Gondwana Link Fitz-Stirling (formerly FitzStirling Mosaic) (ID: 33)

Project last modified by jon_fisher on July 28, 2010.

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Project Info

Contact Name:
Keith Bradby

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Contact Organization:
Gondwana Link

Project Start Date:
January 15, 2005

Data Effective Date:
August 15, 2007

Hectares:
250,000

Sharing Status:
This project may be shared
outside of TNC.

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Operational Unit(s):

Australia

Ecoregion(s):

Southwest Australia Woodlands

Country(ies):

Australia

Parent Project:

Australia (Parent's Project ID: 1592)

Project Description:
COMMENTS 2005: This plan is to support the conservation campaign for the G Link partnership. Core area we are focussng our activities on is 10km wide, which can be defined by geological, ecological, climatic and physical features. Reconnecting the Stirlings and Fitzgerald River National Park is a presumed ecological need which has been encompassed in the G Link vision.

This landscape unit should be one, managed for variabiity.The Stirlings, Fitz and areas between are similar ecological units and need to be a single functional landscape unit.

Chose to call project FitzStirling Mosaic to try to capture the importance of ecotones. Ecotones will also be considered as attributes of many targets and nested targets.

We are unsure of the N-S connectivity requirement

To keep in mind as objectives:
floristic gradients
bio-perturbation
organic layer/litter/carbon cycle
continuum of nectar/pollen supply
edges/ecotones

AUG 2007 VERSION:
The Fitz-Stirling flora and fauna has evolved within a complex set of ecological processes operating at a range of scales over a fine scale mosaic of soil and landforms. As with much of the south-western Australia hotspot, the evolutionary history has been continuous since the area was last glaciated some 250 million years ago. While there has been significant turnover of species in that time some existing plants have close affinities with leaves and fruit fossils from around 40 million years ago (Eocene siltstones). Botanical speciation appears to have been particularly intense in the last few million years.
Recent alienation and clearing of much of the Fitz-Stirling has resulted in the severing of many of the broad-scale ecological connections between the wetter forests and the drier inland. We recognise that the existing reserve system that exists as isolated habitat fragments, are not likely to be capable of ensuring the survival and continued evolution of plants and animals in the future.
In the Fitz-Stirling we are aiming to achieve a landscape in which the natural processes favour the continued evolution of the region's native species. Rather than simply focussing on just the rare or threatened species, our conservation efforts are designed to address both large and fine scale ecological processes.

Project Goal Comment:
Our vision is that a restored Fitz-Stirling landscape will allow:
• bio-physical connection between bushland areas to enable viable fauna populations to be maintained;
• bio-physical connection between bushland across the landscape that enables migratory and nomadic species to continue their life cycles;
• availability of seasonal food sources to maintain viable fauna populations;
• protection of habitat to ensure the survival of the existing fauna and restoration of locally extinct fauna to the greatest degree possible;
• the maintenance of hydrological characteristics and water quality necessary to maintain viable ecological systems in streams;
• the provision of freshwater in the landscape needed for key species, to underpin the original ecological systems and to maintain refugia;
• reversing or slowing the process of accelerated landscape drying;
• genetic permeability to enable continued evolution of the area's diverse plant assemblages;
• trophic regulation by predators, favouring indigenous species and systems over introduced species;
• for "critical mass" in specific plant and animal communities to enable longer term survival and ongoing evolution; and
• fire regimes that do not degrade the ecological processes and natural values of the landscape.

Team Info:
Initially developed at Albany July 3-5, 2004 by Amanda Keesing, Keith Bradby, Angela Sanders, Paula Deegan, Stuart Cowell, Nathan McQuoid, Simon Judd and Sean Stankowski. Revised by Keith Bradby, Amanda Keesing and Simon Judd, with inpout from Angela Sanders, Paula Deegan and Stuart Cowell (Version 1.1, 2004).
Further revision May 2005 by Keith Bradby, Amanda Keesing and Simon Judd (Version 1.2).
Substantially revised by Angela Sanders and Paula Deegan under the Knowledge Connection project (October 2006 - current).

Objectives

Name
By 2012, exclude stock grazing and manage foxes, other feral predators, plant pathogens (including Phytophthora cinnamomi), invasive weeds, over at least 60,000ha of native vegetation in the Fitz-Stirling area. (more info) Comment: This is an all-encompassing objective which takes in a range of actions including:- establishing protective mechanisms on properties we don't own that most effectively deliver Gondwaan Link ecological outcomes; - working with DoW, SCNRM, FBG etc to develop and implement community and private landowners' projects to protect and restore creeks; - using fencing to reduce disturbance of creeks, riparian zones, other native vegetation; - developing and implementing coordinated and widespread fox baiting programs; - developing inclusive fire management strategies to manage mosaic values on all land tenures; - supporting the establishment of "ecologically benign" enterprises as part of commercial systems in the area;
By 2012, restore at least 16,000ha of native vegetation, including at least 2000ha of proteaceous-rich communities that support native insect, bird and other vertebrate pollinators. (more info) Comment: To shift the indicator for % of catchment under native perennial vegetation cover from 27% (current rating for 6 subcatchments; "Fair") to 51% ("Good") would require the revegetation of an additional 62,400ha (approximately). This is currently beyond our technical and financial capacity to achieve within 4 years so we have chosen a figure of 16,000ha (approximately 25% of the required 62,400ha) which will lift the indicator to 33% over 6 subcatchments. Most of the revegetation to 2012 is likely to occur within the Monjebup and Corackerup catchments however; these two catchments currently have a combined native vegetation cover of 33% and an additional 16,000ha will lift this to around 48% (to lift it to 51% would require about 20,000ha). The proteacous community increase was originally based on a "guesstimate" of 2000ha, but has not been re-estimated because our current definition is based on Newbey mapping units which we know are inadequate. (Based on the use of the 5 units we are using as "indicative" in the Fitz Stirling area, an increase of 2000ha would take the % cover from 16% to 23%. With the limitations on techniques and ease of establishment of these communities, 2000ha in 4 years seems reasonable. The area of mallet and moort communities has only been provisionally estimated (due to limitations on mapping) but it is estimated that about 46% of pre-clearing extent may still exist, so an area target has not been put on these communities as yet. However, those species that are of very limited extent may be given higher priority in restoration targets. Improved understanding of a number of the ecological attributes that have been identified may, in time, lead to revision of the targets for restoration and almost certainly to more precise ecological objectives to be met through restoration.
By 2012, significantly improve the condition of at least 60% of the creeks within the Corackerup catchment and, by 2015, within the Monjebup and mid-Pallinup catchments. (more info) Comment: Strategies will address both management on Gondwana Link properties to reduce erosion and improve riparian zones and catchments generally, as well as working with other landowners directly in key sites and through partnerships/policy approaches in wider catchment areas.
By 2017, increase the populations of Tammar and Black-gloved Wallabies within the Fitz-Stirling area by 30% (more info) Comment: While the plan is working to 5 year objectives in most areas, the wallaby populations are only likely to be identified within that timeframe. While habitat extension and threat reduction will be commencing within the first five years and some results may be seen in populations of other species, realistically, increases in populations of wallabies are unlikely to be reliably measured for at least 10 years. While the objective refers to increasing wallaby populations, we are initially measuring the potential habitat that is occupied - as a more easily measurable "surrogate". Measuring habitat occupancy needs to be accompanied by measuring predator numbers, area of habitat available and implementation of specifc management actions (eg effectiveness of baiting programs in reducing fox numbers AND increasing habitat occupancy).

Targets

Focal Conservation Target	Target Type	Habitat Type
Creeks (more info) Description: Creeks and waterways are important natural corridors for fauna movement, have distinctive vegetation associations not found elsewhere in the landscape and are at risk because of altered hydrology and surface erosion. The river pools in particular are believed to be important habitats and an important drought refuge for fauna, but very little is actually known of their ecological values. Most creeks are believed to have disrupted flow patterns and are subject to loads of silt, sand, salt, nutrients and chemicals from agricultural land. Sand slugs are present in most systems and phyto-plankton blooms can occur (e.g. middle reaches of Corackerup Creek, June 2004, Peniup Creek December 2007). Six subcatchments have been identified in the Fitz-Stirling and initially we are concentrating on the Corackerup Creek and its tributaries. Corackerup Creek flows into the Pallinup River, which has the largest catchment of any river on the south coast of WA. The Corackerup system arises on the junction of two geological zones; the Archaean granites of the Yilgarn Block and the Phanerozoic marine deposits. Discussions with Ruhi Ferdowsian (Department of Agriculture and Food, Albany) indicate that the Corackerup System is predominantly associated with localised aquifers and as such the hydrological regime should be relatively responsive to remedial action within the subcatchments. Description Comment: Corackerup subcatchment initially: Corackerup, Peniup, Hegarty, Chitowurup, Moorungup, Yarmalup, Culyerbullup, Cowerup, Chimney, Chereninup, Naunerup and Merrigup Creeks. Subsequently moving into Monjebup catchment: Monjebup, Moitch and Macmillan Creeks. Then Pallinup subcatchment: Pallinup River, possibly Dedatup, Ninterup and Nalyerlup Creeks Bremer: Bremer River and Devils Creek Gairdner: Gairdner River. NB Pallinup, Bremer, Devils Creek previously assessed by DoW Subcatchments 1-4 in the Fitz-Stirling together comprise approximately 37% of the total Pallinup catchment. Subcatchment 5 is approx 80% of the total Bremer catchment, while Subcatchment 6 (only partly defined by hydrological boundaries) is about 10% of the total Gairdner catchment.	Ecological System	Rivers, Streams, Creeks
Proteaceous rich communities (more info) Description: Proteaceous rich communities are of special significance as a structurally important component of the vegetation mosaic across the Fitz-Stirling. Their nectar and pollen production is thought to provide an important food source throughout the year, particularly during summer and autumn. These communities were amongst the most easily cleared areas during agricultural development: consequently only small areas remain and many of those remnants are subject to on-going disturbances. They are mostly found on deep sand and gravelly sand and are particularly susceptible to Phytophthora cinnamomi and a range of other disturbance agents, including fire, weeds and fertiliser drift. Communities mapped by Newbey include Banksia attenuata, B. baxteri and B. verticillata, calothamnus quadrifidus, Dryandra complex, Banksia heath and Sand associations. Other mapped associations, including Eucalyptus phaenophylla are likely to include areas that are also rich in proteaceous species. A Dryandra complex not mapped by Newbey occurs on the northern boundary of Chereninup. A precise definition of the term "Proteaceous rich communities" therefore needs to be developed and all occurences meeting the definition identified and mapped. Following from the April 2008 workshop, further consideration also needs to be given to the ecological functions and processes that we are attempting to capture through this target as it may be that it is the presence and pattern of distribution of proteaceous species throughout the landscape that is important.	Ecological System	Shrubland :: Mediterranean-type Shrubby Vegetation
Tammars and Black-gloved Wallabies (more info) Description: A number of the original mammal species have been lost from the Fitz-Stirling, while others are in a precarious position. Those whose position is precarious include medium weight range mammals (those between 35-5500g) that should be ubiquitous and visible and are important ecologically. Both fragmentation of habitats and introduced predator pressures are likely to be responsible for the declines in populations of these species. We chose tammar (Macropus eugenii) because they were recently abundant and widespread and are dependant on both suitable habitat and relative freedom from introduced predators. The black-gloved wallaby (Macropus irma) was also chosen as it appears to be in decline. If we can achieve strong tammar and black-gloved wallaby populations we believe we will also benefit species such as common brush-tailed possum (Trichosurus vulepecula vulpecular) and other critical weight range mammals and will be in a position to consider even more ambitious targets, such as the woylie (Bettongia penicillata), in the second decade of operation.	Species Assemblage: Animals: Mammals	Shrubland :: Mediterranean-type Shrubby Vegetation
Mallet and moort woodlands (more info) Description: Moort woodlands consist of more or less pure stands of Eucalyptus platypus subsp platypus, E platypus subsp congregata, E nutans or E vesiculosa (the locally endemic Corackerup Moort which occurs on Nowanup). These woodlands are generally found on hard, clayey soil but can occur on sandier soil, especially near the coast (outside the Fitz Stirling area). The occurrence of pure stands may be due to alleopathic effects or strong competition for water, or both. Mallet woodlands consist mainly of Eucalyptus astringens subsp redacta and occur on a variety of soils but are mostly found in association with the slopes of breakaways, hills and valley floors. They generally have a more diverse understorey than moort woodlands. The endemic mallet E melanophitra is also found within the Fitz Stirling, including on Nowanup and E arborella is found on Monjebup. These woodlands are included as a target because, being obligate seeders, they are particularly susceptible to inappropriate fire regimes. The other key ecological processes upon which they depend (e.g. water relations, litter accumulation and decomposition) are not well understood. The communities mapped by Newbey include Eucalyptus platypus (Common moort), and E. astringens (eastern brown mallet) and E. gardneri.	Ecological System	-
Flat-topped Yate or Swamp yate (Eucalyptus occidentalis) woodlands (more info) Description: Flat-topped yate is the only common large tree across the Fitz-Stirling and is a key component of a number of distinct woodland plant communities that are suffering significant stresses. Around Jerramungup and Needilup townsites the extensive yate woodlands that occurred high in the landscape have been largely cleared. The yate woodlands that grow along every significant watercourse north and east of the Pallinup River appear to be stressed, presumably by changed hydrological regimes and increasing salinity. Over the past 20 - 30 years yate woodlands across the region have suffered periodic and debilitating attacks of lerp insects which has contributed to extensive defoliation. There has been insufficient research carried out to determine the long term impacts, the likely recurrence of these attacks and their interaction with other stresses. While a significant and worthy target in themselves, yate woodlands are also possibly a significant barometer of the hydrological health of the landscape. Yates are also the main hollow providing trees in this landscape and so have a vital role in supporting the continued presence of species such as Carnaby's Cockatoos. Yates occur in three very different parts of the landscape: along creek lines, in and around wetlands (swamps) and in the upland granite country. The yate woodland associations that occur in each of these three landscape sites differ considerably in their species composition (for example, upper slope communities include Melaleuca, Acacia, Senna and pea species; swamp communities include Melaleuca species; and valley communities include samphire and Acacia species). The most widespread Yate community is the valley or riparian woodland. The target may need to be split to adequately address the other Yate community types, or separate indicators and indicator ratings developed for each type.	Ecological System	Forest Riparian Areas
Fresh Water Systems (more info) Description: Widespread small occurrences of fresh water, adjacent to creeks, in granite systems or clay pans are believed to play a critical role in the survival of many species, including some dragonflies, mammals, frogs and seed eating birds, as well as supporting aquatic plant and invertebrate species that do not tolerate salinity. It is possible that further surveys will suggest that this target could be re-defined as a more specific species or species assemblage. Until then, two small, resident, relatively immobile species of frog, Crinia pseudinsignifera and Pseudophryne guentheri, are potential indicators of the occurence of freshwater. Anecdotal observations suggest that frog populations have declined dramatically in the Fitz-Stirling over the past 20-25 years. They are known to be sensitive to increased salinity and detrimental effects such as decreased growth rates and increased mortality have been recorded at 4% seawater (1.5mg/l). There are also other potential causes of decline in frog populations that will need to be considerd, including the cumulative impacts of agricultural chemicals.	Ecological System	Wetlands :: Permanent Freshwater Marshes/Pools Wetlands :: Seasonal/Intermittent Freshwater Marshes/Pools

