Fighting ferals
Fighting ferals
Cross tenure feral animal and weed control to improve the condition of Eurobodalla EECs
Local Links - Stronger Communities -
LLCI028-009
The issue
Urban bushland reserves are under increasing pressure from impacts associated with urbanisation including weed invasion, introduction and harbouring of feral animals, littering, pollution and land clearing. EECs located in community reserves are at threat of loss of quality and extent directly related to the behaviour and understanding of users and adjoining residents. Often the efforts of land managers, including local Landcare groups, can go unsupported or misunderstood by other user groups or the reach and efficacy of programs aren't able to be extended due to a lack of volunteer hours (ie. they are busy tackling the problem on ground and may not have the time to extend works to incorporate education and engagement of adjoining/nearby residents).
The solution
8 local Landcare groups in the Eurobodalla have joined forces with Eurobodalla Shire Council obtaining an Environmental Trust grant to improve cross tenure invasive species monitoring, education, extension and control services in and adjoining high priority urban EECs. Landcare groups in South Durras, Rosedale, Tomakin, Broulee, Congo, Tuross, Dalmeny and Mystery Bay have invested countless hours to these reserves over the years and having the ability to extend services to incorporate urban neighbours will further the spread of their message, control efficacy and efficiency and coordinate works so that outcomes are supported and improved. The project will concentrate efforts to protect and enhance 5 EEC types across the Eurobodalla; Themeda Grassland on Coastal Headlands (4ha), Littoral Rainforest (8ha), Bangalay Sand Forest (27ha), Coastal Saltmarsh (5ha) and Swamp Oak floodplain Forest (24ha).
The impact
Development of 8 site plans - project sites to be maintained collaboratively by ESC and Landcare volunteers.
On ground weed and rabbit control in 121 hectares of public land enhancing 68 hectares of EECs.
Weed advice and/or treatment advice with 150 landholders.
12 awareness raising events in a variety of locations.
9 media releases.
Erection of signage(20) in priority reserves.
Key facts
- Funding obtained to assist Landcare over a 3 year period, in conjunction with local Council, to work with local landholders to understand, protect and enhance EECs
- Weed and feral animal control across 121 hectares of public land containing 68ha of EECs
- 150 landholders engaged
- Coordinated and strategic approach to on ground works to increase efficacy and efficiency