Working together Achievements 2013–2014 Contents

Foreword 4 Natural Resources Kangaroo Island 5 Measuring performance 7 Managing water 9 Managing land condition 11 Managing island parks 13 Managing coasts and seas 15 Managing biodiversity 17 Managing fire 19 Managing threatened plants 21 2014© Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources Managing glossy black-cockatoos 23 ISBNs Printed: 978-1-921595-17-2 On-line: 978-1-921595-18-9 Managing feral animals 25 This document may be reproduced in whole or part for the purpose of study or training, subject to the inclusion of an acknowledgment of the source and to its not being used for commercial purposes or sale. Managing koalas 27 Reproduction for purposes other than those given above requires the prior written permission of the Kangaroo Island Natural Resources Management Board. Managing weeds 29 All images within this document are credited to Natural Resources Kangaroo Island unless stated otherwise. Working with the community 31

Front cover image: Angus Smith and his Mum Judy Borgett explore the Natural Resources Kangaroo Island tent at the Working with landholders 33 Kangaroo Island Agricultural Field Day with Rangers Deb Davis and Caroline Paterson. Back cover image: Emerging grape vine leaves.

Work outlined in this document is funded by:

1 2 2 Foreword

Kangaroo Island is considered by many as the have on our economy, society and environment. jewel of South Australia with unique landscapes The board has listened to issues you have and some of the best produce the state can identified and has led the way with developing provide. While only a short distance from the a Climate Change Position Statement jointly mainland, it remains one of the few areas not with the Kangaroo Island Council. The new plan over-cleared, infested with weeds or invaded will help identify how we can work together by rabbits and foxes. Its natural systems have to reduce the risk of losing the very things we remained healthy and strong. The very essence most value. of survival here is about appropriate and sustainable management of natural resources. This fifth Achievements Report is the second to reflect the partnership between the board In 2013–2014 the Kangaroo Island Natural and the Department of Environment, Water Resources Management Board (the board) and Natural Resources (DEWNR) in managing began a review of the 2009 Regional Natural our natural resources. It celebrates the Resources Management (NRM) Plan with a achievements of the entire community, working focus on ensuring we are ready to respond to across the whole landscape, in ensuring our climate change. island remains healthy and resilient with diverse natural environments and productive The updated plan will build upon decades of farmlands. knowledge and previous work by the board and community. Recent community workshops Through the many and varied programs reaffirmed that Kangaroo Islanders have a clear detailed in this report we reaffirm our sense of place, with shared values and visions. commitment to the goals of the NRM Plan and to partnering with the community to The journey the board began with its review of deliver sound and sustainable natural resources the Regional NRM Plan will not be completed management. until 2015. The region has been challenged to think about impacts a changing climate may As presiding member of the Kangaroo Island Natural Resources Management (KI NRM) Board I am pleased to release this snapshot of the achievements in natural resources management in the Kangaroo Island Region for 2013–2014.

Richard Trethewey Presiding Member, Kangaroo Island Natural Resources Management Board

Left: Minister Hunter and Richard Trethewey at the opening of the Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail

3 4 4 Natural Resources Kangaroo Island Natural Resources Kangaroo Island (KI) is A broad range of environment and natural Parks Native plants responsible for delivering a range of programs resource services are available at the natural »» information on Kangaroo Island parks and »» advice on Heritage Agreements and native and projects on behalf of the Kangaroo resources centre including: tours vegetation clearance Island NRM Board and DEWNR. Working »» land and water management advice »» purchase of parks passes and booking »» information about obtaining native plants together with our partners, volunteers and »» national parks information camping sites and heritage accommodation for revegetation the broader Kangaroo Island community, »» wildlife and environment services »» information on protecting, restoring and our business includes managing public lands, Pest plants and animals monitoring habitat for threatened species encouraging sustainable production practices, Land »» advice and support for managing pest and conserving and managing the island’s »» information about sustainable land plants and animals Getting involved environment. management practices for the improvement »» hire of control devices »» information on a wide range of volunteer of soils, salinity, land capacity and pastures activities such as planting seedlings to Natural resources centre »» information on property planning and Coast and marine restore habitat, controlling weeds, counting In July 2012 the natural resources centre at mapping »» information on coast and marine issues wildlife and clearing marine rubbish including seagrass health, marine pests, 35 Dauncey Street, Kingscote, was opened Water »» information about joining Friends of Parks as a one-stop-shop for the community for all biodiversity and marine parks groups »» information on surface and ground water matters relating to management of our natural »» information about nominating for regional resources Native animals resources across the whole region. committees or the NRM Board. »» advice and permits for water affecting »» information on protecting and monitoring activities threatened species and important habitats »» advice and permits for management of Kangaroo Island NRM Board The members of the Kangaroo Island NRM over-abundant wildlife Board are locals – islanders with different backgrounds and perspectives, appointed by the Governor of South Australia to represent their community. They are deeply connected to and widely involved in the Kangaroo Island community in which they live and work. The board meets regularly (usually once a month) with details appearing in The Islander before each meeting. Meeting agendas are available on the website www.naturalresources. sa.gov.au/kangarooisland, from the natural resources centre or the public library.

