Rural living handbook A guide for rural landholders of the Plains, and Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges natural resources centres

Eastwood T: 8273 9100 E: [email protected]

Gawler T: 8115 4600 E: [email protected]

Black Hill T: 8336 0901 E: [email protected]

Willunga T: 8550 3400 E: [email protected] www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/adelaidemtloftyranges

Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Australia www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/au Copyright owner: Crown in right of the State of 2020

Disclaimer

This handbook is not a comprehensive guide to managing your land. It is intended to help you find good advice. No legal liability is accepted for the information, errors or omissions contained in this booklet.

Acknowledgements

The format and some of the general content of the Rural living handbook are based on a rural living handbook produced by the Goulburn Mulwaree Council and the Sydney Catchment Authority, NSW. The Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges Natural Resources Management Board would like to thank both organisations for permission to draw on the ideas contained in that document.

This handbook was originally funded by the Australian government. The 2020 reprint was funded by the NRM levy. Table of contents

Introduction – rural living 3

1 | Buying your property 5 Moving out of the city 5 Living in the region 6 What is the Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges Natural Resources Management Plan? 7 Planning and managing your property 8 Case study 10

2 | Natural resources 11 Water 11 Soil 14 Native vegetation and animals 16 Fire 19 Weeds 22 Pest animals 23

3 | Property management 25 Waste management 25 Effluent management 26 Chemicals 27 Wood smoke and heating 29 Livestock management 29 Fences 31 Farm safety 33 Rates 34 Absentee landholders 35 Developing your property 35 Improving your knowledge 36 Further reading 37

4 | Local information 39 Revegetation 39 Declared plants 40 Endangered fauna 41 Endangered flora 42 Local contacts 43 Local government contacts 44

Acronyms 45

Introduction – rural living

‘Getting away from it all’ is an Australian The Rural living handbook brings together dream. In the Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges some of the significant issues that you will face (AMLR) region, getting away from it all often as a rural landholder within the AMLR region. involves buying a rural block. Rural blocks can It also provides contact details for people and be productive farmland, a bush block or a organisations that provide support to rural combination of both. landholders.

However, the environment is under pressure from our collective lifestyles. So the Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges Natural Resources Management Board through the Department for Environment and Water, along with private businesses and individuals, is pursuing sustainable development to protect our environment for the future.

Local activities have a significant effect on water quality and catchment health. We have a responsibility to ensure that we care for and maintain healthy watercourses, soil, remnant vegetation and native fauna populations.

As we need to get along well with our neighbours, we should avoid affecting the chosen lifestyle of others in pursuing our individual goals. However, our rural landscape is a productive farming and resource area, and some legitimate activities carried out in the region may have unavoidable impacts.

Different people will want to manage their land in different ways. Some will want to keep and enhance the existing bush; others will want to run stock and cultivate crops. Whatever your goals as a landowner or manager, you need to be aware Map of the Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges Natural of your rights and responsibilities. Resources Management Board region

Rural living handbook | Introduction – rural living | 3

1 | Buying your property

• Moving out of the city • Living in the region • What is the Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges Natural Resources Management Plan? • Planning and managing your property • Case study

Moving out of the city • Is there enough shade and water for livestock? • Are you aware that in most instances you require Before you decide to buy a rural property, it is approval to remove native vegetation? How recommended that you have it independently might this affect your activities? assessed, and consider the following questions: • Is there enough water to carry out the activity • Does the zoning of the land allow your proposed or activities that you have in mind and is it of use, or will you need to apply for a change of suitable salinity? land use or any other permit? • Do you know what the regulations and • Are all required services provided to the property? conditions are for building dams or sinking If not, can they be provided economically? Or is bores? Do you know that any work undertaken it an area that will always have limited services? in or around a watercourse requires a permit Services include phone, internet (connections in (see chapter 2 on ‘Natural resources’)? rural areas may be slow, so check with providers), • Does the vendor have a water licence or gas, water, sewer and electricity. authorisation, and are they willing to transfer • Is the land use that you plan for the property this to you as the buyer? Is an approved meter suited to the landscape and capability of the land? installed? You can check metering requirements • What weeds are on the property? Are any of with the Department for Environment and Water. them declared weeds? (By law declared weeds • Has a water allocation plan been adopted must be controlled). for the area in which the property is located? • Is there soil erosion on the property that will Note that water allocations plans are legal be time consuming and expensive to fix? documents and may prohibit the building of new dams, or the taking of water (from • Are there pest animals (e.g. rabbits, foxes) dams, watercourses or underground) in some on the property? areas. The latest versions of plans can be • What is the likely amount of time and money found at www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/ required to control weeds, erosion and pest adelaidemtloftyranges. animals on the property? • Is the soil fertile and the pH appropriate for • Are there good-quality pastures? Are they pasture, crops or any other produce that you dominated by native or introduced species? want to grow? Will they provide all-year round ground cover?

Rural living handbook | Buying your property | 5 • Are the fences in good repair and suitable • Are any threatened species of flora and fauna for confining stock and the overall grazing known to live on the property? management of the property? After you have satisfactorily answered all these • Are there suitable stockyards/facilities for the questions, will the property meet your needs and animals you intend to run? desired lifestyle? • Do you know the history of the property? Have previous owners sown pastures and used fertilisers? Will you need to remove rubbish? Living in the region • Is the region prone to flood or bushfire? Will you The Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges need to undertake any management activities (AMLR) region to minimise these risks? • If there is no existing dwelling and you want The AMLR region supports a mosaic of remnant one, does the land have a building entitlement? bushland, farming land, urban development, hills and plains, diverse marine environments • Are there existing or proposed adjacent land and 364 kilometres of spectacular beaches uses that will affect your enjoyment of the and coastline. property? For example, are there legitimate rural uses nearby such as agriculture, horse-keeping, The region covers a vast area, including a quarries, mines or forestry that produce dust, significant area of ocean. As shown on the map odours or noise? in the introduction, the region extends from north • Is there a Heritage Agreement on the property of and Mallala through the Northern that requires you to undertake specified and and down management actions and limit the land uses? to the Southern Vales and Fleurieu Peninsula. • Have you asked the local council if there are: Services available to landholders – any development applications proposed nearby? The owners of small- and medium-size parcels – other developments that have been approved of land make up a significant proportion of but not started? landholders in the region. They are often new – any restrictions on developing certain desired to the land and have not come from a farming land uses? or rural background. There are a number of staff – any rights-of-carriageway or other easements throughout the region whose role is to help new on the property that need to be maintained and existing landholders manage their land in and/or which may allow neighbours access? a productive and sustainable way. – any covenants or agreements on the property Your local District Officer has intimate knowledge that protect certain areas? on managing natural resources in your local area. • Are there any derelict mine shafts on the District Officers can provide advice and support property? If so, are they fenced to ensure safety? with issues such as declared weed control, watercourse or native vegetation management and revegetation projects. They can provide this support over the phone or on site and the service is free of charge.

Your local Sustainable Agriculture Officer has extensive knowledge of agricultural practices and issues and can provide advice and support on issues such as grazing, soil, and pasture management, livestock management, water resources management and property planning. Sustainable Agriculture Officers can provide free advice over the phone or on site. These officers also regularly organise land management courses, workshops and field days for landholders on a variety of topics. Contact your local natural resources centre for further details (see the ‘Local information’ chapter).

6 | Rural living handbook | Buying your property Local government

The rural area within the AMLR region incorporates 13 local government areas consisting of: Council Get to know local agricultural, business, tourism and industry activities. These combine to support the society and economy of the region and you can play your part as a rural landholder. District Council of Mallala District Council of Mount Barker District Council of Yankalilla What is the Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges Natural Resources Your local council can assist you with a range Management Plan? of issues including development applications, dog registrations, waste collection and much At the cornerstone of our efforts to better manage more. Contact details for local governments our natural resources is the Adelaide and Mount can be found in the ‘Local information’ chapter. Lofty Ranges Natural Resources Management (NRM) Plan. For more information about local governments, visit the Local Government Association website The plan was developed by the Adelaide and at www.lga.sa.gov.au. Mount Lofty Ranges NRM Board – following extensive consultation with the community and Landholder’s duty of care stakeholders – to provide leadership, encourage community action, foster partnerships and identify Section 9 of the Natural Resources Management where investment is required. Act 2004 identifies a general statutory duty for all people to act reasonably in relation to the The NRM Plan is a long-term plan for all of us management of natural resources in the state. and our collective futures – one that will lead to This is termed a ‘duty of care’. thriving communities caring for our hills, plains and seas. The plan includes long-term goals and Good practices on your rural property will benefit targets for the condition of natural resources in you, the environment and the prosperity of the the region. The board’s investment priorities are region. By looking after the water, soil, plants defined over a three-year period and are delivered and animals you will benefit not only the natural through a range of strategic actions. environment, but also your chosen enterprise or land use, as well as other landholders in the area. The plan is presented in two volumes: Good practices will also help to ensure that your Volume 1: The strategic plan for the region – property is maintained for future generations. provides information on natural resources of the region, and is intended to guide the action of all This handbook will help you learn about good stakeholders involved in managing natural resources environmental and occupational safety practices. Neighbours and other landholders in the region Volume 2: Business and operational plan – can also be good sources of advice. Talk to them, outlines the strategic actions the board will join groups such as Landcare and the local CFS undertake and how they will be funded. brigade, and contact local authorities such as It can be downloaded from: Natural Resources AMLR, your local council and www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/ state government agencies for advice. adelaidemtloftyranges

Rural living handbook | Buying your property | 7 Planning and managing Visit www.naturemaps.sa.gov.au to create quality property maps, or contact your local your property natural resources centre to obtain one. 3. After obtaining a map of your property, you will Property plans can help you to achieve your rural need to identify the following: living goals by setting up the basis for efficient and sustainable property management. A plan will help • soil types and soil characteristics (e.g. pH, you play a part in supporting a healthy landscape salinity, erodibility, phosphorus and nitrogen and prosperous region. Property plans take a content) whole-of-property approach and are useful for • slope (in degrees) all rural landholders. • areas of remnant vegetation and vegetation type (e.g. stringy bark woodland, tea tree Beginning your property plan wetland) • watercourses, gullies, drainage lines A number of methods, documents and property and dams planning consultants can help you develop a • areas prone to seasonal waterlogging property plan. A basic guide is provided below. • erosion and salinity-prone areas Property plan guide • stock water infrastructure and shade areas for stock 1. What do you want to achieve on your property? • rock outcrops What is your vision? For example, do you want to • water supply run a grazing enterprise, preserve and restore • climate, rainfall and seasonality biodiversity or develop a horticultural enterprise? • landscape types and physical features 2. Obtain a good map of your property. Aerial • current land uses photographs are very useful, as well as surveyor’s • permanent infrastructure. boundary plans, topographic and cadastral (boundaries and ownership) plans. The map needs to be to a metric scale large enough to clearly show the features of the property.

