A Word from the RALF (February 2024)
Australia’s unique native vegetation faces many challenges that demand our attention. Let’s delve into the critical threats affecting our precious flora and look at actionable steps for each challenge.
Clearing, degradation and fragmentation
Take action: Maintain and improve remnant vegetation
Prioritise the enhancement of existing remnant vegetation. Focus on maintaining corridors and landscape linkages to facilitate the dispersal of pollen and seed, and movement of fauna. It’s our responsibility to preserve these vital connections.
Continuous heavy grazing and trampling
Take action: Utilise short, intensive grazing periods
Short and intensive grazing periods can be a game-changer. By suppressing weeds and allowing native seed sets, we can strike a balance between sustaining livestock and nurturing our native vegetation. Create spaces where both can thrive.
Invasion by non-native species
Take action: Undertake careful weed control
Combat the invasion of non-native species by implementing targeted weed control. Whether through hand spraying or manual removal, let’s ensure our efforts minimise the impact on our native flora, preserving the delicate ecological balance.
Feral animals
Take action: Control feral animals
Employing appropriate methods to control feral animals is key. By mitigating their impact on native vegetation, we contribute to the restoration of habitats and protect our ecosystems.
Timber removal and habitat collection
Take action: Retain dead and alive timber
The preservation of dead and alive timber is paramount. By retaining these essential habitats, we ensure a haven for native fauna. Let’s resist the temptation to clear and collect; instead, let’s nurture the life within our landscapes.
Nutrient increases from fertilizer runoff
Take action: Prevent nutrient increases
Fertilizer runoff poses a threat to our native vegetation. By taking measures to prevent nutrient increases in areas of native vegetation we maintain a level playing field for our indigenous flora.
Our actions today determine the legacy we leave for future generations. By embracing these actionable steps, we become stewards of our natural heritage. Together, let’s foster a harmonious coexistence with our native vegetation, ensuring its resilience for years to come.
This article was written by Jade Auldist. Jade is the Sustainable Agriculture Facilitator for the Riverina region. Her role supports farmers, industry and community groups (including Landcare Groups) to adopt new and innovative sustainable agriculture practices.
For further information on this article, please contact Jade at jade.auldist@lls.nsw.gov.au.
