Threatened Species Strategy for Tasmania

DEPARTMENT of PRIMARY INDUSTRIES, WATER and ENVIRONMENT Threatened Species Strategy for Tasmania

Published by:

Threatened Species Unit Nature Conservation Branch Department of Primary Industries, Water and Environment 134 Macquarie Street Hobart, Tasmania, 7000

ISBN: 0 7246 6208 1

Citation: Threatened Species Strategy 2000 Nature Conservation Branch, Department of Primary Industries, Water and Environment

Apart from fair dealing for the purposes of private study, research, criticism or review as permitted under the Copyright Act, no part of this document may be reproduced by any means without the permission of the Manager, Threatened Species Unit.

Published November 2000 Reprinted 2003 Threatened Species Strategy for Tasmania strategy

Contents i Glossary ii Executive Summary 1 Why a Threatened Species Strategy? 2 Extinction is Forever 2 The Magnitude of the Problem 2 Causes of Endangerment 3 Legal Obligations 4 Making it Work 4 The Benefits 5 What This Strategy Does 6 Principal Aims of the Strategy 6 Guiding Principles for the Strategy 6 Threatened Species Management 6 The Key Threatening Processes Approach 6 The Priority Threatened Species Approach 7 Implementing the Strategy 7 The Key Threatening Processes 8 Threat Abatement Plans 9 Native Vegetation Clearance 10 Pests, Weeds and Diseases 11 Degredation of Water Systems 13 Inappropriate Use of Fire 14 Inappropriate or Illegal Harvesting 16 Impact of Stock 17 i Priority Threatened Species 18 Strategy for Tasmania Threatened Species Setting Species Priorities 18 Listing Statements 20 Critical Habitat 21 Recovery Plans 22 Land Management Plans and Agreements 22 Recognising Threatened Ecological Communities 23 Involving the Community 24 Community Education and Information 24 Community Involvement 25 Working With Land Owners, Land Managers and Industry 26 Social and Economic Factors 27 Research and Monitoring 28 Resourcing and Implementing the Strategy 29 Reviewing the Strategy 30 Tables Table 1 Number of Tasmanian Threatened Species listed in 1998 2 Table 2 Key Threatening Processes and Examples of Biota Most Affected 7 Table 3 Examples of approaches to threatened species conservation which will benefit more than one threatened species 20 Table 4 Examples of Species Identified By Priority Criteria 20 species

Glossary Agricultural Code of Sustainable Grazing Management: Code for the maintainance of natural systems and processes within agricultural grazing regimes. Biota: All of the species of plants and animals at a particular locality. Bycatch: The incidental catch of marine species that occurs while fishing for commercially harvested species. Critical habitat: The whole or any part of the habitat that is essential to the survival of a species of flora or fauna listed on the Threatened Species Protection Act 1995, which may require special management considerations or protection. Ecological community: An assemblage of native species that interact with each other and occupy a common geographical area in the wild. Endemic: Confined to a particular area, so that for example, a Tasmanian endemic species occurs naturally only in Tasmania. Extinct: Not located in the wild during the past 50 years and not in captivity or cultivation. Presumed extinct species are those that have not been found in recent years despite thorough searching. Ex situ: In cultivation for plants and in captivity for animals (rather than in the wild), including situations where species are translocated to areas where they would not normally occur. Fauna: Native animals, whether vertebrate or invertebrate, in any stage of biological development and includes eggs and any part of the animal. Flora: Native plants, whether vascular or non-vascular, in any stage of biological development and any part of plants. Habitat: The area, locality, site or particular type of environment, or any part of them, occupied or used by any flora or fauna. Integrated Catchment Management: The sustainable development of land, water, vegetation ii and other natural resources on a catchment basis to achieve agreed natural resource management objectives. Strategy for Tasmania Threatened Species Land: Includes land covered by the sea or other waters and any part of the sea or waters covering that land. Landholder: The owner, occupier, manager, or controller of land or water or someone acting on their behalf. Recovery plan: A plan made under section 25 of the Threatened Species Protection Act 1995, for any species of flora or fauna which is under threat of extinction. Species: A population or group of individual flora or fauna which interbreed to produce fertile offspring or which possess common characteristics derived from a common gene pool. Environmental Flows: Flows in river/stream situations required to maintain natural ecological processes. Strategy: Considered system or approach for resolving a situation. Taxon: A taxonomic group of any rank into which organisms are categorised. Threat abatement plan: A plan made and in force under section 27 of the Threatened Species Protection Act 1995. The threat abatement plan deals with any process which, in the opinion of the Director, is a threatening process. Threatened species: Flora or fauna that is listed in Schedule 3, 4 or 5 of the Threatened Species Protection Act 1995. That is, species or subspecies listed as extinct, endangered, vulnerable or rare. Threatening process: Any process which, if continued, would pose a threat to the natural survival of any species of native flora or fauna. strategy

Executive Summary be urgent, there may be a number of More than 600 species of plant and animal threatening processes at work or there may be are threatened in Tasmania. They are classified no particular process affecting the species but according to their level of threat as an action which can be simply addressed to endangered, vulnerable or rare in the conserve the species. schedules of the Threatened Species Protection As there are so many listed species, it is Act 1995. necessary to prioritise those in greatest need This Strategy has been developed to outline of action. The Strategy looks at methods for the approach to conserving Tasmania's prioritisation of individual threatened species. threatened species and has the following Factors considered may included the species’ aims: distinctiveness, its cultural significance, its reservation status or its level of endemism. ● To ensure that threatened species can survive and flourish in the wild; Seven primary mechanisms are addressed in the Strategy in order to integrate threatened ● To ensure that threatened species and species conservation across all sections of the their habitats retain their genetic Tasmanian community: diversity and potential for evolutionary development; 1. Community participation; ● Prevent further species becoming 2. Working with land owners, land managers threatened. and industry; 3. Consideration of social and economic factors; The Strategy takes two broad approaches towards these objectives: 4. Establishing an adequate knowledge base; 1. Addressing key threatening processes 5. Improving resources for implementing the strategy; 2. Addressing priority threatened species 6. A recognition of threatened ecological communities; There are many threatening processes which 7. Reviewing the Strategy. impact on Tasmania's native flora and fauna. In this Strategy six processes are identified as having the greatest impact and are considered A range of implementation actions has been in detail: developed to address each of these primary 1 ● mechanisms.

Clearance of native vegetation; Strategy for Tasmania Threatened Species ● Impacts of pests, weeds and diseases; This Strategy has been developed with the aim of involving all Tasmanians in the work of ● Degradation of water systems; conserving threatened species. To be ● Inappropriate use of fire; successfully implemented it needs the support, ● Inappropriate and illegal harvesting; understanding and participation of all parties. ● Impacts of stock. It is important that the needs of landholders are taken into account and that economic and Each of these processes is discussed, social impacts are fully understood by all sides. objectives are developed for addressing the Endorsement of this Strategy by the key process and a number of actions are stakeholders including Government will be a identified. The success of these actions in major step towards its successful mitigating each threatening process is implementation. measured with a range of performance The impetus for implementing this strategy indicators that are outlined for each process. must be driven by Government and its many Threat abatement plans are to be drawn up arms especially the Threatened Species Unit of for each threatening process. the Department of Primary Industries, Water Addressing threatening processes as opposed and Environment but must also include the to an individual species approach is not only support of key community groups, e.g. efficient but more cost effective as single Tasmanian Farmers and Graziers Aassociation actions may help the conservation of several and Tasmanian Conservation Trust. The species. mechanism for implementation will be through an Implementation Plan to be Despite identifying, developing and developed by the Threatened Species Unit implementing threat abatement plans, there which contains a budget linked to timeframe. will continue to be a need to address individual threatened species. The need may species

Why A Threatened species becoming threatened are still Species Strategy? operating and action is urgently needed to manage them. Extinction is Forever Table 1: Number of Tasmanian threatened species The current global rate of extinction of listed in 1999 plant and animal species has no historical precedent and is disturbingly high, Group Extinct Endangered Vulnerable Rare Totals considerably greater than the rate of Broadleaved plants 22 30 47 187 286 extinctions that would occur naturally. Conifers 0 0 1 1 2 Within the last 200 years, Australia has seen Ferns 1 1 6 11 19 a wave of plant and animal extinctions. So Grasses, sedges, lilies 6 5 5 144 160 great is the human impact since European settlement that 50% of the known mammal Lichens 1 0 1 2 4 extinctions worldwide since then have Mammals 1 3 1 2 7 occurred in Australia. Tasmania is not Birds 4 5 11 6 26 untouched. The Tasmanian thylacine, once Reptiles 0 1 5 0 6 the largest carnivorous marsupial in the Amphibians 0 0 1 0 1 world, became extinct through Fish 0 3 5 5 13 overhunting, as did the Tasmanian dwarf Invertebrates 6 10 19 83 118 emu and King Island emu. The Macquarie Island parakeet and and Macquarie Island Totals 41 58 102 441 642 rail became extinct mainly through the predation by feral cats introduced to the island. A significant number of plant Many ecological communities such as extinctions have also occurred in Tasmania grassland and dry forests have declined mainly through land development which significantly since European settlement. Some resulted in the loss of habitat. Plants extinct communities have been reduced to small in the wild in Tasmania include the giant remnants while others are highly restricted in New Holland daisy, the brown guinea- distribution due to particular conditions such flower, the black bristle-rush and the coast as an unusual rock or soil type. Such highly 2 banksia. In total, 41 plant and animal localised ecological communities are in a species are recorded as having become precarious position and are easily destroyed if disturbed. Loss of ecological communities Strategy for Tasmania Threatened Species extinct in Tasmania in the last 200 years. may include loss of species specially adapted Government and community attitudes to these habitats or situations. This may toward nature conservation have changed include some species which have not yet been dramatically since European settlement. described, particularly invertebrates and non- The days of bounties for the destruction of vascular plants. thylacines and wedge-tailed eagles are now no longer acceptable. Government policy Threatened species are classified into 3 levels is now reflecting that change. in Tasmania to reflect their risk of extinction. These are: Endangered: taxa in danger of extinction The Magnitude of the Problem because long-term survival is unlikely while The magnitude of the problem in the factors causing them to be endangered Tasmania is highlighted by the listing on continue. Also includes species presumed the Threatened Species Protection Act 1995 extinct since European settlement. of some 600 species of plant and animal Vulnerable: taxa likely to become recognised as being threatened. The status endangered while factors causing them to be of thousands of other native species vulnerable continue. remains unknown. The number of Rare: taxa with small populations in Tasmania threatened species may well increase as that are not endangered or vulnerable but are knowledge of our flora and fauna improves, at risk. especially of non-vascular plants and marine species which are at present poorly described and understood. Some species already at risk may not be currently listed. Most of the processes which have led to strategy