8 | Rural living handbook | Buying your property 4. Carry out a SWOT analysis of the property’s 8. Use the information in this handbook to capabilities as follows: help you understand issues and best practices • What Strengths does the property have in these areas and to set goals and actions. that you can take advantage of (e.g. areas Develop a realistic plan that takes into of high-quality soils)? account your available time and resources • What Weaknesses will need attention for achieving these goals. before they cause problems (e.g. existing 9. Prioritise your actions and then set out weed infestations)? to achieve them. Remember that certain • What Opportunities are there to develop activities (such as weed control and your resources further (e.g. moving fence revegetation) should be timed to take lines to improve management)? into account seasonal conditions. • What Threats exist that could affect the 10. Constantly monitor, improve and reshape your property (e.g. potential erosion areas)? goals as necessary along the way. Your initial 5. On an overlay (a clear plastic film that can be plan will change over time. drawn on) of the map, illustrate the permanent 11. Make sure you regularly monitor and maintain features such as the property boundary, the areas where you have worked to address watercourses, native vegetation, infrastructure, any issues quickly. land types (i.e. from the most productive soils to the least) and contours. More information 6. Use this information as a base. On a second The Department for Environment and Water overlay, draw where you want features, such has an interactive mapping website that enables as fences, productive paddocks, shelterbelts, users to create maps showing aerial images, woodlots, dams, troughs, lanes and gates. property boundaries, native vegetation and (Rearranging fences according to land features more. This website can be found at can help you to use the land more efficiently.) www.naturemaps.sa.gov.au Work out where planting needs to go to achieve maximum effectiveness for windbreaks, Natural Resources AMLR staff can help you erosion control and repair, shelter, salinity develop your property plan and let you know reduction and to provide habitat for native birds of training courses in plan development. and animals. These resources are funded by the Australian 7. Write notes about: Government and managed by the Adelaide • proposed land use and Mount Lofty Ranges NRM Board. For more • planning for houses, sheds, stockyards, information, contact your local natural resources windbreaks, dams, roads and fence centre (see the ‘Local information’ chapter). realignments • methods to control and prevent weeds and pest animals • methods to sustain or improve water quality for stock and downstream users • methods to control stormwater movement and prevent erosion • reducing bushfire hazards, conserving soil, preserving trees • treating and disposing of effluent and rural rubbish • legal and planning requirements • methods to improve stock management or alternative water sources for stock • methods and timing for proposed revegetation of disturbed areas.

Rural living handbook | Buying your property | 9 Case study

Wes and Margaret Seeliger

Property location: Flaxman Valley, Barossa Ranges Property size: 560 ha (plus 40 ha leased) Current enterprise: Dairy (managed by son Steven and his wife Verica) Rainfall: 670 – 751 mm (approx) Soil type: Sandy loam over clay Features: 12 ha native vegetation; established 11 km of shelter belts; some fenced and revegetated watercourses; an average of 186 ha of pasture cut for hay.

Wes Seeliger has played an active role in land Key points learnt over time: management over the years. The Seeligers’ dairy • perennial pastures, although expensive to is one of the few thriving operations remaining establish, are worth the investment in the in the area – and their success is the result of long term dedication and well-managed perennial pastures. Wes’ interest in pastures goes right back to when • to manage the land to its capability and to fence he left school in 1954 and started his own plot appropriately to help make this possible trials with different species. It wasn’t long before • maintaining native vegetation and revegetating his father became interested and became one of has landscape-wide benefits the first in the district to recognise the importance • soil fertility is the foundation of all good land of soil nutrients (particularly phosphorus and management. molybdenum) and soil acidity. This was the start of a professional approach to pastures that There is no doubt that much of the Seeligers’ continues today. success comes from getting the basics right. Pastures need to be well managed to recover the The foundation of the Seeligers’ pastures has cost of establishment and continue to contribute always been perennial grasses – mainly cocksfoot, to farm profitability. phalaris and perennial rye with sub-clover. South Australia’s Mediterranean climate encourages The underlying principle that Wes applies many land managers to think of a growing season is managing different areas on his property that starts in April and ends in October, however, according to their capability. every year we have summer storms, and every year the perennials respond. On the other hand, annual This management principle has helped him grasses deteriorate with the rain and leave you overcome problems such as waterlogging and with little more than a fire risk. salinity, as well as reducing the likelihood of soil erosion. Weed infestations are also reduced Weeds are always a threat, particularly broadleaf through successful competition from more weeds following summer rain. The Seeligers work desirable grazing species. on the principle that the best way to beat these weeds is to provide competition. Recently, annual The Seeliger farm makes extensive use of shelter grasses such as barley grass and silver grass began belts. While some land managers are reluctant creeping into a couple of paddocks. These will be to ‘give up’ productive land for trees, animals sprayed in autumn at a rate that doesn’t kill the sheltered from cold winds need less feed, and perennials. The Seeligers still have good perennial pastures sheltered from drying winds are more pastures that were sown 30 years ago – the secret productive. The trees in the shelter belts also is: they look after them. Rotational grazing is benefit native wildlife, by providing shelter, the key to achieving this, as set stocking proved a food source and a safe corridor for movement. a recipe for disaster.

10 | Rural living handbook | Buying your property 2 | Natural resources

• Water • Soil • Native vegetation and animals • Fire • Weeds • Pest animals

Water What are water affecting activities?

Water management is an integral part of successful Water affecting activities (WAA) are those that can property management. Using water efficiently will potentially have adverse impacts on the health and minimise your costs while preserving flows for the condition of water resources, on other water users environment. Managing watercourses and dams and on the ecosystems that depend on water effectively will improve water quality on your resources. These water resources include watercourses, property and for downstream users. lakes or dams, floodplains, groundwater, springs, wetlands, waterholes and catchment landscapes, Water legislation among others. Management of water affecting activities is needed to protect our natural systems The Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges Natural and water-dependent ecosystems, maintain water Resources Management Board (the board) quality, and minimise impacts on other water users. manages surface water resources, including The board regulates WAAs in accordance with activities in and around watercourses and dams, its Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges Natural under the Natural Resources Management Act Resources Management Plan, and where applicable 2004. Ground water resources in South Australia, in accordance with a WAP if one has been adopted including bores and wells, are managed by the for the area. Department for Environment and Water (the department).

Most of the board’s area is (or will be) covered by statutory Water Allocation Plans (WAP). These plans may affect how you can take or use water on your property. Information on each adopted WAP is available at www.naturalresources. sa.gov.au/adelaidemtloftyranges or from the Eastwood Natural Resources Centre (see the ‘Local information’ chapter).

Rural living handbook | Natural resources | 11 Activities requiring a permit Causes of riparian zone degradation include: • allowing stock access to watercourses Activities requiring a permit include, but are not limited to: • invasion and competition from pest animal species (e.g. rabbits) and weed species • the construction or enlargement of dams (e.g. Willows and Blackberries) or structures to collect or divert water • recreational activities • drilling, deepening and backfilling wells, bores and groundwater access trenches • building • building structures obstructing or depositing • channel realignment. solid materials in a watercourse, lake or Effects of riparian zone degradation include: floodplain (e.g. erosion control; construction of water crossings; or dumping material) • unstable banks • excavating material from a watercourse, dam, • erosion of watercourses lake or floodplain (e.g. excavating or cleaning • flow restriction dams, waterholes and on-stream dams) • weed invasion • removing any vegetation (exotic or native plants) • reduced water quality in a watercourse, dam or riparian zone • reduced biodiversity of both aquatic and • draining or discharging water or brine into terrestrial flora and fauna a watercourse or dam (e.g. desalination waste, stormwater/urban discharge, drainage and • reduced aesthetic value. salinity control) The following activities are essential to reduce • the use of effluent or water imported to an area degradation and loss of riparian vegetation: for commercial activities (e.g. irrigation). • fence riparian areas to protect them from stock; Landholders, property managers, local government, alternative water sources and shade/shelter must industry and organisations must lodge permit be provided applications with the board for any of the activities • encourage the regeneration of native vegetation listed above. • minimise the number of tracks and trails leading There are instances where the board has worked to your riparian area; this will reduce the amount towards cutting red tape and a permit is not of sediment and nutrient-rich runoff from the required. For example, if you want to desilt tracks into the watercourse your dam or there are certain species of weeds • minimise ground disturbance during weed you want to tackle on your watercourse, then removal activities in the riparian zone please visit our water affecting activities web page to view the information under ‘Cutting • minimise herbicide and pesticide use; ensure red tape’: www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/ that pesticides and herbicides are registered adelaidemtloftyranges. for use near water • revegetate degraded and eroded riparian areas For bores/wells permit applications visit www. with suitable local native vegetation. environment.sa.gov.au/licences-and-permits Managing farm dams Riparian zones The primary use of farm dams is to provide water The riparian zone is the area directly influenced for stock and domestic purposes. If not properly by a river, creek, watercourse or drainage line. managed, farm dams can have an impact on The zone generally extends from the normal water the water quality on your property, and affect level to the floodplain. downstream users and the environment. All dams, new and existing, should be managed to maximise Healthy riparian vegetation – trees, shrubs and stock safety and health and to minimise impacts groundcovers – will make your watercourse on the environment. Note that a water allocation banks more stable and help prevent erosion. plan for the area may limit taking of water from The vegetation will also filter out nutrients from a dam, and/or may require the installation of surrounding paddocks, support wildlife and a bypass for low flows. create habitat for native wildlife.

12 | Rural living handbook | Natural resources Native plants and grasses help stabilise dam banks

Here are some hints for improving dam health: For every millimetre of rainfall and square metre of roof area, one litre of rainfall can be collected. For • Use fencing to limit stock access to one or example, if your total roof area is 200 m2, 200 L two locations at the dam. Best practice is to of water can be collected for each mm of rainfall. completely exclude stock from dams and provide Calculating your water requirements and collection alternative watering points. This prevents stock area will help you decide the size of tank you need. from fouling the water and minimises erosion. The result should be good water quality and a long lasting dam which benefits both stock Reducing household water use and the environment. Saving water in and around your home benefits • Prevent nutrients from entering the dam by the environment and there are many ways to do leaving an unfertilised strip where water flows this. People who live in rural areas have developed into the dam. This will help minimise the chances water saving methods through necessity and of a blue-green algae outbreak. experience.

• Avoid using fertilisers, herbicides and pesticides Try these tips for using less water inside your house: around dams and watercourses. • install dual flush toilets with a high star rating • Encourage native plants to grow in and around the dam – reeds, sedges and rushes at the water’s • use water-saving shower heads with a high edge and grasses and shrubs on the banks; native star rating vegetation will filter out sediments and nutrients • install water efficient washing machines and and provide habitat for native animals. dishwashers with a high star rating; only use • Don’t plant trees on the dam wall, as their roots washing machines and dishwashers when full may weaken it. It is best to have permanent grass • ensure that there are no leaks in your plumbing cover on dam walls to reduce erosion. system and repair any dripping taps promptly • Maintain dam spillways well, as they are crucial • install water-efficient taps and tap aerators. to dam stability. The SA Water website provides useful tips for Rainwater tanks saving water with a few simple changes to your everyday activities. Visit www.sawater.com.au In our Mediterranean climate of hot and dry to find out more. summers and wet winters, collecting and storing as much rainfall as possible is important. As Outside water use climate variability increases, capturing and storing rainfall becomes increasingly important. Collecting Outside water use for gardens, lawns and and storing rainwater in tanks is a sustainable way watering stock on an average rural residential of reducing your reliance on mains, ground or block (e.g. 2 ha) can be 125–250,000 L per year. surface water supplies.

