AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL BOTANIC GARDENS: Draft management plan for public comment

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

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

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

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

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)

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)

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

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

EPBC ACT: Draft Commonwealth biodiversity and offsetting policies for consultation

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)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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)

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

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

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.

GRANTS: Australian Biological Resources Study

*Research Grants

*Capacity-Building Grants

Australia is home to around 8 per cent of the world’s plant and animal species — with an estimated 566,400 species occurring here. Every day we are making new and exciting discoveries about Australia’s biodiversity, yet only about 25 per cent of Australia’s species have been formally described. The Australian Biological Resources Study (ABRS) is contributing to furthering our knowledge of the taxonomy of Australia’s flora and fauna. Over the last twelve months, research projects funded by the ABRS have resulted in the description of 19 new genera and 165 new species — however, there is still much more to be discovered.

Research Grants
• The ABRS offers 3 year Research and Postdoctoral Fellowship Grants where the researcher’s primary aim is to undertake taxonomic research on the Australian biota or to develop products that aid in the dissemination of taxonomic information.
Capacity-Building Grants
• The ABRS offers Capacity-Building Grants for taxonomic and systematics research on Australian flora and fauna in the form of Honours, Masters and Ph.D awards.
• The ABRS is also offering applicants beginning a Ph.D on an Australian Postgraduate Award (APA) in 2012, the opportunity to top up the existing APA rate ($22,860 in 2011) by $10,000 per year.
• In addition to these grants, the ABRS is offering Bush Blitz Research Supplements to Ph.D students. The Supplement provides an additional $10,000 research support for a project requiring taxonomy or systematics that can be linked to Bush Blitz. The award also gives the student an opportunity to attend one Bush Blitz survey.

Applications for 2012–13 close 28 October 2011

For application forms and further details on ABRS Research Grants and Capacity-Building Grants or Bush Blitz Capacity-Building Grants

NEW PUBLICATION: Flora of Australia, Volume 39 - Alismatales to Arales

Publishers: Australian Biological Resources Study/CSIRO Publishing

Year: 25 July 2011

Volume 39 of the Flora of Australia describes 17 families of monocots in 76 genera and 256 species. Most of the families are aquatic, and include the sea-grasses, pond weeds, and some major agricultural weed species. Four families are entirely or mostly terrestrial. The aquatic families are all small in number of species, and two, Juncaginaceae and Posidoniaceae, have their greatest diversity in Australia. Lemnaceae contains the world’s smallest and most reduced flowering plants, some as tiny as 1 mm long.

Of the terrestrial families, all are predominantly tropical, with their greatest diversity outside Australia. Arecaceae (palms) and Pandanaceae are often large trees, and include species of economic importance as food and oil crops, fibre, timber and other construction materials, as well as many horticultural species. Araceae are mostly climbers but also arborescent to aquatic herbs, with several important food species, and many horticultural species and cultivars.
Thirty authors, illustrators and photographers have contributed to this volume.

The publication is available from CSIRO publishing.

NSW TRAVELLILNG STOCK ROUTES AND RESERVES CONFERENCE: Outcomes

On July 28th, 2011, nearly 100 delegates from a wide range of stakeholder groups came together in Orange to discuss the Travelling Stock Routes and Reserves (TSR) network. The aim of the conference, which was hosted by the National Parks Association of NSW, was to begin developing a framework of management principles for the shared and sustainable use of the TSR network.

Groups represented at the conference included NSW Government agencies and departments such as Livestock Health and Pest Authorities, Catchment Management Authorities, Crown Lands, the Local Government and Shires Association, Fisheries and the Office of Environment and Heritage; the Federal Government Departments of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry and Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities; a number of Aboriginal groups including the NSW Aboriginal Land Council; several universities; a number of recreational fishing groups; the Game Council; a wide range of conservation, environmental and Landcare groups; farmers; educators; birdwatchers and other interested groups and individuals.