Weed invasion and changes to fire regimes may increase plant competition and prevent regeneration, increasing the threat of extinction for species such as South Esk pine (Callitris sp. aff. oblonga), which is already at risk because of habitat clearance. Tasmania’s animals are similarly threatened by habitat clearance and degradation. Many of Tasmania’s threatened vertebrates are birds. Sea birds like albatross (Diomedea sp.) are threatened by inappropriate fishing practices, Tasmanian Thylacine destruction of nesting sites and predation by introduced pests. Forest birds such as the Causes of Endangerment forty-spotted pardalote (Pardalotus Human actions represent the greatest threat quadragintus) and swift parrot (Lathamus to plant and animal survival and habitat. discolor) are threatened by loss of specific tree These include activities such as land clearing types. Freshwater fish are an extremely and development, inappropriate grazing or endangered animal group in Tasmania and fishing, and individual recreational activities include the endemic Pedder galaxias (Galaxias such as four wheel driving and even pedderensis), which is close to extinction bushwalking. Human modification of natural following the flooding of Lake Pedder in the processes such as the fire and flooding cycles 1970s. or drainage patterns also affect species Invertebrates are a less well known group of populations. When these actions threaten a animals but still feature prominently in the list species, they can be described as threatening of threatened species. Best known is the giant processes. Threatened species cannot be freshwater crayfish (Astacopsis gouldi) which adequately dealt with unless the process that has been threatened by fishing and has led to them becoming threatened is modification to stream vegetation and water recognised and addressed. It is this quality. Velvet worms, stag beetles and other connection that holds the key to conserving ground dwelling insects rely on fallen logs, Tasmania’s threatened species. leaf litter and understorey species for survival. 3 Loss of this habitat through too frequent

burning, grazing, clearing or logging Strategy for Tasmania Threatened Species threatens these species. Common threats to many of Tasmania’s listed species can be readily identified. By addressing these threats across the State, the conservation of many species can be achieved in an efficient and cost effective manner. However, it is clear that some species listed as vulnerable or endangered are in need of immediate and individual attention if imminent extinction is to be avoided.

Tunbridge buttercup

In Tasmania threats to plant species are greatest in settled agricultural districts, especially the Midlands and eastern Tasmania. Here many native grasslands and grassy woodlands have been cleared, reducing available habitat for species such as the Tunbridge buttercup (Ranunculus prasinus) and eastern-barred bandicoot (Perameles gunnii). In heathlands and dry sclerophyll forests, the introduced plant pathogen Phytophthora cinnamomi is threatening many species, such as the heath Epacris barbata. Pedder Galaxias species

Legal Obligations, State, National making of land management plans, recovery and International Links plans and threat abatement plans, public authority management agreements and for Governments around the world recognise the issuing of permits, etc. The Act has effect the problem of threatened species as being over all land tenures in Tasmania. of global importance. To address it, international conventions have been The Act also requires the preparation of a established that place obligations and Threatened Species Strategy. The strategy is responsibilities on member nations. These to include proposals for: include the International Biodiversity (a) ensuring the survival and conditions for Convention, the Convention on the evolutionary development in the wild, of International Trade in Endangered Species threatened native flora and fauna; (CITES), The Convention on Wetlands of (b) ensuring the identification and proper International Importance (Ramsar), Japan- management of threatening processes; Australia Migratory Bird Agreement (c) education of the community in respect (JAMBA) and China-Australia Migratory Bird to conservation and management of Agreement (CAMBA). As a party to these threatened native flora and fauna; and conventions, the Commonwealth (d) ensuring the availability of resources to government and through it, the States, achieve the objectives of conservation territories and the community have and management of threatened native accepted the international responsibility to flora and fauna. conserve Australia’s biological diversity. Through the conventions, we not only recognise our duty to protect our own The Strategy is also to consider: biological diversity as a component of the • achieving its objectives with minimal global biological heritage but also our social and economic impact; and responsibility to conserve the species that • the rights and interests of landholders migrate seasonally to Australia therefore and the community. equally form part of the biological heritage of other nations. To connect protection of threatened species The Commonwealth and Tasmanian with wider land management requirements, 4 governments have adopted a cooperative the objectives of the threatened species approach to conserving threatened species. protection system established by the Strategy for Tasmania Threatened Species A range of inter-governmental agreements Threatened Species Protection Act 1995 are in such as the Intergovernmental Agreement support of the Resource Management and on the Environment, National Strategy for Planning System of Tasmania and its Conservation of Australian Species and sustainable development objectives. Ecological Communities Threatened with The Threatened Species Strategy for Extinction, and The National Strategy for Tasmania will be an important component of the Conservation of Australia’s Biological the proposed Tasmanian Biodiversity Strategy Diversity identify the responsibilities of and will ensure that a biodiversity approach Tasmania and the Commonwealth and will be taken towards threatened species means of implementing the strategies. conservation management. To be successfully Programs such as the Natural Heritage implemented the strategy must be adopted Trust and the Regional Forest Agreement by all other State instrumentalities in their are national initiatives which include policies, e.g. Forestry Tasmania, HEC, substantial provision for the conservation of Department of Transport, etc. threatened species. The Tasmanian government has further provided for the conservation of threatened Making It Work species and management of threatening The Threatened Species Strategy applies processes through the provisions of the throughout Tasmania and covers the Threatened Species Protection Act 1995. In Tasmanian landmass, offshore islands and addition to a range of voluntary State waters. Responsibility for conservation mechanisms and options, the Act provides of threatened species and their habitats rests for a number of formal instruments to with everyone in the community. Threatened conserve threatened species. These include species occur throughout the landscape on the identification of critical habitat, private land, in the forest estate, on Crown imposing of interim protection orders, the lands and in reserves in Tasmania and strategy throughout the marine environment. be identified and jointly resolved to provide Threatening processes include activities understanding and lasting, successful undertaken directly or on behalf of all of us by outcomes. Everyone should have the governments, industry, landholders and the opportunity to be involved. general community. Some practices and activities may not yet be widely understood as The Benefits threatening processes and a problem for threatened species conservation. Threatened species conservation provides a range of benefits and opportunities such as a competitive edge in marketing or solutions to broader land management problems. How well we deal with our environment, including threatened species, will have repercussions for Tasmania’s “clean, green” image and is fundamental to ecologically sustainable development. The challenge to all Tasmanians is to ensure that while we meet our material needs, basic ecological and evolutionary processes are protected and we do not jeopardise the survival of our fascinating and unique wildlife.

Grassy woodland and sandstone land clearance

The government alone cannot conserve threatened species. Success relies on the managers and users of the land on which threatened species occur also being involved. The Tasmanian government recognises that protecting threatened species can coexist with other appropriate resource management and 5 uses. To be successful and ensure ongoing support, the cooperation and involvement of Strategy for Tasmania Threatened Species landholders, industry and the general Swift parrot community is critical in managing for the conservation of threatened species, and in successfully reducing the numbers facing extinction. Together, all Tasmanians have a Benefits of Protecting role to play and a duty of care to halt and Threatened Species reverse the negative trends that have taken 1. The Web of Life. All species are place over the past 200 years. fundamental parts of systems which provide Along with threatened species conservation, the basics of life, including the oxygen we social and economic issues related to the use breath, the water we drink, generation and of their habitat are also significant issues for maintenance of topsoil and pollination of the future prosperity of Tasmania. Threatened crops. The accelerated loss of species species conservation needs to be integrated indicates fundamental problems with our with social and economic concerns to provide life support systems. We need to maintain long term benefits and security for all. The the ability of our life support systems to challenges of threatened species conservation respond to change. and management are faced by the whole 2. Intrinsic values. The intrinsic right of community. The rights and interests of threatened species to exist and their landholders and the community need to be aesthetic and symbolic values are respected recognised in resolving threatened species by many Tasmanians who wish to preserve issues by reconciling land management our unique plants, animals and ecosystems. objectives with conservation goals. Integration of the objectives for conserving threatened species with planning procedures is important. Threatened species issues can species