Threats

Threat (Common Taxonomy) ^*	Targets Threatened
Inappropriate fire management (Natural System Modifications :: Fire & Fire Suppression )	Creeks Proteaceous rich communities Tammars and Black-gloved Wallabies Mallet and moort woodlands Flat-topped Yate or Swamp yate (Eucalyptus occidentalis) woodlands
Predation by feral species (Undefined :: Undefined )	Proteaceous rich communities Tammars and Black-gloved Wallabies Fresh Water Systems
Catchment clearing (Natural System Modifications :: Other Ecosystem Modifications )	Creeks Tammars and Black-gloved Wallabies Flat-topped Yate or Swamp yate (Eucalyptus occidentalis) woodlands Fresh Water Systems
Invasive Non-Native/Alien Species (Invasive & Other Problematic Species & Genes :: Invasive Non-Native/Alien Species )	Creeks Proteaceous rich communities Tammars and Black-gloved Wallabies Flat-topped Yate or Swamp yate (Eucalyptus occidentalis) woodlands Fresh Water Systems
Fragmentation (Undefined :: Undefined )	Creeks Tammars and Black-gloved Wallabies Fresh Water Systems
P.cinnamoni and other pathogens (Invasive & Other Problematic Species & Genes :: Invasive Non-Native/Alien Species )	Proteaceous rich communities Tammars and Black-gloved Wallabies Fresh Water Systems
Cropping practices (Agriculture & Aquaculture :: Annual & Perennial Non-Timber Crops )	Creeks Proteaceous rich communities Tammars and Black-gloved Wallabies Mallet and moort woodlands Flat-topped Yate or Swamp yate (Eucalyptus occidentalis) woodlands Fresh Water Systems
Grazing practices (Agriculture & Aquaculture :: Livestock Farming & Ranching )	Creeks Proteaceous rich communities Mallet and moort woodlands Flat-topped Yate or Swamp yate (Eucalyptus occidentalis) woodlands Fresh Water Systems
Development of roads or utilities (Undefined :: Undefined )	Creeks Proteaceous rich communities

^* For information on the common taxonomy of threats, see http://conservationmeasures.org/CMP/IUCN/.

Strategies

Strategy (Common Taxonomy)	Threats Addressed
Build integrated management across tenures through partnerships and other collaborations ( Undefined :: Undefined )	Catchment clearing Invasive Non-Native/Alien Species Development of roads or utilities
Develop spatially explicit landscape plan which identifies key areas for implementation of all strategies ( Undefined :: Undefined ) (more info) Comment:: Essential step	Catchment clearing P.cinnamoni and other pathogens Cropping practices Predation by feral species Fragmentation Invasive Non-Native/Alien Species Grazing practices Inappropriate fire management
Manage properties owned by G-Link partners to demonstrate effective conservation practices in the Fitz Stirling area ( Undefined :: Undefined ) (more info) Comment:: Assumed one property manager; may also need to factor in aditional property management costs including contractors (fox baiting, fire management etc). Operating costs estimated at$10000/property/year)	P.cinnamoni and other pathogens Predation by feral species Invasive Non-Native/Alien Species Inappropriate fire management
Purchase properties that most effectively deliver G-Link's ecological outcomes ( Undefined :: Undefined )	Cropping practices Fragmentation Grazing practices Inappropriate fire management
Reduce sediment and nutrient loads into creeks by rehabilitating erosion prone surfaces ( Undefined :: Undefined )	Catchment clearing Fragmentation Invasive Non-Native/Alien Species Development of roads or utilities
Restore native vegetation systems on geographically and ecologically suitable sites ( Undefined :: Undefined )	Catchment clearing Cropping practices Fragmentation

Viability Summary

Conservation Targets		Landscape Context		Condition		Size		Viability Rank
Conservation Targets		Grade	Weight	Grade	Weight	Grade	Weight	Viability Rank
1	Creeks	Fair	1.0	Fair	1.0	-	1.0	Fair
2	Proteaceous rich communities	-	1.0	-	1.0	Fair	1.0	Fair
3	Tammars and Black-gloved Wallabies	-	1.0	-	1.0	Fair	1.0	Fair
4	Mallet and moort woodlands	Fair	1.0	Good	1.0	Good	1.0	Good
5	Flat-topped Yate or Swamp yate (Eucalyptus occidentalis) woodlands	-	1.0	Fair	1.0	Good	1.0	Good
6	Fresh Water Systems	Fair	1.0	Fair	1.0	-	1.0	Fair
Project Biodiversity Health Rank								Fair

Threat Summary

Project-specific Threats (Common Taxonomy *)	Creeks	Flat-topped Yate or Swamp yate (Eucalyptus occidentalis) woodlands	Fresh Water Systems	Mallet and moort woodlands	Proteaceous rich communities	Tammars and Black-gloved Wallabies	Overall Threat Rank
Inappropriate fire management (Fire & Fire Suppression)	Low	Medium	-	High	High	High	High
Predation by feral species (Undefined)	-	-	Low	-	Low	Very High	High
Catchment clearing (Other Ecosystem Modifications)	Medium	High	Medium	-	-	High	High
Invasive Non-Native/Alien Species (Invasive Non-Native/Alien Species)	Medium	High	Low	-	Medium	-	Medium
Fragmentation (Undefined)	Medium	-	Medium	-	-	High	Medium
P.cinnamoni and other pathogens (Invasive Non-Native/Alien Species)	-	-	Medium	-	High	-	Medium
Cropping practices (Annual & Perennial Non-Timber Crops)	Low	Low	Medium	Medium	Medium	-	Medium
Grazing practices (Livestock Farming & Ranching)	Low	Medium	Medium	Low	Medium	-	Medium
Development of roads or utilities (Undefined)	Low	-	-	-	Medium	-	Low
Threat Status for Targets and Project	Medium	High	Medium	Medium	High	Very High	High

Project Resources

Categories & Measures		Score

People
	Staff Leadership	High
	Multidisciplinary Team	Medium
People Average		Medium
Internal Resources
	Institutional Learning	High
	Funding	Medium
Internal Resources Average		Medium
External Resources
	Social/Legal Framework for Conservation	High
	Community and Constituency Support	High
External Resources Average		High

