ANPC News

AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL BOTANIC GARDENS: Draft management plan for public comment

noreply@blogger.com (ANPC News) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 00:03:00 +0000

The Australian National Botanic Gardens (ANBG) has released for public comment the 2011 – 2021 Draft Management Plan.

Highlights of the 2011 – 2021 Draft Management Plan
•A new vision, mission statement and brand for the ANBG
•Strengthened programs in horticultural and conservation research
•Focus on conservation programs of national significance such as alpine and grassy woodland ecosystems
•Emphasis on state-of-the-art practices in biodiversity science and information management, horticulture, education and visitor services
•A range of new development opportunities
•Expanded education programs
•A range of new promotional activities

To view the 2011 – 2021 Draft Management Plan and provide feedback go to the website.
Comments on the plan must be sent by 31 January 2012.

CHARLES STURT UNIVERSITY: Showcasing native plants in the farming environment

noreply@blogger.com (ANPC News) — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 23:56:00 +0000

A native plant nursery is to be established at the EH Graham Centre for Agricultural Innovation at Charles Sturt University (CSU) in Wagga Wagga, as part of a demonstration site for sustainable farming practices. The nursery has received $15 000 in funding from the CSU Sustainability Grant Program, administered by CSU Green.

CSU Green communications officer, Ms Nicole Maher, said the grants offer a great opportunity for the CSU community to implement creative and interesting ideas to enhance the sustainability of the University. “By providing material for biodiversity plantings across Charles Sturt University in Wagga Wagga, the native plant nursery will help the University meet its goal of having 20 per cent of all its land used to increase biodiversity by 2015,” she said.
The nursery will also play a key role in research into the potential benefits of native shrubs and herbaceous legumes to farming systems.

For the full article please go to: http://news.csu.edu.au/director/latestnews.cfm?itemID=B8DAC4B2E824A5DBE47E8F57A126F866

NEW ONLINE PUBLICATION: Ticking the Box: Flaws in the Environmental Assessment of Coal Seam Gas Exploration Activities

noreply@blogger.com (ANPC News) — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 23:50:00 +0000

Produced by the Environmental Defenders Office

The coal seam gas (CSG) industry in NSW is expanding rapidly. At the same time, the community is becoming increasingly concerned that the legal regime that regulates the exploration and extraction of coal seam gas does not ensure a thorough environmental assessment of such activities.

This publication argues that the legal process applying to CSG exploration lacks independence and rigour in terms of the assessment of potential environmental impacts. As a result, the Reviews of Environmental Factors (REFs) provided to comply with this process are of poor quality, and often constitute a fairly generic lists of impacts. The publication outlines the nature of the problem and illustrates, through some case studies, the deficiencies in the legal process. In light of these problems, legal reform to the assessment of CSG exploration is necessary.

To download a free copy, please go to: http://www.edo.org.au/edonsw/site/pdf/pubs/ticking_the_box.pdf

SURVEY: Bell Miner Associated Dieback Project

noreply@blogger.com (ANPC News) — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 23:10:00 +0000

Eucalypt dieback - Bell Miner Associated Dieback (BMAD)

Tree dieback may have various causes, may be natural or human - activity related, and may be of seasonal, short term or long-term duration. This survey form is designed to collect information on the current extent and distribution of tree dieback in the Blue Mountains WHA or nearby areas, in particular where associated with bell miners. Other instances of dieback are also of interest and can be recorded, except that directly related to bushfire. To gain a picture of current patterns of any dieback it is important that observations describe the current condition of trees (i.e. within the current month of recording) separately from longer term conditions and activities.

Identifying where dieback occurs is an important step in improving the management of forests. By identifying the threat, targeted management to improve biodiversity and forest heath, and to mitigate hazards and other possible unwanted outcomes arising from dieback, can be developed and actioned.

To obtain a copy of the survey forms please contact Bryony Horton by email: bryony.horton@environment.nsw.gov.au

Form are to be returned by Friday 23rd December.

