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Summary: Collaborations between Indigenous and non‐Indigenous scientific researchers are increasingly mandated by global to local conservation policy and research ethics guidelines. Breakdowns occur due to misunderstandings around expected protocols of engagement and cooperation, which are compounded by lack of broader awareness of differences in cultural values, priorities and knowledge systems. Using first‐hand experiences, we outline eight key protocols and guidelines that researchers should consider when undertaking research with Indigenous peoples, or on Indigenous Country, through exploration of biocultural protocols and guidelines within Australian and Indigenous customary laws. We use the onion as a metaphor to highlight the layers of protocols and guidelines that researchers can peel back to guide their research from international to local scales, with ethics around the research question at the core. This paper draws on the perspectives and experiences of an Indigenous researcher (as 'insider'/'outsider') and non‐Indigenous researcher ('outsider'), working on a cross‐cultural and multidisciplinary investigation of past Aboriginal dispersal of rainforest trees on the Australian east coast. This paper is part of the special issue 'Indigenous and cross-cultural ecology - perspectives from Australia' published in Ecological Management & Restoration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: This paper provides a critical analysis of the development and current outcomes of Australia's first endorsed strategic assessment under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, namely, the Melbourne Strategic Assessment. It covers progress towards protection of a number of Nationally Significant Species and Ecological Communities – most notably, the native grassland communities immediately adjacent to Melbourne's Urban Growth Boundary. The Commonwealth approval to protect biodiversity and allow urban development was made in 2010 and it aimed to achieve its outcomes by 2020. These outcomes included providing new land for homes, for new transport corridors, and for conservation of biodiversity. Natural Temperate Grassland (4,667 ha), Grassy Eucalypt Woodland (709 ha) and seven other Matters of National Environmental Significance will be impacted. Mitigation for this is establishment of 15,000 ha of grassland reserves, 1,200 ha of grassy woodland reserves, over 4,000 ha of other land zoned for conservation and 300 ha of wetland restoration. We conclude that the Melbourne Strategic Assessment has been a success in terms of the elegance and comprehensiveness of the approach, in cooperation between the levels of government, in the economic benefits, and in some aspects of social engagement of the agreement. However, the achievement of environmental outcomes must be currently considered a failure due to poor implementation. This failure includes not meeting the agreed 10 year deadline for land acquisition and management, poor monitoring and protection of set‐aside areas, and in reporting. We offer suggestions for how these current shortcomings could be overcome. These align well with the recommendations of the review of the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (The independent statutory review of the Act in 2020) and include the establishment of the proposed Office of Compliance and Enforcement, the adoption of National Environmental Standards and the reforms regarding the role of Indigenous Australians in strategic assessments. If these were adopted, we conclude that the strategic assessment approach should be more widely used because of the more holistic approach and efficiencies that it envisages compared with site by site approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: We synthesise the findings from 10 years of ecological restoration in the Midlands of Tasmania, Australia, captured in the series of 14 papers in this special issue of Ecological Management and Restoration. The papers illustrate how expertise from disciplines as diverse as law, economics, social sciences, the arts, education, zoology, botany, genetics, climate modelling, agriculture, spatial sciences and fire ecology are necessary to address the complex social, ecological and financial questions that underpin restoration ecology. We highlight the complexity of the task, the multi‐disciplinary and collaborative approach needed, the importance of science to inform restoration practice and the problem of achieving functional connectivity. We also outline steps that need to be taken in the next 10 years. Together, the outcomes and recommendations from these studies provide a template for restoration in similar highly cleared and degraded agricultural landscapes affected by climate change in Australia and internationally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Globally, the role of women in conservation is gaining attention with increasing initiatives to support gender equity in environmental management and decision‐making. In Australia, the role of Aboriginal women in natural and cultural resource management employed as rangers is also gaining recognition; however, female employment in this field remains underrepresented. This paper reflects on a cross‐cultural partnership aimed at empowering young Aboriginal women in natural and cultural resource management, locally known as caring for Country, in Arnhem Land, a remote Aboriginal owned region of northern Australia. The project was led by local Ngukurr community Ngandi Elder and lead author, Mrs Daniels, and Macquarie University researchers who co‐designed and co‐delivered activities according to five project aims: (i) Community involvement; (ii) Biocultural research / learning on Country; (iii) Leadership and confidence building; (iv) Knowledge maintenance; and (v) Capacity building. Over three years of the project, over 60 youth participated in a range of on‐Country and cultural learning, leadership and capacity building activities including cross‐cultural biodiversity surveys, wetland monitoring, traditional language and knowledge recording and culture camps. Participant feedback and a biocultural learning assessment task noted growth in confidence, biocultural knowledge and desire for continuation of youth empowerment programs in conservation. To facilitate gender equity in Aboriginal natural and cultural resource management, structural and sustained support of women's empowerment and leadership, driven by local women with support of local communities, is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: This Statement on improving kangaroo management originates from the shared experience of many peak bodies and stakeholders that existing policy and practices related to kangaroo management cause perverse outcomes for animal welfare, conservation, productivity, waste, drought resilience, climate, and the health, culture and wellbeing of Australians. The Statement was developed in consultation with delegates from two kangaroo symposia in 2019, and broadened through contributions from other ecological, Aboriginal, animal welfare and conservation stakeholders who believe reform is necessary. Positive change across all these domains requires an empathetic, science‐based collaborative and coordinated approach to improve management of kangaroos in Australia, which in turn requires building a broad social mandate for reform. This manuscript presents the drivers and definitions for the Statement and key references documenting the causes and recommended solutions for improving kangaroo management, including many of the papers in this volume. An extensive inventory of conservation, agricultural, animal welfare, indigenous and scientific organisations that have endorsed the Statement is provided. We aim to inform