have access to a that benefit the region but often they do not Management Board over the past computer, an achievements booklet which have the opportunity or space to be able to seven years. actively promote these good works, while highlights the Board’s work and achievements major projects such as water allocation plans for 2012 is available from the Natural Resources have a tendency to get the most attention. Centre at 11 Helen Street Mount Gambier.

FROM THE GROUND UP from GROUND

Natural Resources SITE NUMBER South East at the Lucindale Field Days Natural Resources South East is your one stop 270 shop for all natural resources information.

The Connies will be back helping us understand to discuss issues with the public and take your n Staff will also be on hand to provide more about the fabulous SE Wildlife and there feedback on how our natural resources are assistance on a variety of production related will also be opportunity for kids and adults currently being managed. topics including carbon farming, information alike to get up close and personal with some about agricultural events and grant funding You can also drop by our stand to learn more real life cuddly critters. Expect to see wombats, opportunities. Demonstrations on popular about: farming websites such as weather stations, gliders and a crocodile! Maybe not so cuddly nrmFARM, and AGconnectSE will be held after all!!! ■■ Current developments in the South East Drainage and Wetland Management throughout the day. Free soil and water testing will be available Program There will also be short presentations to test for salinity and pH. For soils samples, on the half hour looking at aboriginal people need to bring 500g of soil in a clean n The Naracoorte Caves and its world- culture, sustainable agriculture and our labelled container. For water testing bring half renowned , attractive show local environment. Keep an eye out a litre of water. Authorized Officers will also be caves, the critically endangered Southern for more details and check our website Bentwing bats and adventure caving. on hand to ID your weeds (please bring in a www.senrm.sa.gov.au for a list of speakers. sealed bag) and discuss the latest changes to n Our Water Allocation Planners are looking the noxious weeds list. forward to answering questions on the Board members from the SE NRM Board and Lower Coast Water Allocation the SE Water Conservation and Drainage Plan and discussing the proposed policies Board will be in attendance with the community.

Free Soil & Water Testing at the SE Field Days

The Natural Resources South East is again hosting the ever popular soil & water testing stand at the South East Field Days 2013.

Rural SA’s Adrian Harvey will be on What you need to bring: While you are in the tent, why not drop by hand to test your soil and water samples Soil samples – Approximately 500 grams of the “Considering Carbon” stand for the latest for salinity and pH and Brian Hughes will be soil in a clean plastic bag or glass jar. demonstration farm results as well as an available at set times to discuss soil health opportunity to use nrmFARM and grab a take issues. Water samples – 500ml water in a clean plastic home manual. or glass container. Please bring your soil and water samples to the testing stand in the Natural Resources South East tent at site 270, between Hurst and Fisher Street. For any enquiries, contact Nicole deCourcy-Ireland Your results will be available later in on either (08) 8735 1213, 0428 037 082 or the day. [email protected].

Page 7 Permaculture Mount Gambier

Want to live a little lighter on the earth? Get inspired and glean ideas from others who are on the journey - chickens, preserving fruit, orchards, solar panels – such topics and many more are often discussed at a gathering of Permaculture Mount Gambier.

Over the last few months, PMG has held a be a part of in 2013, and wandering through We held a preserving basics workshop during number of casual get togethers, looking at orchards, habitat plantings and productive the Mount Gambier Farmers Market, to different properties, discussing permaculture vegetable patches, discussing green house help others use the abundance in their own plans, looking over veggie patches and design and the myriad ways to make a pizza backyards. learning from each other about how best to oven. If you would like to share your knowledge live sustainably in our local area. We visited a property in Mount Gambier where and maybe even glean some more, be We visited a property in Moorak, where we we looked at the benefits of an aquaponics set part of the conversation on Facebook - shared ideas for mulching, tackling weeds up, learned how me might build our own, the just search for Permaculture Mount and pests, windbreak planting and housing pitfalls to avoid and the ideas that worked. Gambier and click to join. Or email chickens. We shared a meal from the pizza [email protected] to be included in oven out at O B Flat, discussing all the things our mailing list. that a permaculture group might want to

South Eastern BushBids seeks to enhance To find out more attend one of the information Native regional biodiversity values through long- sessions. term conservation agreements with private Frances landholders. Landholders within the South Frances Hotel/Motel vegetation Eastern BushBids boundary, with areas of Wednesday, 6 March 2013 at 2pm native vegetation on their property, are invited to apply for funding for vegetation management management. Mundulla Sport and Rec Centre Wednesday, 6 March 2013 at 6pm Landholders will set their own price as part funding of a competitive tender for the conservation Tintinara management services they are prepared to Tintinara Health and Rec Centre undertake. Successful tenders will be those Thursday, 7 March 2013 at 2pm for rural that offer the best value for money and Tailem Bend suitable biodiversity outcomes. The South Community Centre Thursday, Eastern BushBids is focussing in the area from 7 March 2013 at 6pm landholders Murray Bridge to the SA/Vic border, south to (behind Shell Service Station) Naracoorte. An information brochure, including Expressions of Interest can be a map of the South Eastern BushBids made from 9.00am 4 March 2013 boundary, can be viewed online at: by calling 1300 847 450. www.samdbnrm.sa.gov.au.

