New rural landholders unaware of hidden issues
New rural landholders unaware of hidden issues
Engaging new rural landholders unaware of hidden weeds issues and setting the foundations for a working relationship into the future
Community Participation -
LP022-001
The issue
The failure of Timber Plantation managed investment schemes in the beef cattle grazing area of the Upper Clarence left behind a costly legacy for new landholders taking advantage of the resulting property fire sale and moving into the area.
Plantations had been leased for cattle grazing, to control grass growth and fire threat. Lessees often secured a number of plantation blocks, and stock were transported from site to site to take advantage of seasonal grass growth. Unfortunately transporting stock also meant transporting a new weed across the region before anyone was aware of what it was – Tropical Soda Apple (TSA),now a Class 1 weed across the State.
A new property owner who had purchased a former plantation without knowledge of the infestations approached Upper Clarence Combined Landcare (UCCL) seeking advice on TSA, and also sought advice on weeds on another recently purchased block.
The solution
UCCL provided advice on TSA, and undertook a property inspection with the landholder on the second block. The inspection also identified major infestations of mature cats claw creeper along the 2km riparian frontage, with many mature river oaks dying and in poor health. In addition, developing stream bank stability issues were also identified.
UCCL worked with the landholder, who had no previous interaction with Landcare, to prepare a rehabilitation plan. The plan incorporates weed control, erosion control / bank stabilisation, stock exclusion, replanting, and provision of off-stream stock water and shade. An application containing considerable landholder inkind contributions was submitted to the Environmental Trust to assist implementation.
The impact
Although the funding submission is still pending, the Landholder has maintained contact with UCCL, and is now applying new eyes to his property, identifying issues that he never saw previously. He is currently considering options for native tree shelter belts.
Key facts
- There is a need for a mechanism where aspiring new landholders can be made aware of potential weed issues prior to purchase.
- Landcare can fill this role to an extent, but only post purchase.
- Relationships established through property inspections with landholders based around a single issue establishes relationships that can grow into the future.
- The best place to meet a farmer is in their office - the paddock.