5 6 6 406 1 9 9 65 Planning our future people involved ‘What will our focus group ‘In Your one-to-one in planning future be like?’ workshops Backyard’ interviews Development of a new regional Resources KI website has information about the process to date NRM Gathering workshops NRM Plan for Kangaroo Island is planning process and climate change. being funded by the Australian Stakeholder engagement began in late April Government. The plan will address with the NRM Gathering at Kingscote Yacht ways we can mitigate and adapt Club. Visiting experts gave presentations to climate change. Comprehensive about climate change and different planning tools and approaches. A ‘Values and Vision’ community consultation is identifying workshop allowed participants to express the main issues to be addressed and how they wish to experience the future on priorities for action. Kangaroo Island. CASE STUDY: Developing Industry-specific focus group workshops in May were facilitated by Paul Ryan, an expert in a new plan for Kangaroo applying the ‘resilience’ approach to planning. Island These were well attended and provided invaluable insights into the challenges islanders Natural Resources KI is leading the face and the level of development of a new NRM Plan for the change that might Kangaroo Island Region. The plan will take 5 be required to YEAR into account new knowledge that has been overcome them. OUTCOME gathered in recent years, in particular relating to the impacts of climate change on our ‘What’s going on Information and agriculture, environment, economy and society. data available to in your backyard?’ The geographic information systems (GIS) support initiatives workshops were and decisions on mapping database has been updated and held around the NRM Images facing page: Young people’s artwork depicting how they would like to see KI in the future improved with new data layers, and the Natural (J McGowan, Z Neighbour and I Kent). Above left: Planning Manager Phillipa Holden delivers an ‘In Your island and in Backyard’ workshop. Top right: Participants at a Paul Ryan workshop. Bottom right: The NRM Gathering.

Adelaide providing residents and landholders »» appropriate level of development the opportunity to share some of their values, »» vibrant economy, thriving community vision, observations and priorities. A follow-up »» funding and finance survey gave those who missed the workshops a chance to have their say. »» local knowledge and governance.

The ‘big issues’ identified during the extensive A series of discussion papers capturing the community consultation are: essence of the new NRM Plan will be released »» climate change for public comment and a draft plan will be available for discussion early in 2015. »» biodiversity »» wise and productive use of water Funding partner »» management of native vegetation Australian Government »» over-abundant native species »» biosecurity »» coastal waters and estuaries »» pine and gum plantations

7 Natural Resources Kangaroo Island Achievement Report 2013–14 Natural Resources Kangaroo Island Achievement Report 2013–14 8 8 1 3 37 33 1 Managing water Water development hectares sites monitored review, analysis Affecting applications revegetated at for water and survey to The Kangaroo Island NRM Board data collected at the five stream flow gauging Activity Permit assessed four wetlands quality across develop water is working with the community to stations located on the Cygnet River (two sites), assessed KI use limits Timber Creek, Stun’sail Boom River and Rocky ensure the equitable management River. of water quality and quantity to sustain natural ecosystems, industry, Flow records from these gauges, whilst still agriculture, human consumption and short and patchy, suggest that surface water yields in the Cygnet River and Timber Creek other urban and domestic uses on catchments are higher than those used in the the island. 2009 plan. Conversely, yields in the vegetated Stun’sail Boom and Rocky River catchments are CASE STUDY: Determining lower than estimated in the 2009 plan. water needs for Kangaroo The work delivered by SMK presented a Island number of options for the board’s Water During public consultation for the 2009 Resources Taskforce to consider for adoption in Kangaroo Island NRM Plan it was clear that the new plan. many people did not support the methods used A structured to determine water use limits in the region. In 5 decision-making particular, concerns were raised about the use YEAR process, based OUTCOME of off-island data. upon a set of Environmental As a result, the Kangaroo Island NRM Board guiding principles, flows adequate contracted the DEWNR Science, Monitoring and allowed the to maintain Knowledge (SMK) unit to undertake a project taskforce (which ecosystem is comprised of processes Image facing page: Natural Resources KI staff planting around Murray Lagoon. Above left: Middle River in 2013/14 to deliver revised consumptive water reservoir. Top right: Good quality fresh water provides essential habitat for plants and animals as well as a use limits for KI based on recent hydrological representatives vital resource for human needs. Bottom right: Farm dams ensure a water source for livestock and crops.

from the board, DEWNR, Environment landholders responded with information on Protection Authority, SA Water, KI Council, AgKI 93 subcatchments. The surveys provided high- and Eco-Action) to recommend particular policy level ecological data at the property-scale settings to the board. However, before any new which indicated that most of the watercourses water use limits are adopted, a summary of the assessed have healthy riparian vegetation. project’s findings will be published and a period of community consultation will occur. To undertake a more comprehensive assessment of environmental water requirements it will This work is the first step in developing truly be necessary to develop and implement an sustainable water use limits for the island, ecological monitoring program. The board will based on environmental water requirements seek resources to initiate this in 2015. for the region’s aquatic and riparian (riverbank) ecosystems. Funding partner Government of South Australia Preliminary investigations into environmental water requirements were carried out by SMK who identified and assessed aquatic ecosystem assets through a landholder survey. Eighty‑one