EVENT: 25 years of the Australian Alps Program

noreply@blogger.com (ANPC News) — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 02:34:00 +0000

19 and 20 November

The NSW National Parks are organising an event at Kiandra in Kosciuszko National Park to celebrate 25 years of the Australian Alps Program. ACT Parks are also organising a guided walk along the Alps walking track as part of the same 25th celebrations. Other events at various venues are also planned. These events span locations across the Australian Alps' two states and the ACT, so be sure to come along!

Details for programs can be found here. Please note - bookings are required for some events, and recommended for all of them.

GRANTS: Roadside Vegetation Implementation Project (RVIP)

noreply@blogger.com (ANPC News) — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 02:21:00 +0000

Applications are now open. The project is designed to assist local councils undertake priority roadside vegetation management works as identified in Roadside Vegetation Management Plans or other equivalent management plans.

Objectives of the RVIP
* to allow for the protection, revegetation and regeneration of large areas of linear reserves across the State;
* to improve environmental condition and enhance ecological corridors in NSW;
* to provide funds to regional councils and help regional economies; and
* to add value to a considerable investment already made by the Environmental Trust which funded councils to prepare RVMPs in 2005.

A total of $1.3 million in funding will be available to NSW local councils. It is strongly recommended that all councils refer closely to the Roadside Vegetation Implementation Project - Guideline for Applicants prior, and during completion of their application form. This document provides details on eligible councils and activities. For more information visit the website.

All applications and supporting documentation should be provided by COB, Friday 2 December 2011 via email to: RVIP@lgsa.org.au
Further information from Kirsty McIntyre Project Manager - Roadside Vegetation Implementation Project, Local Government and Shires Associations of NSW ph: 9242 4055 or kirsty.mcintyre@lgsa.org.au

ANPC: Call for articles for Australasian Plant Conservation Vol. 20 (3)

noreply@blogger.com (ANPC News) — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 00:26:00 +0000

We are seeking articles for the December 2011 – February 2012 issue of Australasian Plant Conservation (APC), the bulletin of the Australian Network for Plant Conservation (ANPC).

The issue will be on the theme ‘Monitoring and plant conservation’.

Monitoring is an important aspect of plant conservation work, providing data to assess changes over time and allowing people to make informed decisions about management practices, and make changes to those practices if necessary. In this issue we want to look at the objectives of monitoring, what should be monitored and how, and how we can keep monitoring simple but effective. We are particularly interested to receive articles related to specific examples of effective monitoring of the outcomes of on-ground plant conservation activities, monitoring vegetation condition, and long-term monitoring, and to learn of the insights/lessons for those about to embark on their first monitoring program.

General articles not on the theme are also welcome.

Articles generally should not exceed 1200 words and authors are encouraged to submit two or three high resolution images to illustrate their article.

We also welcome:
• book reviews
• titles of interesting recent publications or resources, and where they can be found
• conference, workshop, course and fieldwork announcements
• details of relevant publications, information resources and websites.

Deadline for submissions for the December-February 2012 issue is Friday 11 November 2011.

If you are intending to submit an article or wish to discuss possibilities, please contact the Editor, Selga Harrington as soon as possible. Your final article must be submitted to Selga by email at selga.harrington@gmail.com

Guidelines for authors about the APC style and scope are located on the ANPC website.

ANPC WORKSHOP: Jewels in the Landscape, managing significant native vegetation remnants 3 & 4 November

noreply@blogger.com (ANPC News) — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 23:45:00 +0000

Conservation workshop offers benefits for all

The Australian Network for Plant Conservation (ANPC) is holding a two day workshop for anyone involved in the management and conservation of Travelling Stock Reserves or managing remnant vegetation such as road easements and adjacent private land.

‘Jewels in the landscape; Managing significant native vegetation remnants’, runs from Thursday 3 November and is designed to assist rangers, landcarers and landholders, catchment groups, government agencies’ staff and all those wishing to improve their knowledge and skills in biodiversity conservation.