public opinions and drive necessary change to policy, attitude and actions to appropriately value, conserve and utilise kangaroos where there is a tendency for overpopulation. Recommendations include development of a National Kangaroo Strategy that includes discussion on whether overabundant kangaroos are a legitimate sustainable resource that should be managed as such rather than being largely wasted as the by‐product of pest control to protect other industries or conservation landuses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Wildlife management on a landscape scale is often complex, particularly where different land use practices occur in the same region. This is particularly so for the management of overabundant grazing species (both domestic and native) in a modified landscape, where anthropogenic activities and climatic drivers can influence their distribution and abundance beyond sustainable levels. In Australia's arid rangelands, macropods benefit from pastoral activities including improved pastures, artificial watering points and the removal of apex predators. This paper addresses some of the challenges associated with managing Red Kangaroo (Osphranter rufus) in a conservation context on the privately managed Boolcoomatta Station conservation reserve in the South Australian arid rangelands. We reflect on the history of the region and how anthropogenic activities, associated with an unpredictable climate, have made macropod management so complex. Ecological monitoring at Boolcoomatta Station suggests that, along with the influence of rainfall, grazing by overabundant Red Kangaroo had a negative impact on vegetation and resident avifauna of chenopod plains. Fenced exclosures further demonstrate the grazing impact of Red Kangaroo, with perennial grasses found only where grazing was excluded. The closure of waterpoints (dams) failed to reduce Red Kangaroo impacts on the reserve, despite some evidence that persistence of Red Kangaroo near fenced dams may be reduced in the long term. Results of monitoring and management outcomes at Boolcoomatta highlight the need for an improved framework to manage Red Kangaroo. This should include consideration of improved regional stock management practices in the face of climate change; improving our understanding of the role of apex predators in agricultural landscapes; developing and setting grazing impact thresholds to instigate macropod management; improving and standardizing monitoring methods for assessing impacts; and lastly, consideration of the mental health and social well‐being of land managers in these areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Management of feral animals can be complicated by conflicting economic, social, cultural and political values of stakeholders. To visually demonstrate the ecological impacts of feral ungulates, natural resource managers often construct exclusion fences; however, lessons are not often widely shared in the scientific literature and Indigenous insights are rarely recorded. Here, we report on long‐term (7–11 years) feral buffalo and pig exclusion fences that were constructed by the Yirralka Rangers in ephemeral coastal wetlands of the Laynhapuy Indigenous Protected Area, northern Australia. Elevation transects across fence boundaries suggested that feral ungulates may be eroding floodplains and therefore reducing elevation. Comparisons of intermittent photos and contemporary inside–outside fence floristic assessments suggested that feral ungulates have an obvious and significant effect on vegetation cover and composition which may also inhibit natural soil accretion. Interviews with senior Indigenous knowledge holders revealed that feral ungulate culling was broadly supported due to impacts on cultural and spiritual values. Synthesis of the results suggested that feral ungulates are having substantial impacts on the cultural use, flora and soil stabilisation of coastal wetlands. Further research on soil erosion and accretion in places with and without ungulates will elucidate the effects of ungulates on potential sea‐level rise resilience of coastal wetlands. This paper highlights the benefits of cross‐cultural and collaborative multi‐disciplinary research such as producing holistic outcomes relevant to stakeholders that can inform management decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Protecting native biodiversity is a difficult prospect in extremely modified landscapes, especially where high‐impact exotic species are widespread. Using new data and a review of the literature, this paper comments on the use of livestock grazing to manage the invasive and highly combustible pasture grass species, Buffel Grass (Cenchrus ciliaris) and thereby help conserve fire‐sensitive Brigalow (Acacia harpophylla) vegetation in reserves in Queensland, Australia. We cite evidence that shows that grazing is a potentially useful management tool in such cases and its use can be compatible with the protection of both fire‐sensitive vegetation and other native plant species within the understorey. However, there are limitations in implementing grazing within conservation reserves including the lack of a clear understanding of the influence of grazing on biodiversity and resource condition. Importantly, we highlight secondary invasion by the exotic grass Indian Couch (Bothriochloa pertusa) as a key emerging threat that may undermine the biodiversity benefits gained by grazing in reserves. Grazing can be a useful tool for conservation management in particular scenarios, but the associated risks demand accompanying monitoring and reporting of positive and negative impacts to ensure the fundamental aim of biodiversity protection is being achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Measuring and monitoring population size and growth are critical to assessing the progress and ultimately the success (or failure) of a reintroduction. The Woylie (Bettongia penicillata ogilbyi) is one of Australia's threatened critical weight range mammals. To increase the species' area of occupancy, extent of occurrence, number of sub‐populations and global population size, in addition to creating a source population for future reintroductions, a new population has been re‐established into a safe haven located within the species' former range – Mt Gibson Wildlife Sanctuary. In this paper, we document the first 3 years of the reintroduction programme, over which time 162 individuals were translocated to Mt Gibson. Specifically, we (i) provide information on survivorship, (ii) estimate changes in critical population metrics (density, population size and distribution) and (iii) look for any major habitat preferences. Survivorship of collared animals was complete (i.e. zero mortality). The most recent population estimate was in the order of 750 individuals, reflecting strong growth in population size and density. The woylie has occupied the majority of the safe haven and is well represented in all major vegetation communities. The translocation is on track to meeting the key success criteria: a self‐sustaining population of woylies with a minimum of 300 individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Past and continuing fragmentation and modification of ecosystems, as well as other threatening processes, cause ongoing biodiversity losses and species extinctions in Australia. At the same time as biodiversity declines, government funding for conservation and restoration is diminishing, leading to reduced action and greater reliance on private investment and community groups. In order to maintain and restore biodiverse ecosystems and the essential services they provide, both conservation of existing vegetation and habitat reconstruction are required. In this paper, we summarise the available data on planting area and cost from