3. Economy. The economic benefits of our agreements and legislated responsibilities to native species and some of our conserve threatened species. threatened species are increasingly being • By addressing the causes we can prevent recognised. They are an essential many species becoming threatened resource for developing biological • Certainty is provided by the Strategy to control of pests and diseases and provide ensure that both the public and private a tourist attraction. sectors can plan, invest and make 4. Genetic diversity. Advances in decisions for the future of Tasmania. biotechnology depend heavily on • The challenges of conserving threatened genetic diversity, for example, the species are shared equitably by the development of crop species resistant to community. disease. Any loss of genetic diversity in • Conservation of threatened species is species over time may mean an inability best achieved by managing their habitat to evolve in changing environments and and the processes that threaten them. conditions, for example caused by climate change or disease outbreaks. • Actions to conserve threatened species should be based on the best available 5. International and national reputation knowledge. and cooperation. Tasmania benefits from meeting its international and • Threatened species conservation will best national responsibilities. The result is a be achieved through a cooperative and respect of our environmental credentials, voluntary approach with regulation and greater cooperation from other States compulsion invoked only where and the ability to sell Tasmania as “clean necessary. and green.” These are achievements of which we can be proud. Threatened Species Management The Strategy develops two approaches for What This Strategy Does cost effective action to conserve threatened species in Tasmania. These approaches are Principal Aims of the Strategy supported by the provisions of the Threatened The aims of the Tasmanian Threatened Species Protection Act 1995 which gives 6 Species Strategy are derived from and are direction on species recovery plans, threat consistent with the objectives of the abatement plans, land management plans and Strategy for Tasmania Threatened Species Australian National Strategy for the agreements and public authority management Conservation of Australian Species and agreements. The approaches address: Communities Threatened With Extinction • key threatening processes; and which has been endorsed by the Tasmanian • priority threatened species. and Commonwealth governments. This provides for continuity and cooperation in The Key Threatening Processes Approach approach between state and national threatened species management programs. Threatening processes are the cause of the The aims are to: decline and the endangerment of most of the species listed on the schedules of the 1. Ensure that threatened species can Threatened Species Protection Act 1995. survive and flourish in the wild. Threatened species themselves can be seen as 2. Ensure that threatened species in their the symptoms or products of threatening habitats retain their genetic diversity and processes in action. The relationship between potential for evolutionary development. threatening processes and threatened species 3. Prevent further species from becoming is clearly recognised and ameliorating these threatened. impacts is central to the delivery of this Threatened Species Strategy. Guiding Principles for the Strategy It is unrealistic to expect that protection and • We all embrace a duty of care for the recovery of every species listed in the Act can protection of Tasmania’s threatened be achieved by taking a species by species species and ecological communities. approach. The most efficient and cost effective way to manage most of the state’s • We all share an obligation to meet threatened species is to address the generic state, national and international processes that threaten them and their strategy

habitats. Threat abatement plans will be community consultation. For example, prepared for the key threatening processes Government policy to control the identified in this Strategy. indiscriminant clearance of native vegetation.

Key Threatening Examples of Biota Most Affected The Priority Threatened Species Approach Processes Notwithstanding the need to address threatening processes, there will also be a Native Vegetation Grassland and grassy woodland need to focus on individual taxa of threatened Clearance species, hollow-nesting birds, wedge-tailed eagle species because of the urgency of their problems. Many of the threat abatement programs may take decades to be effective Pests, Weeds Species of riparian, lowland open and, in many instances, individual species and Diseases forest and heathland communities, cannot wait that long. Immediate remedial burrowing petrels, freshwater fish action is required. Recovery programs and management plans will focus specifically on Degradation of Aquatic invertebrates, cave fauna, these species and their particular threats at the Water Systems burrowing crayfish, wetland and local level. riverine species Making the best and most effective use of Inappropriate use Log dwelling fauna, litter and limited resources is a high priority and creates of Fire bark invertebrates, New Holland a need to prioritise those species most in need mouse, some heathland species, of attention. It may not always be that the South Esk pine species which are classified as endangered are given highest priority. There may be other Inappropriate and Seabirds and marine species, imperatives such as the immediate level of Illegal harvesting freshwater crayfish, stag beetles threat, national status, species endemic to Impact of Stock Orchids, palatable herbs, Tasmania, and genetic significance which riparian flora need to be considered. In some situations it may be more effective Table 2: Key Threatening Processes and Examples of to address several species in one recovery Biota Most Affected program, like burrowing crayfish or cave fauna, or to use catchment or regional 7 approaches such as a Macquarie Island Prioritising threatening processes for program. Strategy for Tasmania Threatened Species management is based on the number of threatened species affected and their status. Addressing the following threatening Implementing the Strategy processes is identified as the key to conserving Seven primary issues will be addressed in the majority of threatened species and implementing the Strategy to facilitate the preventing further threats to Tasmania’s integration of threatened species conservation biological diversity. across the Tasmanian community. The Recovery of threatened species can be an Strategy will only be successful if it has the expensive and long term process and one support of landholders and the community which is often reactive to immediate and if people have the knowledge and problems. The concept that ‘prevention is capacity to act. better than cure’ is one which typifies good 1. Community participation by: management and a responsible approach. A • providing information to community key element of this Strategy is not only to groups and individuals; protect and restore threatened species in the • involving community groups, land immediate future but also, by addressing managers and individuals in threatening processes, minimise further nominating, planning, implementing additions to the threatened species list. and monitoring; and Threat Abatement Plans can be developed • encouraging access to the Community focussing on generic threats, however, this Review Committee, established under may not always necessarily be the best the Threatened Species Protection Act approach in dealing with a threatening 1995. processes. Sometimes threats may more effectively be dealt with through Government policy, legislation or by responding to species

2. Working with resource managers and • determining priorities for the industry by: protection of threatened ecological • education and provision of communities. information; and 7. Reviewing the Strategy by: • integrating threatened species • monitoring implementation of the conservation with State Strategy and programs developed Government, local government and under it; and industry planning processes and • reporting on the progress of the land management practices. Strategy. 3. Considering social and economic factors by: The Key Threatening Processes • including landholders, community and industry concerns in planning A threatening process is defined in the processes; Threatened Species Protection Act 1995 as any • establishing joint agreements and action which poses a threat to the natural cooperative mechanisms between survival of any native taxon of flora or fauna. key stakeholders; and These actions can influence the survival of • ensuring the challenges of species in the short or long term and can conserving threatened species are operate as a single threat or, more often, as jointly shared by landholders, part of a range of threats. Because we know community and government. that threatening processes place individuals 4. Establishing an adequate knowledge and populations at risk, it is clear that, base by: unchecked, they will inevitably cause the extinction of species. • Reviewing the status of threatened species; Threatening processes adversely impact on species either directly, for example by • establishing baseline data for predation, or by rendering their habitat or monitoring and assessment; ecological community unsuitable for their • investigating gaps in knowledge survival. Often multiple processes act that will assist in the management together and may not be restricted to a single 8 of threatened species and ecological community or habitat. Threatening threatening processes; and processes can operate throughout the Strategy for Tasmania Threatened Species • undertaking appropriate research landscape irrespective of ecosystem type, land and investigation. tenure or jurisdictional boundaries. Many 5. Improving resources by: species suffer under the impact of the same • maximising opportunities for threatening processes and often in the same government funding to be directed location. It is therefore a strategic advantage to improving threatened species to deal with the overriding threatening management; process rather than attempt management on • encouraging threatened species a species by species basis. By identifying and management programs in addressing these threats at the strategic level government agencies, industry and we can not only achieve greater security for the community; and our most threatened species but adopt good management policies which protect all our • developing sponsorship, donations flora and fauna. to the Threatened Species Trust Fund, and funding partnerships with the community, industry, tourism operators and Commonwealth government. 6. Recognising threatened ecological communities by: • defining and identifying threatened ecological communities; • implementing legislative changes; and

Heathland clearance for housing strategy

The key threatening processes acting in the infestation displacing populations of native Tasmanian landscape, and dealt with in this plants. The most significant threatening Strategy, are: processes are identified in this strategy and, by • native vegetation clearance; addressing these threats in threat abatement • pests, weeds and diseases; plans, several species may be conserved with single actions. • degradation of water systems; Threat abatement plans should recognise • inappropriate use of fire; approved processes such as the Forest • bycatch and illegal harvesting; and Practices System and Regional Forest • impact of stock. Agreement. Managing significant threats to native flora The “greenhouse effect” is also a key and fauna in accordance with this strategy will threatening process which impacts on species help species listed as threatened and help at risk as well as all nature conservation prevent other species being added to the lists. values. For example, some threatened alpine species may be at risk from global warming. Objectives Tasmania will follow national guidelines for The objectives of preparing threat abatement greenhouse emissions to the levels agreed at plans are to: the Kyoto Summit and other national initiatives devised to enhance our response to • lessen the impact of threatening global warming. processes on threatened species; and Development and implementation of the • as far as possible, provide protection to a actions listed below will help to ameliorate number of threatened species in one these threats and improve the long term program. future of many of Tasmania’s threatened Actions species. 1. Prepare a threat abatement plan for each of These threats identified are a representative the key threatening processes identified in list but not exhaustive. There is always a need this strategy. to be aware of the potential for new 2. Identify and monitor other threatening threatening processes to occur at any time. processes and prepare a threat abatement Invasion of the European fox, for example, is plan for any which require it. Where species 9 potentially a devasting threat to Tasmania’s or communities extend beyond Tasmania, native fauna. by agreement, work with relevant Strategy for Tasmania Threatened Species governments. 3. In the threat abatement plan identify, among other things: • the threatened species to benefit from the plan; • the characteristics of the threatening process; • the objectives of threat abatement; • any research needs; • actions required; • resources required; and • performance indicators Woodland clearance, Spring Hill Performance Indicators • Threat abatement plans for key Threat Abatement Plans threatening processes are in place. Threatening processes which impact on a • The impacts of threatening processes on range of species and ecosystems may be species are decreasing. managed under a threat abatement plan. This is an effective way to conserve numbers of threatened species which share a common threat. The plan outlines clearly the steps needed to address the threats which may act upon a whole range of species, e.g. weed species

occurred in the past. This is a valid approach where there is insufficient intact habitat for the survival of a species, but it is not a substitute for controlling clearing. Restoration is slow, costly, and less assured of success than conserving and managing intact habitat. Through the Regional Forest Agreement, Tasmania has committed itself to maintain identified forest communities at or above identified minimum levels in the native forest estate and the Natural Heritage Trust Partnership agreement commits the State to Grassland restoration conserving threatened species and communities. Native Vegetation Clearance Across Australia and indeed around the Objectives world, the rapid loss or degradation of native vegetation is acknowledged as the The objectives for controlling clearance of single biggest threat to the conservation of native vegetation are to: biodiversity and hence the most significant • protect listed species and their habitats factor causing species to be threatened threatened by clearance; with extinction. At the international level, • retain critical habitat of any threatened the Australian Government has committed species; itself to reducing land clearance. Nationally, • ensure more species do not become the Commonwealth and all states and threatened; and territories have agreed, through the • improve processes used for managing Intergovernmental Agreement on the threatened species in native vegation. Environment, the National Biodiversity Actions Strategy and the National Strategy for Ecologically Sustainable Development, to 1. Develop, in conjunction with other state tackle this pressing issue. instrumentalities which have an interest in 10 While the total area cleared may be land use regulation, a policy on the greater in other states, the clearance of retention and management of native Strategy for Tasmania Threatened Species native vegetation continues today in vegetation which: Tasmania at a significant level. Clearance • includes incentives to maintain native takes place for commercial forestry, vegetation cover and quality; agriculture, industrial development, mining, • determines the limits to clearing and residential expansion and even activities like the conditions under which clearing firewood collection, and can target can proceed; extensive native forests, grassland and • requires the retention of critical woodland, riverine scrub or remnant habitat; vegetation bordering existing cleared land. • restricts clearing of remnant, The need to put in place effective unreserved and poorly reserved native measures to retain and manage native vegetation types; and vegetation is urgent. Tasmania has • limits clearance of native vegetation to committed itself to such measures in both a level which is consistent with the Regional Forest Agreement and the ecologically sustainable development. Natural Heritage Trust Partnership 2. Monitor the rate and distribution of native Agreement. Some local governments have vegetation clearance across Tasmania and established comprehensive controls on publish the results of this monitoring every vegetation clearance in specific contexts. It five years, pursuant to the State of the is hoped that approaches can be adopted Environment reporting process. which would lead to the reversal across the entire landscape, of the longterm decline in the extent and quality of native vegetation. Many landholders and community groups are now undertaking restoration of cleared habitat in response to the clearing that has strategy