Rural living handbook | Natural resources | 13 Stock requirements More information

As a guide, stock usually require the following For more information about water resources, amounts of water (on average): water affecting activities and to apply for • horse – 17,000 L per year (47.5 L/day) permits, visit www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/ adelaidemtloftyranges. • sheep (adult – dry feed) – 2500 L per year (7 L/day) For more information on water saving, visit the • beef cattle – 21,000 L per year (57.5 L/day) SA Water website at www.sawater.com.au. • dairy cattle – 26,500 L per year (72.5 L/day) For information and advice on funding available • dog – 3000 L per year (8 L/day) to landholders for watercourse restoration work, contact your local natural resources centre • pig (boar or dry sow) – 5000 L per year (see the ‘Local information’ chapter). (13.5 L/day). For more information on the installation and use Please note that stock water requirements vary of greywater systems, contact your local council. greatly depending on factors such as the life-stage of the animal (e.g. a lactating cow on grass may need up to 250 L per day), the time of the year, Soil the moisture in the pasture, and water quality (e.g. animals drink more water if it is salty). It is Your soil is a valuable resource containing nutrients critical that animals have access to reliable and for pastures and crops and for the growth of clean water at all times. native species. The greatest threat to your soil is erosion from Garden requirements wind and water. Soil erosion can be exacerbated Gardens can potentially need a lot of water, by animals, vehicles and vegetation removal. especially during the hotter months, but there Erosion removes valuable soil from your property, are many ways to reduce that need. reduces the productivity of your land, and pollutes watercourses, dams and reservoirs with turbid For example: water that is full of nutrients and silt.

• plant drought-tolerant species – use local The best protection against erosion is adequate native plants where possible groundcover. Remnant native vegetation and • install a drip irrigation system perennial pastures provide the most durable • mulch all garden areas to a depth of 75 mm protection for your soil. If using native grasses, careful management is required for them to persist. • compost household and garden waste and use it to improve soil condition and organic Carefully consider pasture improvement management matter content strategies as they can impact areas of native grasses. • keep lawn to around 5 cm in height to reduce Herbicides and grazing management can safely evaporation (the blades shade each other) be used to control weeds and maintain permanent grass cover, providing they are used appropriately. • infrequent watering improves the drought resistance of your plants by encouraging deep roots – water less often, but for longer periods at slow rates • install a rainwater tank – rainwater tanks can supply a substantial proportion of household water • use greywater in the garden – greywater is the wastewater from baths, showers, hand basins and washing machines’ final rinse; do not use water from toilets, or kitchen wastewater. Use greywater in a controlled way to avoid adverse health impacts – it should not be stored for more than 24 hours. Contact your local council or the Office of the Technical Regulator for guidelines on applying to use greywater.

14 | Rural living handbook | Natural resources Erosion You can also prevent soil loss and erosion by controlling water runoff with devices such as Some soils are very susceptible to the various contour banks, sediment traps, flumes, straw forms of water erosion. Factors such as slope, bales and mulches. rainfall intensities and natural groundcover influence natural erosion rates, as can overstocking It is important to obtain technical advice from or over-cultivating paddocks. the relevant authorities before undertaking any of these works. There may be erosion control You can help minimise erosion and retain topsoil structures already on your property. If so, they on your property by using the following good land should be maintained and not disturbed to ensure management practices: their continuing operation. Contact your local • Provide adequate vegetation cover, particularly natural resources centre for more assistance (see at ground level. Ground vegetation should the ‘Local information’ chapter). provide at least 70 per cent groundcover all year round. Soil acidity

• Understand the grazing patterns of the livestock Many of our soils are naturally acidic but light- you keep. For example, horses do not evenly textured soils in high rainfall areas are at particular graze paddocks and alpacas are fussy eaters. risk. Soil acidity is a gradual process that is best An understanding of the grazing habits of your corrected before the implications become irreversible. animals will enable you to manage your pastures and avoid overgrazing. The effects of soil acidity include: • Rotate your activities to rest the land and maintain • reduced agricultural production and viability continuous grass cover in grazing paddocks. • increased production costs due to the costs • Seek professional advice about revegetating of treatment the property using appropriate local native • groundcover decline, increasing the likelihood species by establishing windbreaks and native of erosion and declining water quality vegetation along watercourses and farm roads. • reduced water use by vegetation contributing This will help filter out sediment and nutrients to salinity. as well as provide stability and habitat for native fauna. Note: determine your landscape Some causes of soil acidity include: type prior to undertaking revegetation works. Dense planting of trees in an open grassland • natural pH decline through leaching for example, can detrimentally affect the value • high legume content of pastures contributing of that habitat and local native fauna. to nitrate leaching • Protect and enhance existing native vegetation. • removal of alkaline plants (especially hay), When choosing plants, local native species will animal produce and waste products speed grow well, provide habitat and not become up the acidification process weeds. It is well worth joining a local Landcare • ‘nitrate leaching’ – lack of deep-rooted grasses group which can help with plants propagated to catch the nitrogen produced before it leaches from locally collected seed indigenous to your area. • application of nitrogen fertilisers. • Cultivate and plant along contour lines. Don’t There are three basic strategies for managing cultivate steeply sloping land as this can lead acid soils: to erosion. 1. Use deep-rooted perennial pastures to • Construct access roads along the contour improve nitrogen recycling and slow the rate on gentle slopes wherever possible and avoid of acidification. waterlogged areas. 2. Use lime to raise soil pH (most useful if only • Find out about your land’s capabilities. Contact the topsoil is acidic). your local natural resources centre for a fact 3. Use plants that are tolerant of acid soil conditions. sheet about the Land Capability Classification System. Altogether, there are eight capability classes and it is recommended that you don’t cultivate land in Classes 5–8.

Rural living handbook | Natural resources | 15 Contact your local natural resources centre for Sodicity is a more widespread form of land more information about the causes of soil acidity degradation than salinity. It affects nearly one third and help with treatment options (see the ‘Local of all soils in Australia, causing poor water infiltration, information’ chapter). surface crusting, erosion and waterlogging. Runoff from sodic soils carries clay particles into Dryland salinity watercourses, causing environmental problems in rivers and wetlands. This runoff is more likely Dryland salinity occurs naturally when groundwater to carry higher levels of nitrogen and phosphate discharges or seeps to the surface, bringing soil which contribute to algal blooms in watercourses. salts with it. Salt can also be drawn to the surface by capillary action. When the water balance is Applying gypsum to the affected soil can treat disturbed by the removal of deep-rooted perennial topsoil sodicity. Large quantities of gypsum are vegetation, dryland salinity is accelerated. Dryland usually required for more than a short-term effect. salinity can cause vegetation loss and stream The best way to treat sodic subsoil is to stop the salinisation and be a precursor to soil erosion. subsoil from being exposed. It is important to get technical advice before treating your soil. Causes of dryland salinity include: • removing deep-rooted perennial vegetation and More information replacing it with shallow-rooted pastures and crops – this raises the water table, which brings For more information on soil management, salt to the surface contact your local natural resources centre or contact Primary Industries and Resources South • blocking natural groundwater flow (e.g. by roads Australia (see the ‘Local information’ chapter). or dams). Some effects of dryland salinity include: Native vegetation and animals • loss of desirable vegetation • growth of salt-tolerant species Remnant native vegetation • reduced crop and pasture production Remnant native vegetation is an area’s remaining • waterlogged soil indigenous vegetation, including forests, woodlands, shrublands and native grasslands. Much of the • soil erosion original native vegetation in the AMLR region • increased salt loads in rivers and streams has been cleared for agriculture since European • reduced surface and groundwater quality settlement. In some instances, this has resulted in problems including soil erosion, loss of soil • declining soil structure structure, weed invasion, increased salinity, • damage to buildings, roads, septic systems reduced water quality and loss of biodiversity. and pipes. Protecting and promoting native vegetation can These impacts of dryland salinity can affect your enhance the value of your property and increase property. When considering methods to manage productivity, by providing shade and shelter dryland salinity, it is important to get technical for stock, windbreaks for crops and pasture, advice from the relevant authorities. See ‘More habitat for native wildlife and stabilising soils information’ at the end of this section. to reduce erosion.

Sodicity If conserving biodiversity is one of your goals, use the following priorities to help you decide Sodic soils contain enough exchangeable sodium where to start: to adversely affect soil stability and plant growth. Priority 1: Protect remnant native vegetation As a result, clay particles in the soil lose their tendency to stick together when wet. This leads • Exclude stock from native vegetation by ensuring to unstable soils that may erode or become you have good fencing. impermeable to both water and plant roots. • Control feral animals such as rabbits, foxes, deer, goats and cats.

16 | Rural living handbook | Natural resources • Consider whether and how you will need to How good is that piece of bush? manage overabundant native grazing animals (e.g. kangaroos). Rule of thumb: Any patch of native vegetation is valuable. A minimum of 30 per cent cover of • Control weeds using the following principles: native vegetation across a rural property will help a. accurately identify plants so that natives maintain ecosystems and improve productivity. are not accidentally removed or damaged Your neighbour’s bush and others nearby may b. use minimal disturbance techniques help contribute a viable local core habitat area c. start in the best areas of bushland and or ‘corridor’ of vegetation for native animals. work outwards Most native plant diversity is in the groundcover d. concentrate on high-threat weeds first. layer. Spring is the best time to appreciate a range of native wildflowers that may be dormant for Priority 2: Encourage natural regeneration much of the year.

Many areas have the capacity to naturally Remember to: regenerate – provided they are carefully managed. Regeneration is far cheaper than revegetation • avoid fragmenting existing areas of native and is more likely to represent the original genetic vegetation, including remnant grasslands. If you and species diversity of the site. are building new fencelines, roads or services, consider building them around areas of native Encouraging natural regeneration generally vegetation rather than through them requires the same management activities as for • ensure that plant species are correctly identified protecting remnants. However, a higher level when spraying weeds (many native species can of weed control will usually be needed, and be easily misidentified as weeds). carefully managed grazing is sometimes useful in promoting native grasses over introduced Native Vegetation Act 1991 pastures and pasture weeds. Remnant native vegetation is protected from Priority 3: Revegetate clearance under the Native Vegetation Act 1991. Strict exemptions exist for certain situations such Revegetate using local native species, with the as for maintaining roadsides, fencelines, firebreaks range and rationing of species selected to and developments. represent the original vegetation association. For more information contact your local natural When planning a replanting program, always resources centre (see the ‘Local information’ chapter). try to: • use seed that is sourced locally wherever possible • use plants that have been grown locally to ensure they acclimatise to local conditions • select a range and ratio of species to represent the original vegetation association as closely as possible.

Thick strips of native trees (about five trees wide) and shrubs can provide shelter for stock and protection against drying winds, moderate temperature extremes, prevent pollution of streams by nutrient runoff, and impede windblown weed seeds.

Rural living handbook | Natural resources | 17 Environment Protection and Biodiversity Several species of venomous snakes could live Conservation Act 1999 in your area. Most snake bites recorded in South Australia happen to people who try to catch This Commonwealth Act is designed to protect or kill them. Give snakes some space and they nationally threatened species and ecological will generally leave the area. communities from direct and indirect threats. Four ecological communities that occur in the The snake season usually lasts from late October AMLR region are protected under this Act. to early March. The following actions can reduce the chance of snake bite: They are: • Store loose sheets of iron, timber, and other • Fleurieu Peninsula swamps materials off ground level (e.g. on pallets). • Peppermint box grassy woodland • Mow frequently trafficked areas and those • Iron-grass natural temperate grassland around buildings. • Grey box grassy woodlands and derived • Wear enclosed leather shoes or gaiters when native grassland. walking in long grass or near creeks or farm dams. • Wear long trousers and leather gloves Native animals if handling vegetation.