the Australian Government's 20 Million Trees programme (2014–2020), the largest recent national‐scale revegetation incentives programme in Australia. We find that the current spatial scale of effort and investment in habitat reconstruction is insufficient to match the scale required to meet national conservation objectives. Furthermore, the funding rate ($/ha) and contracting arrangements are inadequate for the establishment of high‐quality self‐sustaining vegetation needed for the recovery of Australia's threatened species and ecological communities. We estimate that the minimum amount of funding required for habitat reconstruction is at least five times higher than is provided for current national flagship programmes such as 20 Million Trees. We provide recommendations, designed to assist future habitat reconstruction programmes achieve their long‐term biodiversity objectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interactions between landholders, practitioners and research scientists have greatly influenced landscape restoration activities in South‐eastern Australia. Vegetation connectivity projects undertaken by Holbrook Landcare Network in the Slopes to Summit (S2S) region of South‐eastern Australia have benefitted from the input of both scientists and practitioners. This paper explores what factors support an evidence‐informed restoration outcome, what constrains this and what we can learn from this case. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Mature forests have structural habitat features that can take hundreds of years to develop, and large reserves alone are unlikely to ensure conservation of the species that rely on these features. This paper outlines a proposed new approach to managing mature forest features, the ‘mature habitat management approach’, in areas outside of reserves. The objective was to maintain a network of current and future mature forest habitat distributed across the landscape. The approach is designed to complement the existing reserve network and management actions and is tenure‐blind. Spatial information on the availability of mature forest habitat at the local (1‐km radius) and landscape (5‐km radius) scales is used for decisions on retention within a 1‐km radius of a harvest area, to reach the minimum target of 20% and 30% retention of mature forest at the local and landscape spatial scales, respectively. We believe this approach could contribute to meeting the conservation needs of many species that require mature forest features for refuge and breeding in Tasmania and elsewhere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Mature trees and forests contain structural features such as tree hollows, large coarse woody debris and large spreading crowns that provide critical habitat for a wide range of species. These features can take hundreds of years to develop and require careful management to ensure their continued availability. Managing these features requires spatial mapping layers to facilitate landscape‐scale management. This paper outlines how a map of mature forest habitat was developed for Tasmania, Australia. The map was produced using spatial data on vegetation type, mature crown density and senescence, a global layer of forest loss data derived from satellite imagery, a database on timber harvest plans and a spatial layer on the extent of fire. The relationship between mapped mature habitat availability (high, medium, low or negligible) and tree hollow availability in wet forest areas was explored, complementing a similar published study in dry forests. The number of large trees likely to have hollows significantly increased with mapped mature habitat availability, although there was considerable variation and overlap between map categories. Data from a fauna locality database and two radio‐tracking studies showed that three of the vertebrate hollow‐using species examined (Swift Parrot, Common Brushtail Possum and the Tasmanian Long‐eared Bat) and nest records of a species reliant on large tree crowns (the Wedge‐tailed Eagle) were all more likely to occur in areas of higher mapped mature habitat availability. It is concluded that this map reflects the relative availability of tree hollows, is ecologically meaningful and will be useful when managing mature forest habitat at large spatial scales, but the variable accuracy of the map at fine scales needs to be taken into account. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

National ecological restoration standards – produced in 2016 through the collaboration of 13 of Australia's leading ecological restoration organisations – are increasingly influencing practitioners. This paper elucidates two of the Key Principles that underpin standards to encourage highest and best efforts across all sectors and help resolve uncertainty about the role of restoration in a changing world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There has been an increasing investment of taxpayer dollars in revegetation in Australia over the past 20 years, at both federal and state levels. The largest of these, the Australian Government's Biodiversity Fund, will invest A$946 million to revegetate, rehabilitate and restore landscapes to store carbon, enhance biodiversity and build environmental resilience under climate change. The universal challenge for restoration practitioners working within these programmes is species selection for both current and future environmental conditions at a given site. For policy makers, the challenge is to provide guidelines and tools for this process. The first paper in this series of two papers looked at scientific methods that could provide underpinning knowledge to improve the assessment of species vulnerability to climatic and atmospheric change. In this paper, the publically accessible Atlas of Living Australia is used to demonstrate how revegetation project leaders can assess whether the species and provenances used in their revegetation projects are likely to be suitable for changing environmental conditions. While using the Atlas can assist current selections, ways in which more reliable selections for changing climatic conditions could be made are also outlined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Governments across Australia have long been investing in revegetation in an effort to restore biodiversity and, more recently, mitigate climate change. However, no readily available methods have been described to assist project leaders identify species and provenance material likely to be sustainable under the changing climatic conditions of coming decades. Focussing particularly on trees, as trees are important for biosequestration as well as for providing habitat for other native species, Paper 1 of this two part series briefly reviews species distribution models and growth simulation models that could provide the scientific underpinning to improve and refine selection processes. While these previous scientific studies provide useful insights into how trees may respond to climate change, it is concluded that a readily accessible and easy-to-use approach is required to consider the potential adaptability of the many trees, shrubs and ground cover species that may be needed for biodiverse plantings. In Part 2 of this paper, the Atlas of Living Australia is used to provide preliminary information to assist species selection by assessing the climatic range of individual species based on their current distributions and, where available, cultivated locations. While using the Atlas can assist current selections, ways are outlined in Part 2 in which more reliable selections for changing climatic conditions could be made, building on the methods described here. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary This paper synthesises the lessons learnt and challenges encountered when applying Indigenous and non-Indigenous knowledge and methods in natural and cultural resource management (NCRM) in northern and central Australia. We primarily draw on the papers within this special issue of Ecological Management & Restoration, which originated largely from the Indigenous land management symposium at the 2010 Ecological Society of Australia conference. Many of the papers and therefore this article discuss practical experiences that offer insight for enhanced on-ground cross-cultural NCRM and can inform broader thinking and theoretical critiques. A wider literature is also drawn upon to substantiate the points and broaden the scope of the synthesis. Four key themes for consideration in collaborative cross-cultural NCRM are discussed. They are as follows: 1. The differences in environmental philosophy between Indigenous and non-Indigenous cultures which profoundly shape perceptions of environmental management; 2. Cross-cultural awareness of Indigenous and non-Indigenous knowledge and methods; 3. The mechanics of two-way approaches to ecological research and managing country (NCRM as perceived by Indigenous people) and 4. Operational challenges for Indigenous NCRM organisations. To conclude, we point out five broad principles for managing country using Indigenous and non-Indigenous knowledge: (i) Recognise the validity of both Indigenous and non-Indigenous environmental philosophies; (ii) Create more opportunities for improved cross-cultural understanding, respect and collaborations; (iii) Involve Indigenous people and their knowledge and interests at all stages of the Indigenous NCRM project or research (including planning, design, implementation, communication and evaluation); (iv) Ensure that time and continuity of effort and resources are available (to undertake participatory processes and for trust-building and innovation) and (v) Establish high-level political support through legal and policy frameworks to maintain continuity of government commitment to Indigenous NCRM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Top-predators can sometimes be important for structuring fauna assemblages in terrestrial ecosystems. Through a complex trophic cascade, the lethal control of top-predators has been predicted to elicit positive population responses from mesopredators that may in turn increase predation pressure on prey species of concern. In support of this hypothesis, many relevant research papers, opinion pieces and literature reviews identify three particular case studies as supporting evidence for top-predator control-induced release of mesopredators in Australia. However, many fundamental details essential for supporting this hypothesis are missing from these case studies, which were each designed to investigate alternative aims. Here, we re-evaluate the strength of evidence for top-predator control-induced mesopredator release from these three studies after comprehensive analyses of associated unpublished correlative and experimental data. Circumstantial evidence alluded to mesopredator releases of either the European Red Fox ( Vulpes vulpes) or feral Cat ( Felis catus) coinciding with Dingo ( Canis lupus dingo) control in each case. Importantly, however, substantial limitations in predator population sampling techniques and/or experimental designs preclude strong assertions about the effect of lethal control on mesopredator populations from these studies. In all cases, multiple confounding factors and plausible alternative explanations for observed changes in predator populations exist. In accord with several critical reviews and a growing body of demonstrated experimental evidence on the subject, we conclude that there is an absence of reliable evidence for top-predator control-induced mesopredator release from these three case studies. Well-designed and executed studies are critical for investigating potential top-predator control-induced mesopredator release. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global population growth and associated urban development are having profound effects on biodiversity. Two major outcomes of expanding development that affect wildlife are light and noise pollution. In this paper, we review literature reporting the effects of light and noise on biodiversity, and assess implications for conservation planning in Australia. Our results clearly indicate that light and noise pollution have the potential to affect the physiology, behaviour and reproduction of a range of animal taxa. Types of effects include changes in foraging and reproductive behaviours, reduction in animal fitness, increased risk of predation and reduced reproductive success. These could have flow-on consequences at the population and ecosystem levels. We found a significant gap in knowledge of the impact of these pollutants on Australian fauna. To reduce the effect of light and noise pollution, there needs to be careful planning of urban areas in relation to protected areas, and for biodiversity more generally. Potential measures include strategically planning the types of development and associated human activities adjacent to protected areas, and the use of shields and barriers, such as covers for lights or the use of dense native vegetation screens, while still allowing movement of animals. Changes in government standards and regulations could also help to reduce the impacts of light and noise pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Restoration of postmining substrates to native forest is a standard requirement of resource consents for mine sites located within areas of native forest in New Zealand. Unweathered waste rock presents significant challenges for plant growth, and past research highlights the importance of replacing soil as part of restoration. However, replacing soil with its horizon structure intact or even obtaining sufficient soil for restoration can be a challenge in some situations. In this paper, we describe the results of two trials undertaken at the OceanaGold Ltd. open‐cast gold mine in Reefton to explore the influence of substrate conditions on the growth of native forest seedlings. We show that beech (Nothofagus) seedlings grown on A‐horizon soil grew significantly better than those grown on soil mixed with waste rock, and both grew significantly better than plants grown just on waste rock. In the second trial, we show that bark chips are not a good substitute for soil. These results confirm the importance of having the correct substrate for successful native forest restoration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary The involvement of Indigenous people in the national conservation effort is increasingly being acknowledged and valued in Australia. Ecological research can play an important role in reinforcing the efforts of Indigenous land managers; and interest from Indigenous and non-Indigenous ecologists and land managers to work together on ecological issues of common concern is increasing. Although there are many examples of successful collaborations there are also many instances where expectations, particularly of the Indigenous partners, are not met, and this is less frequently communicated. This paper, written from the perspective of an Arrernte researcher in partnership with his non-Indigenous colleague, outlines a range of challenges including the need for Indigenous people to have more control of what is done and why it is done on their country and to define and prioritise their own objectives for land management, which may or may not align with mainstream conservation agendas. Currently, Western conservation paradigms play the dominant role in how Natural Resource Management is practiced and how broader policy is set, and ecological research on Indigenous land is still most often led by the Western