Workshop facilitator, ANPC’s Sue Mathams, said remnant vegetation on Travelling Stock Reserves (TSRs) is the key habitat for a range of threatened species and often contain endangered ecological communities. In many areas they are the only remnant vegetation and provide connectivity and refuge throughout a primarily agricultural landscape.

“The two-day workshop includes a background on TSRs and exploration into the values and threats of the ecological communities they contain. It also provides the opportunity to undertake plant identification in the field at South Guyra TSR and a hands-on session of vegetation monitoring techniques,” she said.

Presenters include Dave Carr of Southern New England Landcare (SNELCC), Department of Primary Industries’ agronomist Clare Edwards and Chris Nadolny from the Office of Environment and Heritage.

“As well as learning from these experts in their field participants, enjoy the benefits of connecting with a range of stakeholders,” Ms Mathams said.

‘Jewels in the Landscape’ is supported by a NSW Environmental Trust grant and workshop fees begin at $170 for ANPC members. A number of places offering a $50 discount to volunteer members of a community, environmental or NRM group are available upon application, sponsored by SNELCC’s HiCUB project.

The two-day workshop runs from 8.30am – 5pm Thursday 3 November and 8am – 4pm Friday 4 November at Guyra Bowling and Recreation Club and includes field trips to a local TSR.

For more information, including to view the full program, or to register please go to the ANPC website or email anpc@anpc.asn.au.

ANPC WORKSHOP: Hurry, places still available

noreply@blogger.com (ANPC News) — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 23:40:00 +0000

EPBC ACT: Draft Commonwealth biodiversity and offsetting policies for consultation

noreply@blogger.com (ANPC News) — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 01:46:00 +0000

The federal Environment Minister, Tony Burke MP, has released the government response to the independent review of the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act)as part of a broad package of reforms for Australia 's national environment law. A draft biodiversity policy and draft environmental offsetting policy have also been released for consultation.

The public comment period closes Friday 21 October 2011.

REVIEW: Native Vegetation Regulation under the Native Vegetation Act 2003 (NSW)

noreply@blogger.com (ANPC News) — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 01:42:00 +0000

The Minister for the Environment, Robyn Parker MP has announced the start of a statutory review of the Native Vegetation Regulation under the Native Vegetation Act 2003 . The Office of Environment and Heritage, the Department of Primary Industries and the Catchment Management Authorities will guide the review. The review will take up to 12 months and involve three stages:
• Scoping the range of changes with key stakeholders groups including the NSW Farmers' Association, the Nature Conservation Council of NSW and others;
• Preparation of a draft Regulation and accompanying Regulatory Impact Statement;
• Community consultation – exhibition of the draft Regulation
Notably, the media release stated: “the review will drive improved performance and help the Government make informed choices about the need for changes to the principal statutory instrument, i.e. the Native Vegetation Act 2003 .”
Further information is available at www.environment.nsw.gov.au/vegetation . Stakeholders can register to participate by email to native.vegetation@environment.nsw.gov.au.

(Reproduced from Environmental Defender's Office New South Wales (Ltd) Weekly Bulletin – to subscribe click here.

REVIEW: NSW Marine Parks

noreply@blogger.com (ANPC News) — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 01:39:00 +0000

The NSW Government has announced its Independent Scientific Audit Panel for Marine Parks. The Government's aim is to ensure “the right balance between the sustainable use of the marine environment and the conservation of marine biodiversity.”

Written submissions are invited by Friday 30 September. Further information is available at http://www.marineparksaudit.nsw.gov.au/

POSITION VACANT: ANPC Project Manager

noreply@blogger.com (ANPC News) — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 01:31:00 +0000

Applications are invited for the position of Project Manager for the ANPC.
This part time position is one of two located in the ANPC National Office situated in the Australian National Botanic Gardens, Acton, ACT. The position is available for one year. Hours offered are 22.5 hours a week over three or four days.

Employment will be under the Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services Industry Award 2010 at the Social and Community Services Employee Level 8.