All native animals in South Australia are protected • Let snakes pass through and away from your (except those specifically listed as “unprotected” house or paddock, but if they decide to take under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972). up residence contact a snake catcher to This means that it is illegal to trap, kill or harm them relocate them. unless licensed otherwise. Although we would like • If you see a snake, stand still and allow it to to live in unison with native animals, sometimes they continue on its path. can pose a threat to our safety or activities. It is important to understand how to correctly manage Providing a fauna-friendly property these situations on your property. If you would like to encourage small birds and A few native animals can become a nuisance if not other wildlife, such as bats, around your property, managed appropriately. For instance, kangaroos here are some ways to attract them: often show a strong liking for planted native • Leave dead trees with hollows intact, whether seedlings. It is crucial to fence off revegetation standing or on the ground. areas as well as gardens, which native animals such as kangaroos will also often target. • Plant a variety of local native shrubs, especially dense or prickly ones. Use mainly white, pink or Possums can sometimes become nuisances in roof yellow flowering shrubs and keep red flowering spaces. In such cases, it is best to provide nest shrubs in smaller numbers. Large numbers of red boxes for the possums outside the house, remove flowering shrubs can attract noisy mynah birds them from the roof, and seal entrance holes. and larger honeyeaters that actively exclude Possums are territorial, so removing them from other smaller birds from the area. your property can result in death of the animal • Provide bird baths and other watering points. and injury to others. • Build and maintain nest boxes where few hollow Your legal requirements: trees remain. • you need a permit • Manage your animals to ensure that they don’t • trapped possums must be released within interfere with native fauna. For example, if you 24 hours of capture (at sunset on the day own a cat, ensure that it doesn’t stray and attach of capture). a bell attached to its collar to alert native birds. • they must be released within 50 metres • Do not remove mistletoes – they are an excellent of where you caught them. source of food and habitat for a range of animals.

Find out more on how to deal with possums at: Feeding native animals and birds can be an issue www.environment.sa.gov.au. Some councils as it may make them dependent. Human foods also hire out possum traps (see the ‘Local may also cause problems for native animals; for information’ chapter). example, bread can cause lumpy jaw in kangaroos.

18 | Rural living handbook | Natural resources Frogs are desirable animals to have living on your Fire property. Living in a rural setting is a lifestyle choice for The following actions will encourage frogs to stay many South Australians. The benefits are enormous; or colonise: but the risks are real. • use ponds or pools as part of your garden landscaping All people living in the bush, including those in peri-urban fringe areas of Adelaide and regional • place logs or other large timber off-cuts around South Australia, are vulnerable. It is therefore vital the edge of open water bodies that you have a practical Bushfire Survival Plan. • plant native reeds, rushes and sedges in clumps around water bodies Legislation • plant tussock-forming vegetation a short distance Fire and Emergency Services Act 2005 from dams so frogs can shelter and forage. The purpose of this Act, which established the A pond, dam or creek full of life not only creates South Australian Fire and Emergency Services a healthy environment but can provide many Commission, is to: peaceful hours for you and your family to explore. • provide for the continuation of a metropolitan More information fire and emergency service, a country fire and emergency service, and a state emergency service For information on managing native vegetation, • provide for the prevention, control and contact your local natural resources centre (see suppression of fires the ‘Local information’ chapter). Natural Resources AMLR staff can also visit your property and give • handle certain emergency situations. you advice. Key points: Further information on native species in the • landowners are obliged to manage fuel levels Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges region can on their properties be found at www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/ • if council believes that conditions on private land adelaidemtloftyranges. in a fire district may cause an unreasonable risk of the outbreak of fire on the land, or the spread of fire through the land, the council may issue a written notice specifying action(s) that the landowner must undertake within a specified time.

Rural living handbook | Natural resources | 19 Fire danger ratings Bushfire survival plan

The Fire Danger Rating is issued on a daily basis for Your Bushfire Survival Plan outlines the work each Fire Ban District. The rating reflects the risk of required to help safeguard your property and, a bushfire spreading and is based on factors that most importantly, what actions you and your contribute to fire behaviour such as temperature, family will take on high fire risk days and if wind speed and humidity. The categories from a fire threatens. lowest risk to highest are: Low-Moderate, High, If you live in the bush, the suburban fringe or Very High, Severe, Extreme and Catastrophic. Total regional South Australia, then you are in danger fire bans are issued on days that are rated Severe of experiencing a bushfire. or higher. The decision whether to ‘stay and defend’ your Daily updated fire danger ratings for your area can home, or ‘go early’ for each of the Fire Danger be found on the CFS website, www.cfs.sa.gov.au. Rating levels is critical and should be made before the fire danger season – and well before a Bushfire warnings bushfire arrives.

A new bushfire advice and warnings system was If you plan to ‘stay and defend’ your property, implemented in South Australia in 2010. This you will need to consider the following: system, agreed to nationally, will help you decide • Are you physically fit to fight spot fires in and what actions you need to take depending on the around your home for up to 10 hours or more? predicted fire danger. Three levels of messaging • Are you mentally and emotionally able to cope will help you make informed decisions about what with the intense smoke, heat and noise of actions you need to take to survive a bushfire. a bushfire, while implementing your plan? They are: • Are you able to implement your plan while 1. Advice – no immediate threat but messages will caring for young children, elderly or disabled keep people informed about low-level incidents people in your home? 2. Watch and act – people need to take action to • Do you have the resources and equipment protect themselves, their family and neighbours to effectively fight a fire – a water supply of at 3. Emergency warning – highest level of risk to life. least 5000 L (a water tank, pond, dam, creek or swimming pool) and a petrol/diesel powered Emergency warning messages will be broadcast firefighting pump with adequate hose length? over ABC local radio accompanied by the Standard • Does your home have a defendable space of Emergency Warning Signal. These warnings can at least 20 m cleared of flammable materials also be accessed through AlertSA (www.alert. and vegetation? sa.gov.au) or the smartphone app. • Is your home in a location that puts it at higher than normal risk or makes it difficult to defend, such as on a steep slope or in close proximity to bushland?

20 | Rural living handbook | Natural resources Bushfire Survival Plans can be downloaded from of the most effective ways to protect against the CFS website (www.cfs.sa.gov.au). Once you radiant heat, direct flame and ember attack. Seek have completed your plan, practice it regularly and professional advice for design and installation. keep it in a safe and easily accessible place for quick reference, e.g. on the fridge. Machinery maintenance

Property protection Landholders need to take precautions to ensure that every item of equipment on their property A home can ignite in various ways during a which generates heat in one form or another bushfire – from radiant heat ahead of the fire is in good working order and not likely to ignite front, burning debris falling on the building, crops, pastures or any other flammable substances and direct flame contact. However, research has during the fire danger season. shown that the biggest ignition source is sparks and embers that travel through the air before, and When the machinery is in the field, always carry hours after, the fire front has passed. Sparks and a full knapsack or water extinguisher, and a rake embers enter a home wherever there is a gap, or shovel. This precaution is mandatory when such as under roofing tiles, under the floor, in harvesting a flammable crop, spreading lime or crevices, window sills, vents and under verandahs. fertiliser, or moving a flammable crop after harvest.

Some basic measures will improve your home’s Livestock protection fire safety: Identify the safest paddock on your property and Smooth surfaces – no nooks and crannies where consider moving stock into this paddock on high leaves and debris can gather. fire danger days. Your safe paddock should: Roofing – well-secured metal roofing is • have a reliable water supply preferable, a tiled roof needs to be well fitted • have clear access with fire-resistant sarking (i.e. fibreglass-based aluminum foil). • be well grazed with minimum fuel to carry fire Walls – non-flammable wall materials such as • be well fenced. brick, mud brick and fibre cement are necessary If animals do sustain burns, the best form of as vinyl weatherboards, rough timber, and other immediate first aid is to sponge the affected wall claddings can warp or catch fire. area with cold water until proper veterinary care Windows, crevices and vents – spark-proof is available. your home with metal flywire screens on windows and doors, or install fire-resistant metal shutters. Fire ban information Cover all wall cavities in fine wire mesh. Fire danger seasons change from year to year, Skylights – install wire-reinforced glass or a depending on seasonal conditions. Check the thermo plastic cover on skylights as plastic can CFS website (www.cfs.sa.gov.au) for the current melt and glass can break in strong heat. dates for your fire ban district. Property access – gateways should be at least Total fire bans can be declared at any time of the 4 m wide with vertical clearance of 4 m. Provide year, not just during the fire danger season. With clear access with a turnaround point for a few exceptions, no fires can be lit in the open firefighting vehicles. on a Total Fire Ban day. Gutters – regularly clean gutters and remove leaves and bark from any areas where they may More information become trapped. For more information visit the CFS website Prepare a 20 m defendable zone around your www.cfs.sa.gov.au or call the Bushfire house by minimising the amount of fuel close to Information Hotline on 1800 362 361. it. This will prevent fires from burning close to the house and minimise the effect of radiant heat For information about fire prevention, contact and direct flame impact. your local council’s fire prevention officer (council contact details are in the ‘Local information’ chapter). Sprinkler system – a home bushfire sprinkler system that directs water over the roof, windows, doors and exposed under floor areas is one

Rural living handbook | Natural resources | 21 Weeds public safety. Landowners are required to control ‘declared weeds’. Declared (and undeclared) plant Weeds can be a major problem to rural properties policies are available on the Primary Industries because of the impact they have on agricultural and Regions SA website, along with the complete production, biodiversity, water quality and soil list of declared plants http://pir.sa.gov.au/ conservation. They often have a high level of biosecurity. reproductive ability with easy dispersal and are Natural Resources AMLR staff are available to carry highly competitive, with a lack of natural controls. out free property visits and advise on the most Weeds can be introduced and/or spread to your appropriate methods to control weeds on your property in a variety of ways, including: property. Some staff are also authorised to issue notices directing landholders to control declared • in contaminated stock feed which may contain weeds on their properties. weed material such as seeds and poisonous plants • on animals and livestock which may carry weeds Weed control on their fur, wool, in their guts or on their hooves The aim of control is to remove the weed, stop • on farm machinery and vehicles which may its spread, deplete the seed reservoir and prevent carry weeds around wheels, in the engine bay, re-establishment. underneath the body and even inside the vehicle on floor mats Most weeds were introduced from other countries – • by water, wind, in soil and in garden waste some arrived by accident while others were brought in for various reasons. The natural enemies that kept • deliberate introductions (e.g. willows planted the plants under control in their native countries for bank stabilisation) are not present in Australia. • land managers’ lack of awareness, an inability to identify weeds and respond effectively Impacts of weeds include: • poor land management such as overgrazing • loss of native flora and fauna often leads to bare ground that is readily invaded • reduced land productivity by broad leaf weeds and annual grasses. • reduced water quality Declared weeds • increased control costs (as they spread and become established) Some weeds are known as declared weeds. • soil degradation and erosion. They are declared under the Natural Resources Management Act 2004 because they have been deemed a risk to agriculture, the environment or

Salvation Jane infestation

22 | Rural living handbook | Natural resources Weed control is most effective when a variety Targeted baiting programs can help mitigate the of methods are used. An integrated approach to impacts of both rabbits and foxes. Rabbit baits weed management may include using techniques can be obtained from most agricultural retailers such as strategic grazing, pasture improvement, and natural resources centres. Baiting is most herbicides, biological control agents, cultivation, successful in the hot summer months when rabbits slashing, mulching and hand pulling. Using an are most vulnerable. Fox baits are available from integrated weed control approach increases the natural resources centres. (Please phone ahead to chances of success. Herbicides are often an ensure they are available and you understand the important part of an integrated plan to control legislated requirements. Contact details are in the weeds but should not be the only control ‘Local information’ chapter). For foxes, optimal technique. baiting times vary.