Conference Outcomes
Key consensus points
There was a broad consensus throughout the day that communication and connection amongst groups and people with an interest in TSRs needs to be maintained and increased, to allow effective promotion and protection of the many values of TSRs. During the final discussion session, there was general agreement to five key requirements for effective management of the TSR network. They were:
1. An authority with oversight of TSRs that has stable and adequate resourcing for the task. This could build on existing institutional arrangements such as the LHPA, which is currently under review.
2. Accessible data, providing more information than is currently available and in a more coordinated and streamlined format.
3. Representative management that brings together the various values and interests and facilitated networking and information sharing
4. Educational programs to raise awareness of the wide importance of TSRs and help recognise and protect Aboriginal cultural heritage
5. An assessment of the economic significance of TSRs using a framework such as Total Economic Value, to recognise the full range of values including non use values.

For more information on the conference including reading and viewing presentations go to the National Parks Association of NSW website.

CALL FOR COMMENTS: Broad Leaf Tea-tree Woodlands - nominated for listing under EPBC Act

The Federal environment department is assessing the Broad Leaf Tea-tree Woodlands in High Rainfall Coastal North Queensland for potential listing as a threatened ecological community under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act).

This ecological community was nominated for listing as a threatened ecological community under the EPBC Act as part of a process to streamline the listing of state endemic species and ecological communities under federal and state processes. The draft listing advice extract is currently open for public consultation and can be downloaded from the department’s website.

Comments close on Mon 15 August 2011.

ANPC: Call for articles for Australasian Plant Conservation Vol. 20 (2)

We are seeking articles for the September-November 2011 issue of Australasian Plant Conservation (APC), the bulletin of the Australian Network for Plant Conservation (ANPC).

The issue will be on the theme ‘Conservation and restoration of coastal and estuarine ecosystems’.

Most of Australia’s population lives on or near the coast, and numerous community groups are involved in plant conservation activities there. Rapid urbanisation, catchment degradation and the emerging threat of climate change have led to concern about coastal ecosystem conservation. If you or your group has been doing plant conservation or vegetation restoration work in coastal or estuarine ecosystems, we encourage you to write an article about it.

· What are your visions and goals?
· What were your challenges?
· What have been your successes?
· What has worked really well, and what wouldn’t you repeat again?
· How have you planned for climate change?

Tell us your story to help others learn or get ideas or inspiration from what you have done.

General articles not on the theme are also welcome.

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 September - November 2011 issue is Friday 12 August 2011.

If you are intending to submit an article or wish to discuss possibilities, please contact the Editor, Selga Harrington, by 22 July. 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: Myrtle Rust Workshops

Myrtle Rust – a new threat to Australia’s biodiversity

A one-day course on Myrtle Rust recognition, reporting, risk assessment, and management concepts and techniques.

Numbers at each location will be capped – early registration is advised. Full venue details will be sent individually to all registrants.
WORKSHOP DATES AND LOCATIONS
Nowra
9.30am – 5.00pm
28 June 2011

Narooma
9.30am – 5.00pm
30 June 2011

WHAT YOU’LL GET
These one-day events will present a comprehensive summary of what is known of this new threat to Australia’s biodiversity, the knowledge gaps, and management options. The emphasis will be on wild-plant conservation, but there will also be information relevant for people from the horticulture, forestry, and bush-products sectors who wish to know more about Myrtle Rust, how to monitor for it, and where to find information on the control measures available for horticultural sites and suppliers. The day will also include workshop sessions to assist you to think about regional priorities, and options for changes to work practices for your sector.

This course will provide essential information on the disease, and help you to:
- identify regional species and ecological communities at risk
- decide what to monitor before and after disease arrival
- assess the risks and consequences of spreading the disease, and how to avoid doing so.

Costs (GST-inclusive) – except for OEH pre-paid staff see details on ANPC website.
$140.00 for individual and community-group attendees
$165.00 for government, semi-government and commercial organisations
Workshop fees cover: trainer experienced in Myrtle Rust, a detailed workbook, venue costs, morning and afternoon tea, lunch.