3. Educate landholders about the values of (Prasophyllum tunbridgense), Lemon beauty native vegetation areas for threatened heads (Calocephalus citreus), blue devil species conservation and promote the (Eryngium ovinum), roadside wallaby grass values of maintaining undisturbed (Danthonia popinensis), native soybean (Glycine vegetation cover for threatened species, latrobeana) and native peppercress (Lepidium including duty of care principles. hyssopifolium). 4 Develop and implement community In order to save these plants, their habitats involvement programs to encourage the must not be cleared or degraded by fertilising retention and restoration of native and ploughing or other threatening processes. vegetation such as: Appropriate management will ensure the • nature conservation covenants; necessary conditions for the species to • stewardship and management reproduce and persist in the remnant habitats. agreements; and Once the most important habitats for • voluntary off-reserve conservation threatened species are identified, land programs such as ‘Land for Wildlife’ management plans and agreements can be negotiated with landholders for the retention 5. Encourage local government to develop and sustainable management of the habitat. and implement programs for the protection Fencing and day to day management regimes and retention of native vegetation. that provide the opportunities for 6. Regularly monitor and review land reproduction of each species will help. management practices and codes to ensure Success will mean populations of threatened that the mechanisms to protect threatened species flourish in protected and well species from land clearing are effective and managed habitats. being complied with. This could extend to a range of activities, for example firewood collection. Performance indicators • Identified critical habitats retained intact. • A draft policy on native vegetation retention and management is prepared as soon as practical. 11 • There is a decline in the overall rate of native vegetation clearance. Strategy for Tasmania Threatened Species • There is a reduction in the number of species listed because of native vegetation clearance. Tunbridge leek orchid • Species threatened by native vegetation clearance are no longer declining. Pests, Weeds and Diseases Native Vegetation Clearance and Pests, weeds and diseases impact on nearly Threatened Species all native plants and animals but are The grasslands, grassy woodlands and forests particularly harmful to species already at risk. that were once relatively widespread in the For example the soil borne fungus Midlands have suffered the greatest degree of Phytophthora cinnamomi is now spread clearance of any vegetation type in Tasmania. throughout lowland parts of the State Due to habitat clearance many of the species weakening and killing many plants commonly that are confined to these grassy ecosystems found in heath, buttongrass sedgeland, dry have become severely threatened. The sclerophyll woodland and low scrub. Over 15 remaining habitat often occurs in small threatened species including six Tasmanian patches which remain under threat of endemics are under immediate threat from clearance or severe degradation. Some plant the root rot fungus and a further 24 species threatened by the clearance of grassy threatened species, as well as some ecosystems are the bush pea (Pultenaea agricultural crops, are known to be prostrata), Tunbridge leek orchid susceptible. species

Aquatic weeds such as willow (Salix sp), 10. Integrate the conservation of threatened and Canadian pondweed (Elodea species into the regional weed canadiensis) alter stream flows and the management strategies and the State floristic composition of riparian and weed control strategies. wetland communities. Japanese brown Performance indicators kelp (Undaria pinnatifida), introduced via • Pests, weeds and diseases that threaten ballast water, and rice grass (Spartina species and communities are identified anglica), introduced to help stabilise and prioritised. mudflats and maintain shipping channels, have the potential to spread to suitable • Successful control measures for priority habitats around the coastline, displacing pests, weeds and diseases are being and threatening native species. The implemented. introduced northern Pacific seastar (Asterias • Effective quarantine measures are in amurensis) is affecting the marine habitat of place. the Derwent River and is thought to be a • Effective systems are in place to respond major cause of endangerment to the to any outbreak of a new pest, weed or unique Tasmanian spotted handfish. disease. • No new pests, weeds or diseases are Objectives identified in the Tasmanian ecosystem. The objectives for managing pests, weeds • Species threatened by pests, weeds or and diseases are to: diseases are recovering. • control or eradicate pests, weeds and diseases; Phytophthora cinnamomi and • protect threatened species susceptible Threatened Species to them; and Epacris limbata is a small endemic heath • prevent the entry and outbreak of species that was discovered in the mid 1980s new pests, weeds and diseases. and is yet to acquire a common name. It is Actions only found between the southern end of the Douglas Apsley National Park and Hardings 1. Identify and prioritise the threats from Falls, where it forms small isolated 12 pests, weeds and diseases. populations. The introduced root rot fungus 2. Assist development of and implement Phytophthora cinnamomi is among the greatest Strategy for Tasmania Threatened Species the national threat abatement plan for threats to this species, which is listed as Phytophthora cinnamomi. vulnerable. Once root rot fungus infects a 3. Develop and implement integrated population it cannot be removed and may weed control techniques for major eventually kill the entire population. weed problems threatening species. To maintain this species in the wild, actions 4. Support the preparation of national need to be concentrated on those populations threat abatement plans for feral goats that can be most successfully protected. In and feral cats and adopt policies to these areas, the aim is to prevent the manage these and other feral fauna introduction of root rot fungus to the which impact on threatened species. populations or contain its spread where it 5. Prepare an emergency plan to deal with already exists. any introduction of foxes into In some cases, closing roads or tracks and Tasmania. applying hygiene prescriptions on the 6. Promote responsible management and maintenance and use of those that remain control of domestic pets and livestock. open will help. Use of some areas may also 7. Review quarantine measures to prevent be curtailed by discouraging entry or legally further introductions of exotic flora and restricting access. This most suits remote fauna particularly to offshore islands populations such as one occurring in the and the sub-Antarctic. Douglas Apsley National Park. Strict fire 8. Manage exotic species in accordance fighting prescriptions will also maintain a level with threatened species recovery plans of protection from root rot fungus while and threat abatement plans. providing for practical fire protection. These may include excluding machinery and fire 9. Prevent rabbits reaching offshore vehicles and establishing adjacent low fuel islands currently rabbit free. areas as a focus for fire suppression. strategy operations. Experiments aimed at reducing near extinction. An eradication program for the mortality of plants through application of these three pests would not only conserve the the fungicide phosphite have begun where status of the burrowing petrels but lead to populations are already succumbing to root complete restoration of the island’s biota, a rot fungus. feature for which Macquarie is universally Ultimately, management success will be recognised. indicated by prevention or containment of infection by root rot fungus, reduction in Degradation of Water Systems mortality and regeneration. Activities such as mining, wood production, agriculture, subdivision, roading, damming, landfill and irrigation all potentially impact on water channels, wetlands, and hydrological processes. These processes influence the quality, quantity, and availability of habitat within or surrounding the water body and may cause resident species to decline or become locally extinct. The loss of the soil profile and the vegetation it supports can result in increased run-off, siltation and turbidity of adjacent water bodies, and ‘downstream’ threats to aquatic and marine flora and fauna. Some species and habitats, Grass with Phytophthora cinnamomi symptoms for example caves, are highly sensitive to changes in water quality and flow. Maintaining the integrity of the water Pests and Threatened Species catchment, including its riparian vegetation, is At least 19 exotic species ranging from the imperative. There are currently 14 species of weka, or flightless Maori hen, to horses and freshwater plants, 76 species of freshwater donkeys have been introduced to Macquarie fauna, 12 cave species, and over 30 riparian Island since its discovery in 1810. Today the plant species listed on the Threatened Species rabbit, deliberately introduced as a food Protection Act 1995. In addition, Tasmania 13 source, the feral cat and the black rat are contains 10 of Australia’s 49 wetlands having a catastrophic impact on Macquarie’s identified as being of international significance Strategy for Tasmania Threatened Species unique bird life. Individually (via predation) (Ramsar sites), but only six are securely and in combination (overgrazing leading to reserved for conservation purposes. Currently predation) these three pests have caused the there are no freshwater riverine reserves extinction of the Macquarie Island rail and specifically to protect freshwater species. This Macquarie Island parakeet and have led to the represents a significant ommission in the listing of six species of burrowing petrel. Tasmanian reserve system, particularly as so Every species of petrel has seriously declined many of our native fish and aquatic species in number with the blue petrel, white-headed are threatened. petrel and fairy prion now listed as vulnerable and the Antarctic tern listed as endangered Objectives The objectives for water systems are to: • protect threatened species from damaging levels of pollution and habitat disturbances to water systems; • maintain the ecological health of waterways by land management practices; • maintain or restore natural water systems and hydrological processes; and • establish a riverine reserve system where appropriate.