More information Best practice pest management

Contact your local natural resources centre for Here is a suggested action list for pest management: identification and control advice for all declared and • Find out what pest animals are known to occur non-declared weeds (see the ‘Local information’ in your district, and which of these you should chapter). Your local centre can provide advice for be prepared to control on your property. most situations including pasture, native vegetation, watercourses and roadsides. • Keep an eye out for and identify any pest animals on your property, including signs of their presence. • Contact your local natural resources centre Pest animals for recommended methods and strategies for controlling pest animals on your property. Pest animals and insects cause serious economic Methods recommended will depend on your losses to agricultural production, unacceptable property location (e.g. properties near urban risk of exotic disease, threaten the survival of areas may need different strategies to those many native species and cause environmental used in rural areas). degradation, including erosion. • Employ the recommended pest animal control Under the Natural Resources Management strategies for each type of pest animal on your Act 2004, rabbits, foxes, feral goats and deer property. This may mean carrying out particular are declared pest animals in South Australia activities at specific times of the year, or at times and property owners have a responsibility when animal numbers reach a certain level. to control them. • Regularly monitor pest animal activity and Rabbits, for example, can cause a lot of damage, modify your control programs accordingly. even in low numbers. They remain a major concern despite the impacts of the rabbit calicivirus disease. Foxes and cats are considered major threats to biodiversity within the Mount Lofty Ranges because of their impact on native animals.

Rabbits can cause a lot of damage, even in low numbers Fox. Credit: Lee Allen, Invasive Animals CRC

Rural living handbook | Natural resources | 23 Domestic dogs and cats More information

Domestic dogs and cats can also have negative For more information and fact sheets about effects on the environment and farming practices. the control of pest animals, visit the Natural Both can kill and maim native animals, and dogs Resources Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges injure or kill livestock. To reduce this risk, put a bell website at www.naturalresources.sa.gov. around your cat’s neck and keep it indoors, and au/adelaidemtloftyranges, or contact your keep dogs chained up or within a secure yard. local natural resources centre (see the ‘Local You must register dogs through your local council. information’ chapter). For more information about dogs and cats, contact your local council Any unwanted animals should be taken to the (also in the ‘Local information’ chapter). Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA), or your veterinarian.

Pets and other stock must be kept within your property boundary. Wandering animals can upset neighbours and you are liable for any damage or stock losses your animals might cause. In public areas, dogs must be kept on a leash. Bury dead animals promptly and away from watercourses so that they do not cause pollution.

24 | Rural living handbook | Natural resources 3 | Property management

• Waste management • Effluent management • Chemicals • Wood smoke and heating • Livestock management • Fences • Farm safety • Rates • Absentee landholders • Developing your property • Improving your knowledge • Further reading

Waste management Composting returns nutrients to the soil that would otherwise be lost, improves soil structure, and It is important to dispose of waste in an increases the water holding capacity of the soil. environmentally responsible way. Rural properties Items suitable for composting Include: produce a wide range and significant amount of waste typically including domestic waste, • ‘greens’ grass cuttings, non-woody garden solid waste (e.g. wire or old whitegoods), farm prunings, weeds that have not gone to seed, chemicals and occasionally dead stock. Dumping leaves, flowers and vegetable remains, kitchen waste in eroded gullies is not acceptable. waste (including egg shells and bread), herbivore animal manure – horse, chicken, cow, sheep, Domestic waste goat and alpaca • ‘browns’ including paper and cardboard, wood Weekly domestic waste collection and occasional fire ash, sawdust and wood shavings, vacuum hard rubbish collection is available in many council dust and hair. areas. Remember that many items are not suitable for disposal in domestic waste including toxic • Feeding food scraps to chicken and then substances such as paints and chemicals. (Contact composting the chicken manure is also your local council or the Environment Protection a great option. Authority for further advice (see the ‘Local You can make compost either in a heap or a bin, information’ chapter). depending on quantity. Your local hardware store If you generate more waste than can be handled will sell a range of composting bins. Composting through your domestic rubbish bin, contact your moisture balance depends on whether you wish local council for information about waste transfer to compost anaerobically or aerobically. A simple stations in your area. internet search will provide you with the perfect formula and great DYI compost bin construction Composting options for the types of items you will be composting.

Almost half of our domestic waste consists of kitchen and garden waste. Most of this material can be composted.

Rural living handbook | Property management | 25 Recycling and reuse If the animals are to be slaughtered, contact a local abattoir or butcher to investigate the In most areas you can recycle a large number economies of getting them to do the work. of materials, including: Your local vet may also have good suggestions. • paper If you must dispose of carcasses on the farm it is • cardboard important to do the job quickly and thoroughly. • some plastics Burning is rarely satisfactory – burying is better. However, in the case of certain exotic diseases, • steel cans (including aerosol cans and paint tins) burning may be mandatory. Contact Biosecurity SA • aluminium cans and foil if you suspect an animal may have been affected • glass jars and bottles by an exotic disease.

• juice and milk cartons. To reduce swelling during decomposition; the abdomens and paunches of the carcasses Contact your local council for information about should be opened to allow gases to escape. recycling services. Carcasses should be heaped at least 50 m from watercourses. The heap can then be buried, Create less waste (so long as burying does not create erosion • Much household waste begins at the shop. or pollution issues) or burned in accordance Become a waste-conscious consumer and with council and CFS burning restrictions. only buy what you need. More information • Single use plastics, e.g. plastic bags, disposable nappies, plastic food wraps persist in landfills, For more information on waste management, rivers and oceans indefinitely, harming water contact your local council or the Environment quality and wildlife. Refuse single use plastics Protection Authority (EPA) (see the ‘Local whenever possible. information’ chapter). • Refuse, repair, reuse and recycle items.

Burning Effluent management You are required by law to ensure that your onsite Burning waste, such as household rubbish and effluent management system is operating properly. garden clippings, has a negative impact on air quality. Laws have been introduced over time Septic systems to control backyard and other open air burning. These have been successful in reducing levels Failing on-site effluent management systems release of particulate air pollution. dangerous levels of sewage pollution into the environment. This can contaminate water, spread Some burning of garden waste may be permitted. disease and lead to environmental degradation. You should carry out any burning in a way that prevents or minimises air pollution. For example If you live in a non-sewered area you will need don’t burn green garden waste, and only burn an effluent management system. There are in favourable wind conditions. two main types available in South Australia – conventional and aerobic. In more recent years Restrictions apply during the fire ban season the range of systems approved by SA Health has October to April. Contact the CFS (see the ‘Local broadened slightly to include some composting information’ chapter) for further details. For all systems as well as on-site greywater treatment queries relating to burning waste, contact your systems. Any system installed must be on the SA local council’s fire prevention officer. Health approved products list as well as comply Dead stock disposal with SA Health’s Wastewater Systems Code. For further information visit www.sahealth.sa.gov.au. Disposing of dead stock, whether it’s one animal or several, carries the risk of polluting watercourses, producing odours, attracting vermin, spreading disease and interfering with community amenity. If possible, carcasses should be utilised or rendered.

26 | Rural living handbook | Property management Septic tank systems Aerobic sand filter systems

A conventional septic tank system may be either The aerobic sand filter system consists of a all-purpose or a water closet (WC) only. Both septic tank for primary treatment and a sand systems function in the same manner. They consist bed for secondary treatment. On leaving the of two components – the septic tank and a soil septic tank, the wastewater enters a distribution absorption field or soakage trench. The tank is sump, which allows its even distribution across installed in the ground, with a shaft over the a bed of sand. It is then filtered through the sand lid opening to allow access for the tank to be by gravity to a collection point at the base of the pumped out (every two to four years). The sand bed, before flowing to a pump chamber trench system is also underground and will only where disinfection occurs. This disinfected water be visible via a breather pipe or vent pipe. is then discharged to the designated irrigation area. Aerobic sand filters have few working parts A septic system takes all household wastewater. and therefore do not require quarterly servicing. The solids settle at the bottom of the tank, while However, monitoring is still needed to ensure the fats float to the surface. The liquid portion that the reclaimed water complies with discharge (effluent) gradually moves into the trench (leaving criteria. The primary treatment component also the solids and fats behind) where it then soaks requires regular pumping out to keep it into the soil. If the tank is not pumped regularly functioning effectively. to remove the solids, they also begin to migrate through to the soakage trench. This is the main Which system do you require? reason these systems break down. The solids and fats cannot be absorbed into the soil but, rather, It is important that you understand the type of clog it, which in turn prevents the effluent from septic system you have when moving into a new soaking away. The only way the effluent can property so that you can undertake any required then escape is to break through to surface level, maintenance and minimize the risk of a pollution where it becomes a health hazard. event. Replacement and installation of new systems must be done in conjunction with Aerobic systems your local council and in line with SA Health’s Wastewater Systems Code. Aerobic systems fall into two categories: aerobic wastewater treatment systems and aerobic sand It should be noted that this information is filter systems. The functioning of aerobic systems intended as a guide only and does not incorporate differs from conventional septic systems in that all possible circumstances. they provide a secondary treatment and disinfection process, as well as the primary treatment (settling of solids). The reclaimed water can then be used Chemicals to irrigate a designated area of the property. Chemicals such as fuel, fertiliser and pesticides are commonly used to help run rural properties. Aerobic wastewater treatment systems These chemicals are often dangerous, some are Aerobic wastewater treatment systems may flammable, most are poisonous, and all can be consist of a one or two tank system. They include harmful to the environment if used incorrectly. a primary treatment component and a secondary They can also pollute watercourses, particularly treatment component, where the wastewater if they are stored or used near them. is aerated and clarified before being stored in The user has an obligation and a legal requirement a pump chamber. The pump chamber is where to read the label and follow all directions. This is disinfection occurs prior to the reclaimed water necessary to ensure your safety and that of your being discharged to the designated irrigation family, your livestock and the local wildlife and area. These systems require quarterly servicing native vegetation. Considerable fines can be by an accredited agent or properly trained person imposed for failure to properly transport, store, to ensure the reclaimed effluent complies with apply and dispose of chemicals and containers. standards as stipulated by SA Health.

Rural living handbook | Property management | 27 When collecting new containers of chemicals, check carefully for damage and tighten lids to prevent leaks. Make sure your vehicle is roadworthy and can safely transport chemicals. Put them inside a tray of some kind that will contain any spillage. Do not put chemicals in the same compartment as the driver and passengers, food or drinks, or animals. Vapours and spills can cause illness.