Registrations
To register, download the registration form. Please return forms to the address on the form and not to ANPC.

ANPC: Business Manager position vacant

ANPC Business Manager

Applications are invited for the position of Business 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 initially for one year with a possible extension of a further 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 5.

The duties include:
- assisting with seeking funding through grants, sponsorship and donations;
- development (assisting the ANPC Officers) of business models for projected events;
- assistance in the codification of procedures and policy;
- liaison with a wide range of organisations, clients and Committee members;
- financial management and reporting;
- keeping good records of the organisation and its membership; and
- assisting with recruitment, training and supervision of office volunteers.

Click here to download and print the position description which includes selection criteria.

Your application should address the selection criteria and be sent to anpc@anpc.asn.au no later than 5:00pm on Friday 8 July 2011. You can post an application to: ANPC, GPO Box 1777, Canberra ACT 2601

For more information contact the ANPC office on 02 6250 9509.

ANPC WORKSHOP: Translocation of Threatened Plants (Melbourne)

26 & 27 May 2011
Melbourne


Hurry, only a handful of places are still available


If this workshop is over-subscribed we will investigate running another workshop in Victoria in the next 12 months. If you miss out on this workshop and would like to attend a possible second workshop in Victoria please send us an email and we will keep you up to date.


The registration form and program are available on the ANPC Website.
Contact the ANPC Office: anpc@anpc.asn.au or (02) 6250 9509.

TSR WORKSHOPS: Hurry places still available (Wagga & Bathurst)

ANPC Workshops:

Managing Native Vegetation in Travelling Stock Reserves

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! Whilst it will focus on TSRs, the content is relevant for anyone managing grassy woodland vegetation remnants.

11 & 12 May 2011

Wagga Wagga/Kyeamba TSR and Tarcutta


26 & 27 May 2011
Bathurst/Local TSR



Topics to be covered include:
DAY ONE

*Background of TSRs and current status

*Connectivity conservation in the landscape

*Biodiversity values of TSRs

*Case studies

*Collaborative programs and approaches

*Where to get help (interactive session on available information)

*Grazing for conservation

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

Registration forms and the full program are available from the ANPC Website.

SURVEY: Research to improve the management of botanic gardens

Botanic gardens are being asked to assist with research into effective management structures for gardens. Please consider completing a short online survey for your botanic garden to assist Alasdair Macnab with his study. Responses will be treated in confidence. Thank you. More information

CONFERENCE: Nature Conservation Council Bushfire in the Landscape

23rd and 24th June

NSW Teachers Federation Centre Sydney

The conference will be an opportunity to bring together current research, case studies and policy directions on bushfire management and how different land use perspectives influence the application of fire in the landscape. There will also be valuable opportunities to network with industry leaders and experts in the field.

Visit our website for more information on conference themes. The full program with details of speakers and sessions will be available closer to the date. For further information contact:

Rebecca LeMay (Event Coordinator)
Nature Conservation Council of NSW
Rebecca LeMay or Anne Miehs on 9516 1488

WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY: Community and School Planting Days – Lower Hunter

To celebrate World Environment Day on 3rd June two events have been organised within a patch of Kurri Sand Swamp Woodland.

Sunday 3rd June
Community Planting Day 10am – 2pm

Friday 1st June
School Planting Day (with 1 hour time slots available throughout the day)

For further information and/or registration please contact
Trish Hogbin 0n 49086802 or tricia.hogbin@environment.nsw.gov.au

CONFERENCE: The 2nd NSW Travelling Stock Routes

WORKSHOP: Translocation of Threatened Plants (Melbourne)

WORKSHOP: Managing Native Vegetation in Travelling Stock Reserves (Bathurst)

TASMANIA: 2011 edition of Vascular Plant Census now available

A CENSUS OF THE VASCULAR PLANTS OF TASMANIA and Index to The Student’s Flora of Tasmania and Flora of Tasmania Online ML Baker & MF Duretto 2011 edition Now available: http://www.tmag.tas.gov.au/collections_and_research/research/tasmanian_vascular_plant_census

WORKSHOP: Managing Native Vegetation in Travelling Stock Reserves

NEW PUBLICATION: Waterplants of the ACT Region

Waterplants of the ACT Region – a glove box guide.