Weka or flightless Maori hen species

Actions • Pollution and habitat disturbance have 1. Work with other state instrumentalities declined. which have an interest in land use • Reserves are established to protect water regulation to develop and implement systems particularly significant for integrated catchment management threatened species conservation. policy guidelines. • There is no increase in the number of 2. Support the design and implement species threatened because of integrated catchment management plans degradation of water systems. which include measures to protect • Species threatened by degradation of threatened species from pollution and water systems are recovering. habitat disturbance. 3. Encourage the development of an agricultural code of sustainable practice identifying management techniques for protecting water systems and water quality. 4. Support the development and adoption of a state wetlands policy and consider additional areas containing threatened species for inclusion on the Ramsar list. 5. Manage water systems, including wetlands, where necessary to protect threatened species. 6. Ensure water storage developments and Fairy tern drainage proposals include an assessment of impacts on threatened species. Degradation of Water Systems and 7. Manage aquatic and riparian Threatened Species environments to protect threatened The inundation of Lake Pedder in the 1970s 14 species. destroyed unique habitat for many species 8. Include threatened species conservation locally endemic to the area and introduced an

Strategy for Tasmania Threatened Species measures in the development of a State array of exotic species like trout to the area. Environmental Flows Policy and any Since the flooding, the Lake Pedder other policy dealing with water resource earthworm (Diporochaeta pedderensis) has management. never been relocated, despite active survey, 9. Identify priority areas that could be the swamp galaxias (Galaxias parvus) and protected as freshwater riverine reserves Hickman’s pygmy shrimp (Allanaspides for threatened aquatic species. hickmani) have seriously declined in range and the Lake Pedder galaxias (Galaxias pedderensis) Performance indicators remains on the brink of extinction, classified • Catchment management plans are in as endangered. place throughout the state. Another major water body, the Great Lake, • An agricultural code of sustainable contains nine threatened species which are water management practice is in confined to the lake bottom. These species, place. like those in Lake Pedder, are entirely reliant • State policies dealing with water on water quality and maintenance of the lake resource management include ecosystem. measures for threatened species conservation. Inappropriate Use of Fire • Water management agencies recognise the importance of Fire has played an integral part in the threatened species conservation. formation of the Tasmanian landscape over many thousands of years. Fire regimes have • The rate of drainage of wetlands has altered since European settlement to be more decreased. frequent in some areas and less frequent in • Water quality of waterways has others. Fire is currently used for pasture and improved. rangeland management (burning off), strategy eucalypt regeneration (after logging), to 8. Prepare and widely distribute fire manage the impact of wild fires (fuel suppression and management guidelines for reduction burning) and to enhance ecological protecting threatened species. properties (habitat management burning). Performance Indicators Wildfires occur as a result of arson, escaped • Significant fire-threatened species and management fires, escaped campfires, other their habitats are identified and managed accidents, or lightning strikes. in an ecologically sustainable manner. All of our native flora and fauna is adapted • Fire management plans and fire to particular regimes of fire frequency and management recommendations in intensity, and for many species fire is an recovery programs are implemented. essential requirement. Species can persist under altered fire regimes but only if the • An education program is established and changes do not prevent them from any necessary changes to fire completing their normal life cycle and allow management practices are implemented. young to reach the adult breeding • Species threatened by inappropriate use population. Hence the inappropriate use of of fire are no longer declining. fire refers to fire frequency and intensity that represents a threat to the survival of native Inappropriate Use of Fire and species by preventing the life cycle from being Threatened Species completed. The South Esk pine (Callitris oblonga) and Across all land tenures, fire management can yellow eyebright (Euphrasia scabra) are create potential tensions between statutory threatened by inappropriate fire regimes. The responsibilities for protecting life and property first is threatened by frequent fire and the and the need to manage threatened species. other by infrequent fire. Organisations such as the Parks and Wildlife South Esk pine regeneration relies on seed Service and Forestry Tasmania recognise this which is held in cones in the tree’s canopy dilemma and more scientific information is and then released to germinate after fire. A required on which to base ecological fire single fire before young trees are old enough management strategies. to produce sufficient numbers of cones to provide seed will drive the species to Objective extinction at any site. In contrast, Yellow 15 The objective for managing use of fire is to: Eyebright is an annual plant that produces and Strategy for Tasmania Threatened Species • use fire as a management tool in an releases seed into the soil every year. Because ecologically sustainable manner to it has soil-stored seed that can germinate after enhance the survival of threatened fire and replenishes the seed store every year, native flora, fauna and habitats. yellow eyebright can persist in an environment Actions of relatively frequent fire. However, if there is a long period between fires the vegetation often 1. Identify areas of high conservation value for becomes too dense for annual species to threatened species susceptible to adverse germinate and survive. The longevity of seed impacts from current fire regimes. in the soil and the period between fires 2. Increase understanding of the effects of fire determines the ability of Yellow Eyebright to on threatened species by establishing survive. research and monitoring programs. 3. Determine appropriate fire management practices for the habitats of threatened species. 4. Include and implement fire management actions in recovery programs. 5. Address threatened species conservation in all fire management plans. 6. Complete and implement outstanding fire management plans for State Reserves and significant off-reserve areas. 7. Educate and train landholders and fire managers in relation to the ecological Research on Yellow Eyebright relationships between fire and threatened species. species

For species like those above we must 4. Assess impacts on threatened species of assess the need to intervene and apply the activities such as kelp harvesting in sensitive appropriate fire regime in areas in which environments. they are known to occur. By monitoring 5. Provide guidelines for appropriate species response to fire management, that harvesting techniques where incidental management can be adapted to any impacts on threatened species occur. changes in the demography of species. In 6. Coordinate monitoring and enforcement to some cases, fire will need to be excluded prevent illegal harvesting of threatened from sensitive vegetation and habitats. species. 7. Focus enforcement efforts on the priority Inappropriate or Illegal Harvesting threatened species that are subject to illegal Impacts from commercial or amateur harvesting. activities can often result in added pressure Performance indicators on threatened species or be the direct • National threat abatement plans are cause of their decline. For example, being implemented. longline fishing, drift net and trawl fisheries • The incidence of illegal harvesting has all result in incidental catch (bycatch) of declined. non-target species and are a major cause of mortality for Tasmania’s threatened • Species threatened by inappropriate or albatross and other marine species, illegal harvesting are no longer especially birds such as giant petrels. declining. Threatened marine turtles become entangled in fishing lines after being Inappropriate Harvesting and attracted to buoys which are suspected to Threatened Species resemble jellyfish. They are also ingesting Most species of albatross and giant petrel plastic. Gill net fishing often results in the have foraging ranges stretching throughout loss of the net and/or entanglement of the southern oceans. Therefore a non-target species including small dolphins collaborative effort and consensus of and whales. agreement between countries is needed to Illegal collection and export of Tasmania’s ensure their long term protection and survival. 16 threatened stag beetles and cave species and, until recently, recreational fishing for Strategy for Tasmania Threatened Species species such as the giant freshwater crayfish (Astacopsis gouldi) are processes which have all contributed to the decline of these species.

Objectives The objectives for managing inappropriate or illegal harvesting of flora and fauna are to: • mitigate the impacts of inappropriate harvesting; and Wandering Albatross, Macquarie Island • prevent illegal harvesting. Actions Tasmania has been at the forefront of 1. Develop or instigate threat abatement developing ways to reduce the accidental plans (including the adoption of national death of seabirds, particularly albatross, from and international plans and agreements) longlining and commercial fishing operations. for incidental bycatch resulting from The Macquarie Island Wandering Albatross deep sea trawling, drift net and longline (Diomedea exulans) has declined to just ten fishers. breeding pairs and is considered to be 2. Implement management plans for “Critically Endangered”. Approaches have sustainable harvesting of native flora and been to work directly with the fishing industry fauna where harvesting is appropriate. to develop improved techniques for setting 3. Review the impacts of gillnetting on longline hooks and trawl nets, to participate threatened species. in national and international forums to strategy enforce fishing bans, setting of night lines, Actions and seasonal constraints on a global scale. 1. Develop and implement an agricultural Industry is now aware of the urgency of the code for sustainable grazing in consultation problem and the need for conservation with landowners that includes provisions for practices. threatened species protection. 2. Protect threatened species habitats from Impact of Stock inappropriate stock access or grazing. Domestic stock graze in many native plant 3. Protect threatened flora from grazing communities throughout Tasmania. Sensitive during flowering periods to ensure that vegetation such as alpine, riparian and coastal seed is available for regeneration. communities can be easily destroyed or 4. Determine and promote sustainable grazing degraded through constant trampling of stock regimes in areas of threatened vegetation seeking water or feed. Stock can interfere sensitive to trampling and over-grazing. with the habitat and successful breeding of a 5. Use tools such as fencing for temporary wide range of plants and animals and many and/or permanent stock exclusion from native plants cannot withstand heavy grazing areas containing threatened species. or browsing by livestock. This, in conjunction 6. Promote the use of alternative stock with other agricultural activities, can lead to watering systems where impacts on some native species declining to the point of threatened species occur. local extinction. 7. Rehabilitate degraded threatened species The greatest impacts of stock are caused by: habitats. • repeated grazing of flowers that are 8. Provide extension services for landholders essential for seed production and the managing areas containing threatened continued survival of threatened plants; species. • grazing of habitat plants that harbour Performance Indicators invertebrates, or grazing of seedlings that are essential for maintenance and • An agricultural code of sustainable regeneration of the community; grazing management practice is in use. • trampling of vegetation; • Critical habitat is protected from stock impacts. • damage to fragile ecosystems such as 17 sand dune systems; • Viable populations of threatened species persist in grazed ecological • soil compaction and erosion preventing Strategy for Tasmania Threatened Species communities. seedling establishment; • Ecologically sustainable grazing • fouling of water; management practices are accepted and • degradation of river and creek bank adopted by landholders. vegetation; and • Species threatened by the impact of • the spread of weed seeds from pastures stock are recovering, with population into native vegetation. increase in the wild.