Do not transport items classified as Dangerous Goods in large quantities. Pack the load securely so items can’t move or fall over and store different classes of chemicals apart. Take the most direct route back.

If any spills occur, clear the vehicle immediately. A range of common chemical brands The main steps for dealing with a spill are to isolate, contain, decontaminate and dispose. Storing chemicals Make sure you use appropriate clothing and safety gear to protect your skin and face, and to avoid You need to be careful when using chemicals and ingesting vapours. store them correctly. Keep all chemicals in an area designed for this purpose. Safe storage maximises On arrival, transfer the containers straight into the life of pesticides, and protects people, animals the chemical store. Make sure containers are and the environment. not damaged.

A suitable chemical storage needs to: Disposal of farm chemicals and containers • have a separate, well-ventilated cupboard or building used only for this purpose. It should After chemicals have been applied according be located away from houses, pumps, tanks, to the label directions you must dispose of waterways and animals, and preferably empty containers and any unused chemicals be fireproof in an environmentally responsible manner.

• contain a manifest, copies of labels and Material drumMUSTER Safety Data Sheet • allow for cool and dry storage One of the greatest problems facing users of crop production and animal health products • provide spillage containment is the disposal of empty chemical containers. • ensure that liquids are not stored above solids drumMUSTER is a national program set up for the • have a locked storage area collection and recycling of cleaned, eligible, non- returnable chemical containers. DrumMuster has • have warning signs on the outside of the standards around chemical container cleanliness storage area, e.g. ‘Chemical Store – Keep Out’ which must be adhered to prior to dropping off and a ‘No Smoking’ sign should be installed. containers. These standards are clearly stipulated on their website www.drummuster.org.au/ Transporting farm chemicals container-recycling/drummuster-standard.

Everyone transporting farm chemicals has a duty Visit www.drummuster.com.au or call of care and a responsibility to carry out tasks in 1800 008 707 to find out about drop off points a manner that will not cause harm or injury to in your area. Alternatively, contact your local themselves, other people, their property, animals council to find out more about this program. or the environment. Information about the transport requirements of individual chemicals DO NOT PUT CHEMICALS IN ANY FORM are often found on the label or Material Safety INTO DRAINS, GULLIES OR WATERCOURSES. Data Sheet. It is a good idea to check this information before moving them.

28 | Rural living handbook | Property management More information Solar power, or other sources of green power (electricity produced from renewable energy The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has sources) are ‘cleaner’ alternatives. produced a useful and free booklet titled Safe and effective pesticide use. To obtain a copy of this For up to date information on energy savings booklet visit www.epa.sa.gov.au. and government energy efficiency programs visit www.sa.gov.au/topics/energy-and-environment. For training in the use of farm chemicals, contact ChemCert Australia (SA) on 1800 444 228. More information

For general pesticide information and for details The EPA regulates the sale, installation and of licensed contractors, contact your local natural operation of solid wood heaters. For further resources centre (see the ‘Local information’ chapter). information visit www.epa.sa.gov.au.

Wood smoke and heating Livestock management

Smoke from wood heaters adds to air pollution. Managing livestock remains a popular enterprise Poorly operated or inefficient solid fuel heaters on many small farms, but for new landholders are one of several sources of fine particles which it can sometimes be quite daunting. Sheep, cattle, contribute to the haze sometimes seen on still horses and alpacas are often grazed throughout winter mornings. In the Adelaide Hills wood the Mount Lofty Ranges. If managing animals for smoke may be the dominant cause of poor the first time, make sure you have the appropriate winter air quality. yards, watering points and fencing and seek advice from a reputable source. It is important The following measures will help to minimise to maintain the soil on your property and retain pollution, improve local air quality, care for maximum cover of good pasture. people’s health, and save money. Tactical grazing is an important strategy for Tips for efficient wood burning and minimising managing pastures and controlling weeds, so pollution: establishing a number of paddocks on a property • Always burn small logs of aged, dry hardwood. is generally a good idea for all types of livestock. Unseasoned (green) wood has a higher moisture Tactical grazing means using different techniques, content and will produce more smoke. moving your stock around according to the • Store wood under cover in a dry, ventilated seasonal conditions and the needs of your area and away from buildings. livestock, finding the balance between utilizing pasture while maintain ground cover. • Freshly cut wood needs to be stored for 8–12 months before burning. All properties grazing more than one animal – • Never burn rubbish, driftwood or treated sheep, cattle, horses or alpacas require a property or painted wood. It can pollute the air and identification code (PIC). Property registration is be poisonous. mandatory under the Livestock Act 1997. It is part of a national agreement to maintain a register • When lighting a cold heater, use plenty of of the locations of livestock and property owner, dry kindling to establish a good fire quickly. or manager contact details. • Stack wood loosely in your firebox so air can circulate; don’t cram the firebox. The code records data about property owners, property information, species of animals on a • Keep the flame lively and bright. Your fire property, and number of animals on a property. should only smoke for a few minutes when you light it and when you add extra fuel. Open The property identification code is used in cases of: the air controls fully for five minutes before, • disease outbreaks and 15–20 minutes after, reloading. • bushfires • Do not let your heater smoulder overnight. Keep enough air in the fire to maintain a flame. • animal emergencies.

• Check your chimney regularly. If there is smoke For more information, contact Primary Industries coming from it, increase the air supply to your fire. and Regions South Australia (see the ‘Local • Clean the chimney every year to prevent creosote information’ chapter). build-up.

Rural living handbook | Property management | 29 All sheep must be identified with a National Livestock Identification System (NLIS) ear tag. For more information contact PIRSA (see the ‘Local information’ chapter).

Cattle management

Cattle have always been one of the most popular livestock enterprises in the Mount Lofty Ranges and, if managed correctly, can be less demanding than sheep. However, they are large animals and inexperienced landholders should handle them with care. They require significantly more acreage than sheep as one beast will generally require ten Sheep management times more acreage than one sheep. Cattle yards with a suitable crush or head bail are necessary. For many landholders, grazing sheep in the Like sheep, cattle require a safe environment, good Mount Lofty Ranges provides one of the best pasture, clean reliable water, regular inspections, ways to manage land. Sheep play an important a sound disease prevention program and prompt role in good pasture management and weed treatment for sickness or injury. control. They are lighter than cattle and horses and consequently do less damage to soil during All cattle must be identified with a National the wetter months. Sheep also tend to be less Livestock Identification System ear tag and selective grazers and will clean up a variety Property Identification Code. For more information of weeds very effectively. contact PIRSA (see the ‘Local information’ chapter).

Inexperienced landholders will find sheep Alpaca management relatively easy to handle and health checks are straightforward, provided the property has suitable Alpacas are part of the camelid family originating yards. Sheep require a safe environment, good from South American areas of high altitude. Their pasture, clean reliable water, regular inspections, ability to withstand temperatures varying from a sound disease prevention program, annual freezing to extremely hot has enabled them to crutching and shearing and prompt treatment for adapt well to Australian conditions. sickness or injury. Note that some breeds of sheep They generally have a gentle nature which shed their fleece and do not require crutching makes them easy to handle and, under normal or shearing. They include Dorpers, Damaras, conditions, will interact well with their human Wiltshires and Wiltipolls. handlers.

30 | Rural living handbook | Property management Alpacas are intelligent animals which prefer Animal welfare to be with a herd, although they socialise well with other livestock species. Alpacas are fiercely The RSPCA promotes ‘Five freedoms of animal protective of their territory and families, which welfare’: is why they have gained a reputation as excellent 1. freedom from hunger and thirst guard animals for livestock, mostly sheep, 2. freedom from discomfort vulnerable to fox attack. 3. freedom from pain, injury or disease They require a safe environment, good pasture, 4. freedom to express normal behaviour clean reliable water, regular inspections, a sound disease prevention program, annual shearing 5. freedom from fear and distress. and prompt treatment for sickness or injury. Owners can be prosecuted by the RSPCA if they don’t meet the needs of their animals. Horse management

There are thousands of horses on properties More information throughout the Mount Lofty Ranges. Keeping Contact your local natural resources centre them can be very rewarding, but they are high- for further information on land management maintenance animals. Horses generally require for livestock. extensive infrastructure such as stables, yards and good-quality fencing. For animal health enquiries, contact your local vet, PIRSA Animal Health or the RSPCA (see the They are selective feeders and will avoid weeds ‘Local information’ chapter). in pastures. Therefore, where horses are the only grazing animals, weeds will often flourish. Horses Horse SA has an excellent range of resources can also be quite harsh on the soil and often on keeping horses and land healthy. Your local create tracks, holes, and bare areas which promote natural resources centre can also provide a range weed growth and increase the risk of soil erosion. of information regarding land management for livestock (see the ‘Local information’ chapter). They require careful attention, so nutrition and hand feeding may be necessary at certain times of the year. Horses need a good-quality pasture, Fences clean reliable water, adequate shade and shelter, careful attention to their health and prompt Fences have various functions on rural properties treatment for sickness or injury. and are vital to the successful management of your property. The quality, location, and upkeep Be aware that horse keeping is also regulated of fencing is one of the most essential factors for by local councils and you will need permission good livestock and land management. You should to keep them on your property. consider the layout of fences, races and gates in a whole-of-property approach by developing a property plan (see the ‘Buying your property’ chapter for property planning information).

You can use fences for a range of purposes, including: • defining the boundaries of your property • grazing and stock management • protecting the environment (keeping stock out of native vegetation and away from watercourses or revegetated areas) • controlling pest animals • increasing property value • controlling erosion.

Rural living handbook | Property management | 31 Fence construction methods will depend on • Structures such as wombat gates and pipe what you are building the fence for and what type underpasses can help wildlife pass without of animals you intend to keep in or out. Electric damaging the fences. fences can be cost-effective, however they require regular inspection and maintenance and are not Livestock control near watercourses suitable for sheep. For fences to do their job properly, you need to maintain them, and keep gates shut. Stock should be excluded from watercourses If you intent to lock your property don’t forget that wherever possible to avoid extensive erosion, some service providers, such as the CFS, Telstra, SA land management and water quality issues. Power Networks etc., may require an access key. Stock should also be kept out of watercourses because they: Wildlife-friendly fences • eat, trample and destroy the vegetation that Fences are used not only for stock control, but protects banks from erosion also to protect vegetation and sensitive areas. • compact the soil, making plant growth difficult What can you do to make fences suitable for stock and more wildlife-friendly? • make tracks that cause erosion • stir up mud that can destroy aquatic habitat and • Use plain wires instead of ring lock or hinge joint. reduce water quality • If possible use white horse sighter wire on the • add excess nutrients with manure top strand and white caps on steel posts, or treated pine posts. • destroy native aquatic life. • Leave 300 mm between the top wire and It is best practice for stock to be watered by the next one down. This is important to avoid troughs placed in a firm and stable location. Stock kangaroos catching and trapping their legs should only be allowed access to the watercourse between the two top wires. for drinking as a last resort. If it’s absolutely • Don’t use barbed wire. If existing fences have necessary, access should be confined to a relatively barbed wire consider taking that wire out, flat and stable area. particularly the top strand. Restricting stock access to watercourses prevents • Keep fences at a moderate height erosion and degradation of the riparian (water’s (approximately 1.2 metres). edge) zone vegetation and protects water quality. • Keep the bottom wire 15 centimetres above Occasional grazing between September and March ground level. This will allow native animals may be an acceptable means of controlling weeds such as echidnas to pass underneath. and grasses. • Place electric wires at heights that will deter stock but allow native animals to pass through.