This easy to use booklet covers a selection of free-floating plants, instream plants of pools and riffles, mudflat and emergent plants and clump forming water edge plants. Photos to assist with the identification of named species are provided. Pest plants in each environment along with appropriate treatment and control methods for each one are included to assist with the handling of these plants which are usually ‘growing successfully in the wrong place’! A list of further reading materials for those who would like to learn more on the subject is provided.

Further information is available at http://www.molonglocatchment.org.au/ Copies of the booklet are available from the Molonglo Catchment Group – 62992119 and Waterwatch ACT – 62072246.

ANPC: Call for articles for APC 20 (1)

We are seeking articles for the June-August 2011 issue of Australasian Plant Conservation (APC), the bulletin of the Australian Network for Plant Conservation (ANPC). The issue will be on the theme ‘Doing it ourselves—non-government conservation’. This theme covers the range of mechanisms being used to help achieve plant conservation on private land. Such mechanisms can include: · -frameworks established by individual land holders, · -the operation of Conservation Management Networks, · -the use of Voluntary Conservation Agreements, Heritage Agreements, Covenants and the like, -purchase and/or management of land by bodies such as Bush Heritage Australia, the Australian Wildlife Conservancy, the Trust for Nature in the various states, and other non-government organisations, · -the operation of market-based instruments on private land, · processes used by NGOs such as the national, state and regional Australian Plant Society (Society for Growing Native Plants) groups, · -any other mechanism aiming to promote plant conservation on private land. We wish to explore the effectiveness of these mechanisms in achieving on-ground plant conservation outcomes, their strengths and weaknesses, lessons learnt, and what each mechanism has achieved. Articles can range from overviews of some/all of the mechanisms to case studies illustrating particular examples. While the focus of the issue is not on-ground actions, such types of activities are relevant to the theme if they provide examples of ways of helping to promote/support plant conservation mechanisms and doing plant conservation business. 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 June-August 2011 issue is Friday 13 May 2011. If you are intending to submit an article or wish to discuss possibilities, please contact the Editor, Selga Harrington, by 29 April. Your final article must be submitted to Selga by email at SHarrington@pb.com.au. Guidelines for authors about the APC style and scope are located on the ANPC website.

New COAG system replaces Ministerial Councils

The Council of Australian Governments (COAG) has announced a major reform of the system of Ministerial Councils that has for some years been the main Commonwealth/State arena for formulating and implementing national (cross-jurisdictional) policy. The number of councils has been more than halved. The new system includes a series of Standing Councils, time-limited Select Councils, Legislative and Governance Fora, and COAG Working Groups. The new structure will take effect from 30th June 2011. No arrangements for underpinning standing committees or advisory committees have yet been announced.

The new system is outlined in the COAG communiqué of 13 February 2011 with detail in its ‘Attachment C’. The implications for the biodiversity sector are not yet clear. The old Natural Resource Management Ministerial Council (NRM MC) would appear to be being replaced by a new Standing Council on Environment & Water, with a similar translation for the Primary Industry MC. There will be a Select Council on Climate Change, and a Legislative & Governance Forum on the Murray-Darling basin.

However, the communiqué main text states that “these changes will see a fundamental shift towards a council system focused on strategic national priorities and new ways for COAG and its councils to identify and address issues of national significance”. COAG’s Attachment C further says “Standing Councils will support the move to a reform-based system by identifying a small number of priority issues of national significance (normally five to seven) they will deal with and in what timeframes, for endorsement by COAG.”

The emphasis on “a small number of priority issues” may be problematic, given the broad scope of the Standing Councils and the fact that that biodiversity management has already dropped well down the agendas of most governments.