Overall Project Resource Rank		Medium

Assessment of Target Viability

Conservation Target	Key Attribute (Category)	Indicator	Current Indicator Measurement	Rating Comments: (Poor, Fair Good Very Good)	Current Rating and Date	Desired Rating and Date
Creeks	Permanent pools ¹ (Condition)	Pools affected by sedimentation ²	TBD - likely to vary from poor to good within micro catchments. Status will need to be established by subcatchment.	Poor: Pools lost through sedimentation; others being affected Fair: All or most pools affected by sedimentation Good: Some pools affected by sedimentation Very Good: No "unnatural" sedimentation of pools	Fair ³ Feb 15, 2008	Good ⁴ Dec 15, 2030
Creeks	Stream condition ⁵ (Condition)	Environmental Index ⁶	20% of Corackerup Ck system assessed; 86% rated at VG, 13% G. Other 80% assessed from aerial photos 48% VG, 30% G, 19% F, 3% P. Most surveys have been in NRs, bush onGL properties or other Pub land.	Poor: 2-31 Fair: 32-44 Good: 45-59 Very Good: 60-65	Good ⁷ Apr 15, 2007	Very Good ⁸ Dec 15, 2012
Creeks	Water quality ⁹ (Condition)	Physical, chemical and biological indices TBD ¹⁰	TBD: Ratings to be determined with CENRM and Department of Water to ensure consistency with wider south coast databases	Poor: tbd Fair: tbd Good: tbd Very Good: tbd	Fair ¹¹ Feb 15, 2008	Good ¹² Dec 15, 2012
Creeks	Catchment hydrology ¹³ (Landscape Context)	percentage of catchment with perennial veg cover ¹⁴	26.7% (Fair) (Based on 6 subcatchments - individual subcatchments vary from poor - good)	Poor: <20% Fair: 20%-50% Good: 51%-80% Very Good: >80%	Fair ¹⁵ Apr 15, 2007	Good ¹⁶ Aug 15, 2030
Proteaceous rich communities	Community Condition ¹⁷ (Condition)	Species richness and composition ¹⁸	-	Poor: tbd Fair: tbd Good: tbd Very Good: tbd	-	-
Proteaceous rich communities	Pollination ¹⁹ (Condition)	Density of bird pollinators ²⁰	-	Poor: tbd Fair: tbd Good: tbd Very Good: tbd	-	-
Proteaceous rich communities	Seed storage ²¹ (Condition)	Numbers of seeds stored on plants or in soil ²²	TBD	Poor: Little / no seed stored on plants or in soil Fair: tbd Good: tbd Very Good: Sufficient	-	-
Proteaceous rich communities	Fire frequency ²³ (Landscape Context)	Distribution across fire age classes ²⁴	-	Poor: most of total community/ies extent is within the same fire age class Fair: tbd Good: tbd Very Good: total community has an even distribution across the defined fire age classes	- ²⁵	-
Proteaceous rich communities	Community size ²⁶ (Size)	% of pre-European extent ²⁷	16% = Fair	Poor: 0-10% Fair: 10-30% Good: 30-70% Very Good: >70%	Fair ²⁸	Good
Proteaceous rich communities	Patch size ²⁹ (Size)	Area extent of individual patches ³⁰	TBD. Likely to be poor - fair	Poor: TBD Fair: TBD Good: TBD Very Good: TBD	Fair ³¹	Good
Tammars and Black-gloved Wallabies	Wallaby abundance ³² (Size)	Level of occupancy ³³	TBD. Believed to be poor (Tammars) to Fair (Black gloved).	Poor: Target animals are absent from most or all habitats surveyed. Fair: Target animals are found occasionally in some habitats but their distribution is contracted Good: Target animals are found in numerous habitats. Very Good: Target animals are regularly found in most habitats.	Fair ³⁴	Good ³⁵
Mallet and moort woodlands	Community Condition ³⁶ (Condition)	crown condition ³⁷	Expect this to be good- very good	Poor: tbd Fair: tbd Good: tbd Very Good: tbd	Good ³⁸	Very Good
Mallet and moort woodlands	Soil and litter dynamics ³⁹ (Condition)	Condition of soils and organic matter ⁴⁰	Unknown. Further work required to determine parameters and their significance.	Poor: tbd Fair: tbd Good: tbd Very Good: tbd	Good ⁴¹	Very Good
Mallet and moort woodlands	Fire frequency ⁴² (Landscape Context)	Distribution across fire age classes ⁴³	TBD	Poor: TBD Fair: TBD Good: - Very Good: TBD	Fair	Good ⁴⁴
Mallet and moort woodlands	Community size ⁴⁵ (Size)	% of pre-European extent ⁴⁶	43% = Good (Based on 6 subcatchments for which we have Newbey mapping)	Poor: 0-10% Fair: 10-30% Good: 30-70% Very Good: >70%	Good ⁴⁷	Very Good
Flat-topped Yate or Swamp yate (Eucalyptus occidentalis) woodlands	Community Condition ⁴⁸ (Condition)	Species richness ⁴⁹	TBD for different community types	Poor: 11-18spp Fair: 19-26spp Good: 27-34spp Very Good: 35-40spp	Fair	Good
Flat-topped Yate or Swamp yate (Eucalyptus occidentalis) woodlands	Community Condition ⁵⁰ (Condition)	crown condition ⁵¹	Fair (for all trees over all sites the majority of trees (n=151) are in the C3 category ie 30-50% of foliage absent)	Poor: C4 or 5 Fair: C3 Good: C2 Very Good: C1	Fair	Good
Flat-topped Yate or Swamp yate (Eucalyptus occidentalis) woodlands	Recruitment ⁵² (Condition)	Age classes present ⁵³	Fair (at least 2 age classes are present at 64% of the sites)	Poor: - Fair: 2 Good: - Very Good: 3	Fair	Good
Flat-topped Yate or Swamp yate (Eucalyptus occidentalis) woodlands	Community size ⁵⁴ (Size)	% of pre-European extent ⁵⁵	49.6% (all Yate community types) = Good	Poor: 0-10% Fair: 10-30% Good: 30-70% Very Good: >70%	Good ⁵⁶	Very Good
Fresh Water Systems	Water quality ⁵⁷ (Condition)	Physical, chemical and biological Ausrivas indices ⁵⁸	TBD	Poor: tbd Fair: tbd Good: tbd Very Good: tbd	Fair ⁵⁹	Good ⁶⁰
Fresh Water Systems	Availability of freshwater in the landscape ⁶¹ (Landscape Context)	Occurence and distribution of small-scale freshwater bodies ⁶²	TBD	Poor: tbd Fair: tbd Good: tbd Very Good: tbd	Fair	Good
Fresh Water Systems	Population of dependent species ⁶³ (Size)	Species richness ⁶⁴	-	Poor: tbd Fair: tbd Good: tbd Very Good: tbd	-	-

COMMENTS:

¹ Permanent pools provide habitat for fish, invertebrates and aquatic and terrestrial plants in the Fitz-Stirling's creeks and function as refugia for many species during summer and dry seasons, although the extent of their ecological functions and values is not fully understood. These permanent pools are vulnerable to both sedimentation and physico-chemical changes in water quality, and in very degraded sections some pools have disappeared entirely after filling with sand. It appears that much of the sandy sediment may have entered the creek systems during major rainfall events in the past (eg in the 1950s and 1980s). These "sand slugs" are now relatively stable as they have been colonised by shrubs (mainly Acacia saligna), grasses and chenopods. These slugs may not move any further downstream unless there is further disturbance or major flooding before they are fully stabilised. There is also evidence of more recent and continuing movement of sediments into creeklines at sites where a combination of overstocking and cropping practices which deplete soil cover and reduced extent of riparian vegetation occurs. Identifying the sources of the sediments and its movement will assist in the management of the creeks by pinpointing priority areas for restoration works. (Prosser & Karsssies 2001) (Wilkinson et al 2004)

² Initially, we considered measuring the sediment movement along several creek systems and monitoring a number of parameters such as pool depth, length etc. This is currently impractical for us, but should be considered in the portfolio of future research/investigations projects we would like to support. We have chosen instead to look at the change that has occurred, initially within the Corackerup subcatchment, to determine the extent of loss of habitat and, presumably, ecological function. In addition, we will do more detailed monitoring at one or more specific locations (eg on the Peniup Creek/Corner Farm property where surface erosion is affecting both Peniup and Hegarty Creek). Previous pool locations will be determined from an analysis of aerial photos, the "Blue Pits" layer from Vegmachine (this may indicate where pools would have been expected to occur but have been filled through sedimentation, although the spatial resolution and derivation of the layer imposes limits on the reliability of this method), and on site investigations. The indicator ratings will be reviewed once the initial surveys in the Corackerup subcatchment have been completed. Confidence of these indicator rating descriptions: Low

³ Estimating that the rating may only be "Fair" across the 6 subcatchments, although for Corackerup it is more likely to be "Good" (although there are a number of creeks in the upper catchment that are almost totally degraded, most of the middle and lower reaches where the pools occur are in reasonable condition). Confidence of the current rating: Low

⁴ TBD. Desired rating may not differ from current. Objective will be to ensure no further loss of pools. In very long term, restoration of some pools may be contemplated.

⁵ Pen-Scott method of assessing riparian vegetation and stream condition has been used succesfully on many south coast rivers. (Jansen et al 2003) (Price & Lovett (1999)) (Lovett & Price (1999)) (W & R Comm (1999)) (W & R Comm 2000) (W & R Comm 2002) (W & R Comm 2002) We are using as a "Stream Condition Index" a modification from Pen-Scott that incorporates Foreshore Condition Assessments ( predomainantly reflects weeds and ersosion, ranked as A-D) with "Environmental Condition" (which incorporates Floodway and Bank vegetation, verge vegetation, stream cover, bank stability and erosion and in-stream habitat diversity. A combined numerical score is thus assigned to each length of creek.

⁶ Based on Penn-Scott methodologies, modified to provide one numeric score derived from assessments of several parameters (see Monitoring Methodology) and four rankings. Confidence of these indicator rating descriptions: High

⁷ Baseline surveys (2007/2009) Confidence of the current rating: High

⁸ Increase of overall condition rating by one rank (To be confirmed once the initail baseline is developed)

⁹ Water quality within the waterways of the south coast of WA has not been extensively studied or regularly monitored (with the exception of quarterly monitoring of the central south coast estuaries since 1991 and some flow gauging and salinity measurements on the Pallinup River at Bull Crossing). The Pallinup, Bremer and Gairdner Rivers were identified as among those at highest risk of nutrient enrichment (SCRIPT 2004) with all three of their estuaries (Beaufort, Wellstead and Gordon respectively) already showing signs of eutrophication. The AusRivAS program undertook nation-wide sampling and developed a model to predict macroinvertebrate communities that should occur in the absence of impacts (and therefore also developed an indicator of river health based on observed vs expected communities present). In 2006, the Department of Water commenced a project with CENRM to apply the same methodology across 29 river systems on the south coast to develop a more specific set of reference points for this region. We have therefore decided to use the same indicators and methodologies and to work closely with this project so that we are in a better position to interpret results and so that we can contribute to wider national and south coast datasets in future. (Bailey et al 2002) (Halse et al 2002b) (Halse et al 2002) (ANZECC & ARMCANZ 2000)

¹⁰ The ratings need to be established for south coast systems, rather than using national or state wide systems. This will be done through the current DoW/CENRM project. Confidence of these indicator rating descriptions: Low

¹¹ To be developed as baseline dataset during first five years of monitoring. Confidence of the current rating: Low

¹² TBD following evaluation of survey information and in association with DoW and CENRM

¹³ There are extensive references correlating hydrological function and catchment "health" to the area of the catchment covered by native perennial vegetation. There is however very little data to demonstrate the quantitive relationship between catchment clearing and hydrological function, and even less data to show relationships between hydrological functions (eg streamflow, runoff) with channel morphology or ecological functions for any of the waterways in the south coast catchments east of Albany. In the absence of any reliable quantitiative data on which to base threshold indicator levels, we have set the lower and upper thresholds at 20% and 80% of catchment clearing. These coincide with the levels used in the Water Resources Background Paper to the South Coast Regional Strategy for NRM (2004) to identify rivers at high risk of salinisation and nutrient pollution, and "near pristine" rivers respectively. The intermediate threshold of 50% vegetation cover is merely a midpoint and should be used cautiously. While the % of catchment vegetated will be used as an indicator, we will also need to do some calibration of catchment cover vs groundwater hydrology so that we are able to verify our assumptions. Direct groundwater level monitoring will be required. (Lillicrap 2004) (Rutherford et al 2000) (Water & Rivers Commission 2002) (NLWRA 2002) (SCRIPT 2004)

¹⁴ See Rationale (previous step). Current (2007) % of catchments vegetated is: Pallinup Bull Crossing 25% Pallinup Confluence 65% Monjebup 32% Corackerup 33% Bremer 13% West Gairdner 30% Confidence of these indicator rating descriptions: Medium

¹⁵ Based on the datasets Remnant Vegetation (supplied 2007?) by Damian Shepherd Dept of Agriculture and subcatchment boundaries supplied by Dept of Water (2006) Confidence of the current rating: High

¹⁶ Desired ratings in all cases are one rating above current until better information suggests otherwise.

¹⁷ Proteaceous communities are susceptible to a range of threats including Phytophthora cinnamomi, weed invasion, spray and nutrient drift, inappropriate fire regimes and clearing.These disturbances can result in a highly altered floristic composition. The patches of proteaceous-rich communities that have been identified within the Fitz-Stirling so far and which are relatively undisturbed also exhibit significant variation in species composition, so the use of reference or benchmark sites may be inappropriate for these communities.Further testing of the use of species richness and composition as indicators of condition in disturbed communities is therefore required.