9 Natural Resources Kangaroo Island Achievement Report 2013–14 Natural Resources Kangaroo Island Achievement Report 2013–14 10 10 877 7 21 47.5 65 Managing land condition hectares native stock watering creek crossings hectares landholders vegetation points built revegetated assisted with Clean water and healthy soils projects on their properties. The aims of these protected relocated with native on-ground contribute fundamentally to the projects have included salinity control, creation plant species works activities of windbreaks and improved biodiversity. environmental, economic and social prosperity of the island. The board Over this time landowners on Kangaroo Island works in partnership with the have revegetated more than 950 hectares in community to manage these assets nearly 600 projects, with an average area of 1.6 hectares per project. This average may effectively, achieving great natural seem small but plantings have been done by resources management outcomes. individual landowners and their families, often with limitations on their time and resources. CASE STUDY: Landowners working with the community Natural Resources KI recognised these limitations and understood that some to improve biodiversity landowners wanted to undertake bigger Community volunteers take part in planting revegetation projects. In 2013–14 it was able activities on a large scale to restore, buffer and to attract funding for community groups connect degraded habitat and non-productive willing to accept the challenge 5 agricultural land while raising funds for their YEAR group. Landholders, working in partnership of participating OUTCOME with community volunteers, complete projects in large scale that seem daunting initially but in the end plantings. Surface cover achieve impressive results. Two property managed so as to minimise erosion owners expressed Since the inception of Landcare, Kangaroo risk an interest in Image facing page and above left: Volunteers from Wisanger Sports Club assist a north-coast landholder to Island landowners have been able to gain revegetate 17 hectares at Snellings Beach. Top right: Young plantings at Middle River in 2005. Bottom right: access to funds to assist with revegetation taking on large The same plantings five years later.

scale projects to improve biodiversity on their spot spraying and physical removal of weeds properties in 2013–14: one on the shores of on steep slopes with a rake hoe at the time of Pelican Lagoon and one in the hills behind planting. Snellings Beach. Both regions are home to considerable numbers of native browsers, Two local sporting clubs were engaged to particularly kangaroos. Rather than placing undertake the planting at the Snellings Beach individual tree-guards around planted site. Enough volunteers were gathered to seedlings, both landowners opted to erect plant 9000 tubestock over 15 hectares in under fencing of a standard that would exclude six hours, a terrific effort. kangaroos and wallabies for at least the time A different approach was taken at the Pelican needed for the new vegetation to establish. Lagoon site, with small groups of volunteers Weed control is always an issue with from a local church organisation planting revegetation projects. This was recognised by 10,200 tubestock on 17 hectares over about the landowners and control programs put in 10 days, an equally impressive effort. place that took into consideration the terrain. Funding partner A combination of techniques was used Australian Government including broadacre herbicide application,

11 Natural Resources Kangaroo Island Achievement Report 2013–14 Natural Resources Kangaroo Island Achievement Report 2013–14 12 12 252,000 119,277 7158 4.5 4480 Managing island parks visits to KI people visited camping nights minimum score bed nights parks in Flinders Chase in KI Parks in given to park provided Kangaroo Island parks provide a been completed and is open for walkers. This 2013–14 National Park 2013–14 sites on Trip in heritage range of visitor experiences and section, the Rocky River Hike, is 9.5 km in in 2013–14 Advisor cottages length and is classed as moderate. From the are a significant contributor to visitor centre it follows the newly upgraded employment, health and tourism Platypus Waterholes Walk, with lookouts and in our community. Camping, interpretation of the natural environment. accommodation, walking trails, The trail then follows the Rocky River through guided tours, interpretation and forest, woodland and mallee heath to the Snake Lagoon day visitor area, where current visitor facilities are in place to facilities include a picnic table, toilet and provide sustainable opportunities campground. for enjoyment while protecting our natural and cultural assets. Considerable planning went into developing the trail. The alignment was selected to provide CASE STUDY: Building a stable surface and gradient, with access to the best possible vantage points. Assessments the first section of the KI to identify Aboriginal heritage sites and Wilderness Trail threatened plants 5 and animals were The Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail will YEAR made before OUTCOME traverse approximately 63 km through Flinders the final route Chase National Park, Cape Bouguer Wilderness Recreational was marked and Protected Area and Kelly Hill Conservation activities occurring construction began. Park. The multi-day walk will use some existing consistent with an The construction integrated regional trails and include more than 40 km of new recreational included a bridge, Image facing page: The Rocky River Hike winds its way along the Rocky River and through different types trail. The first section connecting Flinders Chase management steps to reduce of vegetation. Above left: Rocky River cascades. Top right: Minister Hunter opens the Kangaroo Island Visitor Centre to Snake Lagoon has recently plan erosion and traverse Wilderness Trail with Richard Trethewey. Bottom right: Diverse wildflowers (Grevillea rogersii) line the hike.

seasonally flooded areas and a fenced lookout Highlights of the Rocky River Hike include to provide a safe viewing point high above the diverse woodland birds and native animals, river. Cut vegetation has been mulched and especially kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas and used on the surface to reduce weed growth heath goannas. Colourful fungi abound in and slow water runoff. Boot cleaning stations winter and spring brings wildflowers, including are in place to minimise the soil-borne spread many orchids. The lookout provides spectacular of phytophthora dieback. views and the cascades are a great feature, particularly in the wetter months. New signs have been installed that include trail descriptions, distances and approximate Three new sections of the wilderness trail walking times so people can select trails best will be completed by June 2016, along with suited to their ability, interests and time. They campgrounds, toilets and facilities catering also remind people about potential risks and for both independent walkers and those hazards. A new trailhead shelter outside the accompanied by a commercial guide. visitor centre displays maps and information about the various walks in the area and trail Funding partner markers have been upgraded. Government of South Australia