The role of the Project Manager will be to:

•Undertake the coordination of major projects of the ANPC, in particular developing and delivering four remaining workshops, to be held in regional centres of NSW, in an externally funded series on the Conservation of Remnant Vegetation on Travelling Stock Reserves and other linear remnants.
•Assist the Committee in fulfilling the Network’s other objectives.
Duties will include

•Coordinate the organisation, promotion, implementation and evaluation of regional training workshops for plant conservation practitioners and land managers, including program design and presenter selection, identification of supporting resources, and development of some information materials.
•Identify stakeholders and interest groups to support and/or attend the training events and liaise with the appropriate bodies to raise awareness and promote participation.
•Assist the ANPC National Committee and relevant partners with the organisation, promotion and delivery of the Network’s conference in the second half of 2012.
•Coordinate or assist with the editing, production, promotion and distribution of educational and promotional material, and other resources (including web-based).
•Work closely with the ANPC Business Manager and the ANPC National Committee to assist with seeking funding through grants and sponsorship, office management and reporting.
Click here to download and print the position description which includes selection criteria.

Applications close 29th September 2011. For further information about the position contact Merryl Bradley on 02 6250 9509

Applications can be sent via email to anpc@anpc.asn.au or by mail to Australian Newtork for Plant Conservation, GPO box 1777, Canberra, ACT, 2601

CONFERENCE AND WORKSHOP: Community of Practice for Environmental Water Managers

noreply@blogger.com (ANPC News) — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 01:27:00 +0000

Response of wetlands to rewetting following extensive drought

22 and 23 November 2011
Sydney Masonic Centre
66 Goulburn St, Sydney

Expressions of interest – Speed Session Slots.This conference and workshop aims to address both new research findings AND their current and potential applications. It will present field observations and research findings from scientists and mangers following recent major wetting episodes to identify opportunities for better management of discretionary environmental water. It will look particularly at the impact of drought, recovery and response observations and water and land management lessons learnt.
Expressions of interest are invited to fill speed session slots. Please submit a brief (100 word) expression of interest for a 5 min presentation based on research or management case-studies to rivers.wetlands@environment.nsw.gov.au by 5th October 2011.

FIELD DAYS: Conserving Native Grasses in Rural Cemeteries

noreply@blogger.com (ANPC News) — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 01:16:00 +0000

Where and when

17th October - 10am - Wollar Cemetery (left side of Barrigan St. heading towards Ulan 2pm - Ulan Cemetery (opposite the community centre)
18th October - 10am - Ilford Cemetery (2km along Café’s Rd - first right turn past the Ilford Information Bay when heading south along the Castlereagh Hwy.)
2pm - Tannabutta Cemetery (20km south of Mudgee, left hand side of Castlereagh Hwy.)

Watershed Landcare and the Department of Primary Industries will be
holding two field days for our Conserving Native Grasses in Rural Cemeteries
Project. The purpose of the project is to improve biodiversity in the region by
raising community awareness to the value of native grasses as a sustainable,
perennial groundcover. Small rural cemeteries contain a range of plant species no longer common in the landscape due to the activities of grazing, cropping and urbanization. The historical tenure of these cemeteries offers a haven for interesting and rare grasses, forbs and shrubs.

Contact either Thea at info@watershedlandcare.com.au or 0417 074 673; OR Christine at cmcrae@activ8.net.au or 63737628

2011 NSW ENVIRONMENT AWARDS

noreply@blogger.com (ANPC News) — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 01:09:00 +0000

Calling all nature champions, guardians and defenders!

Do you know an inspiring person or group whose contributions over the last year have made a lasting difference to nature conservation in NSW? Don’t waste any time, make sure you nominate before 17th October!

NOMINATIONS ARE NOW OPEN in the following six categories:
*The Dunphy Award, for most outstanding environmental effort of an individual.
*The Marie Byles Award, for most outstanding new environmental campaign.
*The NCC Member Group Award, for most outstanding Member Group demonstrating commitment and success in conservation.
*The Climate Award, for most inspiring climate action initiative by a community group.
*The Rising Star Award, for the most outstanding new campaigner under the age of 30.
*The Allen Strom Hall of Fame, for long standing service and commitment to the conservation movement, and the courage to challenge Government and non-government decision-makers.
*The Ziggy Megne Volunteer for the Environment Award - awarded in honour of the untiring contribution of Zigurds (Ziggy) Megne for someone who has championed a cause or worked untiringly behind the scenes for a better, more sustainable future.Nominees must have been active in NSW for an environment group or as an individual.

