The Issues: On Farm Biodiversity

The changes brought about by European settlement have profoundly affected native ecosystems. This is particularly evident in the sheep/wheat and the high rainfall zones (the intensive land-use zones). The biological diversity (biodiversity) of native systems has declined markedly since settlement and will continue to decline without active management. The decline will be seen in the loss of our unique bird and animal species and in the loss of icons of the landscape such as old trees and wildflowers.

The maintenance and improvement of biodiversity is being seen by both urban and rural Australians as an increasingly important goal for our farming systems. Woolgrowers can play a vital role in helping restore some of the balance.

Biodiversity can be improved by protecting and enhancing the value of remnant vegetation and by establishing plantations of indigenous plant species. Creating the right habitat is the precursor for the return of birds and animals associated with native vegetation.

Productive Solutions

Well-managed remnant vegetation provides shelter for stock in adverse conditions, can be a source of timber for fencing and, if large enough, may produce commercial timber. The increase in bird life associated with healthy remnant vegetation is expected to increase pressure on insect pests of pastures and animals.

Awareness and implementation of a number of simple principles can significantly enhance the value of either remnant vegetation or new plantings. The value of these areas will be enhanced by:

* Making the area sufficiently large.
* Linking to other vegetation areas.
* Retaining or introducing understorey.
* Retaining ground litter and old trees with hollows.

Want to know more?

Visit Land, Water & Wool's Native Vegetation and Biodiversity sub-program.