13 Natural Resources Kangaroo Island Achievement Report 2013–14 Natural Resources Kangaroo Island Achievement Report 2013–14 14 14 1550 123 59 73 6 Managing coasts and seas hectares species of European volunteers presentations of seagrass fish and fan worms searched for given at The Coast and Marine program Seagrass meadows are being lost all around the monitored invertebrates removed penguins conferences helps protect and manage Kangaroo world, and Kangaroo Island is no exception. counted It’s estimated that over the past 40 years 1,626 Island’s coastal and marine hectares of seagrass have been lost in Nepean environments. It conducts a variety Bay. While it’s not known exactly where or of projects assisted by the community when the loss began, it’s thought that the ranging from assessing reef health, major cause has been excessive nutrients from surveillance for marine pests, the Cygnet River catchment running into Nepean Bay. monitoring shorebird populations and removing and analysing beach Nutrient over-enrichment (eutrophication) rubbish. stimulates the growth of algae on the seagrass leaves (epiphytes) and promotes drift CASE STUDY: Measuring the macroalgae, thereby reducing the amount of light available to seagrass for photosynthesis, health of our seagrass which eventually leads to dieback. Seagrass meadows are an ecologically important ecosystem for many reasons: they To determine if 5 provide nursery habitat and refuge for many actions to reduce YEAR run-off in the marine species, protect coastlines from storm OUTCOME damage and erosion, and are a highly effective Cygnet River catchment have Protection carbon sink. They support a greater diversity and management been effective and abundance of fish and invertebrates than of representative neighbouring areas of seabed that lack seagrass in improving communities and water quality, a habitats on public cover. Above left: Healthy seagrass meadow (Posidonia australis) at Red Banks. Top right: Opportunistic (drift) series of long- and private lands macroalgae at Cygnet River Mouth. Bottom right: Unhealthy seagrass meadow (Posidonia australis) term monitoring smothered by epiphytes at Red Banks.

Monitoring changes in seagrass cover at the Cygnet River Mouth sites were established in seagrass meadows fencing riparian vegetation, installing creek throughout Nepean Bay. crossings and moving stock watering points Legend out of watercourses may be starting to have Seagrass monitoring area Now that monitoring has been conducted over positive effects on seagrass health. Given the Cygnet Cygnet Cygnet Seagrass cover several years, it is possible to report on initial demonstrated benefits of seagrass meadows River Mouth River Mouth River Mouth 0% trends in seagrass cover and condition. to fish populations, this is good news for 0–20% Kangaroo Island. 20–40% The map shows that at the Cygnet River Mouth 40–60% there have been changes in the distribution Even though the project has been running since 60–80% of seagrass, with some areas losing cover and 2009, degraded seagrass meadows take many 80–100% others gaining it. Overall however, there has years to recover once impacts are removed. been no change in total seagrass cover at this Cover change Only after many more years of monitoring site. Seagrass gain will we be able to determine lasting trends in seagrass cover and condition. There was also no noticeable change No change in seagrass condition as determined by Funding partner Seagrass cover 2011 Seagrass cover 2012 Seagrass cover change measuring epiphyte loads. This indicates that Australian Government 2011–2012 Seagrass loss catchment rehabilitation activities, such as

15 Natural Resources Kangaroo Island Achievement Report 2013–14 Natural Resources Kangaroo Island Achievement Report 2013–14 16 16 32 520 43% 31% 86% Managing biodiversity participants hours were of participants of participants of participants volunteered spent helping joined a seeking work reported The importance of the natural Information and training was also provided on KI projects on volunteer obtained it improved environment for human health is a range of other topics such as first aid, healthy 1015 hours the ground group wellbeing eating, exercise, career development, and often undervalued. Recent studies photography. Only three of the 32 participants demonstrate that environmental were engaged in environmental volunteering volunteering can improve when the program started. When asked if the the wellbeing of participants. program had improved their understanding Environmental volunteering also of the environment or the need to conserve it, most felt that it had. Comments ranged fosters environmental stewardship in from ‘Slightly as knew a lot before and have the community by raising awareness done a lot of volunteering in the past’ to ‘Yes. of the importance of conserving Listening to people who are passionate about the environment through active what they are doing’ and ‘100% improvement involvement. because I knew nothing before’. Wellbeing can be measured using a CASE STUDY: Get dirty, feel standardised questionnaire. Participants good significantly 5 improved their Environmental volunteering offers a wide YEAR wellbeing during OUTCOME range of benefits to participants and to the the course of the community. It delivers improved wellbeing program, but this and social connectedness, as well as better Improved skills, tended to decline ecological health. The Get dirty, feel good knowledge and three months after interest in civic project brought together people from they completed participation Image facing page: Participants monitoring shorebirds at American River. Above left: Propagating diverse backgrounds in a structured program the program if threatened plants for revegetation. Top right: Participants monitoring seagrass in Nepean Bay. of environmental volunteering activities. no employment, Bottom right: Participating in KI Dolphinwatch.

training or volunteer work was undertaken in »» Better awareness of our environment and that time. Social connectedness and learning how delicate it is. about the environment were considered by »» Learning little bits was brilliant as you go participants to be the greatest benefits. Service home and think about it. providers stated that the program improved »» Good to do things in a communal situation their clients’ self-esteem and confidence and because we all know something different provided a good first step for those who had we learn from each other been socially excluded to progress or pursue further training. Participants reported the The project was a partnership between Natural following benefits: Resources KI, KI Health Service, Eco‑Action, »» Gave my feeling of self-worth quite a lift. Finding Workable Solutions, Regional »» I feel more comfortable being out in public Development Australia and Junction Australia. as I feel like I’ve contributed. Funding partners »» Was fed up with nothing to do and then Government of South Australia realised so much on. »» NRM Community Grant »» More understanding of nature. How much »» Building Skills in the Region Grant one person can have a difference. »» KI Health Service.