Cattle back in Alpine National Park

Cattle grazing has been reintroduced in Victoria’s Alpine National Park, in the form of a trial to test the effectiveness of ‘strategic’ cattle grazing for fuel reduction and fire management purposes. The state’s Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) has commissioned a trial by Prof. Mark Adams of the Bushfire Cooperative Research Centre and the University of Sydney.

The reintroduction of cattle grazing in the Alpine National Park was a pre-election promise of the recently elected Baillieu Coalition government in Victoria. It is unclear why the new research project needs to use sites inside the National Park, or whether on-Park trials were ever under consideration by DSE before the State election. On-park trials of grazing to reduce fuel loads were not a recommendation of the (2010) Bushfire Commission Final Report.

The trial involves 400 cattle introduced to six sites over about 4% of the Alpine National Park, until the end of April. According to DSE the initial research sites “have been carefully selected to avoid or minimise significant environmental impacts and will only use sites that have been grazed in the past. No grazing will occur on Bogong High Plains as part of the research” (see www.dse.vic.gov.au/dse/nrenpr.nsf/Home+Page/DSE+Parks~Home+Page)

However it also states that during 2011 “a longer scientific research program will be developed”, and that “there is a need to collect more evidence and research that looks at the direct effects of grazing on fuel load and structure in all [sic] alpine and subalpine ecosystems.”

The Victorian National Parks Association (www.vnpa.org.au/) and the Environmental Farmers Network (www.environmentalfarmersnetwork.net.au) see the trial as the thin end of the wedge, and liken it to a “terrestrial version of Japan's scientific whaling''. The lobby groups in favour of grazing access deny any adverse impacts of grazing and assert cultural heritage rights (see for example The Mountain Cattlemen’s Association of Victoria MCAV.

The Victorian rural newspaper, The Weekly Times, (http://www.weeklytimesnow.com.au/) has run a poll of readers over three weeks - while the poll is not methodologically robust, about 80% of respondents are against cattle in the High Country (Alpine National Park).

A longer version of this story, with ANPC commentary, will be available from the ANPC website from Wednesday 2 March, under Key Issues.

REVIEW: national strategy for bridal creeper and other Asparagus weeds

The National Asparagus Weeds Management Committee (NAWMC) is seeking your input into the revision of the national strategy for bridal creeper and other Asparagus weeds. A review of the 2001 national strategy has resulted in a draft revised strategy(2011-2016) which includes some new priorities. It provides guidance to all stakeholders involved in their management.

The consultation period runs from the 9th February to 10th March 2011.
The strategy and feedback forms can be found online.

CONFERENCE: Fungimap VI, Denmark, WA

14th to 19th July 2011

Fungimap VI will consist of a day of fungal talks on July 15th followed by three days of forays and workshops. Forays will include a day trip to the Valley of the Giants to see the giant red tingle trees. Registration is $250 (member), $300 (non member) until end of Feb 2011, and $300 (member), $350 (non member) afterwards. Click here for more information visit or call 03 92522374.

TRAINING: Wetland Hydrology Course - Restoring the Basics

Location: Hunter Wetlands Centre, Hexham, Newcastle, NSW
Date: February 16-18, 2011
Cost: $980 (plus GST) per person for the 2 day course

The 2.5 day course is designed for practitioners, technicians and managers who have an interest in wetland management and/or restoration and desire further training beyond the basics. The course emphasises the importance of water movement, which is similar worldwide. As such, the physical form is emphasized over individual ecological species. While the course is specifically designed for coastal wetlands, the fundamental lessons are equally applicable to many other landforms.

Please go to the website for more information. To book or for further questions, please contact Dr William Glamore w.glamore@wrl.unsw.edu.au or on (02) 8071 9868.

NEW PUBLICATION: Vegetation, Fire and Climate Change in the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area

This new booklet summarises science of fire and climate change in the Greater Blue Mountains. The Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area comprises seven national parks, plus Jenolan Caves reserve, and covers just over one million hectares from the edge of the Hunter Valley to the Southern Highlands. It is one of the most fire-prone regions on earth and adjoins long stretches of urban areas. These features present significant management challenges for DECCW. In addition, climate change may increase the frequency and intensity of fires in the region, adding to these challenges.