¹⁸ Need to be developed. Poor: Highly altered floristic composition: high proportion of introduced species, low native species diversity due to previous disturbance. (Community deviates significantly from benchmark). Good: There may be some "minor" alteration of species richness or composition (The community deviates from the benchmark but is assumed to be functioning within its normal parameters). Very Good: High species richness with few or no introduced species (Benchmark conditions) Confidence of these indicator rating descriptions: Low

¹⁹ A representative suite of pollinators is important to produce viable seed and to maintain gene flow within and between plant populations. The original (pre-disturbance) distribution of these communities is believed to have been relatively small and scattered patches within a matrix of other plant communities. For the proteaceous patches to have survived it is assumed that adequate pollination occurred within and/or between patches. Proteaceous species are mainly populated by birds and mammals (except Conospermum species which seem to have a fairly specific relationship with certain colletid bees (Houston 1989). Many proteaceous species are visited by more than one pollinator with some local Banksia species attracting as many as six species of honeyeater, three species of mammal as well as native bees and wasps. A total of 13 species of honeyeater and seven species of mammal that have been recorded as pollinating local flora species can be found within the Fitz-Stirling. All the honeyeaters are wide ranging and move large distances in search of nectar. In contrast mammal pollinators are sedentary, less mobile and are more difficult to census. The density of bird pollinators has therefore been chosen as the indicator for this attribute, and the "bird minutes" method of sampling will be used (Gilmore in prep). Little is known of invertebrate pollinators within the Fitz-Stirling and further information about pollinator dependencies and specificities are urgently required. Additional indicators, such as invertebrate densities, may need to be included.

²⁰ Will need to determine a bird pollinators /ha rating for different conditions. Base methodology on Sandy Gilmore's Bird Minutes method - so in fact all bird species will be monitored.

²¹ Pollination is vital to seed set which but subsequent seed storage can also be influenced by a range of other factors such as seed attrition from pre-fire release, abortion, decay, granivory and senescence. Refer to David Paton's work. Seed storage is a factor of a number of parameters including fire, population size, pollination success, destruction by insects and birds, etc. Likely to be also affected by climate change? (Witkowski et al 1991)

²² Need to discuss with Peter Luscombe. May need to be separate indicator ratings for different species. We may choose a subset of species for determination of ratings (eg choose across resprouters, transient seed banks, etc) and different pollinator reliances.

²³ Many of the species within these communities have very specific fire requirements (e.g. resprouters, transient seed bank, exclusive pyrogenic reproduction) and need a sufficient inter-fire period to ensure continued populations. The species composition would therefore be expected to vary depending on fire history, and the "optimal" fire regime potentially differing between species within each community. Determining the specific fire regime that is optimal for maintenance of the community across the Fitz-Stirling area is likely to be complex and more input from botanists and fire ecologists will be required to refine the indicator. These communities generally occur in relatively small and widely distributed patches. Analysis of their distribution against the fire history for the area will allow the "fire age" for each patch to be identified. The initial indicator will then be the proprtion of the total community extent within (possibly four) defined fire age classes.

²⁴ We don't have adequate knowledge of what are the optimal distributions of fire ages across the different communities that make up this target. Assessments of condition, florisitic composition and fire histories will help to determine what the ratings should be. Neil Burrows' database should also assist in this. Confidence of these indicator rating descriptions: Low

²⁵ Fire history presently being mapped. Proteaceous communities still to be mapped.

²⁶ Based on remnant vegetation extent and Newbey vegetation association mapping, using Banksia attenuata, B baxteri, B verticillata, Dryandra complex, Banksia heath, Sand. We will also include E decipiens subsp adesmophloia. Several of the other mallee heath associations that Newbey mapped include patches of communities that are rich in proteaceous species, while some of the Newbey associations we are using (eg Sand) include significant areas of myrtaceous rather than proteaceous heaths. We will need to identify the remaining patches first, then compare with Newbey and with soil mapping to determine whether we are likely to be able to make a reliable estimate of "pre-European extent". Given the variability exhibited between patches, we also need to consider whether total extent is very meaningful or whether the patch size attribute is more significant. We are yet to determine whether alternative mapping eg using radiometrics, will help to identify the well drained sands or sands over gravel that are characteristically rich in proteaceous species.

²⁷ Indicator ratings are generally based on the levels used in assessment of native vegetation status by ANZECC (2000) and EPA (2000) and described by Shepherd et al (2001): "From a purely biodiversity perspective and taking no account of any other land degradation issues, there are several key criteria now being applied where clearing is still occurring: - The threshold level below which species loss occurs appears to accelerate exponentially at an ecosystem level is regarded as being at a level of 30% of the pre-clearing extent of the vegetation type; - A level of 10% of the original extent is regarded as being a level representing "endangered" (EPA 2000). We have included an additional threshold of 70% between the "good" and "very good" ratings but this has not been substantiated. Better understanding of the systems may lead us to lift the 10% and 30% thresholds for these systems. It is also possible that comparisons with pre-clearinf extents may be irrelevant in a fragmented landscape and that proportional representation of proteaceous communities should be higher to maintain ecological (including genetic) processes to be maintained. (ANZECC & ARMCANZ 2000) Confidence of these indicator rating descriptions: Low

²⁸ Based on Newbey mapping of the Newbey associations previously identified (B attenuata, B verticillata, B baxteri, Dryandra complex, Sand, E phaenophylla subsp adesmophloia). NB Doesn't cover western 3/4 of Pallinup-Bull Crossing catchment.

²⁹ Some of the patches of proteaceous rich communities that have been identified to date are extremely small remnants surviving on roadsides or in other isolated stands. Both the size of these remnants and their distribution across the landscape are likely to affect their viability as they are exposed to a range of threats (dieback, weed infestation, fire, road and track widening) and some species are possibly subject to decreasing cross-pollination. Unitl we have identified and surveyed the remaining patches, the indicator will be simply the size of the individual patches. Subsequent review may also lead to including a distance or separation indicator, or including population size indicators for individual species.

³⁰ Initial need is to identify and survey the remaining remanants; then develop indicator ratings. Confidence of these indicator rating descriptions: Low

³¹ Observations to date.

³² In the absence of major disturbances, Tammar and Black-gloved wallabies should occur within any suitable habitat across the Fitz-Stirling area. Both species require low, dense vegetation for shelter and more open areas for foraging, with tammar utilising grassy areas including paddocks. The Black-gloved wallaby forages in bushland and is not usually seen far from cover. Tammars tend to be "group territorial" with individuals within a group having overlapping home ranges, whereas Black-gloved wallabies tend to be more solitary although there may still be some overlap in their home ranges. We currently have very limited knowledge of population levels or their distribution across the Fitz Stirling area although some survey work commenced in 2007. Determining population sizes with limited survey resources and for animals with such low population densities is very difficult however. An alternative approach is to consider the proportion of area occupied by the species. (MacKenzie et al (2003)) (MacKenzie, (2005) )

³³ No basis for these as yet - seek to develop ratings by end of 2010. Confidence of these indicator rating descriptions: Low

³⁴ Only based on very preliminary information gained from Sandra's work. Needs to be different for the two species

³⁵ Information does support recent and continuing decline in species numbers across the link, so any improvement will be beneficial in improving viability

³⁶ The attribute is included to ensure that we consider factors other than fire interval that may determine the extent and condition of these woodlands. The indicator will be reviewed once we have mapped and surveyed all of the existing mallet and moort stands. The parameters we are likely to include in our "condition" assessment are crown cover, possibly crown condition, species richness/composition, stem density, and diameter at breast height. When surveying the stands, we will also include soil and litter descriptions, particularly soil type, structure and (if resources permit) some soil nutrient analysis. May assist in longer term assessment of eg climate change impacts.

³⁷ These will need to be established after sufficient surveys have been done.

³⁸ As yet we are unaware of any mallet and moort woodlands that we would instictively desribe as less than good condition.

³⁹ The litter and presumably the soil dynamics appear to be very different in moort and mallet stands than in other associations. We are unsure whether this reflects some inherent site characteristic that makes the sites suitable for moort and mallet woodlands or whether they are products of the woodlands. The relationship with fire interval suggests it may be the latter. However, we need to understand more about the dynamics within the woodlands to be able to determine with more certainty what are in fact the key attributes to monitor. There have been suggestions that the presence of these woodlands in clays is either because they are high water users or because they are opportunistic and few other associations will survive in these soils.Some soil analysis may be necessary to determine whether there are other factors that limit these sites to mallets and moorts.

⁴⁰ Ratings will be determined after exisitng woodland stands are surveyed and soil and litter characteristics determined.

⁴¹ Good or very good for current populations.

⁴² Mallets and moorts are obligate seeders which means that the fire frequency is likely to be a determinant of population extent (in that too frequent fire will destroy populations before seed set). However, the appropriate fire regime and time required for seed set are not yet known.

⁴³ Further analysis of the ages of existing stands, the fire history and the age to onset of seeding are required before indicator ratings can be determined. Confidence of these indicator rating descriptions: Low

⁴⁴ Obligate seeder, almost monoculture, thick leaf litter, fire sensitive, significant role as habitat that we don't understand, local endemics and restricted ad interbreeding. Moort grow on 'difficult' soils (Sunday clays); our thinking in 2005 was that this indicated some special feature of these sites, whereas current thinking (2007) is that moorts survive here because nothing else can. Determinants of where moort occurs are really not well understood.

⁴⁵ As for other systems. Newbey mapping (incomplete for the Fitz Stirling area) includes the associations E astringens and E platypus although the mapping of these particular associations appears to be inaccurate in some areas and may not provide reliable pre- and post-clearing estimates. Once we have more reliably mapped moort and mallet stands we will be in a better position to determine whether the indicator should remain as "% of pre-European extent" or should be simply an areal extent (with current extent to be the benchmark and future extent to remain at least as large).

⁴⁶ URGENT TASK Map current extent obligate seeding woodlands communities and reassess the indicator ratings. Use aerial photo interpretation and Mobile Mappers (Newbey mapping hasn't been adequate) Similar points to Proteaceous communities. Confidence of these indicator rating descriptions: Low

⁴⁷ Remnant vegetation and Newbey mapping. (NB Newbey mapping incomplete for Fitz-Stirling and did not map all moort woodlands separately). So far we have considered E. astringens and E. platypus only as these were the only associations mapped by Newbey. Two of the short range endemics, E. melanophitra and E. vesiculosa also need to be identified and mapped (although we will have no pre-clearing extent for comparison - may need to develop separate desired rating for these to be better than current). Note also the unreliability of Newbey mapping for the two associations.

⁴⁸ Carey (2003) identified understorey plant species richness as a useful indicator of hydrological distrurbance in Yate communities, particularly low in the landscape where declining species richness was associated with increasing disturbance. For her sites in the Gairdner catchment, Carey developed "survival thresholds" based on soil and groundwater properties. The Gairdner catchment has some different characteristics to Corackerup; we will therefore need to establish whether such thresholds apply in the three Yate community types in the Fitz-Stirling and determine rankings criteria for them.

⁴⁹ Based on Michelle's work but will be refined after floristic composition and species richness work on "healthy" and other quadrats. Confidence of these indicator rating descriptions: Low

⁵⁰ Carey (2003) identified understorey plant species richness as a useful indicator of hydrological distrurbance in Yate communities, particularly low in the landscape where declining species richness was associated with increasing disturbance. For her sites in the Gairdner catchment, Carey developed "survival thresholds" based on soil and groundwater properties. The Gairdner catchment has some different characteristics to Corackerup; we will therefore need to establish whether such thresholds apply in the three Yate community types in the Fitz-Stirling and determine rankings criteria for them.