On the other hand, many threatened plant Impact of Stock and Threatened Species species require some disturbance as a trigger Native wintercress (Barbarea australis) is a to germination or to provide openings or new riverine plant now found only along the Ouse, habitat for them to occupy. In restricted Mersey, the Shannon, the Nive and Clyde circumstances, removal of stock may mean rivers and along a creek located in the eastern loss of a regeneration niche for a species. Central Plateau. These rivers are part of the Therefore a planned grazing regime is ecosystem of one of Australia’s most required to promote and maintain conditions endangered vegetation types, the grassy suitable to sustain the ecological community. woodlands. Though it appears that this species has always been rare, many of the Objective populations have disappeared and most The objective for managing the impact of remaining populations occur only on private stock is to: land. This species is highly palatable to native • adopt stock management practices that animals and domestic stock and the majority prevent or minimise the specific and of sites where Barbarea australis is located are combined impacts on threatened stocked with sheep, adding significantly to the species. species

grazing pressure placed on these plants. eagle and King’s holly are well known to the Other threats such as willow infestation, community. Others like aquatic insects, log alteration of the river courses and flood dwelling beetles or small herbaceous plants regimes by hydroelectric development and and grasses are largely unknown and little irrigation combine withthe impact of stock publicised. Many of these species are unique to make this species highly vulnerable to to Tasmania and are part of this island’s local extinction. magnificent natural heritage. For Barbarea australis to survive, threats compromising existing populations need to be reduced. Because Barbarea australis is biennial, population densities need to be maintained at levels which are self- sustaining. It is vital that the plants are able to mature and produce seed. Protecting this species from grazing will help achieve this and at the same time help protect the river systems by controlling stock access. With limited resources, acquiring land to protect this species is not feasible. Therefore as a safeguard, additional King’s holly populations of Barbarea australis are being re-established outside the present With so many species listed, it is not possible distribution but within the known range of to deal with each threatened species the species. In conjunction with individually. In many cases, as mentioned developing management guidelines with earlier, this is neither practical, necessary or landholders to help protect existing sensible. While dealing with threatening populations, this should ensure that processes can be effective, some individual Barbarea australis is less likely to become threatened species require specific recovery extinct. actions and immediate remedial action because threat abatement programs may take 18 decades to become fully effective.

Strategy for Tasmania Threatened Species Choosing those species most in need of specific attention is not straightforward and the species with the most pressing needs change with circumstances. This strategy does not identify individual priority species, but sets out the process by which species requiring specific action may be identified and prioritised. As a general rule those species which are most endangered will be given highest priority for recovery attention.

Barbarea australis growing in a nursery bed Setting Species Priorities The Scientific Advisory Committee, established under the Threatened Species Priority Threatened Species Protection Act 1995, has a number of roles including advising on priorities. Its purpose, as There are currently over 600 species of detailed in the Threatened Species Protection plants and animals in Tasmania listed on Act, is to advise the Minister and the Director the Threatened Species Protection Act 1995 on: as being either Endangered, Vulnerable or • the listing and de-listing of taxa of flora Rare. The list is continually being reviewed and fauna; using scientific assessment processes, and will in future include non-vascular plants, • threatening processes; marine organisms, and invertebrate groups • the criteria to be followed in the not previously considered. Some species determination of critical habitats; like the orange-bellied parrot, wedge-tailed • other matters relating to the strategy

conservation of threatened native flora species requiring action but not having a and fauna; and recovery plan. • the review and approval of listing Actions statements. 1. Apply the following criteria to prioritising protection and recovery action for Additionally under the Regional Forest threatened species in Tasmania: Agreement the Scientific Advisory Committee • national priorities; has a role to endorse any changes to the • State threat classification as listed in Priority Species listing in Attachment 2 of the the schedules of the Threatened Species Agreement or new or altered management Protection Act 1995; prescriptions where relevant. • endemism; Fundamental priorities for action on • taxonomic distinctiveness; threatened species in Tasmania are provided through the schedules of the Threatened • keystone role; Species Protection Act 1995. These are: • grouping or multi-species options; 1. Endangered species (highest priority); • cultural and community significance; 2. Vulnerable (second priority); and • likelihood of recovery with minimum 3. Rare at risk (lower priority). action; and • reservation status of the species. The Scientific Advisory Committee has 2. Classify Tasmania’s endemic threatened developed quantifiable criteria for the listing species according to national criteria and of species under the Act in these three have them recognised nationally by categories. inclusion on national lists and work with other relevant governments where Priorities can further be determined threatened species extend beyond according to those species listed on the Tasmania. schedules of the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 3. Direct recovery resources and actions to the 1999 as nationally Endangered or Vulnerable. highest priority species. Priorities within the Commonwealth's 4. Publish a list of threatened species priorities. schedules are set by the Endangered Species Performance Indicators 19 Advisory Committee (ESAC). The ESAC • A priority list of threatened species is priorities represent those species ESAC developed for Tasmania. Strategy for Tasmania Threatened Species considers most important for preparation and • Protection and recovery actions are implementation of recovery plans. developed for the highest priority Commonwealth funding for recovery species. programs is limited to ESAC priority species • Endemic threatened species are listed but other Tasmanian priority species may nationally. benefit as a result of implementing ESAC • Management actions are underway for priority recovery programs. priority species. A multi-species approach which integrates flora and/or fauna is a practical and effective approach to threatened species conservation. Wherever possible a multi-species approach will be adopted in this strategy.

Objectives The objectives of setting species priorities are to: • determine those threatened species most in need of protection and recovery action; • determine the most effective use of protection and recovery resources; and • develop an instant response plan for species

Table 3: Examples of approaches to threatened Listing Statements species conservation which will benefit Listing statements are required by legislation more than one threatened species for all listed species. They include Group Examples of projects distributional and biological data, recovery program information, actions carried out and Taxonomic group Plants in the families actions required. The quickest and most approach Fabaceae and readily obtainable advice on threats and Rhamnaceae; management of a particular species will be several burrowing provided in listing statements. They offer a crayfish species brief but comprehensive outline of the best Ecological community Threatened species management practices to protect the species occurring in grasslands and its habitat and how to obtain further advice from specialists. Threatening process A broad range of plant species susceptible to Phytophthora cinnamomi; Objectives inappropriate harvesting The objectives of preparing listing statements such as long-line fishing are to: affecting many sea bird • comply with the requirements of the species Threatened Species Protection Act 1995; Habitat type Forest, tree-hollow or cave and dependent fauna • provide a summary of the current knowledge and requirements for Geographic/regional Macquarie Island which management and conservation of each approach has a large range of threatened species. threatened species Actions 1. Prepare listing statements for listed threatened species. 2. Give priority to preparation of statements in accordance with the priorities detailed in 20 Table 4: Examples of Species Identified By Action 1(Pg 19). Priority Criteria 3. Use listing statements in place of recovery Strategy for Tasmania Threatened Species A variety of levels of action will be taken plans where the required recovery actions on threatened species according to their do not warrant preparation of a full priority. These actions are set out below. recovery plan.

Criteria Examples

Level of endangerment Listed as endangered in Tasmania but not recognised nationally such as anchor plant, broad-toothed stag beetle

Endemism Endemic species that are not a national priority such as Wally’s wattle

Taxonomic distinctiveness Monospecific genus in Tasmania such as creeping pine, blue pincushion, spotted handfish

Cultural and Southern right whale community significance

High likelihood of recovery King’s holly with minimum action

Reservation status/land Grey goshawk, orchids that are not well protected in reserves tenure strategy

Performance Indicators does not support populations of the taxon • Listing statements are prepared. at present needs to be protected in order to • Listing statements provide concise ensure the long term future of the taxon, in current information on threatened which case it would be declared critical species. habitat. • Listing statements provide a useful basis for action in the absence of more In undertaking assessment of the critical detailed recovery programs. habitat of any listed species, the Director would need to consider each species on a case by case basis. Critical habitat would normally only be defined when it is the most appropriate mechanism for ensuring the future survival of any taxon.

Objective The objective for determination of critical habitat is to: • ensure threatened species can survive and flourish in the wild. Actions Morrisby’s gum 1. Identify areas of habitat critical to the survival of listed threatened species focussing first on the priority threatened Critical Habitat species. Any habitat that is determined by the 2. Prepare maps in accordance with the Director after consultation with the Scientific Threatened Species Protection Act 1995 Advisory Committee, to be critical to the showing the boundaries, extent and details survival of a species may be declared as of critical habitat areas. critical habitat in accordance with Section 23 3. Make the public and other notifications of the Threatened Species Protection Act 1995. required by the Threatened Species 21 Generally, identification of any critical Protection Act 1995 of any critical habitat habitats will be based on the following determined by the Director. Strategy for Tasmania Threatened Species criteria: 4. Identify and implement the recovery The critical habitat for a threatened taxon program mechanisms necessary for includes that part of the habitat of any listed protection and management of critical taxon of the native flora or fauna that is habitat. critical to the survival of that taxon. Usually in Performance Indicators the case of endangered and vulnerable taxa, this would include all areas which are • Critical habitats are identified and currently occupied by the taxon and which notified as required under the Threatened are at risk from threatening processes, unless: Species Protection Act 1995. a) the extent and populations of the taxon are • Appropriate recovery mechanisms are in known to be limited by threatening place for each area of critical habitat. processes that do not relate to the physical • Threatened species populations in critical modification of land or water (eg. hunting, habitat are recovering. fishing, predation by feral animals, diseases), and not limited by the availability of suitable land or water, in which case no critical habitat would be declared; b) it can be demonstrated that part of the area occupied by the taxon is inhabited intermittently, with individuals in this area not contributing to the perpetuation of the species, in which case only the areas necessary for the core populations would be declared critical habitat; c) it can be demonstrated that an area that