Nominations close midday on Monday, 17 October 2011. Awards are presented Saturday 29October at the NCC
Annual Conference. To nominate an individual or group, please visit www.nccnsw.org.au/environmentawards.
Groups can nominate themselves, or their members for an award.
For further info, contact Shaun Gilchrist (Ph. 9516 1488 Tue/Fri, or email sgilchrist@nccnsw.org.au ).

ANPC NATIONAL CONFERENCE: Date Claimer, October 2012

noreply@blogger.com (ANPC News) — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 00:41:00 +0000

The Conference will be held in Canberra 2012

29th October to 2nd November

Please mark these dates in your diary and further information will be circulated as it becomes available.

ANPC WORKSHOP: Jewels in the Landscape

noreply@blogger.com (ANPC News) — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 00:27:00 +0000

A two day workshop on
managing significant native vegetation remnants
(including travelling stock reserves, road easements and adjacent private land)

Date: 3 and 4 November 2011
Venue: Guyra Bowling and Recreation Club and local TSR

Are you working in or managing remnant vegetation?
Would you like to know more about biodiversity conservation?
Would you like to enhance your knowledge and skills?
Then this workshop is for you! While there is a strong focus on TSRs,
the content is relevant for anyone managing grassy woodland
vegetation remnants.

Day One
Background of TSRs and current status•
Connectivity conservation in the landscape•
Biodiversity values of TSRs•and threats
Case studies•
Collaborative programs and approaches•
Where to get help (interactive session on available information)•
Plant ID – in the field (at a local TSR)

Day Two
Morning bird walk•
Identifying natural values (e.g. habitat, vegetation, fauna)•
Identifying threats to your site (e.g. weeds, erosion and over grazing)•
Management actions workshop session•
How do you measure your success? (monitoring and targets)•
Discussion with panel of experts•
Fees (incl. GST):

ANPC member $170
Non-member – Community group $180*
Non-member – govt-semi govt-industry $200
(*some discounts apply please email the ANPC Office)

Registrations close: COB Wednesday 26 October 2011.
To register or for more information email the ANPC office: anpc@anpc.asn.au or phone: 02 62509509.

OPEN DAYS: Victorian 'Trust for Nature' Properties

noreply@blogger.com (ANPC News) — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 00:22:00 +0000

Trust For Nature is opening the gate to visitors to private conservation properties in Victoria through September and October, to showcase their biodiversity and the regeneration work being done. Many of these properties are a haven for rare or threatened native plants and wildlife; good rains also means there will be some fantastic wildflower displays this season.

For more information click here

NATIONAL HERITAGE LIST: West Kimberley added

noreply@blogger.com (ANPC News) — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 00:57:00 +0000

The iconic west Kimberley will be placed on Australia’s National Heritage List, Environment Minister Tony Burke announced on 31 August 2011.

Mr Burke said the Gillard Government would recognise outstanding heritage values within more than 19 million hectares of the west Kimberley, including Aboriginal, historic, aesthetic and natural heritage values.

The area to be placed on the National Heritage List includes the spectacular Kimberley coast from Cape Leveque in the west to Cambridge Gulf in the east, the Kimberley plateau and country south to the Oscar and Napier Ranges, and the mighty Fitzroy River.

The National Heritage Listing will provide the west Kimberley with Australia’s highest form of heritage recognition.

“The west Kimberley belongs on a list of the places which define Australia,” Mr Burke said.

The National Heritage List was established to list places of outstanding heritage significance to Australia. It includes natural, historic and Indigenous places that are of outstanding national heritage. Areas in the west Kimberley identified as having outstanding heritage values and inscribed on the National Heritage List include:

For more information on the listing including a map of the west Kimberley National Heritage Place click here.

