Eucalyptus Identification Workshop
Eucalyptus Identification Workshop
Workshop held to learn to Identify Common Eucalyptus of the Tenterfield Area
Reaching Out -
LLCI 031-069
The issue
Eucalyptus are extremely hard to identify. It is a fact, to the uninitiated, most eucalypt species tend to look the same and taxa in some groups are indeed difficult to distinguish. Eucalyptus leaf morphology provides a range of diagnostic features as well as injects a level of confusion in the change from seedling to sapling to adult leaves. Eucalyptus fruits (gumnuts) also show great diversity in form and size. However, in general there are good features and clear characteristics to use in identification. The challenge was to present the information to aid in the identification for the observer in the field. Specifically, to take into account other aspects of the specimen such as height, number of stems or trunks, colour of the crown, general size of leaves and the type of bark.
The solution
Granite Borders Landcare Committee, through funding from Northern Tablelands Local Land Services in partnership with Mole Station Native Nursery hosted a Eucalyptus identification workshop for beginners. A particular effort was made to explain specific eucalyptus features of botanical characteristics to aid identification. Fifteen of the most common species in the area where focused on. A class room session was held then a practical lesson in the field followed.
The impact
From the workshop the participants where able to be confident in identifying the fifteen most common eucalyptus species in the Tenterfield area. Their confidence and knowledge in eucalyptus identification was also increased from the day and new friendships and networks where established.
Key facts
- Participants learn how to identify common eucalyptus species in the Tenterfield area.
- Increased knowledge in the use of identification keys.
- Building social connections.