32 | Rural living handbook | Property management Declared weeds in and around watercourses need Farm safety to be controlled (as in the surrounding paddocks), however special care is required when using Rural properties can be dangerous places to herbicides near watercourses. Contact your local live and work. Potential hazards include vehicles, natural resources centre for advice (see the ‘Local tractors and attachments, motorcycles and information’ chapter). all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), working from heights and the potential for manual handling injuries. Flood-prone fencing designs Injuries to part-time farmers, or farmers on small Carefully consider the design of your fencing properties are a concern. Often these people do around waterways (i.e. in riparian zones). not have the necessary skills or equipment and In flood-prone areas, you should consider: can sustain injuries as a result. • designing paddocks to avoid fencing across Children are particularly at risk on farms because waterways of easy access to water/dams and vehicles, • placing fences above the floodplain and including motorbikes and tractors. floodprone areas • using temporary electric fencing instead of Preventing rural injuries permanent fencing There are legal requirements to ensure that a farm • minimising the use of vertical structures. In is a safe workplace – just as there are for all work flood-prone areas, plain wire fences tend to environments. Farms, too, are covered under the need less maintenance than ring lock or hinge Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000. Be aware joint structures as debris is less likely to catch that ordinary house and contents insurance does in them. not cover public liability or worker’s compensation, and farm employees must be registered with Dividing fences WorkCover.

The Fences Act 1975 sets out how the cost Rural injuries can be largely prevented by paying of a dividing fence is shared between adjoining attention to seven major risk areas. landowners where an owner wants to erect a dividing fence or wants work done on an 1. tractor and machinery safety existing dividing fence. The Act sets out 2. farm vehicle safety minimum requirements and owners may agree 3. farm motorcycle safety (including ATVs) to arrangements exceeding these requirements. 4. working from heights safely The Act also sets out the procedure to resolve 5. chemical safety disputes about the cost, type and position of a fence. 6. manual handling safety and strain injury prevention The Legal Services Commission of South Australia 7. farm animal handling. has produced useful information regarding fences (www.lawhandbook.sa.gov.au). It explains SafeWork SA has information on preventing landholders’ rights and responsibilities when dealing injuries on rural properties. See the Farmers’ with dividing fences. Contact the commission guidebook to work health and safety at to obtain a copy of this booklet (see the ‘Local www.safework.sa.gov.au. information’ chapter).

More information

Watercourse restoration, including fencing is a high priority in the AMLR region. Contact your local natural resources centre for more information about incentives available to landholders for watercourse restoration (see the ‘Local information’ chapter).

Rural living handbook | Property management | 33 Livestock on roads Rates

All rural landowners who own even just a few Council rates are based on the Valuer-General’s livestock must ensure that their roadside fences valuation of your property and on the rate per are kept in good condition. The owner of straying dollar set by the council when it finalises its annual livestock is liable for any damage caused by the budget. Tax and rate payments are not directly animals roaming at large. Stock owners should related to services that you may receive but rather ensure they have appropriate insurance cover to the needs of the local community as a whole. (public liability). Straying stock on public roads may be dealt with by council. The valuation process

Is your farm safe for kids? Under the Valuation of Land Act 1971 the State Valuation Office annually revalues all properties Farms are great places for kids when a safe in the state with the new values taking effect from environment has been created. You need to 1 July each year. Both site and capital values are identify the specific hazards and risks your farm determined. In essence the ‘site value’ is the value poses for children and visitors. Practice and of the land excluding structural improvements, teach safe behaviours, and reduce hazards while the ‘capital value’ is the value of the land and design for safety wherever possible. including improvements.

Key recommendations for child safety on farms The values determined for a property are used by include: rating authorities as a basis for the levying of rates • create a securely fenced house yard for children and taxes. Rating authorities may use either site to play or capital values. The rating authorities that use • develop safety rules that everyone knows property values are: and follows • SA Water (for water and sewerage rates) • confine children to the safe play area unless • Revenue SA (for land tax and emergency an adult can closely supervise them on the farm services levy) • wear seatbelts and restraints when in cars, utes • local councils (for council rates). and trucks • do not allow children to ride on tractors, ATVs How are property values determined? or in the back of utes Sales of all property types are analysed to • always wear helmets when riding bikes and horses determine market movements. This analysis • teach children to be ‘snake aware’. of sales happens throughout the year and occurs both for site values (land only) and capital values More information (improvements). Market movements can vary among different property types and locations. For further information and resources contact SafeWork SA (see the ‘Local information’ chapter). A property database, central to the valuation process, is kept for all properties within the state. This database includes information on land use

34 | Rural living handbook | Property management (e.g. residential, commercial, industrial) and the Many rural properties do not have permanent physical details of the land and improvements residents. They may be purchased as retreats for (e.g. building size, construction and condition). the owners to get away from the city and then left vacant for large portions of the year. This This information is updated regularly with changes raises potential management problems, including: identified from a range of sources, including development approval, information from councils, • weeds and pest animal and manual inspection programs by valuation • erosion field staff. • unchecked fences The property value is then calculated by comparing • failure of the effluent management system due the property data with that for similar properties to lack of use that have sold (adjustments being made for any • fuel build-up causing a potential bushfire hazard differences). Details of relevant property sales are available from the South Australian Integrated • straying stock Land Information System or visit www.sailis. • inadequate care of stock. sa.gov.au/home/public. These problems can affect neighbouring properties Natural resources management levy and cause land degradation and tension between neighbours. The local council may impose notices Everyone who lives and works in the region and fines on such properties. has an impact on the environment. As such, we all share a responsibility to take care of If you are an absentee landholder, to avoid these our precious soil, water, landscapes, marine problems, consider some of the following options: environments, native animals and plants and • visit your property on a regular basis ecosystems. Your contribution through the natural • make arrangements with farm contractors resources management (NRM) levy helps fund the or a farm manager to undertake maintenance vital work needed to care for and enhance these works on your behalf environmental assets. In the AMLR region, the NRM levy is charged to every rateable property. • negotiate with surrounding landholders to carry NRM levies also apply to landholders in other regions. out work on your property, perhaps in return for livestock agistment or other collaborative Councils collect the levy on behalf of your farming opportunities. regional NRM board (as required under the Natural Resources Management Act 2004), but act only More information as a revenue collector and do not retain any levy income. Contact your local council about absentee landholders’ issues (see the ‘Local information’ More information chapter).

Contact your local council for more information about your council rates and for more information Developing your property on NRM levies contact your local natural resources The rural landscape is facing development pressure centre (see the ‘Local information’ chapter). as the urban area encroaches. This pressure is affecting both urban and rural land. Rural land Absentee landholders is increasingly being used for purposes other than traditional farming, such as rural residential As a landholder you are responsible for ensuring developments, mining, intensive agriculture such that you don’t create environmental problems on as chicken farming, and even manufacturing. your land or the land of others. Conflicts can arise when land use changes.

People often take ownership of properties without a full understanding of what land management involves, over-extend themselves, and end up damaging the land and the environment.

Rural living handbook | Property management | 35 Council’s role in development Building consent can be obtained from the council or private certifier, whereas planning consent can Councils are mostly responsible for determining only be obtained from the council. land use zones, in consultation with government agencies and their communities. State government Development applications are required so that can influence land use zones through Ministerial council can assess your plans and information, Development Plan Amendments. While not inspect your property and determine whether your everyone might agree with the final outcome, proposal is appropriate. Remember – if you are in everyone has the opportunity to have their say. doubt, ask your local council, as questions asked There are rigorous procedures to evaluate land early may avoid delays later. before approval is given to change land use. Types of development When you purchase your rural block you should There are various forms of development that ask your local council a number of questions about require planning consent from the relevant the land uses of your block and those surrounding authority. These might range from complying it. These questions could include: development, non-compliant development, merit • Are any development applications current for development and exempt development. the nearby area? It is important that your local council correctly • Have other developments been approved but categorises the development, as applicants or third not started? parties can apply to the ERD Court for a review • Are there any restrictions on obtaining approval with respect to the nature of the development, to build a house or other buildings on your or a decision about public notice and consultation. block, or to develop certain desired land uses? • Do any heritage agreements, or other forms More information of covenants and easements apply to the land? Contact your local council (see the ‘Local information’ chapter) for further advice While you might have purchased a block of land about development on your property, or visit in a rural area, subdivision of adjacent land is www.saplanningportal.sa.gov.au. possible. Your outlook could change if subdivision is approved. Improving your knowledge Building Knowledge about sustainable land management Council assesses building and development proposals is growing rapidly. Getting up-to-date, accurate against development regulations, including the information will help you enjoy your land. Landcare Building Code of Australia. If you are preparing and producer groups provide a good way of a development application, contact your council building knowledge and sharing experience, to ensure that documentation meets its standards – and there are many quality publications available and for any other help. as well as online ‘how-to’ videos, webinars and social media platforms sharing knowledge. Development approval Your local natural resources centre runs regular All development, as defined by the Act and field days and workshops on a wide range of issues, Regulations (Section 4 of the Development including weed management, pasture management, Act 1993 and Schedule 2 of the Development animal management, pest management and many Regulations 2008), requires the lodgment of more. More extensive land management courses are also conducted for one evening per week an application to seek development approval for six to eight weeks. Topics covered during the from the relevant authority. courses include: Generally, a development must receive planning • soil management and building consent before development approval • native vegetation management will be granted. Applications for planning and building consent can be lodged concurrently or • land capability separately, but applications for building consent • property planning must be consistent with the planning consent. • weed identification and control

36 | Rural living handbook | Property management • pasture management Further reading • watercourse management A legal guide for South Australian primary • fire planning and prevention. producers, The Law Society of South Australia, 1999 Most of the events are free of charge, but the Direct seeding of trees and shrubs – a manual for courses attract a small fee. Australian conditions, Dalton, G. 1993, Primary Industries South Australia To keep up to date with events in your area, contact your local natural resources centre to Economic trees and shrubs for South Australia, be added to the calendar of events email list. Bonney, N. 1997, Greening Australia (South Australia) Inc The NRM levy and the Australian Government fund a quarterly technical newsletter called Small Farm tree planting, Heinjus, D. 1992, Department Talk. This excellent and free resource provides of Agriculture South Australia local and information on managing natural Hoofprints – a manual for horse property resources. Visit www.naturalresources.sa.gov. management, Foyel, J. 2001, Primary Industries au/adelaidemtloftyranges/subscribe or contact and Resources South Australia your local natural resources centre to subscribe. It’s blue with five petals – wildflowers of the Adelaide region, Prescott, A. 1994, Openbook Publishers Managing horses on small properties, Meyers, J. 2005, Landlinks Press Plants of the Adelaide Plains and Hills, Dashorst, G. & Jessop, J. 2006, The Board of the Botanic Gardens of Adelaide and State Herbarium Re-greening the Eastern Hills – direct revegetation guidelines, Miles, C. and Munday, B. 2009, Tungkillo Landcare Group Stock and waterways: a manager’s guide, 2006, Land and Water Australia Stop bushland weeds – a guide to successful Other training opportunities weeding in South Australia’s bushland, Robertson, M. TAFE SA conducts a range of rural studies courses. 2005, The Nature Conservation Society of South Topics currently include: Australia Inc • horticulture Weeds in Australia, Lamp, C. & Collet, F. 1996, Inkata Press • agriculture Weeds: the ute guide southern edition, Version • forestry. 2, Moerkerk, M., Wurst, M., & Yeatman, T. year Workers Educational Association SA may unknown, PIRSA Publishing Service hold courses and workshops relevant to rural What seed is that? A field guide to the identification, landholders (see the ‘Local information’ chapter). collection and germination of native seed in South Australia, Bonney, N. and Miles, A. year unknown, More information Finsbury Press Pty Ltd For more information about the region’s land management field days, workshops and courses visit www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/ adelaidemtloftyranges. Alternatively, contact your local natural resources centre (see the ‘Local information’ chapter). For more information about TAFE courses contact TAFE SA (see the ‘Local information’ chapter).