NATIONAL THREATENED SPECIES DAY: 7 September 2011

noreply@blogger.com (ANPC News) — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 06:54:00 +0000

This special day is commemorated nationwide on 7 September each year to encourage people to help conserve Australia’s unique native fauna and flora. There are a number of things you can do to help threatened species and other native plants and animals.

*Visit Communities in Landscapes , a project with partners including OEH and Landcare to find out the latest biodiversity related news and upcoming events you can participate in.
*Head to one of our beautiful national parks. Visit Wild Wild World to find out what's on near you.
*Visit a Zoo! There are active conservation and captive breeding programs for Australian and internationally threatened species.
*Adopt a corroboree frog ! The Southern Corroboree Frog is threatened with extinction and needs your help.
*Find out how you can Save a Species by supporting your state seed bank.
*Check out the Australian Museum's ALIVE program for a range of events and exhibitions which celebrate biodiversity.
*Visit the Foundation for National Parks website to discover how you can become a Backyard Buddy and help biodiversity in you own backyard.
*Consider entering into a Voluntary Conservation Agreement or making your property a Wildlife Refuge if you own land with suitable habitat for threatened species and other native plants and animals.

CONFERENCE: Reading the landscape, 11 - 13 October, Dubbo, NSW

noreply@blogger.com (ANPC News) — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 06:52:00 +0000

Reading the landscape
linking biodiversity, research and management

For communities to live and produce sustainably, we need to better understand our natural system and maintain plants and animals needed for a healthy landscape.

Land managers, agency staff, researchers and the wider community are invited to attend at Dubbo's Taronga Western Plains Zoo to:

*better understand what 'biodiversity' means and why it is important
*talk to researchers, experts and practitioners who are improving our local fauna and flora
*learn about the science, information and resources that can support on-ground work
*see best practice for preserving and enhancing our threatened native wildlife
*network and meet other people who are committed to making a difference

The three-day program, starts with lunch on Tuesday 11 October at Dubbo's Taronga Western Plains Zoo finishes after lunch on Thursday 13th.
For more information click here

REVIEW: Review of the Livestock Health and Pest Authorities (Rural Land Protection Act 1998)

noreply@blogger.com (ANPC News) — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 06:45:00 +0000

Unique to NSW, the Livestock Health and Pest Authorities (LHPAs) have a 150-year tradition of landholder-funded, district-based delivery of livestock health and pest management programs to safeguard agricultural production and contribute to the national biosecurity system. The 14 LHPAs have staff at almost 60 locations across the state.

Core areas of responsibility are animal health, pest animal and insect control and travelling stock reserves.

Widespread landholder and industry concerns lead to the review of the LHPAs before the implementation of any new rating system.The review is being conducted by an independent consultant, Mr Terry Ryan, and a final report will be presented to the NSW Minister for Primary Industries by the end of November 2011.

For further information click here

GRANTS: Natural Landcare Grants

noreply@blogger.com (ANPC News) — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 06:35:00 +0000

Landcare Australia and Be Natural are offering grants of up to $5,000 to voluntary environmental community groups with existing projects tackling local environmental issues that have not recieved funding in the past 12 months.

If this sounds like you, check out the details

Applications close Monday October 10th.

AUSTRALIAN SEED BANK PARTNERSHIP: Partner stories

noreply@blogger.com (ANPC News) — Thu, 11 Aug 2011 02:44:00 +0000

The Australian Seed Bank Partnership aims to safeguard Australia’s plant populations and communities against further extinction through ex situ conservation; helping to ensure our plants are kept safe for future generations.

The Partnership

*Maintains a nationally cooperative seed banking effort.

* Collects and stores seed in secure conservation seed banks as long-term insurance against loss of biodiversity.

*Researches seed germination and storage requirements to improve conservation and restoration outcomes from seed banking.

*Trains and builds Australian expertise in seed science to support the conservation and restoration.

*Shares knowledge about Australian flora and the Partnership's work.

Learn more about the partners and read their plant stories.