FROM THE GROUND UP from GROUND

Participants make their way across the headland into Red Rock Bay () for a Rockpool Ramble Coastal Connections Summer Holiday Program Holiday makers once again flocked to the Coastal Connections Summer Holiday program.

Hosted by the South East Local Government and Freshwater Lake in Robe were very It is a great way to inform people about all Association and Department of Environment, popular. Families flocked to this night time the fantastic things that live in and along Water and Natural Resources the program, activity as it is a great opportunity to view our the coastline. Ultimately when people are now in its 5th year, attracted over 1000 native bush from quite a different perspective informed it means that they have a greater participants. and kids and adults alike love it.” awareness of the importance of looking after 58 free activities were held in and around Rockpool Rambles, Wetland Walks, Coastal our coast and the variety of life it supports. the coastal townships of Kingston, Robe, Bush Tucker Walks, kid’s craft activities and The program was funded by the , Southend and Port MacDonnell. sand sculpture activities were just some Australian Government’s Caring for our Locals and visitors were keen to learn about of what was on offer. The program is now Country program and the South East our coastline and many activities were fully actively sought out by visitors and feedback NRM Board. booked. Creatures of the Night spotlight has been really positive. walks held at Beachport Conservation Park

A weird and wondeful elephant snail. Port MacDonnell rockpools had everyone engrossed. Here everyone watches one of three species of sea star that were spotted at the Port MacDonnell rocky .

Page 9 Effluent workshops a boost to profitability and sustainability

DAIRY SA is holding a series of effluent systems workshops across in February to assist dairy farmers with their decision making and knowledge of sustainable effluent management.

Leading effluent system expert and designer existing system or install a new one, correct practices and maximising effluent systems Scott McDonald, from DPI Victoria’s Dairy application and management of effluent can: and management is yet another way they Services Branch, aims to assist farmers in n Boost pasture production. continue to lead the farming community in efficiently and effectively managing effluent n Save money through reduced need for environment, animal and farm health and systems. Issues for discussion at the field fertiliser. safety. days, to be held on dairy farms, include: n Effluent can be an excellent soil conditioner For more details, please contact maximising the efficiency of existing systems, (a source of organic carbon). Liz Rymill on 0409 919 564 or email reusing valuable nutrients effectively on crops n Further aid in the conservation and reuse of [email protected] and pastures, protecting milk quality and water by recycling and/or reducing amount establishing an economic return from systems. used (amount depends on size of alleys, There are numerous benefits arising from yards, etc and the quality of cleaning). maximising the potential of effluent systems Dairy farmers are renowned for their and while it costs money to improve an progressive sustainable agricultural Protein Supplementation assists Dry Paddock Feed and Stubble Utilisation

As a general rule, the most limiting factor is not mineral content of dry feed that reduces the value of dry feed but insufficient levels of protein and energy.

To make the most of dry paddock feed, grains are commonly used. Sheep must n Lick blocks are a convenient supplement supplying additional protein can increase be introduced carefully to non-protein to dry feed but are often moderately rumen function and therefore utilisation of nitrogen sources. Urea in particular needs successful when compared to dry paddock feed and stubbles. to be incorporated into a ration as urea supplementation with a protein meal or The sheep requires both microbial protein poisoning kills stock quickly. legume grain. and bypass protein to meet its protein n Protein meals, such as cottonseed meal For more information contact Tiffany requirements. The cellulose component of or canola meal, release their protein Bennett, Rural SA, Livestock dry feed is digested by rumen microbes to differently, allowing sheep to use the Consultant, (08) 8762 9126. provide energy to the animal. When protein protein efficiently over a longer period. supply from the feed is low, microbe Twice-weekly feeding is as effective as activity is reduced and results in decreased daily feeding. These meals also have a digestion and utilisation of dry feed. reasonable energy value. There are three sources of protein including: n High-protein grains (e.g. lupins, peas, n Non-protein nitrogen sources such as beans) are more degradable, with a urea and sulphate of ammonia dissolve higher protein release rate, and should quickly in the rumen and any surplus be fed every second or third day. Lupins nitrogen is wastefully excreted. To be are relatively safe but it is advisable when effective, the non-protein supplements feeding peas and beans that they are must be fed little and often and an energy carefully introduced to avoid acidosis source must be fed to enable the stock issues. Legume grains also have the to utilise the nitrogen. Molasses or cereal advantage of good available energy.