Dr Kate Hammill and Dr Liz Tasker (Fire Ecology Unit, Biodiversity Conservation Science Section) together with the NSW Environmental Trust and PWG (Blue Mountains Region) recently published this 74 page, full-colour booklet on the vegetation, fire history and climate change projections for the region. As well as the extensive written information, it also contains ten colour maps and many beautiful photographs. The booklet will improve access to the scientific information that underpins many aspects of fire and biodiversity management in the area for managers and the public.

The booklet can be downloaded from the DECCW website. Hard copies are available from Kate Hammill (kate.hammill@environment.nsw.gov.au) or Liz Tasker (Liz.tasker@environment.nsw.gov.au). The booklet will also be available from the NPWS Heritage Centre in Blackheath and Mount Tomah Botanic Gardens.

WEEDS: Weed Society of Victoria Seminar

Contentious Perspectives on Weeds (a series of seminars)

Thursday 14 April 2011 - Melbourne

The Weed Society of Victoria presents its annual seminar (and AGM). Come along and hear speakers offering some very different perspectives on weeds. To view the program (and to book for the seminar), please follow this link to the program flyer. For all inquiries about the seminar, please contact the Secretary, Ros Shepherd, email: secwssv@surf.net.au

CONFERENCE: Education and the Global Strategy for Plant Conservation

22-28 October 2012 in Mexico

The focus will be on how gardens can address all targets of the Global Strategy for Plant Conservation. If you are interested please visit www.bgci.org/education.congress

MYRTLE RUST: Tasmanian Directive

All nursery stock from mainland Australia must now be treated with an appropriate fungicide prior to import into Tasmania. If you are a business exporting nursery stock into Tasmania, please contact Daniel Jackson from Tasmania DPIPWE ph (03) 6233 4626 or email Daniel.Jackson@dpipwe.tas.gov.au regarding this requirement.

TRAINING: Communities in Landscapes

Training in topics such as:

• Seed Collection and Storage for Professionals




• Cultural Assessment of Box-Gum Grassy Woodlands (BGGW)




• Identification and Assessment of BGGW




• Restoring Landscape Connections in BGGW

Will be offered in 2011. If you would like to attend or want further information on these and other events call Toni McLeish on 02 6229 7119.

MYRTLE RUST: Found in Queensland

Myrtle rust has recently been found in a small number of production and retail nurseries in South East Queensland. Biosecurity Queensland is working with industry to investigate the origin of the infected plants and the current location of any plants that have been sold to the public.

If you suspect myrtle rust on your property notify Biosecurity Queensland on

13 25 23 or call the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881.

CONFERENCE: 16th NSW Weeds Conference – Making a Difference – from coast to coast

18-21 July 2011 at the Pacific Bay Conference Centre, Coffs Harbour

WHY ATTEND THE CONFERENCE?

-See new technology in action
-See first hand the weed management challenges on the north coast
-Meet with and learn from other weed managers
-Learn the latest development in weed management, policy, research, new incursions
-Chance to network with others working in weed management at social functions
-To gain an understanding of the latest technology and research findings
-Understand new weed threats
-Appreciate the broad depth of experience and knowledge of people working in weed management disciplines

Registration will be available in February 2011. Costs will be from $630.00 to $700.00 (early bird & standard). For more information visit the website.

WORKSHOP: Renewal after Fire: Bushfire Management Workshop

Saturday 5 - Sunday 6 February 2011
10am to 5pm at the Tuggeranong Community Centre

The Nature Conservation Council of NSW invites you to a workshop exploring the recovery of the natural environment after Canberra’s 2003 bushfires. It will include a field trip to Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve as well as lunch and afternoon tea. RSVP by January 28th on 9516 1488 (Ann Miehs) or amiehs@nccnsw.org.au

PUBLICATION: A Guide to Private Conservation in NSW

Australia’s biodiversity cannot be conserved adequately in the public reserve system. Public reserves such as national parks account for a small fraction of all land in Australia. Without conservation on private land much of Australia’s biodiversity may be lost.