Wedge-tailed eagle species

Recovery Plans Land Management Plans and Species requiring individual long-term Agreements and Public Authority strategies or requiring complex planned Management Agreements management may be managed under a Some species or groups of species may best recovery plan with actions identified for be managed under specific agreements with several years. Recovery plans will usually be the landholders involved. Land management prepared detailing the actions required for plans and management agreements as the recovery and long term security of one identified in the Threatened Species Protection or more species or ecological communities Act 1995 are prepared following discussions for a period of five years. They will also between landholders and government. They usually detail the funds required to carry will be drawn up in cases where the out these actions. conservation actions are well known for the species in question and where the affected Objective land is identified. Land management plans The objective for preparing recovery plans and agreements are prepared on a voluntary is to: basis. However, land management agreements are binding on both parties as • provide detailed action programs for detailed in the Threatened Species Protection recovery of threatened species. Act 1995. These plans and agreements will Actions become increasingly important as necessary 1. Prepare a recovery plan for all national recovery actions are identified in listing priority species. statements and recovery plans. 2. Seek funding for implementation of Land management agreements may be recovery plans for national priority prepared for a variety of purposes and include species and, where appropriate when fixed term or perpetuity agreements and may threatened species extend beyond relate to individual sites or to processes. Tasmania, prepare joint recovery plans Land management plans and agreements with other relevant governments. may take a wide range of forms depending on 3. Identify and prepare recovery plans for the situation, such as Part Five Planning Tasmanian priority species best managed Agreements, management prescriptions, 22 by this mechanism. conservation covenants or private wildlife 4. Establish recovery teams representing a sanctuaries, etc. Strategy for Tasmania Threatened Species wide range of interests and expertise A Public Authority Management Agreement including community to guide the may be made with one or more public implementation of recovery plans. authorities for the management of listed 5. Implement recovery plans. species or threatening processes. Performance Indicators • Recovery plans for national priority Objectives species and appropriate Tasmanian The objectives of preparing land priority species are prepared and management plans and management funded. agreements are to: • Species dealt with by a recovery plan • protect threatened species in are recovering. cooperation with landholders; and • ensure agreement on the means of, and resources required for, protection. Actions 1. Identify threatened species and areas requiring land management plans. 2. Consult with and cooperatively prepare land management plans with affected landholders. 3. Make written agreements with landholders identifying works, resources and other matters to be dealt with arising from land management plans. Spotted handfish strategy

4. Make written agreements with public there are threatened ecological communities authorities where necessary to protect which do not contain any threatened threatened species. individual species. They may include for 5. Ensure existing or new programs example, communities of cave animals or promoting land management protections animals from other specific habitats and these options, e.g. covenanting, work in combinations of fauna and flora making up cooperation with the threatened species distinct ecological communities also need program. recognition. All of these community types Performance Indicators need protection and recovery action. Priority communities are those that have been most • Land management plans are prepared severely reduced in extent or degraded for key areas and species. throughout a large portion of their range, • Landholders support the measures such as coastal saltmarsh communities. contained in land management plans. • Landholder and public authority management agreements are in place and are being implemented.

Recognising Threatened Ecological Communities

Ecological communities are difficult to clearly define and identify to stakeholders. Consequently ecological communities were not listed in the Threatened Species Protection Act 1995. However, during the more recent Green and gold frog Regional Forest Agreement (RFA) process, threatened forest communities were Threatened ecological communities have recognised as the basis for the conservation recently been listed in the Commonwealth’s assessment of forest values on private land. Environment Protection and Biodiversity Not only does the RFA recognise threatened 23 Conservation Act 1999. Tasmanian legislation forest communities and the need for their does not currently recognise threatened protection in the same way as threatened Strategy for Tasmania Threatened Species ecological communities. Their formal species, but similar recognition is given to recognition and listing should be considered ecological communities in the Environment in the near future. Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. One result of the RFA has been the Objectives identification of a suite of threatened forest Consistent with the Commonwealth communities in Tasmania. These Environment Protection and Biodiversity communities satisfied criteria that identified Conservation Act 1999 and the Regional Forest them as severely depleted since European Agreement, the objectives of recognising settlement. Depletion of the extent of a threatened ecological communities are to: community is not the only criterion potentially • protect threatened ecological rendering them threatened. The threatening communities in Tasmania; processes, listed and discussed earlier, impact • amend the Threatened Species Protection on ecological communities in exactly the Act 1995 to allow listing of threatened same way as they do on single species. The ecological communities as identified degree to which threatening processes have through clear and unambiguous criteria; degraded or altered any of Tasmania’s and ecological communities is an additional • direct actions to the threatened criterion for judging which communities are ecological communities most in need of threatened. protection and recovery. Although severely depleted communities containing threatened species are a significant conservation priority, these communities can partly be addressed through habitat conservation of individual species. However, species

Actions • Legislative amendments are in place. 1. Prepare clear definitions for the • Threatened ecological communities are identification of threatened ecological listed. communities. • Protection and recovery actions are 2. Identify threatened ecological focussed on priority threatened communities. ecological communities. 3. Identify threats to these communities. 4. Consult with stakeholders in relation to Involving the Community the making of amendments to the Threatened Species Protection Act 1995 to The involvement of the entire Tasmanian include threatened ecological community is essential for long term communities. conservation of threatened species in 5. Prepare legislative amendments for Tasmania. This will require increased public Parliamentary approval. awareness and understanding of the issues 6. Apply the following criteria to prioritising and the processes which have caused their protection of threatened ecological decline. Community pride in and ownership communities that do not contain of the conservation of species which are threatened species: threatened will be a key factor in the success of the Strategy. • communities that are subject to current and continuing threats likely Programs to encourage and support to lead to extinction; community involvement will focus on: • communities that have suffered a • education and information; and marked decrease in geographic • involvement in nominating species, distribution or a marked alteration in planning, implementing recovery actions community structure; and monitoring populations, threats and • communities that have lost or are in recovery actions. danger of losing native species that play a major role in the community; Community Education and Information • communities that have such a Objectives 24 restricted geographic distribution The objectives of community education and that the community could be lost in information are to: Strategy for Tasmania Threatened Species the short term by the action of a • encourage community understanding of threatening process; and the issues involved in threatened species • community processes have altered conservation; to the extent that a marked • inform the community about Tasmanian alteration of community structure threatened species and threatening will occur. processes and their management; and Performance Indicators • obtain and develop community support • Threatened ecological communities for threatened species conservation. are defined. Actions • Threats to ecological communities are 1. Prepare, publicise, and make readily identified. available factual information and extension material on threatened species, threatening processes and threatened species programs. 2. Encourage the media and publishers to profile threatened species and programs to mitigate threatening processes. 3. Develop and promote threatened species education and information in consultation with community groups and integrate it with community based programs such as Landcare, Bushcare, Farmwi$e, Land for Wildlife, Coastcare, Wildcare, Waterwatch, Oceancare, Fishcare and the Threatened Small toungue orchid Species Network, etc. strategy

4. Encourage inclusion of a threatened species • utilise community interest and resources curriculum in schools. in establishing and maintaining effective 5. Inform people when they are likely to be baseline and specific purpose monitoring affected by threatened species recovery for threatened species recovery programs. programs; and 6. Inform landholders of the implications of • maintain community support for threatened species occurring on their land. threatened species conservation. 7. Make public information on threatened Actions species and threatening processes available 1. Encourage community participation in on the internet and databases which can be nominating species for listing or de-listing accessed readily by the community. on the Schedules of the Threatened Species 8. Provide information on threatened species Protection Act 1995. in a form suitable for its intended audience. 2. Provide and publicise opportunities for the Performance Indicators public to be involved in preparation and • There is an increased profile of implementation of threatened species threatened species and threatening recovery programs. processes in the print and electronic 3. Make draft and final documents available media. to the community. • Threatened species curriculum or themes 4. Establish clear and accessible links are integrated into the teaching program between Nature Conservation Branch of schools. (Threatened Species Unit) and the • A threatened species database is community. available to the general public on the 5. Provide opportunities for members of the internet and is widely used. community to participate in training • Information on threatened species and programs and field days. threatening processes is readily available 6. Prepare listing statements and recovery in a variety of media to members of the plans in a form that landholders and public. community interest groups are readily able • There is increasing community support to adopt and implement. for threatened species conservation. 7. Encourage ownership of and active 25 participation in threatened species

recovery programs by landholders, Strategy for Tasmania Threatened Species community groups and individuals. 8. Encourage individuals and community based groups to be actively involved in protecting threatened species and their habitat. 9. Integrate threatened species conservation with other community programs and projects.

New Holland mouse

Community Involvement Objectives The objectives of community involvement are to: • prepare and implement threatened species recovery programs supported by and including the community; • utilise community interest and resources in implementing threatened species recovery programs; Community involvement in planting species

10. Provide opportunities for members of Objectives the community to assist with The objectives of working with land owners, monitoring by: land managers and industry are to: • counting and surveying; • provide planners and managers with the • recording major changes; necessary knowledge and skills to • measuring impacts and population protect threatened species within their trends; and area; • identification. • integrate threatened species 11. Encourage use of the Parks and Wildlife conservation with the activities of all Service WildCARE program. land owners, land managers and industry. Secure the willing support of Performance Indicators managers and industry for the programs • Key community stakeholders are and represented on relevant threatened • ensure threatened species conservation is species recovery teams and threat addressed in all aspects of planning. abatement teams. • develop incentives to encourage land • Individuals and community based owners, managers and industry to groups are actively engaged in conserve threatened species. threatened species conservation. Actions • Landholders and community groups are using listing statements and 1. Establish public authority management recovery plans to manage threatened agreements with public authorities to species on their land. provide accreditation for the management of those threatened species detailed in the • The public provide comment on and agreement, and consistent with the support for threatened species requirements of the Tasmanian Threatened nominations and recovery programs. Species Protection Act 1995. 2. Include conservation of threatened species Working with Land Owners, and management of threatening processes Land Managers and Industry in the development of major planning 26 initiatives such as catchment management State government agencies, local plans, coast and clean seas plans and local

Strategy for Tasmania Threatened Species government, other resource managers such government planning schemes. as landholders and industry are key players 3. Provide land owners, land managers and in conserving threatened species. State and industry with information detailing their local government agencies are bound by statutory responsibilities for protection of the principles of the Resource Management listed species. and Planning System of Tasmania, which, 4. Provide appropriate information on while promoting sustainable use of natural identification, distribution, and status of and physical resources, equally promotes threatened species, details of defined the maintenance of ecological processes critical habitats, the impacts of threatening and genetic diversity. Everyone has a processes, as well as relevant listing responsibility to abide by the requirements statements, recovery plans and threatened of the Threatened Species Protection Act species management guidelines to land 1995. owners, land managers and industry Management and conservation of including local government. threatened species needs to be taken into 5. Hold training days for landowners, land account in development proposals and in managers and industry on appropriate all aspects of planning which affect land ways of managing threatened species. and the marine environment in Tasmania. 6. Include information on threat abatement in Providing relevant information and training, industry training programs such as those integrating planning and action, and for the fishing industry, and sustainable monitoring success will be crucial in farming. achieving successful outcomes. Local government is seen as a key participant in 7. Establish clear and accessible this process. communication links between the Nature Conservation Branch (Threatened Species Unit) and landowners, land managers and industry. strategy

