Landscape Recovery through Regional Connectivity
Landscape Recovery through Regional Connectivity
Landcare groups in the South East of NSW have developed a collaborative approach to supporting bushfire recovery
Collaborations -
LP036-R002
The issue
In response to the bushfires of 2019-2020, South East Local Land Services brought together a collective action of 9 Landcare groups in an application to the Australia Government Wildlife & Habitat Bushfire Recovery Program.
Large bushfires can cause multiple direct impacts. The key threats to the viability of landscape-managed species are loss, fragmentation and degradation of habitat and food sources.
Woodland birds and arboreal mammals are particularly vulnerable to predators when adequate shelter is not available. Weeds are a major threat to all grassland remnants, particularly on low fertile soils prone to weed invasion.
The solution
The project identified not only the biophysical outcomes of landscape connectivity but also the community resilience benefits of a Regional collaboration with Landcare groups in the SE LLS. Bringing together community groups who have been impacted by bushfires and matching their needs to offers of help from neighbouring networks was a powerful component of the design focus; a self-empowering approach to recovery. The recently appointed Regional Landcare Coordinator (RLC) worked together with the South East Regional Agricultural Landcare Facilitator (RALF) to use this opportunity to encourage collaboration for effective, cohesive and coordinated delivery of on-ground outcomes.
The impact
A series of stakeholder meetings & extensive liaison with technical experts identified a coordinated regional approach to determine appropriate actions to support the recovery of threatened species. Pest and weed control will stabilize priority species numbers in the short term. Long term recovery will be achieved by enhancing unburnt sites to provide refuge. Connecting the landscape with stepping stones will facilitate the movement of priority woodland birds and arboreal mammal species and provide resilience through varied genetic diversity. Community participation and education will also foster resilience through increased awareness of species, community and habitat significance and promotion of Land for Wildlife.
Learnings
This project will support recovery of native species & ecological communities through investment in social capital.
Key facts
- A regional approach lead to a larger more strategic grant application
- The RLC appointment and the partnership with RALF was integral in bringing local networks together
- The grant application process itself strengthened relationships between the 9 Landcare groups, LLS offices and community organisations