17 Natural Resources Kangaroo Island Achievement Report 2013–14 Natural Resources Kangaroo Island Achievement Report 2013–14 18 18 150 205 135 39 498.1 Managing fire staff-days staff-days of staff-days on crew involved hectares of bushfire crew on-call or prescribed burn in prescribed prescription responses standby operations burns burnt Fire management activities carried Hill aerial prescription burn was identified out by Natural Resources KI seek in the Flinders Chase Fire Management Plan to provide an important fuel-reduced buffer to minimise threats from bushfire between two areas of high biodiversity value to people, property and the and very high fuel load. The size and location environment. Fire management of the burn created an increased level of plans guide decision making complexity that needed to be addressed relating to works delivery across through the operational planning process. Kangaroo Island. Key components A two-stage burn process was identified. The of the fire management program first stage, a narrow buffer along the eastern are preventative activities such as boundary of the park, was completed in prescribed burning, mechanical 2009–2010. hazard reduction around assets, fire Overall Fuel Hazard assessments completed track maintenance and suppression across the burn area ranged from low at of bushfires. 2 tonnes per hectare in the 5 CASE STUDY: Reducing fuel previously burnt YEAR buffer to extreme OUTCOME loads at Kelly Hill with aerial at 30 tonnes per Landscape-scale burning hectare in the fire management unburnt stage 2 Kelly Hill Conservation Park and Cape Bouguer for multiple area. outcomes Wilderness Protection Area contain some of (including natural Image facing page: DEWNR crew igniting the burn on the ground. Above left: Crews watching the the longest unburnt vegetation communities systems) developing smoke column from the staging area. Top right: Intense fire activity in the closing stages of the on Kangaroo Island. The 430 hectare Kelly burn. Bottom right: The firefighting helicopter returning to staging after igniting the burn.

Across the 430 hectares of the area to be burnt, traffic management staff for public safety three distinct vegetation associations were on the South Coast Road, and the use of a identified and this, along with the undulating helicopter with water bucket carrying capability terrain and the effect of afternoon sea breezes, for deployment in case of emergency. influenced the strategies used to undertake the Following completion of the burn, firefighters burn. The plan, using firefighters in vehicles remained on site for nine days to finish and on foot and ignition by helicopter using mopping up and monitoring the burnt the aerial driptorch, was approved in early area until the fireground was declared safe 2013. Extensive pre-burn preparatory works following season-opening rains. were completed by project firefighters and other Natural Resources KI staff to upgrade The post-burn assessment, which included an track access, widen fuel-reduced buffers, map aerial reconnaissance, identified that the burn the western edge of the burn area and increase objectives were achieved with approximately firefighter safety. 80% of the planned area burnt. Funding partner On the burn day 39 DEWNR brigade members Government of South Australia were involved in the burn. Additional safety considerations included the use of dedicated

19 Natural Resources Kangaroo Island Achievement Report 2013–14 Natural Resources Kangaroo Island Achievement Report 2013–14 20 20 309 22.3 136 57,000 3 Managing threatened plants volunteers hectares plant species seedlings seed orchards assisted the planted planted planted established Natural bushland is one of Kangaroo specimens of some species can be difficult project Island’s great natural assets. Healthy to find and sometimes do not carry suitable quantities of seed. bush is essential for the survival of wildlife, from the iconic glossy black- Frequently there are only a few known cockatoo to humble pollinating locations for the rarest species. These can be insects, all contributing to a healthy subject to excessive seed collection pressure and trampling disturbance of their habitat. In ecosystem. The Kangaroo Island practical terms it means that seed availability Nationally Threatened Plant Project is the most important limiting factor for large (KINTPP) has two complementary scale habitat restoration works. approaches to help maintain the To overcome this issue the KINTPP has health of our bushland: ecological identified a need to establish seed orchards to burns and habitat restoration. provide a valuable and readily accessible seed source for future revegetation projects. Seed CASE STUDY: Seed orchards orchards are specifically designed to include support future revegetation plants which can supply seeds 5 projects YEAR that are difficult OUTCOME Large scale revegetation requires significant to collect in the Adequate amounts of seed from a mix of species. wild. The seed to management to Finding sufficient suitable parent plants to establish these protect all species provide these seeds can be a major constraint. orchards is collected classified as rare When including rare or endangered species from as many and threatened at the state Image facing page: Volunteers planting a seed orchard in MacGillivray. Above left: Kangaroo Island in the revegetation mix, the challenges of individual plants level pomaderris (Pomaderris halmaturina subsp. halmaturina). Top right: MacGillivray spyridium (Spyridium seed collecting can become insurmountable; and locations as eriocephalum var. glabrisepalum). Bottom right: Kangaroo Island turpentine bush (Beyeria subtecta).

possible to obtain a high level of variability This season the KINTPP has established three and prevent genetic bottlenecks at future such seed orchards as part of its habitat revegetation sites. restoration program. There are 25 species represented in the orchards, all of which qualify Once established, these seed orchards will start as ‘hard to collect from wild populations’. contributing seeds for the various restoration Included are five nationally threatened species; programs across the island. The time taken and Olearia microdisca, Pomaderris halmaturina distance travelled during collecting trips will be subsp. halmaturina, Leionema equestre, significantly reduced when seed from a number Spyridium eriocephalum var. glabrisepalum and of difficult to collect species is available at a Beyeria subtecta. The orchards are embedded single location. within diverse plantings and have the added advantage of becoming threatened plant These orchards will reduce collection pressure habitat themselves. on remnant patches of vegetation and function as an important backup to wild plant Funding partner populations should anything untoward happen Australian Government to them.