ecologists. This can leave out the ideas of Indigenous people and does little to address underlying inequitable power relationships. Indigenous Australians do not want to become spectators in the research process, giving away knowledge, or labourers to Western conservation agendas. They want to be active partners in developing better understandings of the environment and implementers of management that reflects shared agendas. Open discussion of these issues within the mainstream ecological literature is an important step towards change and will create better opportunities for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous ecological practitioners and Indigenous people dealing with land management policy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary Large overbank flood events play an important role in maintaining large-scale ecological processes and connectivity along and across the floodplains and between the rivers and their floodplains in the southern Murray-Darling Basin. However, the regulation of rivers means that extensive overbank flooding can only occur in the rare circumstance of extreme flood events. Recent environmental water allocations have focussed on the largest floodplain blocks ('icon' sites) and a small set of specific values (e.g. colonial nesting waterbirds), as well as on trialling fine-scale manipulation of infrastructure (e.g. pumping) to water relatively small areas. There has been no comprehensive systematic assessment of the entire floodplain and its wider set of flood-dependent natural assets (such as ecosystems and species; herein referred to as 'natural values') to maximise the effectiveness of environmental water use and to catalogue values likely to be lost. This paper describes an assessment of some 220 000 ha found to support flood-dependent natural values in Victoria. We mapped the geographic distribution and estimated components of the flooding requirements (natural flooding frequency, and maximum period without flooding and minimum duration of each flooding event before significant deterioration) for each natural value. Using an example of one stretch of the River Murray, we show how the resultant spatial data can be used with floodplain inundation modelling to compare the outcomes of real or planned environmental watering events; potentially providing tools for management agencies to conserve a wider range of floodplain values than is currently the case. That is, water managers and the public can see what ecosystems and threatened species are intended to be maintained by environmental watering and what values are intended to be abandoned across the whole floodplain, rather than just seeing the small subset of values and 'icon' sites that are intended to be maintained. Examples are provided to illustrate how information about the location, water requirements and extent covered by potential floods for specific values can be used to build adaptive watering strategies for areas as large as the whole floodplain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports on a workshop conducted in Australia in 2010, entitled 'Management, Conservation, and Scientific Challenges on Subtropical Reefs under Climate Change'. The workshop brought together 26 experts actively involved in the science and management of subtropical reefs. Its primary aim was to identify the areas of research that need to be most urgently addressed to improve the decision-making framework for managers of subtropical reefs. The main findings of the workshop were a sustainable subtropical reefs declaration that highlights seven research priorities for subtropical reefs. These are to (i) conduct research and management activities across local government, state and bioregion borders; (ii) understand natural variability of environmental conditions; (iii) quantify socio-economic factors and ecosystem services; (iv) benchmark cross-realm connectivity; (v) know marine population connectivity; (vi) habitat mapping and ecological research; and (v) determine refugia. These findings are hoped to form a basis for focussing research efforts, leveraging funds and assisting managers with allocation of resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

'Landcare' is a specific form of community-based natural resource management (CBNRM) that is expanding across the world. Although Landcare is widely understood to have originated in Australia in the late 1980s, a similar concept, Landschaftspflege, developed in Germany much earlier, with Landschaftspflegeverbände, or 'Landcare Groups', having been established around the same time. The existence of other forms of CBNRM around the world diminishes Australian Landcare's claims to uniqueness but provides a richer context for further refinements of CBNRM models. Based on 57 qualitative key informant interviews and a thorough document analysis, this paper compares Landcare in Australia with Germany. A key finding is that there are substantial similarities but also significant differences. As a result of recent changes, it is likely that the differences will diminish over time. Recommendations for the design of initiatives to promote community involvement in environmental management are provided as are considerations for Landcare as it expands internationally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large scale ecological restoration in a highly heterogeneous and species-rich landscape requires big commitment to fine scale planning. In the southwest of Western Australia, in the Fitz-Stirling area of Gondwana Link, the Peniup Restoration project aimed to improve on such works. A multi-faceted approach was employed to re-establish a self-replicating biologically diverse plant system, ecologically informed in its design and consistent with the heterogeneous mosaic of plant associations found in the surrounding landscape. Outcomes from the project included a 950-ha restoration map composed of nine newly developed soil landscape/vegetation associations. A new 6 m wide direct seeding machine was developed to improve delivery and spatial configuration of establishing plants. These two developments were put to the test in 2008 through a 250 ha biodiverse carbon-funded restoration effort. This paper summarises the approaches used and initial results of those works. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the highly fragmented agricultural landscapes of temperate southern Australia, fodder shrubs are being established as part of commercial grazing enterprises to fill the summer-autumn livestock feed gap. These woody perennial plantings have greater structural complexity than conventional grazing systems and may supplement resources for native fauna. However, to date the resources provided by these systems are poorly defined or documented. In this paper, we identify the potential environmental values of fodder shrub plantings by considering natural and planted shrub-based systems, with a particular focus on planted saltbush in non-saline lands. In marginal agricultural areas, shrub-based perennial fodder crops can not only provide economic benefits through improved livestock productivity, but also contribute to reducing soil erosion and offer potential carbon sequestration opportunities. We contend that these systems may also provide resources for a range of native fauna. More information is needed on the biodiversity value of grazing systems based on perennial shrubs so that their potential to contribute to conservation in multifunctional landscapes can be fully realised and appropriate management recommendations provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rocky outcrops are prominent geological features in agricultural landscapes worldwide. Reptiles are a major component of these habitats and some species are restricted to, and more abundant on, rocky