⁵¹ Based on Wandoo Recovery project. C4/5: >75% of foliage absent; may have epicormic growth and/or dead epicormic growth; dead branches and/limbs being shed at a majority of sites C3:30-50% foliage absent; epicormic growth may be present at a majority of sites C2: <25% of foliage absent; epicormic growth may be present at a majority of sites C1: Healthy foliage; may have a few dead branches; no epicormic growth at a majority

⁵² Seedling establishment is one of the most important stages in the recruitment process and studies in other temperate environments have found that disturbance influences each recruitment stage, from seed release to seedling establishment. Disturbance may also stimulate the germination of more opportunistic species and further alter community structure and recruitment. Carey (2003), working in the Gairdner catchment, found that there were distinct seasonal trends associated with the release of reproductive material.Yate seeds appeared to either germinate immediately during moist winter conditions, or not at all. The timing of maximum seed dispersal coincided with the optimum germination and emergence peiods in winter and because seed longevity was low, immediate germination was required. In contrast, other studies have shown that similar eucalypts in the Western Australian wheatbelt release seed during summer. Recruitment and the subsequent development of a plant community are intrinsically linked to the soil and water regimes (groundwater depth, duration and frequency of inundation, salinity), so changes to hydrology can potentially lead to failure of recruitment and survival. (Carey 2003)

⁵³ A. seedling B. non-reproductive C. reproductive - immature D. reproductive - mature Currently only three rankings are identified (based on Habitat Hectares) but this may be re-assessed once initial surveys are completed. NB The different Yate indicators are closely correlated and may be simplified or combined when sufficient progress is made on characterising systems within the study area. Poor = Fair (for all trees over all sites the majority of trees (n=151) are in the C3 category ie 30-50% of foliage absent) Fair = At least two age classes present at a majority of sites VGood = All age classes present at a majority of sites.

⁵⁴ Flat-topped Yate woodland communities once provided valuable habitat across the Fitz-Stirling. Much of the upland Yate has been cleared and riparian Yate communities have been severely degraded. The extent and condition of the remaining yate swamp communities has not yet been determined. Newbey mapping of Yate associations has been used to determine the pre-clearing and current extent of the three community types combined. The three communities should however be separately rated as the pressures on each type differ.

⁵⁵ 10% and 30% threshholds are based on levels used in assessments of native vegetation status by ANZECC and EPA, described by Shepherd et al. The 70% threshold has been proposed by us but has no ecological basis at this time. Confidence of these indicator rating descriptions: Very High

⁵⁶ Based on remnant vegetation and Newbey vegetation mapping (1976). (NB There are some areas in which Newbey mapping may noy give accurate association extent. Figures may therefore change slightly as survey effort increases). Confidence of the current rating: High

⁵⁷ Water quality is likely to be the main attribute that will be subject to change, especially if hydrological changes are occurring within the catchments. Using the same water quality parameters as Ausrivas will allow some relative assessments to be made against freshwater systems elsewhere. It will be complemented by monitoring of macroinvertebrates (under Population of Target Organisms attribute). (ANZECC & ARMCANZ 2000) (Halse et al 2002) (Halse et al 2002b)

⁵⁸ To be based on south coast indices to be developed by the current CENRM/DoW project

⁵⁹ To be established as baseline on first five years monitoring

⁶⁰ To be determined once the baseline is established

⁶¹ Based on a belief that freshwater is an essential part of the landscape and several fauna species will be dependent on it; that there will be specific assemblages of flora associated with them; and that it is likely that their occurence in the landscape has been decreased through hydrological and physical changes. There may also be increased artificial occurrences, some of which will also have high conservation values because of their dependent species. Without some further investigations to establish either a "benchmark" for number and distribution of freshwater seeps and pools, or a valid ecological measure such as a requirement for a certain number/density of breeding sites to maintain a population of an associated species, the use of indicator ratings may not be appropriate for this indicator.It may be that the number and location of current sites can be established using several methods, and these then become our baseline sites for monitoring of other attributes.

⁶² Difficulty in identifying all of the locations. Until we do this, we can't know their relative importance. Ratings are likely to be on a basis of at least maintaining what we currently have, as it will be near impossible to determine "pre-disturbance" occurrence. Condition of current occurrences may prove to be the most important attribute to monitor.

⁶³ The reasoning behind the inclusion of these systems as a target is that there are possibly species or communities that are dependent on them and that loss of the systems would therefore lead to a loss of these species and communities. Certain frogs have been identified as possible dependent species and may therefore be monitored (recognising that there are likely to be other threatening processees such as use of agricultural chemicals that may be contributing to loss of species). If initial surveys support the assumptions behind inclusion of this target (ie dependent species/communities) the indicator will then become the number of individuals of those species or the number of communities/populations present at selected sites across the Fitz Stirling.

⁶⁴ Ratings may need to be established for differrent species/communities chosen for monitoring. Objective will then be to at least maintain the number of species (will be reviewed once we have sufficient data to determine trends and/or narrow the monitoring to particular freshwater sensitive species).

Objectives, Strategic Actions and Action Steps

Show all:
Strategic Action Measures
Action Steps Measures
Comments

Objective: By 2012, exclude stock grazing and manage foxes, other feral predators, plant pathogens (including Phytophthora cinnamomi), invasive weeds, over at least 60,000ha of native vegetation in the Fitz-Stirling area. (comments)

Strategic Action: Manage properties owned by G-Link partners to demonstrate effective conservation practices in the Fitz Stirling area (comments)

Progress	Updated	Comments
Major Issues	Nov 15, 2009	-

Action Step: Build and maintain regular communication with relevant parties (neighbours, DMAs etc), including informal and formal methods. Ensure visitation and interpretation on properties is considered early in the property planning process. (comments) (measures info)

Action Step: Develop agreed ecological and other objectives for management of properties; a process and format for integration of property management planning with the FLP; and structural arrangements for collaborating on property management so that a high standard of management is developed and presented to neighbours and other observers. (comments) (measures info)
Comment: This action remains from first iteration, but may be superceded by other work done since then. It has been retained so that there is another check on the shared understanding of what Gondwana LInk means at a property management scale.

Progress Updated Comments

Planned - -

Progress	Updated	Comments
Planned	-	-

Progress	Updated	Comments
Major Issues	Nov 15, 2009	-

Action Step: Develop and implement property management plans for all properties, with annual work planning. Plans should address as a minimum cultural planning; infrastructure (including tracks, fences & structures) maintenance and development; pest species management; visitor management; fire prevention, response & management; pathogens management and hygiene; ecological (& other) monitoring; rehabilitation works required; other issues as identified for specific properties or as part of regional strategies developed. (comments) (measures info)

Action Step: Property manager to be funded and employed across Gondwana Link properties (comments) (measures info)
Comment: This has been on top of the CRITICAL list for too long and needs to proceed or we all go home.

Progress Updated Comments

Planned - -
Action Step: Engage public land managment agencies and neighbouring landowners in ongoing communication process on management issues including fire, ferals and other threat management. Hold regular open days with focus on particular management practices or developments on properties. (comments) (measures info)
Comment: While this has been identified as the Property Manager's responsibility, it will need to be included in every project or activity undertaken within Gondwana Link.

Progress Updated Comments

Planned - -
Action Step: Implement stringent standards and regular reporting of performance against those standards as part of annual reporting to Boards, donors and partners (measures info)

Progress Updated Comments

Planned - -

Strategic Action: Build integrated management across tenures through partnerships and other collaborations
- Action Step: Identify key people and organisations (SCRIPT, DoW, FBG, NSP, others?), programs and critical timing for project development (comments) (measures info)
  Comment: Most of this is known but needs to be verified and assessed as to where the main opportunities are. Timing and processes also need to be resolved and assessment made of which opportunities are likely to yield best results at lowest cost to Gondwana Link.
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Use spatially explicit landscape plan to identify priority areas for creek restoration. (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Identify clearly the potential contributions of Gondwana Link partners to community projects (and any limits to involvement). (comments) (measures info)
  Comment: This needs to be clear and explicit, both to prevent over-commitment by staff and to ensure that we don't create expectations that we are unable to meet. It will form the basis for partnership agreements in any resulting projects.
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Develop and maintain regular communication of Gondwana Link conservation planning and progress on ecological outcomes, including key community groups in reviews of plans where appropriate (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Develop, maintain and share appropriate information sharing tools to allow community projects to contribute to and receive support from Gondwana Link knowledge system/s. (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  On Track - -
- Action Step: Use partner organisation links to encourage other participation and/or funding for community projects through corporates, national and other funding opportunities (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
Strategic Action: Restore native vegetation systems on geographically and ecologically suitable sites
- Action Step: Identify specific restoration objectives from Conservation Objectives (this plan) and spatial analysis. (comments) (measures info)
  Comment: Requires completion of spatial analysis and may be required at several scales
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Develop and document procedures and standards for all steps in restoration to be applied to all GA plantings (see comment for full list of these) (comments) (measures info)
  Comment: Each planting project should adhere to best possible standards which need to be included in project/planting plans. These should include: - Setting objectives (specific ecological outcomes as well as others, eg carbon production); Risk minimisation (eg consider when seasonal factors make the project too big a risk); Seed collection and management; Site assessment and design (incl land suitability, species selection, seeeding rates, etc); Site preparation (considering water, weeds, Pc, etc); Direct seeding; Seedling production and planting; Monitoring and documentation; "Completion criteria (ie at what stage is the "restoration" process complete?); Management criteria; Review of techniques and results.
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: For each planting project (property or other), develop restoration plan using the procedures and standards documented in Action Step 3. (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Identify and develop opportunities for other programs/partnerships to assist in meeting restoration objectives (comments) (measures info)
  Comment: Likely partners include SCNRM, SFMA, possibly FBG in its own right, and possibly SRA/GASC (subject to improved process for management). Shell and other corporate partners need to be included, particularly if there is a feasible commercial (carbon) driver.
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Implement every restoration or revegetation project as a demonstration of highest possible standards (comments) (measures info)
  Comment: Costs are based on an estimate of 3000ha per year for 5 years at $1250/ha
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Minor Issues - -
- Action Step: Trial different methods of reveg and thoroughly monitor for fauna and flora over long period, including trial relocation of keystone fauna (Investigate (students?) restoration and role of fungi/bacteria/litter/other to enhance success rates) (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
Strategic Action: Reduce sediment and nutrient loads into creeks by rehabilitating erosion prone surfaces
- Action Step: Identify erosion prone surfaces and other sources of sediments and nutrients into creeks on Gondwana Link owned properties (and potential properties as they are identified). (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Include sediment and nutrient reduction in property management plans (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Identify funding sources and other resources required to implement works and go get them (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Implement works (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
Strategic Action: Develop spatially explicit landscape plan which identifies key areas for implementation of all strategies (comments)
Comment: Essential step
- Action Step: Identify document and peer-test principles and criteria on which the plan is to be based. (comments) (measures info)
  Comment: Plan should include some options; e.g. to account for different levels of funds available; properties not being available at a reasonable price in "optimal" configurations; different commercial drivers etc. Only a brief document is to be produced initially - ecologists can expand into a more detailed document in time, but waiting for this now will delay spatially-explicit component being added to strategies.
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Minor Issues - -
- Action Step: Identify existing information sets and gaps in information needed for development of the plan. (comments) (measures info)
  Comment: Have identified some key data sets including fire age mapping (Amanda working on this now); land clearing history (requires search at DLI); erosion-prone surfaces (microcatchment risk assessment; will need a contractor, possibly Simon Neville); filling the gaps in Newbey vegetation mapping at western end of FitzStirling (contractor, possibly Jack Mercer); mallet and moort woodlands (Amanda doing from aerial photos; will need ground truthing); proteaceous vegetation (TBD). Other data sets may be developed in coming years from surveys and investigations that are on-going.
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  On Track - -
- Action Step: Identify further resources (technical expertise etc) that may be required to complete the plan. (comments) (measures info)
  Comment: This step may also include ground truthing and/or collection of additional observational information to fill information gaps.
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Prepare the draft plan and link all strategies to it (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Review the plan at least annually (comments) (measures info)
  Comment: Questions to be answered may change over time and require more work at times than has been accounted for here.
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -

Progress	Updated	Comments
Planned	-	-

Progress	Updated	Comments
Planned	-	-

Progress	Updated	Comments
Planned	-	-

Progress	Updated	Comments
Planned	-	-

Progress	Updated	Comments
Planned	-	-

Progress	Updated	Comments
Planned	-	-

Progress	Updated	Comments
Planned	-	-

Progress	Updated	Comments
On Track	-	-

Progress	Updated	Comments
Planned	-	-

Progress	Updated	Comments
Planned	-	-

Progress	Updated	Comments
Planned	-	-

Progress	Updated	Comments
Planned	-	-

Progress	Updated	Comments
Planned	-	-

Progress	Updated	Comments
Minor Issues	-	-

Progress	Updated	Comments
Planned	-	-

Progress	Updated	Comments
Planned	-	-

Progress	Updated	Comments
Planned	-	-

Progress	Updated	Comments
Planned	-	-

Progress	Updated	Comments
Planned	-	-

Progress	Updated	Comments
Minor Issues	-	-

Progress	Updated	Comments
On Track	-	-

Progress	Updated	Comments
Planned	-	-

Progress	Updated	Comments
Planned	-	-

Progress	Updated	Comments
Planned	-	-

Objective: By 2012, restore at least 16,000ha of native vegetation, including at least 2000ha of proteaceous-rich communities that support native insect, bird and other vertebrate pollinators. (comments)

Strategic Action: Develop spatially explicit landscape plan which identifies key areas for implementation of all strategies (comments)
Comment: Essential step
- Action Step: Identify document and peer-test principles and criteria on which the plan is to be based. (comments) (measures info)
  Comment: Plan should include some options; e.g. to account for different levels of funds available; properties not being available at a reasonable price in "optimal" configurations; different commercial drivers etc. Only a brief document is to be produced initially - ecologists can expand into a more detailed document in time, but waiting for this now will delay spatially-explicit component being added to strategies.
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Minor Issues - -
- Action Step: Identify existing information sets and gaps in information needed for development of the plan. (comments) (measures info)
  Comment: Have identified some key data sets including fire age mapping (Amanda working on this now); land clearing history (requires search at DLI); erosion-prone surfaces (microcatchment risk assessment; will need a contractor, possibly Simon Neville); filling the gaps in Newbey vegetation mapping at western end of FitzStirling (contractor, possibly Jack Mercer); mallet and moort woodlands (Amanda doing from aerial photos; will need ground truthing); proteaceous vegetation (TBD). Other data sets may be developed in coming years from surveys and investigations that are on-going.
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  On Track - -
- Action Step: Identify further resources (technical expertise etc) that may be required to complete the plan. (comments) (measures info)
  Comment: This step may also include ground truthing and/or collection of additional observational information to fill information gaps.
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Prepare the draft plan and link all strategies to it (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Review the plan at least annually (comments) (measures info)
  Comment: Questions to be answered may change over time and require more work at times than has been accounted for here.
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
Strategic Action: Purchase properties that most effectively deliver G-Link's ecological outcomes
- Action Step: Operate a pro-active and commercially astute negotiation and purchase program which strategically integrates ecological and commercial opportunities.
- Action Step: Develop a revolving fund or credit line to enable timely property purchases (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Assess optimal land capability and prepare property business cases (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  On Track - -
- Action Step: Subdivide, covenant and re-sell as appropriate. (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
Strategic Action: Restore native vegetation systems on geographically and ecologically suitable sites
- Action Step: Identify specific restoration objectives from Conservation Objectives (this plan) and spatial analysis. (comments) (measures info)
  Comment: Requires completion of spatial analysis and may be required at several scales
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Develop and document procedures and standards for all steps in restoration to be applied to all GA plantings (see comment for full list of these) (comments) (measures info)
  Comment: Each planting project should adhere to best possible standards which need to be included in project/planting plans. These should include: - Setting objectives (specific ecological outcomes as well as others, eg carbon production); Risk minimisation (eg consider when seasonal factors make the project too big a risk); Seed collection and management; Site assessment and design (incl land suitability, species selection, seeeding rates, etc); Site preparation (considering water, weeds, Pc, etc); Direct seeding; Seedling production and planting; Monitoring and documentation; "Completion criteria (ie at what stage is the "restoration" process complete?); Management criteria; Review of techniques and results.
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: For each planting project (property or other), develop restoration plan using the procedures and standards documented in Action Step 3. (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Identify and develop opportunities for other programs/partnerships to assist in meeting restoration objectives (comments) (measures info)
  Comment: Likely partners include SCNRM, SFMA, possibly FBG in its own right, and possibly SRA/GASC (subject to improved process for management). Shell and other corporate partners need to be included, particularly if there is a feasible commercial (carbon) driver.
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Implement every restoration or revegetation project as a demonstration of highest possible standards (comments) (measures info)
  Comment: Costs are based on an estimate of 3000ha per year for 5 years at $1250/ha
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Minor Issues - -
- Action Step: Trial different methods of reveg and thoroughly monitor for fauna and flora over long period, including trial relocation of keystone fauna (Investigate (students?) restoration and role of fungi/bacteria/litter/other to enhance success rates) (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
Strategic Action: Reduce sediment and nutrient loads into creeks by rehabilitating erosion prone surfaces
- Action Step: Identify erosion prone surfaces and other sources of sediments and nutrients into creeks on Gondwana Link owned properties (and potential properties as they are identified). (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Include sediment and nutrient reduction in property management plans (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Identify funding sources and other resources required to implement works and go get them (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Implement works (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -

Progress	Updated	Comments
Minor Issues	-	-

Progress	Updated	Comments
On Track	-	-

Progress	Updated	Comments
Planned	-	-

Progress	Updated	Comments
Planned	-	-

Progress	Updated	Comments
Planned	-	-

Progress	Updated	Comments
Planned	-	-

Progress	Updated	Comments
On Track	-	-

Progress	Updated	Comments
Planned	-	-

Progress	Updated	Comments
Planned	-	-

Progress	Updated	Comments
Planned	-	-

Progress	Updated	Comments
Planned	-	-

Progress	Updated	Comments
Planned	-	-

Progress	Updated	Comments
Minor Issues	-	-

Objective: By 2012, significantly improve the condition of at least 60% of the creeks within the Corackerup catchment and, by 2015, within the Monjebup and mid-Pallinup catchments. (comments)

Strategic Action: Purchase properties that most effectively deliver G-Link's ecological outcomes
- Action Step: Operate a pro-active and commercially astute negotiation and purchase program which strategically integrates ecological and commercial opportunities.
- Action Step: Develop a revolving fund or credit line to enable timely property purchases (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Assess optimal land capability and prepare property business cases (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  On Track - -
- Action Step: Subdivide, covenant and re-sell as appropriate. (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -

Strategic Action: Manage properties owned by G-Link partners to demonstrate effective conservation practices in the Fitz Stirling area (comments)

Action Step: Develop agreed ecological and other objectives for management of properties; a process and format for integration of property management planning with the FLP; and structural arrangements for collaborating on property management so that a high standard of management is developed and presented to neighbours and other observers. (comments) (measures info)
Comment: This action remains from first iteration, but may be superceded by other work done since then. It has been retained so that there is another check on the shared understanding of what Gondwana LInk means at a property management scale.

Progress Updated Comments

Planned - -

Action Step: Property manager to be funded and employed across Gondwana Link properties (comments) (measures info)
Comment: This has been on top of the CRITICAL list for too long and needs to proceed or we all go home.

Progress Updated Comments

Planned - -
Action Step: Engage public land managment agencies and neighbouring landowners in ongoing communication process on management issues including fire, ferals and other threat management. Hold regular open days with focus on particular management practices or developments on properties. (comments) (measures info)
Comment: While this has been identified as the Property Manager's responsibility, it will need to be included in every project or activity undertaken within Gondwana Link.

Progress Updated Comments

Planned - -
Action Step: Implement stringent standards and regular reporting of performance against those standards as part of annual reporting to Boards, donors and partners (measures info)

Progress Updated Comments

Planned - -

Strategic Action: Build integrated management across tenures through partnerships and other collaborations
- Action Step: Identify key people and organisations (SCRIPT, DoW, FBG, NSP, others?), programs and critical timing for project development (comments) (measures info)
  Comment: Most of this is known but needs to be verified and assessed as to where the main opportunities are. Timing and processes also need to be resolved and assessment made of which opportunities are likely to yield best results at lowest cost to Gondwana Link.
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Use spatially explicit landscape plan to identify priority areas for creek restoration. (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Identify clearly the potential contributions of Gondwana Link partners to community projects (and any limits to involvement). (comments) (measures info)
  Comment: This needs to be clear and explicit, both to prevent over-commitment by staff and to ensure that we don't create expectations that we are unable to meet. It will form the basis for partnership agreements in any resulting projects.
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Develop and maintain regular communication of Gondwana Link conservation planning and progress on ecological outcomes, including key community groups in reviews of plans where appropriate (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Develop, maintain and share appropriate information sharing tools to allow community projects to contribute to and receive support from Gondwana Link knowledge system/s. (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  On Track - -
- Action Step: Use partner organisation links to encourage other participation and/or funding for community projects through corporates, national and other funding opportunities (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
Strategic Action: Restore native vegetation systems on geographically and ecologically suitable sites
- Action Step: Identify specific restoration objectives from Conservation Objectives (this plan) and spatial analysis. (comments) (measures info)
  Comment: Requires completion of spatial analysis and may be required at several scales
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Develop and document procedures and standards for all steps in restoration to be applied to all GA plantings (see comment for full list of these) (comments) (measures info)
  Comment: Each planting project should adhere to best possible standards which need to be included in project/planting plans. These should include: - Setting objectives (specific ecological outcomes as well as others, eg carbon production); Risk minimisation (eg consider when seasonal factors make the project too big a risk); Seed collection and management; Site assessment and design (incl land suitability, species selection, seeeding rates, etc); Site preparation (considering water, weeds, Pc, etc); Direct seeding; Seedling production and planting; Monitoring and documentation; "Completion criteria (ie at what stage is the "restoration" process complete?); Management criteria; Review of techniques and results.
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: For each planting project (property or other), develop restoration plan using the procedures and standards documented in Action Step 3. (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Identify and develop opportunities for other programs/partnerships to assist in meeting restoration objectives (comments) (measures info)
  Comment: Likely partners include SCNRM, SFMA, possibly FBG in its own right, and possibly SRA/GASC (subject to improved process for management). Shell and other corporate partners need to be included, particularly if there is a feasible commercial (carbon) driver.
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Implement every restoration or revegetation project as a demonstration of highest possible standards (comments) (measures info)
  Comment: Costs are based on an estimate of 3000ha per year for 5 years at $1250/ha
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Minor Issues - -
- Action Step: Trial different methods of reveg and thoroughly monitor for fauna and flora over long period, including trial relocation of keystone fauna (Investigate (students?) restoration and role of fungi/bacteria/litter/other to enhance success rates) (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
Strategic Action: Reduce sediment and nutrient loads into creeks by rehabilitating erosion prone surfaces
- Action Step: Identify erosion prone surfaces and other sources of sediments and nutrients into creeks on Gondwana Link owned properties (and potential properties as they are identified). (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Include sediment and nutrient reduction in property management plans (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Identify funding sources and other resources required to implement works and go get them (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Implement works (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
Strategic Action: Develop spatially explicit landscape plan which identifies key areas for implementation of all strategies (comments)
Comment: Essential step
- Action Step: Identify document and peer-test principles and criteria on which the plan is to be based. (comments) (measures info)
  Comment: Plan should include some options; e.g. to account for different levels of funds available; properties not being available at a reasonable price in "optimal" configurations; different commercial drivers etc. Only a brief document is to be produced initially - ecologists can expand into a more detailed document in time, but waiting for this now will delay spatially-explicit component being added to strategies.
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Minor Issues - -
- Action Step: Identify existing information sets and gaps in information needed for development of the plan. (comments) (measures info)
  Comment: Have identified some key data sets including fire age mapping (Amanda working on this now); land clearing history (requires search at DLI); erosion-prone surfaces (microcatchment risk assessment; will need a contractor, possibly Simon Neville); filling the gaps in Newbey vegetation mapping at western end of FitzStirling (contractor, possibly Jack Mercer); mallet and moort woodlands (Amanda doing from aerial photos; will need ground truthing); proteaceous vegetation (TBD). Other data sets may be developed in coming years from surveys and investigations that are on-going.
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  On Track - -
- Action Step: Identify further resources (technical expertise etc) that may be required to complete the plan. (comments) (measures info)
  Comment: This step may also include ground truthing and/or collection of additional observational information to fill information gaps.
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Prepare the draft plan and link all strategies to it (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Review the plan at least annually (comments) (measures info)
  Comment: Questions to be answered may change over time and require more work at times than has been accounted for here.
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -

Objective: By 2017, increase the populations of Tammar and Black-gloved Wallabies within the Fitz-Stirling area by 30% (comments)

Strategic Action: Develop spatially explicit landscape plan which identifies key areas for implementation of all strategies (comments)
Comment: Essential step
- Action Step: Identify document and peer-test principles and criteria on which the plan is to be based. (comments) (measures info)
  Comment: Plan should include some options; e.g. to account for different levels of funds available; properties not being available at a reasonable price in "optimal" configurations; different commercial drivers etc. Only a brief document is to be produced initially - ecologists can expand into a more detailed document in time, but waiting for this now will delay spatially-explicit component being added to strategies.
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Minor Issues - -
- Action Step: Identify existing information sets and gaps in information needed for development of the plan. (comments) (measures info)
  Comment: Have identified some key data sets including fire age mapping (Amanda working on this now); land clearing history (requires search at DLI); erosion-prone surfaces (microcatchment risk assessment; will need a contractor, possibly Simon Neville); filling the gaps in Newbey vegetation mapping at western end of FitzStirling (contractor, possibly Jack Mercer); mallet and moort woodlands (Amanda doing from aerial photos; will need ground truthing); proteaceous vegetation (TBD). Other data sets may be developed in coming years from surveys and investigations that are on-going.
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  On Track - -
- Action Step: Identify further resources (technical expertise etc) that may be required to complete the plan. (comments) (measures info)
  Comment: This step may also include ground truthing and/or collection of additional observational information to fill information gaps.
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Prepare the draft plan and link all strategies to it (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Review the plan at least annually (comments) (measures info)
  Comment: Questions to be answered may change over time and require more work at times than has been accounted for here.
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
Strategic Action: Build integrated management across tenures through partnerships and other collaborations
- Action Step: Identify key people and organisations (SCRIPT, DoW, FBG, NSP, others?), programs and critical timing for project development (comments) (measures info)
  Comment: Most of this is known but needs to be verified and assessed as to where the main opportunities are. Timing and processes also need to be resolved and assessment made of which opportunities are likely to yield best results at lowest cost to Gondwana Link.
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Use spatially explicit landscape plan to identify priority areas for creek restoration. (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Identify clearly the potential contributions of Gondwana Link partners to community projects (and any limits to involvement). (comments) (measures info)
  Comment: This needs to be clear and explicit, both to prevent over-commitment by staff and to ensure that we don't create expectations that we are unable to meet. It will form the basis for partnership agreements in any resulting projects.
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Develop and maintain regular communication of Gondwana Link conservation planning and progress on ecological outcomes, including key community groups in reviews of plans where appropriate (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Develop, maintain and share appropriate information sharing tools to allow community projects to contribute to and receive support from Gondwana Link knowledge system/s. (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  On Track - -
- Action Step: Use partner organisation links to encourage other participation and/or funding for community projects through corporates, national and other funding opportunities (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -

Strategic Action: Manage properties owned by G-Link partners to demonstrate effective conservation practices in the Fitz Stirling area (comments)

Action Step: Develop agreed ecological and other objectives for management of properties; a process and format for integration of property management planning with the FLP; and structural arrangements for collaborating on property management so that a high standard of management is developed and presented to neighbours and other observers. (comments) (measures info)
Comment: This action remains from first iteration, but may be superceded by other work done since then. It has been retained so that there is another check on the shared understanding of what Gondwana LInk means at a property management scale.

Progress Updated Comments

Planned - -

Action Step: Property manager to be funded and employed across Gondwana Link properties (comments) (measures info)
Comment: This has been on top of the CRITICAL list for too long and needs to proceed or we all go home.

Progress Updated Comments

Planned - -
Action Step: Engage public land managment agencies and neighbouring landowners in ongoing communication process on management issues including fire, ferals and other threat management. Hold regular open days with focus on particular management practices or developments on properties. (comments) (measures info)
Comment: While this has been identified as the Property Manager's responsibility, it will need to be included in every project or activity undertaken within Gondwana Link.

Progress Updated Comments

Planned - -
Action Step: Implement stringent standards and regular reporting of performance against those standards as part of annual reporting to Boards, donors and partners (measures info)

Progress Updated Comments

Planned - -

Strategic Action: Restore native vegetation systems on geographically and ecologically suitable sites
- Action Step: Identify specific restoration objectives from Conservation Objectives (this plan) and spatial analysis. (comments) (measures info)
  Comment: Requires completion of spatial analysis and may be required at several scales
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Develop and document procedures and standards for all steps in restoration to be applied to all GA plantings (see comment for full list of these) (comments) (measures info)
  Comment: Each planting project should adhere to best possible standards which need to be included in project/planting plans. These should include: - Setting objectives (specific ecological outcomes as well as others, eg carbon production); Risk minimisation (eg consider when seasonal factors make the project too big a risk); Seed collection and management; Site assessment and design (incl land suitability, species selection, seeeding rates, etc); Site preparation (considering water, weeds, Pc, etc); Direct seeding; Seedling production and planting; Monitoring and documentation; "Completion criteria (ie at what stage is the "restoration" process complete?); Management criteria; Review of techniques and results.
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: For each planting project (property or other), develop restoration plan using the procedures and standards documented in Action Step 3. (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Identify and develop opportunities for other programs/partnerships to assist in meeting restoration objectives (comments) (measures info)
  Comment: Likely partners include SCNRM, SFMA, possibly FBG in its own right, and possibly SRA/GASC (subject to improved process for management). Shell and other corporate partners need to be included, particularly if there is a feasible commercial (carbon) driver.
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -
- Action Step: Implement every restoration or revegetation project as a demonstration of highest possible standards (comments) (measures info)
  Comment: Costs are based on an estimate of 3000ha per year for 5 years at $1250/ha
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Minor Issues - -
- Action Step: Trial different methods of reveg and thoroughly monitor for fauna and flora over long period, including trial relocation of keystone fauna (Investigate (students?) restoration and role of fungi/bacteria/litter/other to enhance success rates) (measures info)
  
  Progress Updated Comments
  
  Planned - -

Strategy Effectiveness

Show all:
Comments
Objective Measures
Indicator Methods
Indicator Measures
Progress Reports

Percent Complete: 0%

Indicator: % of pre-European extent

(methods) (measurement report) (progress report)

Measurement Report:

Measure	Date	Source	Trend	Comments
Target: Mallet and moort woodlands, Category: Size, KEA: Community size
43% = Good (Based on 6 subcatchments for which we have Newbey mapping)	-	Not Specified	Not Specified	Remnant vegetation and Newbey mapping. (NB Newbey mapping incomplete for Fitz-Stirling and did not map all moort woodlands separately). So far we have considered E. astringens and E. platypus only as these were the only associations mapped by Newbey. Two of the short range endemics, E. melanophitra and E. vesiculosa also need to be identified and mapped (although we will have no pre-clearing extent for comparison - may need to develop separate desired rating for these to be better than current). Note also the unreliability of Newbey mapping for the two associations.
Target: Flat-topped Yate or Swamp yate (Eucalyptus occidentalis) woodlands, Category: Size, KEA: Community size
49.6% (all Yate community types) = Good	-	Not Specified	Not Specified	Based on remnant vegetation and Newbey vegetation mapping (1976). (NB There are some areas in which Newbey mapping may noy give accurate association extent. Figures may therefore change slightly as survey effort increases). Confidence of the current rating: High
Target: Proteaceous rich communities, Category: Size, KEA: Community size
16% = Fair	-	Not Specified	Not Specified	Based on Newbey mapping of the Newbey associations previously identified (B attenuata, B verticillata, B baxteri, Dryandra complex, Sand, E phaenophylla subsp adesmophloia). NB Doesn't cover western 3/4 of Pallinup-Bull Crossing catchment.

Indicator: Age classes present

(methods) (measurement report) (progress report)

Indicator: Area extent of individual patches

(measurement report)

Indicator: Area of native vegetation excluded from stock grazing

Indicator: Area subject to Phytophthora cinnamomi management plans or protocols

Indicator: Area under conservation covenants or with conservation reserve status

Indicator: Cat and fox populations

(measurement report)

Indicator: Condition of soils and organic matter

(methods) (measurement report) (progress report)

Indicator: crown condition

(measurement report) (progress report)

Indicator: Density of bird pollinators

(methods) (progress report)

Indicator: Distribution across fire age classes

(methods) (measurement report) (progress report)

Indicator: Environmental Index

(methods) (measurement report) (progress report)

Indicator: Level of occupancy

(methods) (measurement report) (progress report)

Indicator: Number and area covered by effective partnership arrangements being implemented to abate specified threats

(measurement report) (progress report)

Indicator: Number and extent of invasions of specified weed species

Indicator: Number and extent of known Phytophthora cinnamomi infestations

Indicator: Numbers of seeds stored on plants or in soil

(methods) (measurement report) (progress report)

Indicator: Occurence and distribution of small-scale freshwater bodies

(methods) (measurement report) (progress report)

Indicator: percentage of catchment with perennial veg cover

(methods) (measurement report) (progress report)

Indicator: Physical, chemical and biological Ausrivas indices

(methods) (measurement report) (progress report)

Indicator: Physical, chemical and biological indices TBD

(methods) (measurement report) (progress report)

Indicator: Pools affected by sedimentation

(methods) (measurement report) (progress report)

Indicator: Species richness

(methods) (measurement report) (progress report)

Indicator: Species richness and composition

(methods) (progress report)

Percent Complete: 0%

Indicator: % of pre-European extent

(methods) (measurement report) (progress report)

Measurement Report:

Measure	Date	Source	Trend	Comments
Target: Mallet and moort woodlands, Category: Size, KEA: Community size
43% = Good (Based on 6 subcatchments for which we have Newbey mapping)	-	Not Specified	Not Specified	Remnant vegetation and Newbey mapping. (NB Newbey mapping incomplete for Fitz-Stirling and did not map all moort woodlands separately). So far we have considered E. astringens and E. platypus only as these were the only associations mapped by Newbey. Two of the short range endemics, E. melanophitra and E. vesiculosa also need to be identified and mapped (although we will have no pre-clearing extent for comparison - may need to develop separate desired rating for these to be better than current). Note also the unreliability of Newbey mapping for the two associations.
Target: Flat-topped Yate or Swamp yate (Eucalyptus occidentalis) woodlands, Category: Size, KEA: Community size
49.6% (all Yate community types) = Good	-	Not Specified	Not Specified	Based on remnant vegetation and Newbey vegetation mapping (1976). (NB There are some areas in which Newbey mapping may noy give accurate association extent. Figures may therefore change slightly as survey effort increases). Confidence of the current rating: High
Target: Proteaceous rich communities, Category: Size, KEA: Community size
16% = Fair	-	Not Specified	Not Specified	Based on Newbey mapping of the Newbey associations previously identified (B attenuata, B verticillata, B baxteri, Dryandra complex, Sand, E phaenophylla subsp adesmophloia). NB Doesn't cover western 3/4 of Pallinup-Bull Crossing catchment.

