att cncl report operational management plan for kalkallo ...€¦ · operational management plan...

Operational Management Plan for Kalkallo Common Grassland

Prepared by Merri Creek Management Committee April 2010 for

Operational Management Plan for Kalkallo Common Grassland...............................1 1 Background .................................................................................................................................1 2 Ecological Pr inciples ...................................................................................................................2 3 Biodiversity values ......................................................................................................................3 4 Threats to Biodiversity ................................................................................................................4

4.1 Protection of the site from outside pressures ....................................................................4 5 Biomass Reduction .....................................................................................................................5

5.1 Schedule of burns ..............................................................................................................6 5.2 Burn procedure...................................................................................................................6 5.3 Variations to scheduled burns............................................................................................6 5.4 Follow-up w ork for burn areas ...........................................................................................7

6 Weed Management and Control.................................................................................................8 6.1 Overall Weed strategy........................................................................................................8 6.2 Prioritising exotic w eeds...................................................................................................10 6.3 Strategies for management of threats posed by weeds not yet established on site.......14

7 Flora ..........................................................................................................................................16 7.1 Signif icant species management including enhancement planting.................................16

8 Management Zones ..................................................................................................................19 9 Seasonal/quarterly w orks program 2010-2012 ........................................................................21

9.1 Seasonal/quarterly w orks program Year 1 January -June 2010 .....................................21 9.2 Seasonal/quarterly w orks program Year 2 July 2010-June 2011 ...................................24 9.3 Seasonal/quarterly w orks program Year 3 July 2011-June 2012 ...................................31 9.4 Additional Tasks ...............................................................................................................39

10 Acknow ledgements ..............................................................................................................40 11 References ...........................................................................................................................41 12 Appendices...........................................................................................................................43

12.1 Map of Aerial photo of site w ith site outline .....................................................................43 12.2 Map of Fencing priorit ies ..................................................................................................44 12.3 Map of Vegetation Quality ................................................................................................45 12.4 Map of Signif icant Species ...............................................................................................46 12.5 Species Lists ....................................................................................................................47 12.6 Photos...............................................................................................................................50 12.7 Summary of Beardsell (1997) ..........................................................................................52 12.8 MCMC Safety plan/burn procedure .................................................................................54 12.9 Fencing recommendations ...............................................................................................57


Hume City Council has commissioned this Operational Management Plan for Kalkallo Common Grassland, Kalkallo, to guide the activities of contractors over the next two years. The management plan identif ies issues relating to the conservation of the site and addresses the operational management of its botanical values. The plan is prescriptive but also provides for alterations due to seasonal variation, unforeseen restrictions on activities etc. by providing a method for decision-making based on ecological principles and methods for reallocating activities to an appropriate t ime.


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1 Background The Grassland reserve is a 9.8 ha parcel of land held by the Crow n in the tow nship of Kalkallo in the City of Hume. Coordinates are 144.96° E 37.53° S. Parcels of public land w ith high biodiversity values adjacent to the Common include the disused road reserves, roadside easements, Kalkallo Cemetery and crow n land to the south of the cemetery. Freehold land to the north of the Common shares many of the biodiversity values. References to ‘Kalkallo Common’ in biological reference sometimes relate to the combined extent of these properties. Measures to manage a disused road reserve in the north of the site and the Pearson St roadside are included in this report due to their intrinsic value and influence of these interface areas on management of the reserve vegetation as a w hole. The area covered by this report therefore comes to 10.6 ha. The Kalkallo Common Grassland is separated from the Kalkallo Cemetery by Pearson Street. The reserve is bounded by private property, Dwyer St and Hunter St and currently unused road reserves as illustrated on Appendix 12.1. The reserve is shown in Melw ay, Greater Melbourne Edition 36 on Map 367, F2 (2009). Hume City Council agreed to manage offset w orks on this site in 2009 and 2010 although arrangements for a permanent Committee of Management remain to be agreed as of writing. It is currently in reasonable condition but is subject to a number of threats. These are expected to intensify in the future as urbanisation pressures intensify. The site is listed as ‘Kalkallo Public/Common BioSite 3630’ and listed as being of State signif icance. The site extent show n in the Biosites maps and Reports CD, (Department of Sustainability and Environment 2005) covers a larger area than that discussed in this report. The values for w hich the site has been recognised as being of State signif icance w ere detailed in the ‘NEROC’ report, (Beardsell, 1997) w here the site is listed as Kalkallo Common, site ‘5b’ and detailed in notes from pp. 64-81 in the CD. A summary of the notes relevant to this site from this report are included as Appendix 12.7 in this report.