21 Natural Resources Kangaroo Island Achievement Report 2013–14 Natural Resources Kangaroo Island Achievement Report 2013–14 22 22 66 305 12.5 63% 10 Managing glossy black- volunteers gave glossies hectares of of monitored talks given to 607 hours counted during glossy habitat nests reared schools and the to monitor the 2013 census revegetated a fledgling community cockatoos glossies successfully The endangered South Australian the Environment Protection and Biodiversity subspecies of glossy black-cockatoo Conservation Act 1999. It was once widespread is making a gradual comeback on in South Australia, but is now found only on Kangaroo Island. Since a recovery program was Kangaroo Island. When recovery established in 1996, the population has been efforts began in 1995 there were intensively managed to increase nesting success. fewer than 200 birds. Recent surveys indicate a population of 300–350. One of the aims of the program is to Management aims to reduce impacts increase the area of habitat available to the of nest predators and competitors, growing population. Currently there is only 9,300 hectares of suitable nesting and feeding monitor changes in population size, habitat, most of it along the north coast and and engage the community to raise in the Cygnet River catchment, with other awareness and attract volunteers. smaller pockets Increasing the area of suitable scattered elsewhere 5 habitat is also a major focus of the across the island. YEAR OUTCOME program. Three‑quarters of this habitat occurs Adequate on private land. management to CASE STUDY: Restoring protect all species glossy black-cockatoo habitat classified as rare Since the start of and threatened at The South Australian subspecies of glossy the program, more the state level Image facing page: A female glossy black-cockatoo at Western River found during the census (R Tipper). Above left: Project staff and volunteers searching for glossy black-cockatoos during the census. Top right: black-cockatoo is listed as endangered under than 170 hectares Planting biodiverse habitat. Bottom right: Revegetating a hillside adjacent to nesting habitat at Stokes Bay.

of glossy black-cockatoo habitat has been project staff and 34 community volunteers. The created. In the past only drooping sheoak trees recovery program has been granted further were planted, but in recent years ‘biodiverse’ funding to plant a similar amount of new plantings of many different species have been habitat in 2014. conducted that will ultimately benefit other creatures as well. Many of these areas have The Glossy Black-cockatoo Community Planting been planted with the assistance of volunteers. Day is one of the highlights in our calendar. It is a lot of fun and we are hoping that our Each year the Glossy Black-cockatoo Recovery volunteers will enjoy it again in the coming Program holds a planting day to increase the year. amount of suitable habitat available for the Funding partner birds. In 2013 2,500 trees were planted over Australian Government 12.5 hectares distributed across three private properties: one on the north coast near Middle River, one in the Cygnet River Valley and one on public land at Stokes Bay. The trees were planted and protected with tree guards by

23 Natural Resources Kangaroo Island Achievement Report 2013–14 Natural Resources Kangaroo Island Achievement Report 2013–14 24 24 4000 120 2500 132 54 Managing feral animals camera nights dams searched camera nights peacocks feral cats indicate less to find signs of indicate fewer destroyed destroyed in »» better understand animal movements and Feral animals devastate natural than 10 feral feral deer than 12 feral Kingscote with ecosystems and primary production behaviour, improving hunting efficiency deer remain goats remain KI Council and impact on water quality. »» improve trapping and baiting techniques The Feral Animal Management »» detect high-alert invasive species.

Program works with government As feral deer and goat numbers decrease they agencies, research groups, become harder to detect. Remote cameras industry, stakeholders and the placed in a grid pattern across the suspected local community to determine the range of the feral animals allow us to locate distribution, impact, management the remaining individuals and determine where they spend their time, without them and control techniques for feral becoming skittish from human presence or animals on the island. The program lingering human scent. They provide good is currently focused on feral goats, quality photographs which can be used to deer, pigs, peacocks and cats. identify individual animals and the size of the remaining population.

CASE STUDY: Caught in the Photographs 5 spotlight of motion cameras captured on YEAR remote cameras OUTCOME Remote motion-detection cameras have over the past revolutionised feral animal control on seven years have Pests, weeds, Kangaroo Island. They enable us to: and pathogens yielded valuable are controlled, »» detect animals at low densities and identify information on eradicated or individuals the habits of excluded Image facing page: Cameras logged daily movements enabling the destruction of these feral goats. Above the different left: The stalking of a penguin at Brownlow is recorded. Top right: Cameras captured the movements of this feral deer which was tracked and destroyed. Bottom right: Cameras were used in pig baiting trials.

feral species being monitored, such as their placed in a grid pattern around the area for group structures and movements. Using this at least two weeks are used to check the information control officers can better plan report. The photos also provide information control operations, greatly improving efficiency about any other species within the search area and success rates. which could be confused with the alleged invasive species. When coupled with on-ground Trapping and baiting are methods frequently searching, the cameras provide a rigorous used to control feral animals. Remote method to explore invasive animal sightings. cameras placed at trap and bait sites provide information on which animals visit the sites, The Kangaroo Island Feral Animal Management how they react to the trap and/or bait and how Program is evolving as technology becomes they spend their time there. When animals available and continually improving the stop visiting a site, or when traps and baits efficiency and effectiveness of the eradication are unsuccessful, the photographic record can and control work staff are undertaking across help explain why. This information is used KI. to improve trapping and baiting techniques. When a sighting of a high-alert invasive species Funding partner (for example rabbit or fox) is reported, cameras Australian Government