outcrops than in remnant vegetation. Rock outcrops are important to reptiles because they provide resources that are often limited in the surrounding landscape (e.g. micro-gradients in climatic conditions, basking- and retreat-sites). However, there is a knowledge gap in the literature addressing the conservation value of small, rocky outcrops. Management may be necessary to reverse habitat degradation in these systems. We identify four key areas of management that need to be addressed to improve outcrop habitat values and enhance biodiversity conservation in agricultural landscapes. Specific actions involve: (i) protecting outcrops from processes that cause damage to rock microhabitat, (ii) monitoring and managing changes in vegetation structure to maintain thermally suitable environments, (iii) applying integrated pest animal control and (iv) improving matrix management to enhance inselberg function and landscape connectivity. Further research is required to evaluate the efficacy of different management regimes on outcrop biota. We hope this paper will provide the stimulus for land managers to incorporate rocky outcrops in future biodiversity conservation programmes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Australia’s natural areas have long been a source of inspiration for artists. Some of this art is a response to the natural environment or represents it in some way, and some is exhibited or performed in the natural environment itself. The objectives of this article are to: investigate the relationship between art and the artists who create it and people who make a living in extension, landcare or on the land; and, develop an understanding of whether the arts can encourage an emotional affinity with the natural environment. Eighty-nine key informant interviews were conducted in Australia, the UK, USA, Canada and Norway, including people working in the arts and people working in natural resources management. Those in the latter group were people who either (i) worked in an extension (outreach) or community facilitation capacity, or (ii) people who played a voluntary role with community on-ground restoration projects or who showed exemplary behaviour towards the environment. All the people working in natural resources management cited examples of visual or performing arts that they had found inspiring, that encapsulated or defined their attitudes towards the natural environment, or which reinforced their attitudes towards the natural environment. From these interviews, the idea of ‘chains of inspiration’ emerged. Each of the ‘chains’ began with people who worked directly on the environment. These people were in turn influenced or inspired by particular art from which they gained an emotional affinity towards the environment. The chains then progressed to the artists who created the art. All of the chains ended up with the natural environment from which the artists drew their inspiration. The paper concludes that by providing an emotional affinity or empathy for the natural environment, art can have a major role in influencing pro-environmental attitudes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In subtropical Australia, regrowth forests in former rainforest landscapes are often dominated by the exotic tree, Camphor Laurel ( Cinnamomum camphora). In this paper, we report on research into the value of these regrowth stands for rainforest biota. Our initial surveys indicated that Camphor Laurel stands supported a similar number of rainforest animals as restoration plantings, and usually more than timber plantations. Subsequent surveys found that stands of Camphor Laurel supported a high diversity of fruit-eating birds and had recruited a diverse suite of rainforest plants. More recently, we surveyed stands of Camphor Laurel treated by restoration practitioners using ‘patch’ or ‘selective’ removal of exotic plants. We found that both treatment methods accelerated the recruitment of rainforest plants to Camphor Laurel stands, and that treatment was usually much cheaper than the cost of establishing restoration plantings. Recognition of the value of weedy regrowth for native plants and animals, and the potential utility of manipulating weedy regrowth to achieve cost-effective restoration, could increase the likelihood of achieving the large-scale increases in forest cover that will be needed to restore biodiversity and ecosystem services to extensively cleared regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A recent review paper by Glen et  al. in Austral Ecology (2007, Volume 32, 492–501) canvassed anecdotal and scientific evidence relating to the role of the Dingo as regulator of ecosystem processes in Australian landscapes. Their review forms part of an increasing volume of literature about the ecological roles of top-order or apex predators around the globe. Although recognizing the possible functional significance of the Dingo is a noteworthy subject matter, the management of the species at an ecosystem scale is complicated by a range of practical and theoretical issues. Perhaps the most significant challenge is the degree to which the Dingo is hybridized with the domestic Dog gone wild (Feral Dog). We suggest here that there is a range of research questions that need to be experimentally addressed as a matter of urgency. This includes but is not limited to understanding the ecological significance of Dingo–Dog hybridization. Such research should precede other research initiatives suggested by Glen et  al. such as reintroducing individuals of the pure Dingo back into landscapes. This is particularly the case for south-eastern mainland Australia where the incidence of Dingo–Dog hybridization is high and the ecological consequences of this poorly understood. Finally, new terminology may be needed relating to Dingo and/or Wild Dog management that more clearly reflects both the genetic status of the species as well as its ecological function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Managers of Ramsar-listed wetlands throughout the world are committed to management that will promote the conservation and wise use of their wetland habitats. Part of the management process is a description of ‘ecological character’ as a benchmark against which a ‘change in ecological character’ can be assessed. Detecting unacceptable change is a difficult judgement, which depends upon an understanding of wetland ecosystem components, processes and services. This paper explores the development of conceptual models as a framework for describing the biophysical elements of ecological character of a wetland in a way that can be readily used for assessing changes. Ecosystem services are partially addressed but need further work to be more fully incorporated. We suggest development of models to identify components and key processes as well as drivers in the ecosystem. These models provide a description of a unique set of identifiers and a baseline against which unacceptable changes in biophysical character can be assessed. For an ecological character description to be useful for adaptive management, we suggest following the process, developed in a case study at Thomsons Lake, Western Australia, which: (i) provides a landscape context and identifies relevant spatial scales using a hierarchy of maps and aerial photographs; (ii) develops a conceptual ecological model with an accompanying synthesis of relevant biophysical data; and (iii) uses these as the basis for recognizing a unique set of wetland identifiers. The latter, together with critical processes, are the core biophysical elements of an ecological character description. Construction of a driver/stressor model facilitates the recognition of external drivers which create ecological stressors and lead to adverse ecological effects and loss of ecosystem