Indicator: Age classes present

(methods) (measurement report) (progress report)

Indicator: Area extent of individual patches

(measurement report)

Indicator: Condition of soils and organic matter

(methods) (measurement report) (progress report)

Indicator: crown condition

(measurement report) (progress report)

Indicator: Density of bird pollinators

(methods) (progress report)

Indicator: Level of occupancy

(methods) (measurement report) (progress report)

Indicator: Numbers of seeds stored on plants or in soil

(methods) (measurement report) (progress report)

Indicator: percentage of catchment with perennial veg cover

(methods) (measurement report) (progress report)

Indicator: Species richness

(methods) (measurement report) (progress report)

Indicator: Species richness and composition

(methods) (progress report)

Percent Complete: 0%

Objective: By 2012, significantly improve the condition of at least 60% of the creeks within the Corackerup catchment and, by 2015, within the Monjebup and mid-Pallinup catchments. (comments)

Indicator: Age classes present

(methods) (measurement report) (progress report)

Indicator: crown condition

(measurement report) (progress report)

Indicator: Environmental Index

(methods) (measurement report) (progress report)

Indicator: Number and area covered by effective partnership arrangements being implemented to abate specified threats

Indicator: percentage of catchment with perennial veg cover

(methods) (measurement report) (progress report)

Indicator: Physical, chemical and biological Ausrivas indices

(methods) (measurement report) (progress report)

Indicator: Physical, chemical and biological indices TBD

(methods) (measurement report) (progress report)

Indicator: Pools affected by sedimentation

(methods) (measurement report) (progress report)

Indicator: Species richness

(methods) (measurement report) (progress report)

Percent Complete: 0%

Objective: By 2017, increase the populations of Tammar and Black-gloved Wallabies within the Fitz-Stirling area by 30% (comments)

Indicator: Area under conservation covenants or with conservation reserve status

Indicator: Cat and fox populations

(measurement report)

Indicator: Level of occupancy

(methods) (measurement report) (progress report)

Indicator: Number and area covered by effective partnership arrangements being implemented to abate specified threats

All Monitoring Indicators

Methods	Objectives	Key Indicator References by Target (w/Current Indicator Measurement)	Threat References by Target (w/Current Indicator Measurement)
Indicator: % of pre-European extent
Produce map using remote sensing using Newbey veg mapping as pre European baseline and on ground record of areas revegetated.	By 2012, exclude stock grazing and manage foxes, other feral predators, plant pathogens (including Phytophthora cinnamomi), invasive weeds, over at least 60,000ha of native vegetation in the Fitz-Stirling area. By 2012, restore at least 16,000ha of native vegetation, including at least 2000ha of proteaceous-rich communities that support native insect, bird and other vertebrate pollinators.	Flat-topped Yate or Swamp yate (Eucalyptus occidentalis) woodlands Size: Community size (49.6% (all Yate community types) = Good) Mallet and moort woodlands Size: Community size (43% = Good (Based on 6 subcatchments for which we have Newbey mapping)) Proteaceous rich communities Size: Community size (16% = Fair)	-
Indicator: Age classes present
Assessment of age classes present at designated sites (Based on Michelle Carey's methodology)	By 2012, exclude stock grazing and manage foxes, other feral predators, plant pathogens (including Phytophthora cinnamomi), invasive weeds, over at least 60,000ha of native vegetation in the Fitz-Stirling area. By 2012, restore at least 16,000ha of native vegetation, including at least 2000ha of proteaceous-rich communities that support native insect, bird and other vertebrate pollinators. By 2012, significantly improve the condition of at least 60% of the creeks within the Corackerup catchment and, by 2015, within the Monjebup and mid-Pallinup catchments.	Flat-topped Yate or Swamp yate (Eucalyptus occidentalis) woodlands Condition: Recruitment (Fair (at least 2 age classes are present at 64% of the sites))	-
Indicator: Area extent of individual patches
-	By 2012, exclude stock grazing and manage foxes, other feral predators, plant pathogens (including Phytophthora cinnamomi), invasive weeds, over at least 60,000ha of native vegetation in the Fitz-Stirling area. By 2012, restore at least 16,000ha of native vegetation, including at least 2000ha of proteaceous-rich communities that support native insect, bird and other vertebrate pollinators.	Proteaceous rich communities Size: Patch size (TBD. Likely to be poor - fair)	-
Indicator: Area of native vegetation excluded from stock grazing
-	By 2012, exclude stock grazing and manage foxes, other feral predators, plant pathogens (including Phytophthora cinnamomi), invasive weeds, over at least 60,000ha of native vegetation in the Fitz-Stirling area.	-	-
Indicator: Area subject to Phytophthora cinnamomi management plans or protocols
-	By 2012, exclude stock grazing and manage foxes, other feral predators, plant pathogens (including Phytophthora cinnamomi), invasive weeds, over at least 60,000ha of native vegetation in the Fitz-Stirling area.	-	-
Indicator: Area under conservation covenants or with conservation reserve status
-	By 2012, exclude stock grazing and manage foxes, other feral predators, plant pathogens (including Phytophthora cinnamomi), invasive weeds, over at least 60,000ha of native vegetation in the Fitz-Stirling area. By 2017, increase the populations of Tammar and Black-gloved Wallabies within the Fitz-Stirling area by 30%	-	-
Indicator: Cat and fox populations
-	By 2012, exclude stock grazing and manage foxes, other feral predators, plant pathogens (including Phytophthora cinnamomi), invasive weeds, over at least 60,000ha of native vegetation in the Fitz-Stirling area. By 2017, increase the populations of Tammar and Black-gloved Wallabies within the Fitz-Stirling area by 30%	-	Tammars and Black-gloved Wallabies Predation by feral species (None)
Indicator: Condition of soils and organic matter
Measure litter density and depth (need to develop sampling design)	By 2012, exclude stock grazing and manage foxes, other feral predators, plant pathogens (including Phytophthora cinnamomi), invasive weeds, over at least 60,000ha of native vegetation in the Fitz-Stirling area. By 2012, restore at least 16,000ha of native vegetation, including at least 2000ha of proteaceous-rich communities that support native insect, bird and other vertebrate pollinators.	Mallet and moort woodlands Condition: Soil and litter dynamics (Unknown. Further work required to determine parameters and their significance. )	-
Indicator: Density of bird pollinators
Bird counts (standardised methods)	By 2012, exclude stock grazing and manage foxes, other feral predators, plant pathogens (including Phytophthora cinnamomi), invasive weeds, over at least 60,000ha of native vegetation in the Fitz-Stirling area. By 2012, restore at least 16,000ha of native vegetation, including at least 2000ha of proteaceous-rich communities that support native insect, bird and other vertebrate pollinators.	Proteaceous rich communities Condition: Pollination (-)	-
Indicator: Distribution across fire age classes
Fire history mapping (based on Vegmachine and aerial photo interpretation) and vegetation association mapping (based on Ken Newbey mapping and additional aerial photo interpretation for Moort woodlands).	By 2012, exclude stock grazing and manage foxes, other feral predators, plant pathogens (including Phytophthora cinnamomi), invasive weeds, over at least 60,000ha of native vegetation in the Fitz-Stirling area.	Mallet and moort woodlands Landscape Context: Fire frequency (TBD) Proteaceous rich communities Landscape Context: Fire frequency (-)	Mallet and moort woodlands Inappropriate fire management (-) Proteaceous rich communities Inappropriate fire management (-) Tammars and Black-gloved Wallabies Inappropriate fire management (-)
Indicator: Environmental Index
Stream Condition Indicator to be developed from Penn-Scott with additional parameters (instream + vegetation/habitat condition). Angela to determine rating levels.	By 2012, exclude stock grazing and manage foxes, other feral predators, plant pathogens (including Phytophthora cinnamomi), invasive weeds, over at least 60,000ha of native vegetation in the Fitz-Stirling area. By 2012, significantly improve the condition of at least 60% of the creeks within the Corackerup catchment and, by 2015, within the Monjebup and mid-Pallinup catchments.	Creeks Condition: Stream condition (20% of Corackerup Ck system assessed; 86% rated at VG, 13% G. Other 80% assessed from aerial photos 48% VG, 30% G, 19% F, 3% P. Most surveys have been in NRs, bush onGL properties or other Pub land. )	-
Indicator: Level of occupancy
Mapping historic and recent sightings; identifying habitat characteristics at sightings points; surveying additional areas with similar characteristics for presence/absence	By 2012, exclude stock grazing and manage foxes, other feral predators, plant pathogens (including Phytophthora cinnamomi), invasive weeds, over at least 60,000ha of native vegetation in the Fitz-Stirling area. By 2012, restore at least 16,000ha of native vegetation, including at least 2000ha of proteaceous-rich communities that support native insect, bird and other vertebrate pollinators. By 2017, increase the populations of Tammar and Black-gloved Wallabies within the Fitz-Stirling area by 30%	Tammars and Black-gloved Wallabies Size: Wallaby abundance (TBD. Believed to be poor (Tammars) to Fair (Black gloved).)	-
Indicator: Number and area covered by effective partnership arrangements being implemented to abate specified threats
-	By 2012, exclude stock grazing and manage foxes, other feral predators, plant pathogens (including Phytophthora cinnamomi), invasive weeds, over at least 60,000ha of native vegetation in the Fitz-Stirling area. By 2012, significantly improve the condition of at least 60% of the creeks within the Corackerup catchment and, by 2015, within the Monjebup and mid-Pallinup catchments. By 2017, increase the populations of Tammar and Black-gloved Wallabies within the Fitz-Stirling area by 30%	-	Flat-topped Yate or Swamp yate (Eucalyptus occidentalis) woodlands Inappropriate fire management (None in place that Gondwana Link is party to)
Indicator: Number and extent of invasions of specified weed species
-	By 2012, exclude stock grazing and manage foxes, other feral predators, plant pathogens (including Phytophthora cinnamomi), invasive weeds, over at least 60,000ha of native vegetation in the Fitz-Stirling area.	-	-
Indicator: Number and extent of known Phytophthora cinnamomi infestations
-	By 2012, exclude stock grazing and manage foxes, other feral predators, plant pathogens (including Phytophthora cinnamomi), invasive weeds, over at least 60,000ha of native vegetation in the Fitz-Stirling area.	-	-
Indicator: Numbers of seeds stored on plants or in soil
Incorporate in Habitat Hectares approach	By 2012, exclude stock grazing and manage foxes, other feral predators, plant pathogens (including Phytophthora cinnamomi), invasive weeds, over at least 60,000ha of native vegetation in the Fitz-Stirling area. By 2012, restore at least 16,000ha of native vegetation, including at least 2000ha of proteaceous-rich communities that support native insect, bird and other vertebrate pollinators.	Proteaceous rich communities Condition: Seed storage (TB

Gondwana Link Fitz-Stirling (formerly FitzStirling Mosaic) (ID: 33)

Data Downloads

Associated Files

Associated Links

Measure	Date	Source	Trend	Comments
Target: Proteaceous rich communities; Threat: Inappropriate fire management
	-	Not Specified	Not Specified	TBD
Target: Tammars and Black-gloved Wallabies; Threat: Inappropriate fire management
	-	Not Specified	Not Specified	TBD
Target: Proteaceous rich communities, Category: Landscape Context, KEA: Fire frequency
	-	Not Specified	Not Specified	Fire history presently being mapped. Proteaceous communities still to be mapped.
Target: Mallet and moort woodlands, Category: Landscape Context, KEA: Fire frequency
TBD	-	Not Specified	Not Specified
Target: Mallet and moort woodlands; Threat: Inappropriate fire management
	-	Not Specified	Not Specified	TBD