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2 Ecological Principles Restoration is required in order to maintain the current biodiversity values and to attempt to re-establish, w here feasible, values previously identif ied at the site. Goals for w orks at the site are to;

• Remove or mitigate immediate threats to the biodiversity of the site • Retain, and w here necessary enhance, population of the current suite of indigenous plant

species to achieve viable populations. • Establish a regime of ecological disturbance appropriate to retention of the current f lora

and fauna and that w ill allow for re-establishment (natural or assisted) of species know n to have occurred at the site.

Objectives for works at this site in 2010-2011 are to; • Re-establish physical boundaries of site to limit illegal vehicle and stock access • Eradicate priority w eed species from the reserve • Eradicate low er priority weeds where these are at early stages of infestation • Commence applying an ecologically appropriate disturbance regime

The site has been identif ied as a Reference site1 for the vegetation types occurring here (Beardsell 1997) and the highest quality areas of the reserve appear valid as reference sites for degraded areas provided variations in vegetation type are recognised. Southern parts of the Beveridge to Wallan Railw ay reserve (‘Beveridge Rail Reserve, Camoola Sw amp’, Biosite number 5130 (Department of Sustainability and Environment, 2005) share many features w ith the Common and retain some grazing-sensitive species apparently absent from Kalkallo. For some elevated areas of the Common, the Kalkallo Cemetery may provide reference site for species composition how ever further investigation is needed to identify whether the current disparity in species composition result from underlying environmental differences or from the divergent management histories (Additional Task 9.4.1) Surrounding land uses w ill inf luence the biodiversity of the Common and the effectiveness of the proposed w orks. Aside from intrusions due to fence deterioration the follow ing influences need to be considered;

• Propagule f low from w eeds originating from the slashed roadside vegetation on the Pearson St

• Propagule f low from w eeds originating from the pasture on boundaries to the south and west of the reserve

• Rabbit and foxes using harbour on the cemetery, road reserves and private landholdings (Additional Task 9.4.2)

• Overland w ater f lows, disrupted by roads, dams and mounding on the cemetery boundary • Shading and allelopathic effects from *Pinus radiata trees on the boundary of the site. • Reduced genetic viability arising from the impact of fragmentation such as loss of

pollination partners, limited propagule influx and probable loss of specif ic pollen vectors. Explicitly stated actions, performance standards, w ith monitoring protocols for the f irst two years are detailed in the Seasonal w ork plan in Section 9 of this report. Long-term protection and maintenance of the restored ecosystem w ill require establishing a robust communication f low betw een stakeholders including

• The Committee of management (potentially Hume City Council) • Department of Sustainability and Environment

1 ‘Reference Site’ is an area on which restoration planning is based and that can serve as a basiss for evaluating a ‘completed’ project

• Adjacent landholders • The Kalkallo Cemetery Trust • Community based-environmental interest groups including Fr iends of Merri Creek and

Merri Creek management Committee. (Additional Task 9.4.3)

3 Biodiversity values Biodiversity values of the site that have been identif ied in Beardsell (1997) include;

• High f lora species diversity • Rare f lora species • As a Reference site (see below ) for other grasslands in the area • A site for frog breeding, in particular of species adapted to burrow ing and ephemeral

wetlands (Spadefoot toad) • A site for Grassland birds, including nomadic/irruptive species such as Red-chested

Button Quail • Site for the conservation of grazing sensitive w etland herbs • Potential site for habitat for w etland foraging birds including rare species such as Latham’s

Snipe. Complementing these values, the site has biological characteristics that enhance its value and sustainability as a biological reserve. One is high resilience to w eed invasion w hich enhances the feasibility of management in the long term. This is apparently due to;

o retention of a cryptogamic crust2 o history of low or intermittent disturbance o high species diversity o adjacent land uses w ith low edge effects

The value of the site as a seed source for restoration works in other native grasslands is another value that should be recognised and protected. Kalkallo Common is a relatively intact example of Volcanic Plains Grassland. Examples of tw o distinct grassland types present were of suff iciently high quality for Beardsell (1997) to designate vegetation at the Common as ‘reference stands’ for these tw o variations of the Volcanic Plains Grassland. Retention of this value w ill require a high level of f idelity to restoration standards, monitoring and documentation. Given the vulnerability of the values and the small size of the reserve, even monitoring and conservation work should be assessed for impact prior to approval. A checklist for use by contractors, researchers and f ield staff, compatible w ith existing Hume contractor w orks reporting is to be developed for use under the Works Diary action in Year one (Section 9.1)

2 Cryptogamic crust (also called bryophytic crust or cryptogamic mat) includes mosse s, l iverworts, algae and fungal hyphae that coat soil surface and is conjectured to confer some resistance to seed germination, in particular annual weed seed germination.