FROM THE GROUND UP from GROUND

Water affecting Raising Your Pulse: activity permits Good on you sport

Constructing a new dam, building a stock Well, harvest is all over for another season, and not too crossing, a bridge or installing culverts in a bad aNative pulse one at that. vegetation watercourse, excavating a swamp, lake or It’s been holidays for some, perhaps sport, leisure and then planning under watercourse are some examples of water varyingmanagement hot, cold and drying conditions - just like the fundinglast pulse year. Pulses affecting activities that require a permit are an essential component of crop rotations, but not necessarily in cricket. from the SE Natural Resources Management Australia’sfor cricket ruralteam ‘rotations’ producedlandholders a “C-side” performance, and I (SENRM) Board prior to the works being do not mean beach cricket. Then the “A” side collapsed dismally like a bean crop with inadequate disease control. Proves you cannot relax and give the undertaken. South Eastern BushBids seeks to enhance regional biodiversity values oppositionthrough (or long-termdiseases) a conservation chance. Fatigue agreements set in for withviewers private too landholders. with over- exposure – not so with pulses and new varieties. They strengthen our resources Part 4 of the Regional NRM Plan outlines the range of water Landholders within the South Eastern BushBids boundary, with areas to enable us to do well. Screams and accolades are over at the Australian affecting activities which require a permit. Management of Tennis ofOpen. native Bernard vegetation was a “tomic”on their bomb property, until aredefused invited by toa “joker apply in for Vic” funding who for water affecting activities is needed to protect our natural proceededvegetation to finish management. his harvest with the final reward. “Sam’s Toes a” started the systems and water dependent ecosystems, maintain water year shakily,Landholders something will pulseset their growers own pricedo not as want part to of happen a competitive with this tender year’s for the quality and minimise impacts on other water users. seasonalconservation opening rains. management The Tour Down services Under they saw are the prepared lycra brigade to undertake. on their Please note that any other drainage works that are likely to bikes, along with anyone else who tried to look like a champion. Pulse growers Successful tenders will be those that offer the best value for money and stop, increase, decrease or otherwise affect the flow of water need saddle up for 2013 and get their planning finalised to actually become suitable biodiversity outcomes. from or onto land, or the flow of water into a watercourse a champion. A “Gripe-all” continued to win early sprints, but pulse growers require a licence from the South Eastern Water Conservation shouldThe not Southwhinge. Eastern They need BushBids to be quick is focussing off the markin the to area respond from toMurray each Bridge and Drainage Board phone (08) 8733 3533. challenge.to the It’s SA/Vic no “Slag border, ter” complete south to the Naracoorte. whole task and win overall.

How do I know if I need a permit and how do I apply? The fishAn have information been biting, brochure, but the including crays have a map been of hiding,the South I am Eastern told. Still BushBids it was a good return in the scale of things; just like last year’s pulse crop yields, If you are planning some works and you are unsure if you boundary, can be viewed online at: www.samdbnrm.sa.gov.au quality and prices. We are lucky to have caught what we did after such a need a permit please contact the Natural Resources Centre dry spring.To fi ndLearning out more has attend started one again of the for information school kids, sessions. uni students and South East and ask to speak to a staff member who can assist now also agronomists and growers who will attend a “Faba and broad bean in defining requirements for your activity. Permit application Town Location Date Time forms and further information can be accessed from http:// Management” training course in Naracoorte on 4th April. Contact me at Pulse Frances Frances Hotel/Motel Wednesday, 6 March 2013 2pm www.senrm.sa.gov.au/Water.aspx phone (08) 8735 1177 Australia for more details. Overall we too can be reasonably pleased with our (Mount Gambier) or (08) 8762 9100 (Struan). pulses.Mundulla There are no Mundullaeasy games. Sport For and this Rec coming Centre pulse Wednesday, cropping 6 season, March 2013 we 6pm must prepare like sporting greats to plan, train and put into practice a best Tintinara Tintinara Health and Rec Centre Thursday, 7 March 2013 2pm What happens when you apply for a permit? effort. For a sporting chance: Tailem Bend Community Centre Thursday, 7 March 2013 6pm Natural Resources South East staff will assess the permit n Learn as much as you can. (behind Shell Service Station) application against the principles and objectives outlined n Turn potential into reality through best management practices. in the Regional NRM Plan. An application for a permit may n ConsiderExpressions new pulse of varieties Interest where can be relevant. made be refused if it is inconsistent with the Plan, or modifications n Selectfrom crops 9.00am on their 4 Marchability to2013 perform, by calling not on last year’s price. to the water affecting activity may be suggested to comply n 1300 847 450. with the NRM Plan requirements. The fee to apply for a Don’t skimp on essential inputs. 3535499 permit for 2012/13 is $49.25 (GST exempt). n Time it right for sowing, weed and insect control, disease protection. n Minimise soil compaction to reduce water-logging and disease. n Manage summer weeds should they arise, retain stubble cover. n Keep disease under control, by starting early with: • Paddock selection and clean seed, • Avoid sowing too early, • Monitor crops and respond quickly when required, • Prevention is the best disease cure. n Value no till and stubble retention. n But overall be prepared Serve a PBA “Pearl” of an “Ace” to “Bolt” and be a “Striker”. Wayne Hawthorne, Pulse Australia A local Council applied for a permit to remove and replace this ageing [email protected]. Telephone: 0429 647 455 culvert near Kybybolite, which facilitates surface water flow from north of the road, into the Naracoorte Creek located south of the road.