25 Natural Resources Kangaroo Island Achievement Report 2013–14 Natural Resources Kangaroo Island Achievement Report 2013–14 26 26 478 15 28 46% 11,522 Managing koalas female koalas tree collars sites monitored reduction koalas sterilised sterilised in installed for koala in koala since 1997 Koalas are not native to Kangaroo that they had already been sterilised (25%). 2013–14 to protect density and population Island. Since their introduction in damaged trees tree condition since 2001 Koalas can mate multiple times with different the 1920s their numbers increased partners, so to maximise the effectiveness of 14 rapidly to the point where they the program only female koalas are sterilised. A Koala density in Cygnet River catchment 12 began damaging and killing trees, female that mates with a sterilised male is likely Maximum density 10 especially manna gums. The KI to also encounter and mate with unsterilised Average density 8 males, but if she herself is sterilised, the status Koala Management Program aims 6 of the males is irrelevant. The probability of to reduce the koala population to a 4 pregnancy is lower when efforts are focused on Number of koalas/hectare sustainable level through sterilisation 2 sterilising the females rather than males. to conserve healthy vegetation, 0

particularly along river systems. Koala densities are monitored annually to 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 determine the effectiveness of the program and CASE STUDY: Where have all to locate priority areas for management. the koalas gone? Surveys undertaken During the 2013–14 summer koala catching at 23 sites during 5 spring prior to the YEAR season, a total of 478 female koalas were OUTCOME captured across their Kangaroo Island range, catching season taken to a veterinarian to be sterilised, and have shown that koala density Pests, weeds, then re-released at their point of capture. An and pathogens additional 553 koalas were observed but not has declined are managed to minimise impacts caught, either because they were males (75%) significantly across Image facing page: Past funding enabled the program to assist landholders to revegetate habitat degraded or because the presence of an ear tag indicated the island since the by koalas. This manna gum was planted in 2009. Above left: Manna gums at risk are collared to prevent program began, koalas further degrading them. Bottom right: Capturing a koala for sterilisation.

particularly in the Cygnet River catchment breeding in their second year, often living until where management has been intensified. they are 10 years or older. In this area, average densities have been reduced from 3.18 koalas per hectare in It is important to continue maintenance 1996–97 to 0.79 koalas per hectare, with the sterilisation of a small proportion of the highest recorded koala density this year being population each summer to ensure numbers 1.68 per hectare. do not increase again and undermine the work that has been achieved to date. Koala densities, however, are still above the sustainable level of 0.75 koalas per hectare at Protecting Kangaroo Island’s unique vegetation 50% of manna gum and blue gum sites. will ensure habitats remain not just for koalas but also for a wide range of other native Overall, 63% of the 35 females observed in this species. year’s surveys were already sterilised and 25% Funding partner of fertile koalas had dependant young. Koalas Government of South Australia usually have one young per year and can start

27 Natural Resources Kangaroo Island Achievement Report 2013–14 Natural Resources Kangaroo Island Achievement Report 2013–14 28 28 1500 17 160 2 4 Managing weeds hectares weed species landholders workshops held community of weeds targeted assisted with weed programs Weeds are plants growing where broom, Genista monspessulana, invades native controlled weed control supported they are not wanted outside their vegetation, grazing land and plantation forestry. It has been recognised as a Weed of native range. They often originate National Significance (WoNS) along with two from regions with similar climates other species of broom, Scotch (or English) and thrive on Kangaroo Island. They broom, Cytisus scoparius, and flax-leaf broom, reduce the value and resilience of Genista linifolia, neither of which has been native vegetation, negatively impact detected growing on Kangaroo Island. These three species of broom have invaded over one the quality and quantity of primary million hectares across southern Australia. produce and affect public safety. Natural Resources KI works closely Broom was once commonly planted in gardens with the community, land managers across southern Australia as a hedging plant. While two small infestations of Montpellier and stakeholders to implement broom have been subject to control actions on proven and innovative strategies that Kangaroo Island for several years, neighbouring monitor, control and eradicate weeds regions with similar climates have struggled invading Kangaroo Island. to manage vast 5 infestations. It was YEAR CASE STUDY: Escaping thought possible OUTCOME that unknown from gardens — managing infestations Pests, weeds, Montpellier (Cape) broom could occur here, and pathogens Montpellier broom has been targeted through especially on the are managed to minimise impacts the Caring for Our Country regional project, wetter western end. Image above left: Animal and Plant Control Operations Officer Jason Walter, removing Montpellier broom Protecting Kangaroo Island. Montpellier from an abandoned garden. Top right: Montpellier broom flowers. Bottom right: Montpellier broom was invading native bush and roadside vegetation from abandoned farm gardens.

Kangaroo Island distribution of Montpellier broom The survey program focused on old, combination of glyphosate, metsulfuron methyl unmanaged farmhouse gardens, ideal and a penetrant. The control has been very sources of escaping broom plants. A total of successful. 28 properties and adjoining roadsides were surveyed, with surprising results. Very little These sites will be monitored until seedlings broom was detected but the rate of spread cease to emerge from the soil seed bank. Kingscote of other environmental weeds from derelict Montpellier broom seeds are very hard and can Penneshaw house gardens was alarming. Three Montpellier last up to 20 years in the ground. Surveys will be expanded to cover as much suitable habitat Parndana broom infestations were detected close to original garden plantings and four roadside as possible. With very few infestations being infestations were found near derelict farm detected, Kangaroo Island is in a very good houses. position to remove a weed causing so much trouble in other parts of Australia. Two methods of control were used to manage the infestations. Established plants were cut off Funding partners »» Australian Government KEY at the base and the stump painted with one Montpellier broom infestations part glyphosate in five parts water. Seedlings »» Government of South Australia and juvenile plants were spot sprayed using a