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4 Threats to Biodiversity Immediate threats to biodiversity values include; • Weed invasion • Disturbance from illegal vehicle access • Disturbance from illegal stock grazing • Disturbance due to feral herbivorous mammals • Disturbance due to dumping or illegal storage of materials on grassland site. • Disturbance herbivory and stress due to exotic invertebrates (red-legged earth mite, exotic

molluscs, Mediterranean Millipedes) (See Additional task 9.4.4 • Flora deterioration due to inappropriate disturbance regime (i.e. unsuitable f ire regime,

grazing, soil disturbance) • Intensif ication of edge effects due to changed land management practices in adjoining grazing

land. (Additional Tasks 9.4.5) • Fauna predation due to feral and ‘subsidised’ domestic predators (i.e. Cats, dogs and rats

capable of living at far higher densities than feral or w ild predators and thus capable of exerting higher hunting pressure) (see Additional Action 9.4.5)

• Genetic deterioration due to habitat fragmentation and loss of pollination partners • Stochasitic/chance effects, niche loss due to environmental shifts etc. that are intensif ied due

to small size and isolation of reserve (see Additional Action 9.4.6) • Intensif ication of edge effects due to urbanisation or industrialisation of surrounding areas

(see Additional Action 9.4.7)

4.1 Protection of the site from outside pressures A current and immediate issue for this site is that there is an increasing amount of vehicle movement through the grassland, damaging vegetation cover and making the site susceptible to weed establishment. Vehicles are accessing the site because the fencing has fallen into disrepair. Increased impact of vehicle access is apparent in aerial photographs betw een 2007 and early 2009 (See Appendix 12.1). Trail bike riders w ere w itnessed on 4th October 2009 accessing through gaps in fence and explain the branching trails evident on Jan 2009 aerial photo branching out from the access points. In ear ly 2010 tw o piles of soil and building w aste were dumped inside the reserve close to the open access point. No evidence of rabbit activity such as scats, scratchings, and grazed vegetation w as apparent during inspections. Low rabbit activity was confirmed by a regular visitor to the reserve w ho was exercising a hunting dog met by chance in October 2009. A single rabbit w as encountered on the southern boundary of the reserve during an inspection I November 2009. This rabbit w as sheltering in the longer w eeds at the base of a *Crataegus monogyna. On disturbing the animal, it ran out of the reserve across Pearson road to the Kalkallo Cemetery. The mounded earth on the boundary of the cemetery along w ith the plantings here provide a likely site for w arrens and constitute a likely pressure on the f lora of the Common and the Cemetery. (Additional Action 9.4.2) The apparently low threat posed by rabbits meant that the expense, upkeep costs of fencing and threat of w ildlife entrapment (lizards and snakes) is not considered as being justifying rabbit-proof netting at this point in the opinion of the author. Appendix 12.2 includes details on fencing requirements for the site. Prescriptions for fencing are included as Appendix 12.9.

5 Biomass Reduction Biomass reduction is generally essential for maintaining species health and diversity for Native Grasslands. (Bush and Faithfull, 1997 P.11). The long influence of Aboriginal people’s activities on the landscape, and in particular the recorded prevalence of intentional burning, has been instrumental in the species composit ion and dynamics of Volcanic Plains Grassland (Jones, 1999). Such ecosystems may be considered to fulf il the definition of a ‘cultural ecosystem’ as one that has, “developed under the joint inf luence of natural processes and human imposed organization” (Clew ell and Aronson 2007 p 38). The desirable period betw een disturbances for Plains Grassland is frequently cited as f ive years (e.g. DSE 2004). This is to account for observed decline in intertussock forb species recorded in long-undisturbed grasslands and decline in the health of Themeda triandra dominant cover after eight years w ithout burning (Bush and Faithfull, 1997 P.11). How ever, different species may be favoured by the method, frequency and timing of biomass reduction (E.g. See discussion of germination response by Morgan 1998, pp. 215-218). A diversity of burning regimes, including relatively frequent burns (even occasional annual burns) is used at some Native grassland to maintain species sustained by a know n specif ic historical disturbance regime (e.g. Muyt 2004). The Kalkallo Common site has a history of periodic grazing extending several decades up till late 1990’s. Grazing w as arranged annually as agistment of sheep w ith adjacent landholders. (A. Webster, pers. comm. 2009) and may later have occurred on an ad-hoc basis w ith horses (Beardsell 1997). Uncontrolled grazing is currently occurring due to deterioration of fences. Caution has been recommended in applying burning to grassland remnant sites that have had a history of grazing and vice versa. (See Lunt, 1990 and Lunt, 1997). In the period 2010-2015, reinstatement of a burning regime is recommended by the author on the basis of the follow ing observations and logistical grounds; • The reintroduction of grazing on this site w ould be diff icult to arrange and supervise in this