services and benefits. It then follows that unacceptable changes in ecological character are those that result in a loss of identifiers, disrupt critical processes and reduce services or benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Australian irrigation industry diverts significant volumes of water from our rivers, and as such, may also divert and entrain riverine fish. Although it is widely acknowledged that our native fish fauna have been greatly affected by a variety of anthropogenic changes, little is known about the extent or significance of fish entrainment in irrigation systems. This paper presents results from a preliminary investigation into the diversion of fish into irrigation channels undertaken in the Goulburn-Murray Irrigation Network, Victoria, Australia. The case study and our knowledge of the life-history strategies of the Basin's fish fauna suggest that the loss of native fish into irrigation networks may be a substantial problem, which, up until recently, has been largely ignored. We strongly suggest that the impact of diversions on native fish populations requires urgent further investigation and quantification, through the cooperation of water management authorities and fish biologists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Temperate grassy ecosystems are amongst Australia's most endangered ecosystems. Most remnants are small, fragmented and highly degraded. Practical methods for restoring native understorey species are urgently required. Dominant native grasses such as Kangaroo Grass (Themeda triandraForssk.) and Tussock-grasses (Poaspecies) have been eliminated from many remnants by heavy grazing in the past. The reintroduction of these grasses is a critical step for understorey restoration. This paper (i) reviews the literature onThemedaseed biology and seedling establishment; (ii) summarizes the lessons learnt from three major attempts to establishThemedastands in south-east Australia; and (iii) identifies the research needed to enhanceThemedarestoration. Considerable information is available onThemedaseed and establishment biology, and restoration exercises have shown thatThemedastands can be readily established by surface-spreading awned seeds in seed-bearing hay. However, many practical challenges remain, including the need to identify optimal sowing periods, create better seedbed conditions, develop practical mulching techniques, and improve weed control. The use of seed-bearing hay has constrained restoration to relatively small areas in the past. Future trials may benefit by using more concentrated seed products such as seed-bearing florets and pure seeds which permit larger areas to be restored at one time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary In Australia, controlling introduced predators across large areas is unlikely to be successful without careful consideration of the predator's ecology, the economics of the control exercise and the distribution of the taxa to be protected from the predator. Inadequate strategic planning in pest control is commonplace and there is a need for better methods for determining where, when and how to control predators. The present paper describes a method (currently being introduced into planning programmes) of using areas of high prey species integrity (conservation kernels) to identify strategically optimal areas for predator control (particularly Red Fox, Vulpes vulpes ), across broad landscapes. These landscapes are selected using a geographical information system and a combination of predictive habitat models and records of threatened species at risk of predation by the Red Fox, to identify sites of biological wealth. We propose this method as a first step in developing a strategic predator control plan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biological indicators have been widely used in Australian riverine systems to assess the effectiveness of past and current management. The short generation time, sessile nature, responsiveness to environmental conditions and the availability of sound, quantitative methodologies make biofilms suitable as a monitoring tool in these systems. This paper describes biofilm structure, function and development through the processes of succession and disturbance. Biofilms are assemblages of algae, fungi and microorganisms which cover rocks, wood and sediments in aquatic systems. A review of biofilm collection and processing techniques using relevant Australian and international studies reveals a large literature on many structural and functional biofilm attributes. Studies using structural attributes such as biomass and diversity to examine water quality impacts and invertebrate grazers dominate the Australian literature. More recently, studies have used functional biofilm attributes such as metabolism and foodweb interactions. Monitoring programs that combine structural and functional biofilm attributes will allow the best assessment of impacts in riverine systems. Biofilm functional parameters provide an integrated, long-term measure of ecosystem function, with structural attributes such as biomass and diversity allowing historical comparisons with previously recorded datasets. Monitoring programs such as these with a well-founded scientific base and defined management outcomes will expand our knowledge of river function and contribute to the restoration of Australian river systems.. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Information about several papers discussed at a conference about the development of biodiversity conservation-research partnerships in Australia is presented. Among of the topics include strategies and initiatives which established efficient and effective benefits and costs of partnering environmental organizations. Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Northern Territory government and other international non-government organizations have participated the event.

This paper explores data compatibility issues arising from the assessment of remnant native vegetation condition using satellite remote sensing and field-based data. Space-borne passive remote sensing is increasingly used as a way of providing a total sample and synoptic overview of the spectral and spatial characteristics of native vegetation canopies at a regional scale. However, integrating field-collected data often not designed for integration with remotely sensed data can lead to data compatibility issues. Subsequent problems associated with the integration of unsuited datasets can contribute to data uncertainty and result in inconclusive findings. It is these types of problems (and potential solutions) that form the basis of this paper. In other words, how can field surveys be designed to support and improve compatibility with remotely sensed total surveys? Key criteria were identified for consideration when designing field-based surveys of native vegetation condition (and other similar applications) with the intent to incorporate remotely sensed data. The criteria include recommendations for the siting of plots, the need for reference location plots, the number of sample sites and plot size and distribution, within a study area. The difficulties associated with successfully integrating these data are illustrated using real examples taken from a study of the vegetation in the Little River Catchment, New South Wales, Australia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Until its rediscovery on Balls Pyramid in February 2001, the Lord Howe Island Phasmid or Stick Insect ( Dryococelus australis) was thought to be extinct. It disappeared from Lord Howe Island soon after the accidental introduction of the Ship Rat ( Rattus rattus) in 1918. In this paper, we report on the recovery actions undertaken for this critically endangered species since its