This is why government and non-government organisations are working towards encouraging landholders to take steps to conserve some or all of the natural features of their properties. A range of private conservation mechanisms have been developed in the hope that more of Australia’s biodiversity can be preserved.

This publication will help you understand the different private conservation options available and help you decide which option would be most suitable for your property. Download this free publication from the EDO website.

2011: International Year of Forests

2011 is the International Year of Forests (Forests 2011). The United Nations General Assembly declared 2011 as the International Year of Forests to raise awareness on sustainable management, conservation and sustainable development of all types of forests.

On the UN website, you will find information regarding events being organised throughout the International Year as well as interactive web tools and resources to promote dialogue on forests.

BIODIVERSITY: UN General Assembly backs resolution for an 'IPCC-for Nature'

New York/Nairobi, 21 December 2010
A new international body aimed at catalyzing a global response to the loss of biodiversity and world's economically-important forests, coral reefs and other ecosystems was born yesterday by governments at the United Nations 65th General Assembly (UNGA).

The adoption, by the UNGA plenary, was the last approval needed for setting up an Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES).The independent platform will in many ways mirror the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) which has assisted in catalyzing worldwide understanding and governmental action on global warming.

The new body will bridge the gulf between the wealth of scientific knowledge on the accelerating declines and degradation of the natural world, with knowledge on effective solutions and decisive government action required to reverse these damaging trends. Its various roles will include carrying out high-quality peer reviews of the wealth of science on biodiversity and ecosystem services emerging from research institutes across the globe in order to provide gold standard reports to governments. These reports will not only cover the state, status and trends of biodiversity and ecosystems, but will also outline transformational policy options and responses to bring about real change in their fortunes.

FULL RELEASE

NEW PUBLICATION: Eucalypts

Eucalypts

A celebration

John Wrigley and Murray Fagg

Published: November 2010, Allen & Unwin

A superbly illustrated celebration of the beauty and diversity of Australia's most iconic and best-known trees.

'The tallest and most stately trees I ever saw in any nobleman's ground in England cannot excel in beauty those which nature presented to our view.' First fleet surgeon Arthur Bowes
Eucalypts are a familiar part of our landscape and an integral part of the Australian identity. We have farmed them and used them to build houses, furniture, roads and bridges since the beginning of white settlement. We have been inspired by them, painted them, made films about them, written books about them and of course Aboriginal Australians have long made musical instruments from them. Though a small number are found as native plants in several other countries, Eucalypts are a very Australian tree.


This book celebrates their diversity, their beauty and the role they play in our history, culture and economy. It looks at their evolution, biology, horticulture and ecology, together with their classification and the botanists involved. Through historic and contemporary images, it examines the many ways in which they have served Aboriginal, colonial and contemporary Australians in both practical and aesthetic ways. Eucalypts have quite literally been the building blocks of our nation and this beautiful book tells their complete story for the first time.

Available from Allen & Unwin

NEW BOOKLET: Cumberland Plain Shale Woodlands and Shale-Gravel Transition Forest

On 9 December 2009, the Cumberland Plain Shale Woodlands and Shale-Gravel Transition Forest was listed as a critically endangered ecological community under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act). These native woodlands occur on the Cumberland Plain of the Sydney region. The woodlands now exist only as small remnants within its range. To accompany the listing the Commonwealth Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities has prepared an information booklet Cumberland Plain Shale Woodlands and Shale-Gravel Transition Forest: A guide to identifying and protecting the nationally threatened ecological community, EPBC Policy Statement 3.31. The booklet is designed to assist land managers, owners and occupiers as well as environmental assessment officers and consultants to identify, assess and manage the Cumberland Plain Shale Woodlands and Shale-Gravel Transition Forest. It also highlights the EPBC Act implications of its listing. The booklet can be downloaded at: http://www.environment.gov.au/epbc/publications/cumberland-plain-shale-woodlands.html