8. Develop a range of packages and options resources in an ecologically sustainable to assist landowners, managers and manner. Likewise, most landholders are very industry to conserve threatened species willing to play their part in ensuring that without disadvantage. threatened species can survive in the long Performance Indicators term. Most landholders want to hand their • A comprehensive threatened species operations on to the next generation in as information package including locality good or better condition than when they maps is available in a readily useable began to manage them. Indeed, community form to resource managers and industry. expectation is moving towards a position where landholders have a duty of care • The Threatened Species Unit regularly towards threatened species. participates in industry and community training programs, field days, workshops, However, fundamental to obtaining and seminars and other forums. encouraging support for conserving threatened species and addressing threatening • Requirements for threatened species processes is ensuring that landholders do not surveys for planning are published. have to bear undue cost in the process. Many • Industry training programs include threatened species occur in relatively small threatened species issues in their defined areas and can be managed or curriculum. protected with minimum action. • Public authority management To ensure that the social and economic agreements are in place. impact of the implementation of management • Threatened species are routinely agreements for threatened species and a considered as part of all management number of other matters are fully considered, planning and operations. the Threatened Species Protection Act 1995 • All planning documents and initiatives establishes the Community Review Committee contain accurate and pertinent (CRC). The CRC has a membership of nine references to threatened species including: protection. • the Chairperson; • Land management plans are prepared • a person nominated by the Tasmanian within five years for individual properties Farmers and Graziers Association; or groups of properties containing • an economist; 27 threatened species. • a representative of the rural industry; Strategy for Tasmania Threatened Species • Landowners, land managers and industry • a representative of the forest industry; support threatened species plans covering their land or area of operation. • a representative of the fishing industry; • two members of the Scientific Advisory Committee; • and a person nominated by the Local Government Association of Tasmania.

The roles of the CRC as laid out in the Threatened Species Protection Act 1995 are: • to receive and consider draft recovery plans and listing statements; • in respect of private land to assist in and make recommendations to the Minister on the preparation of land management plans and land management agreements; Orange-bellied parrot with chicks • to provide for conciliation as may be required in any matter arising from a Social and Economic Factors land management agreement or for the purpose of making any such agreement; Care and responsibility for land and water is • to consider the social and economic an accepted principle for most of the impact of the implementation of land community. It is a matter of pride to most management agreements; landholders that they are managing their species

• to advise the Minister on the effect of Research and Monitoring interim protection orders; • to consider and advise on other While threatened species management has matters that may be referred to it by been under way in Tasmania since the 1970s, the Minister. the refinement of international assessment The role of the CRC is to be well informed criteria by the IUCN in 1994 now provides a of the conservation requirements of sound platform for classifying the level of threatened species in relation to the species endangerment and identifying species impacts and potential affects on most at risk. Often the ranking of species is landholders. The CRC receives all copies of based on limited information and relies on listing statements, recovery plans and other historic records and expert judgement. To relevant documents for information. Where better assess and manage our threatened required, it assists landholders with the species and threatening processes we must preparation of land management plans and strive to fill gaps in our knowledge. the agreements which flow from them. Information on species’ taxonomy, biology, ecology, habitat requirements and tolerance The CRC also has an important role in to disturbance is needed. providing for conciliation in matters arising from or during the process of drawing up The most important and fundamental land management agreements including requirement for threatened species disputes which may arise between the conservation is maintenance of up-to-date government and landholders. information on the species listed in the Schedules of the Threatened Species Protection Act 1995. Many distribution records have Objective limited use because of a lack of supporting The objective of considering social and data. Our knowledge is only as good as the economic factors is to: data we have collected, so an ongoing effort • ensure that landholders do not carry is required to maintain the best current an unreasonable burden for information on threatened species including conserving threatened species on their taxonomy, ecology and threats to the species’ land. existence. 28 Actions Research and monitoring is not limited to 1. Prepare species management programs the work of universities and governments

Strategy for Tasmania Threatened Species in cooperation and consultation with alone. A whole community approach is landholders. Ensure that the required with the development of a central responsibilities of both parties are clearly database incorporating all threatened species identified, funding sources are identified, data. Resource managers and industry, and the costs of materials and on-ground community groups and the general public can work are apportioned. all help. The Scientific Advisory Committee, with its expertise in the sciences of flora and 2. Provide support to facilitate the recovery fauna conservation, can also contribute advice and/or conservation of threatened on the directions and scope of research into species on private land where possible threatened species. and appropriate. 3. Develop innovative strategies for conserving threatened species which Objectives minimise potential adverse impacts on The objectives of research and monitoring economic production. are to: 4. Examine and develop mechanisms to • improve understanding of threatened help landholders conserve threatened species for management and the issues species on their land, eg rate relief for to be confronted in protecting them; conservation management, to ensure • establish and maintain comprehensive they are not disadvantaged. information, including data on Performance Indicators threatened species; and • Landholders and managers support • provide the scientific basis for threatened species conservation on management decisions in support of their land. threatened species conservation. • Landholders and managers are being helped with threatened species conservation on their land. strategy

Actions Performance Indicators 1. Research the locality and distribution of • Readily accessible, comprehensive and threatened species. current databases on threatened species 2. Research the ecology, biology and habitat are available. requirements of threatened species. • Threatening processes are well 3. Research the taxonomy of threatened understood by both researchers and the species. general community. 4. Monitor the condition of threatened • The status of each threatened species is species habitats. based on the best available research and 5. Regularly review the status of threatened monitoring. species. • The threatened status of marine species, 6. Determine the conservation status of invertebrates and non-vascular plants is poorly understood groups of species such better known. as marine species and communities, • Threat amelioration strategies are based invertebrates, non-vascular plants and on well researched information. those with high local endemism. • The number of species of indeterminate 7. Identify threatening processes and their status is reduced. impacts. 8. Research the tolerance of threatened Resourcing and species to threatening processes. Implementing the Strategy 9. Undertake research to develop threat amelioration strategies. Resources are essential to implement the 10. Encourage and collaborate in threatened Threatened Species Strategy. These resources species research undertaken by research must be directed carefully to achieve institutes, specialist groups, field maximum benefit for the investment of time naturalists groups and others. and money. Two approaches to threatened 11. Ensure that management prescriptions for species conservation have been set out in this threatened species in recovery plans, Strategy. They are to address threatening listing statements, codes of practice, etc, processes at the broad scale as well as to are effective and adequate. prepare and implement priority species 29 12. Develop a list of research opportunities for recovery and management programs at the Strategy for Tasmania Threatened Species research institutes, organisations and local scale. Implementing these approaches others interested in threatened species will require flexibility and strategic thinking to management. make best use of resources, harnessing them in various combinations to address the 13. Assist with supervision of undergraduate objectives of the Strategy, from administration and postgraduate students undertaking and education to research and on-ground applied research on threatened species. works. 14. Seek research assistance from national or Over the last few years, however, with international organisations and encourage increased recognition of the significance of collaborative work and the interchange of biological conservation and threatened information. species, Commonwealth and State 15. Encourage community participation in governments have allocated greater funding research programs. for threatened species conservation. However 16. Develop and maintain accessible data this level of funding needs to be increased to bases for storage and retrieval of meet the objectives of this Strategy. Just as threatened species information. important as the amount of resources is the 17. Target research to the highest priority way we deploy them. We must always be species. striving to improve our efficiency and 18. Develop funding opportunities for targeting resources to the most effective end. increased research and monitoring. Similarly, community and industry resources need to be developed to ensure their responsibilities are addressed in a timely manner. The more quickly action can be taken to abate threats, the lower the cost of doing so and the less the potential for extinction. Much of the Strategy is aimed at species

prevention mechanisms which will yield 11. Seek compensatory financing or other considerable financial savings in the longer resourcing from those contributing to term. threatening processes. 12. Encourage non-government organisations Objectives such as the Bush Heritage Trust to target The objectives for resourcing and funds towards threatened species implementing the Strategy are to: conservation. • improve the level of resources Performance Indicators available for threatened species • More threatened species or threatening management within all levels of processes are being targeted because of government and across the increased resources. community; and • The Threatened Species Trust Fund is • ensure effective utilisation of financially well supported. resources; and; • Funding for threatened species • ensure effective implementation of the conservation across all levels of Strategy. government shows an upward trend. Actions • The general community, support groups 1. Develop an implementation plan for this and industry are actively involved in Strategy as a priority. This plan should conservation of threatened species show who will carry out the actions, through funding, in kind support, or when they are to be carried out and volunteer work. completed, and what priority should be assigned to each action. Reviewing the Strategy 2. Prepare a budget plan identifying the resources required to implement the Threatened species problems, our Strategy. knowledge, and management opportunities 3. Encourage government agencies and and techniques evolve. Periodic review of the landholders responsible for managing Strategy will be required to ensure that it is land on which threatened species occur being implemented, that it is achieving its 30 to direct resources into conserving intended outcomes, to optimise its species through joint agreements. effectiveness, and to adapt to altered

Strategy for Tasmania Threatened Species circumstances. 4. Establish a fund raising program to attract community and industry donations, bequests or sponsorship, Objectives particularly to the Threatened Species The objectives for reviewing the Strategy are Trust Fund. to: 5. Encourage community and industry to • ensure that the Strategy is being contribute expertise, labour, materials implemented; and loan of equipment in community • check that outcomes are those intended based conservation programs. by the Strategy; and 6. Raise finance through provision of a • improve performance by building on threatened species management experience. consultancy service by the Nature Actions Conservation Branch. 1. Establish a program to monitor and 7. Maintain national partnership evaluate implementation of the Strategy. agreements supporting research and management of threatened species. 2. Incorporate monitoring provisions in recovery programs including listing 8. Adopt innovative methods to minimise statements, recovery plans and threat the cost and impact of threatened abatement plans. species conservation. 9. Combine efforts where resource needs are similar. 10. Seek financial or other resource contributions from those making financial gain from threatened species.