29 Natural Resources Kangaroo Island Achievement Report 2013–14 Natural Resources Kangaroo Island Achievement Report 2013–14 30 30 3 35 18 56 5 Working with the community, exhibits/ articles links to further students community displays created published in information joined in the groups assisted for shows and local media forwarded to Sustainability with funding landholders and students field days the community Trail applications Managing natural resources is sharing the limelight with a mounted fox and largely about people – it’s people live European fan worms. These represented who supply the vision, drive and some of the feral animals not welcome on KI. commitment. People also benefit Displays of potential and emerging weed socially and economically from well- threats were counterbalanced by information managed natural resources that about attractive, bird and insect attracting support industries and communities. native plants, to encourage landowners to Natural Resources KI is working choose wisely when looking for potential home together with the community to garden or landscaping plants. successfully manage the island’s An array of native animal skins attracted visitors natural resources in the face of to the Managing Wildlife table. Information future challenges. was available here on overabundant native animal control 5 CASE STUDY 1: Following the permits and caring YEAR Sustainability Trail for injured native OUTCOME wildlife. A ‘guess Community, Natural Resources KI won the award for Best the owner of the industry and Themed Exhibit at the 2013 Kangaroo Island agencies have skin’ competition Field Day with its biosecurity and wildlife opportunities was very popular to participate in management display. Visitors to the exhibit with both children NRM at various Image facing page: Rory Wiadrowski, Animal and Plant Control Operations Officer, discusses weed were welcomed by a bright blue peacock, levels management with Ross and Carol Smith. Above left: The Bowden family embark on the Sustainability Trail. and adults. Top right: Discovering why peacocks are a pest. Bottom right: The award winning exhibit.

Students from Kangaroo Island Community There were two different passports aimed at Education (KICE) who took part in the Natural children of different ages with age-appropriate Resources KI sponsored Sustainability Trail could questions. Some of the questions were: ‘What win prizes for themselves and their classes. The is the disease that cats spread?, ‘What are the trail encouraged students to visit sites they advantages of healthy soil?’ and ‘how do fan might not otherwise have visited and promoted worms get to Kangaroo Island?’ the importance of protecting Kangaroo Island from diseases, weeds and feral animals. Winners of the competition were presented with their prizes by NRM Board Presiding The ‘border officer’ issued passports to Member Richard Trethewey at a KICE assembly. participants. They were stamped when passport Funding partners holders visited various exhibits around the »» Australian Government Field Day site and correctly answered questions relating to biosecurity issues. The trail proved »» Government of South Australia so popular with one student that she returned multiple times, bringing back more friends each time to have a go.

31 Natural Resources Kangaroo Island Achievement Report 2013–14 Natural Resources Kangaroo Island Achievement Report 2013–14 32 32 5 35 38 26 54 Working with the community, demonstration landholders landholders farming entities articles emailed sites created on attended supported to landowners attended 4 workshops on with technical on a range of landholders and students 4 properties farm field days production expertise topics CASE STUDY 2: Working with and drive down water tables in areas subject to AgKI to explore potential winter waterlogging. new island farming systems All trial sites have started with crops planted, grazing cells established and pH and nutrient To celebrate the Australian Year of the Farmer, issues treated. Supplementary perennial five intensive farming demonstration sites were pastures will be planted early in the next established on four properties with different reporting period. Soil moisture probes have rainfall and soil types in the central and been installed at one cropping and one grazing western part of Kangaroo Island. site. These continuously transmit data that the Three of the sites focus on grazing. They participants can gain remote access to at any are based upon establishing a balance of time. pH, nutrient and trace element levels to The trials are to be run over five years to support perennial grasses and a rotational establish long grazing system. Improving stock genetics 5 term impacts and management to maximise production YEAR on productivity, OUTCOME and reduce inefficiencies are also being profitability and the Improved investigated. The two cropping trial sites are condition of natural capacity to introducing continuous cropping systems. As implement best resources. for the three grazing sites pH, nutrient and primary production practices for trace element balance is the starting point. The program will natural resources Image facing page: AgKI Potential Project Field Day discussing perennial pastures at EllaMatta. Above left: The continuous cropping regime is expected be extended to management Lyn Dohle conducting pasture density monitoring at Bellevista. Top right: Beans grown as an off-season to improve soil carbon, structure and aeration cover crop at Bellevista. Bottom right: Cell grazing to improve production and profitability at EllaMatta.

the wider community through regular farm Chair of the project steering committee Lyn walks and project workshops outlining the Dohle praised the benefits of the farm trials social and economic impacts of the changes in saying that they provide the opportunity to farm management. The program has already increase production and profitability while generated wide interest with many farmers maintaining or improving the natural resource attending either the workshop sessions or the base. farm walks. Funding partners The program is a collaborative effort with »» Australian Government funding support from the KI NRM Board, »» Government of South Australia Kangaroo Island Futures Authority, AgVet »» Agriculture Kangaroo Island Services, Agronomic Acumen, Elders KI and KI »» AgVet Services Pure Grain. The participating landowners are »» Agronomic Acumen investing in the infrastructure and the extra »» Elders KI nutritional requirements required to establish »» KI Pure Grain the sites.

33 Natural Resources Kangaroo Island Achievement Report 2013–14 Natural Resources Kangaroo Island Achievement Report 2013–14 34 34 Contact Natural Resources Kangaroo Island 37 Dauncey Street Kingscote SA 5223 T (08) 8553 4444 F (08) 8553 2531 E [email protected] W www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/kangarooisland