rediscovery. Monitoring of the small surviving population on Balls Pyramid has shown it to fluctuate between about 9 and 35 adult individuals. As a safeguard against extinction, two adult pairs were removed from Balls Pyramid in February 2003 to establish captive populations in Melbourne and Sydney. Although all four founders bred readily in captivity, one pair died only a month after capture. The second female would have also died soon after capture had it not been for veterinary intervention using novel untested techniques. The single surviving pair bred successfully but the hatch rate of eggs was poor. For the next generation, both fecundity and hatch rates were low. The lack of knowledge regarding the specific husbandry requirements of this particular species undoubtedly contributed to these problems. Careful management, together with a cautious scientific approach, eventually led to all problems being resolved. Presently, there are more than 700 individuals and 14 000 eggs in captivity. Approximately 80% of incubated eggs are expected to hatch. To establish additional captive colonies, adults and eggs have been sent to other institutions, both within Australia and overseas. Now that the species is reasonably secure in captivity, the opportunity exists to reintroduce this iconic insect back onto Lord Howe Island, but this can occur only after the introduced rodents have been removed. A programme to eradicate both the Ship Rat and the House Mouse ( Mus musculus) from Lord Howe Island is currently being developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The challenges of managing and conserving threatened species that have a widespread distribution operate at several levels and recovery of these species is a complex process. This paper provides an overview of how science is informing the management and conservation of the Grey-headed Flying-fox ( Pteropus poliocephalus) in New South Wales. It outlines a series of research projects and activities the Department of Environment and Climate Change (New South Wales) has led or been involved in since the Grey-headed Flying-fox was listed as threatened in New South Wales in May 2001. This includes investigation of the species’ distribution and abundance; its roosting and foraging habitat requirements; assessment of horticultural damage and the mitigation techniques used; public attitudes towards the species; and development of policies and plans to guide the species’ conservation and management. Conservation gains for threatened species can be achieved through a sustained, focused programme of management, coordinated by dedicated individuals and informed by the available science. Scientists, policy-makers and the general community must continue to strive together for the recovery of widespread, threatened species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since European settlement, many Australian mammals have become extinct; numerous others survive within substantially reduced ranges. Predation by the Red Fox ( Vulpes vulpes) and House Cat ( Felis catus) are two of the major drivers of this decline. The demise of Australia's native fauna continues, with ground-nesting birds such as the Malleefowl ( Leipoa ocellata) now being at greatest risk of extinction. In regions of Western Australia, this situation has been partially reversed through the broadscale control of the Fox and the re-introduction of locally extinct species. In this paper, we review research undertaken on Yathong Nature Reserve (YNR) in western New South Wales to (i) evaluate current threats, and (ii) assess our ability to restore locally extinct species across this particular landscape. We conducted releases of both the Malleefowl and Brush-tailed Bettong ( Bettongia penicillata), two species that were once common in the region. Despite the potential for food resources to have been diminished by exotic herbivores, we found no evidence that food shortage was a limiting factor for either of the two species we released. Predation by the Fox was the greatest single cause of Malleefowl mortality. Localized, intensive ground baiting of the Fox was essentially ineffective in mitigating this threat, whereas broadscale aerial baiting substantially enhanced Malleefowl survival, at least during the first few years. Accordingly, thrice-yearly aerial baiting for the Fox has been conducted on YNR since 1996. Despite this, and a long-term restocking programme, the size of the Malleefowl population has not increased since aerial baiting began. The release of the Brush-tailed Bettong into YNR in 2001 confirmed the effectiveness of the ongoing fox-control programme but demonstrated the detrimental impact of another introduced predator – the Cat. We conclude that, while current management actions continue, the Fox is no longer a threat to wildlife on YNR, and suggest that the Cat is now the major impediment to both the recovery of depleted faunal populations (including the Malleefowl) and the restoration of locally extinct species (such as bettongs) within this landscape. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vegetation changes over time are important indicators of condition, and are particularly important as targets or triggers for management. Satellite image data have unique capacities to provide information on changes in vegetation. In particular, Landsat imagery has the spatial resolution and a historical archive that make it relevant to providing information for understanding and management of native vegetation at a range of scales from small remnant to region. Regional and national vegetation monitoring programs based on time series Landsat imagery are now operational in Australia. These programs and their data have huge potential to provide information for conservation and natural resource management questions. They have already found multiple applications, including applications to biodiversity assessment and planning. This paper presents some examples of the delivery and application of satellite image monitoring information in the context of vegetation management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The assessment of vegetation condition is seen as an increasingly important requirement for effective biodiversity conservation in Australia. Condition assessments that operate at the scale of the site are well established. However, there is a need for mapped representations of vegetation condition at regional scales to: (i) assist with regional planning and target setting; (ii) provide regional context for site-based assessment; and (iii) monitor the change in vegetation condition at multiple scales. This paper describes a methodology for converting site condition data collected in plots into maps of vegetation condition across entire regions using a predictive statistical modelling framework (Generalized Additive Modelling) combined with a GIS. The research demonstrates how explanatory variables including topographic position, terrain roughness, landscape connectivity and remote sensing derived indices can be used to map the condition of native vegetation at the scale of a subcatchment. The inclusion of indices derived from remotely sensed imagery (SPOT4) as explanatory variables in the modelling is a novel component of this research. Although the methodology generates statistically and ecologically plausible models of vegetation condition, there are nevertheless limitations associated with the way plot data were collected and some of the explanatory variables, which impacts upon model utility. We discuss how these problems can be minimized when embarking upon studies of this type. We demonstrate how maps produced from exercises such as this could be used for conservation planning and discuss the limitations of these data for monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]