Page 11 A New Plan to Sustain Got an idea Our Water Resources for an NRM

The South East Natural Resources Management Board (SE NRM Board) is project? seeking feedback on its Draft Water Allocation Plan (Draft WAP) for the

Lower . Sponsorship of up to $2000 is available to all community groups and schools Public consultation on the Draft WAP is occurring from 4 March to 6 May 2013. for their Natural Resource Management The Draft WAP contains policies to manage the precious and unique underground water resources Projects. that underpin communities, townships, industries and the environment in the Lower Limestone Contact Naomi Brick on (08) 8735 1234 Coast. or [email protected] for further The Plan is about making sure the way we use water today protects our ability to do so in the future. details. By managing our water resources sustainably we can give certainty to our region’s water users, Proudly supported by the SE protect our important groundwater-dependent ecosystems and ensure that our region continues to thrive. NRM Board. In what is believed to be a world-first, the water allocation plan provides an approach that requires commercial forest water use to be accounted for and licensed.

The Draft WAP also includes a system for allocations to be converted into volumetric licences, and From the Ground Up is a publication of the Natural a system that facilitates the trading and transfer of water across the region. Resources, South East and supported by the South East Natural Resources Management Board. (SENRM There are also improved policies for protecting groundwater-dependent ecosystems that depend Board) It promotes awareness and uptake of natural resources management in the South East region of on underground water resources. South Australia. The Draft WAP was developed in close consultation with government agencies, interest groups, the This edition of “From the Ground Up” has been printed on recycled paper. Please care for the broader community and a stakeholder reference group. South East and recycle this after reading. Articles A Reference Group met for over 12 months to test and refine the proposed policies, and better in “From the Ground Up” may be reproduced with acknowledgement. understand what different policy approaches might mean for water users. For further enquiries on “From the Ground Up” please The Draft WAP meets the NRM Board’s obligations to the State and Commonwealth governments contact: under the National Water Initiative. Cathy Ashby, Natural Resources, South East Phone: (08) 8735 1236 The NRM Board is holding information sessions and public meetings at which people can ask Email: [email protected] questions, provide comment and hear more about what the Draft WAP proposes. Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made Public meetings will be held on: to ensure accuracy in this publication, Natural Resources, South East and the SE NRM Board take no 21 March 2013, 7-9pm, Lacepede Motel, Kingston responsibility for any errors or omissions. Content contained within articles is, and remains, the 25 March 2013, 7-9pm, Town Hall, Naracoorte responsibility of the submitting agency. The editorial 26 March 2013, 7-9pm, Attamurra Golf Club Mt Gambier committee and associated employing agencies make no representation, either expressed or implied as to the suitability of the information and data contained Information sessions will be held on: within this publication for any particular purpose, and accept no liability for any use of this information and 12 March 2013, 1-6pm, Lacepede Motel, Kingston data or reliance placed upon it. 14 March, 1-6pm, Town Hall, Naracoorte Design by: www.hellofriday.com.au 19 March, 1-6pm, Attamurra Golf Club, Mount Gambier

A copy of the Draft WAP and Fact Sheets that explain policy it proposes can be requested from the offices of the NRM Board at 11 Helen Street Mount Gambier or can be viewed and downloaded from www.senrm.sa.gov.au. Visit www.senrm.sa.gov.au to find out more

FROM THE GROUND UP