Rural living handbook | Property management | 37

4 | Local information

• Revegetation • Declared plants • Endangered fauna • Endangered flora • Local contacts • Local government contacts

Revegetation • select a range and ratio of species to represent the original vegetation association as closely If conserving biodiversity is one of your goals, as possible. it’s a good idea to focus on protecting existing Revegetating cleared land will stabilise the soil, remnant native vegetation and encouraging slow water runoff, attract animals and birds and natural regeneration before embarking on a increase the general health of your property. revegetation project (see the ‘Natural resources’ The result should be a more balanced ecosystem. chapter for further details). Well-designed revegetation projects will have biodiversity and Thick strips of native trees, usually five trees land management benefits. wide, and shrubs can provide shelter for stock; protection against drying winds; moderate When planning a replanting program, always temperature extremes; prevent nutrient runoff try to: from polluting streams; and provide effective • use seed that is sourced locally barriers against windblown weed seeds. • use plants that have been grown locally to ensure they acclimatise to local conditions

Rural living handbook | Local information | 39 Seedlings are often propagated in plastic sleeves and are then known as ‘tubestock’. Tubestock can be planted in difficult-to-access areas where seeds might struggle.

An alternative method of revegetation is direct seeding. A direct seeder pulled by a tractor or ute sows seeds in rows spaced about four metres apart. Locally collected seed can be used to re-create a natural looking planting. An advantage of direct seeding is that some seeds will remain dormant in the soil and success is therefore less dependent on adequate rainfall in the first season. Calomba Daisy is a declared plant Plants grown from seed are generally more robust than those planted as tubestock. Direct seeding Sale – Many declared plants must not be sold requires good vehicle access and is suited to larger at any outlet including nurseries, pet shops and revegetation projects. market stalls. Sale of any animal, soil, vehicle, Successful revegetation projects rely on sound machinery or produce contaminated with the planning, good weed control prior to planting, plant may also be illegal. and ongoing weed and pest management. Notification – The presence and locations Contact your local natural resources centre for of some declared plants on your land must be advice and support with planning and managing reported to the Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges your revegetation project so that the maximum Natural Resources Management Board. biodiversity and land management benefits are Control – As a landowner you are required to achieved. take action to destroy or control many declared A variety of local nurseries can supply local native plant species present on your property, regardless species for revegetation projects; some are listed of whether it is used as a business, residence or in the ‘Local information’ chapter. Contact your for other purposes. The board also controls certain local natural resources centre for a full list or visit declared plants on road reserves and can recover www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/ costs of control from adjoining landowners. adelaidemtloftyranges. Find out what provisions of the Act apply to each declared plant in your area by contacting your Declared plants local natural resources centre. Local staff are also available for over-the-phone or on-site weed Declared plants are significant weed threats control advice. to our state’s primary production industries, natural environments and public safety. As a landowner Declared plants found in the region you have a legal responsibility to manage declared plants on your property. Declared (and undeclared) plant policies are available on the Primary Industries and Plant species may be declared under various Regions SA (PIRSA) website, along with the sections of the Natural Resources Management complete list of declared plants. Note that Act 2004, relating to: this list is reviewed regularly and is subject to change. To see fact sheets that contain a full Movement – Some declared plants must not be description, images and control options for moved on a public road (e.g. as a cutting, seed these weeds visit the Natural Resources AMLR or potted specimen). Inadvertent movement website at www.naturalresources.sa.gov. of the plant on animals, soil, vehicles, machinery au/adelaidemtloftyranges. For all weed or produce may also be illegal. identification and control enquiries, contact your local natural resources centre (see the ‘Local information’ chapter).

40 | Rural living handbook | Local information Endangered fauna

The Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges region has a diverse range of native fauna. Some of these species are quite common while others are threatened as a result of the destruction of their habitat since European settlement.

The presence and interaction with native birds, mammals and other wildlife is often one of the main reasons people decide to live on rural properties. You can protect and enhance the habitat and food sources on your property to attract and maintain native animals.

The following table is an example of just one threatened fauna species in the Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges per class. For information on these species and more visit www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/ adelaidemtloftyranges. Southern Brown Bandicoot. Credit: Kirstin Abley

Endangered fauna in the region One example, per class, of endangered fauna in the region

Class Common name Scientific name Amphibian Brown Toadlet Pseudophryne bibronii Bird Orange-bellied Parrot Neophema chrysogaster Fish Climbing Galaxias Galaxias brevipinnis Mammal Southern Brown Bandicoot Isoodon obesulus obesulus Reptile Heath Goanna Varanus rosenbergi

Rural living handbook | Local information | 41 A Fleurieu Peninsula swamp near Deep Creek Conservation Park. Credit: Alys Stevens Endangered flora

All remnant native vegetation is protected from Four ecological communities that occur in the clearance under the Native Vegetation Act 1991. region are protected under this Act: There are exemptions for certain situations such • Fleurieu Peninsula swamps as for maintaining roadsides, fencelines, firebreaks and developments, but they are strict. • Peppermint Box grassy woodland • Iron-grass natural temperate woodland Under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, nationally threatened • Grey Box grassy woodlands and derived species and ecological communities are protected native grassland. from direct and indirect threats. More information

Further information about native flora and fauna in your area is available from your local natural resources centre. Alternatively, visit www.natural resources.sa.gov.au/adelaidemtloftyranges.

42 | Rural living handbook | Local information Local contacts

Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges Normanville Natural Resource Centre natural resources centres 3/50 Main Road, Normanville SA 5204 8558 3644 Eastwood www.nnrc.com.au 8273 9100 [email protected] Port Environment Centre 27 North Parade, Port Adelaide SA 5015 Gawler 0488 229 925 8115 4600 portenvironmentcentre.org.au [email protected] South Coast Environment Centre Black Hill 8336 0901 9/46 Ocean Street, Victor Harbor SA 5211 [email protected] 8552 9423 www.scecentre.com.au Willunga 8550 3400 Willunga Environment Centre [email protected] 15 High Street, Willunga SA 5172 8556 4188 www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/ www.willungaenviro.org.au adelaidemtloftyranges Country Fire Service (CFS) SA Murray-Darling Basin Natural Bushfire Information Hotline: 1800 362 361 Resources Centre Mount Lofty Ranges Headquarters: 8391 1866 Mount Barker www.cfs.sa.gov.au 8391 7500 www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/ Department of the Environment samurraydarlingbasin and Energy (Federal Government) 1800 803 772 Community-run natural resource centres www.environment.gov.au Adelaide Hills Natural Resource Centre 1 Crescent Drive, Norton Summit SA 5136 Department for Environment and Water 8390 1891 8204 1910 www.ahnrc.org www.environment.sa.gov.au

Adelaide Sustainability Centre SA Health 111 Franklin Street, Adelaide SA 5000 8226 6000 7123 2166 www.sahealth.sa.gov.au www.adelaidesustainabilitycentre.org.au

Barossa Bushgardens Natural Resource Centre Environment Protection Authority (EPA) 653 Research Road, Nuriootpa SA 5355 8204 2004 8563 8330 www.epa.sa.gov.au www.barossabushgardens.com.au HorseSA Gawler Environment Centre 0402 488 306 8 Adelaide Road, Gawler South SA 5718 www.horsesa.asn.au 8115 4620 www.nrcgawler.org.au Legal Services Commission

Mount Pleasant Natural Resource Centre 1300 366 424 www.lsc.sa.gov.au 132 Melrose Street, Mount Pleasant SA 5235 8568 1907 www.barossa.sa.gov.au

Rural living handbook | Local information | 43 Primary Industries and Regions SA Barossa Council (PIRSA) 8563 8444 8226 0995 [email protected] www.pir.sa.gov.au www.barossa.sa.gov.au

Royal Society for the Prevention City of Mitcham of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) 8372 8888 1300 477 722 [email protected] www.rspcasa.asn.au www.mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au City of Onkaparinga SA Water 8384 0666 1300 729 283 [email protected] www.sawater.com.au www.onkaparingacity.com

SafeWork SA City of Playford 1300 365 255 8256 0333 www.safework.sa.gov.au [email protected] www.playford.sa.gov.au State Flora Belair nursery: 8278 7777 City of Tea Tree Gully Murray Bridge nursery: 8539 2105 8397 7444 www.stateflora.sa.gov.au [email protected] www.teatreegully.sa.gov.au TAFE SA City of Victor Harbor 1800 882 661 8551 0500 www.tafesa.edu.au [email protected] Trees For Life www.victor.sa.gov.au

8406 0500 District Council of Yankalilla www.treesforlife.org.au 8558 0200 WEA [email protected] www.yankalilla.sa.gov.au 8223 1979 www.wea-sa.com.au Light Regional Council 8525 3200 Local government contacts [email protected] www.light.sa.gov.au Mount Barker District Council 8408 0400 8391 7200 [email protected] [email protected] www.ahc.sa.gov.au www.dcmtbarker.sa.gov.au Town of Gawler 8527 0200 8522 9211 [email protected] [email protected] www.apc.sa.gov.au www.gawler.sa.gov.au Alexandrina Council 8555 7000 [email protected] www.alexandrina.sa.gov.au

44 | Rural living handbook | Local information Acronyms

AMLR Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges ATV All-terrain vehicle CFS Country Fire Service DAP Development Assessment Panel DEW Department for Environment and Water DPA Development Plan Amendments EPA Environment Protection Authority ERD Court Environment, Resources and Development Court MHRDC Maximum harvestable right dam capacity MSDS Material safety data sheet NLIS National livestock identification service NRM Natural resources management PIRSA Primary Industries and Regions South Australia RSPCA Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals WAA Water affecting activities WAP Water allocation plan

Rural living handbook | Acronyms | 45 Becoming a rural resident – even a part-time one – can bring much enjoyment, but it also involves many responsibilities and inevitably raises many questions. Even the smallest rural blocks will provide a challenge if you have never encountered ‘declared weeds’, prepared for the bushfire season or managed farm animals.

The Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges Natural Resources Management Board has produced this handbook to inform you about the many resources available to landholders in this region – and to outline your responsibilities.

Keep this booklet as a handy reference. It provides useful information about: » buying your property » managing natural resources » managing a rural property » local information for the Adelaide Plains, Mount Lofty Ranges and Fleurieu Peninsula. www.naturalresources.sa.gov.au/ adelaidemtloftyranges

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