increasingly urbanised area and in coming years it w ill become virtually impossible. • The grassland has now had an extended period (approximately 15 years) w ithout regular

grazing w hich has apparently permitted the grazing-sensitive forb, Plains Yam Daisy Microseris scapigera to survive and possibly increase. It w as implied that this species had been extirpated by grazing in the NEROC report and should be a target for replanting (Beardsell 1997, in ‘Other issues’ for MUVP Site 5 Kalkallo and Donnybrook North Rail Reserve).

• in the interval since grazing w as removed from the site, surrounding farmlands are likely to contain a w ider array of serious environmental w eeds that could be introduced w ith stock.

• apparently successful application of ecological burns has occurred at the site in the intervening time (in part icular by DSE in 2004). Photos held by MCMC show that healthy vigorous Microseris scapigera plants were present less than 12 months after this f ire.

• burning of Gorse patches by MCMC in May 2009 has been follow ed by vigorous regeneration of a range of forbs, including at least tw o species of conservation signif icance.

• Data from the follow ing monitoring activit ies should be recorded to inform a review of f ire regime to take place after f ive years.

Goal Monitoring task Ensure burns are achieving biomass reduction

Recording of f ire w eather conditions and percentage cover burnt.

Ensure one third grassland cover is over tw o years old

Mapping of burn outlines

Ensure species are not being lost due to increased frequency of burning.

Pre and post monitor ing of populations size/health/regeneration of selected uncommon flora species suspected to be sensitive (positively or negatively) or w hose response to f ire is unknow n.

Ensure priority w eeds are not being favoured by a particular burning regime

Pre and post monitor ing of selected priority w eed species (size of population/health/ regeneration)


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The last tw o measures may be integrated w ith a permanent array of quadrat monitoring looking at other measures contributing to feedback required for adaptive management (See 9.1) Precautions for some plant species w ith extremely low populations w ould be to attempt to burn only a part of the population in any one year w hich may require w etting dow n of small patches within the grassland around half of any populations. (See Signif icant Species Management Actions in Section 9).

5.1 Schedule of burns The follow ing burn schedule uses management zones describerd in Section 8 of this report. It attempts to ensure all areas are burnt at least every 4 years (as a compromise betw een the generic 5 year prescription and the 3 year interval that has been successfully used by MCMC in management of Ngarri-djarrang (Central Creek Grassland) in Reservoir. This w ould allow some leew ay to avoid loss of f loral diversity arising from sw ard closure in event of burns not occurring in any one year. The burn plan also retains a mosaic of grassland stages in place for faunal habitat. The interval should be review ed based on monitoring observations after 5 years. Year Zones to be burnt Notes 2011 Southern Include part Eastern Perimeter 2012 Northern Include part Eastern Perimeter and Gorse

Eradication Zones 2013 Western Include Western Perimeter and part Gorse

Eradication Zone 2014 No Burn Use this year to catch up if a year is missed 2015 Southern Include part Eastern Perimeter 2016 Northern Include part Eastern Perimeter and Gorse

Eradication Zones 2017 Western Include Western Perimeter and part Gorse

Eradication Zone 2018 No burn Use this year to catch up if a year is missed

5.2 Burn procedure The current MCMC burn procedure for CFA areas is included as Appendix 12.8 Although most details w ill remain the same, some details w ill need to be modif ied in consultation w ith the local CFA captain and other relevant local authorities.

5.3 Variations to scheduled burns A scheduled burn may not occur in any one year due to resource constraints or due to the follow ing environmental condit ions;

• Drought has resulted in a low accumulation of biomass at the proposed burn site such that the site w ill have trouble burning or w ill result in an unacceptably low level of cover of grasses for providing fauna refuge zones outside the burn area. At least one third of the reserve should have cover of 2 years or older. Adjacent ungrazed grassland currently remains to the north of the reserve and may constitute a faunal refuge zone.

• Wildfire has led to burning of some addit ional part of the reserve such that the above • Extreme seasonal condit ions has prevented f ire from being carried out during suitable

season for burning (i.e. before end of May) If any of the above conditions prevail, then it is proposed that the cycle of burns be reset to be resumed the follow ing year and a very high priority be placed on resuming the burn regime. As a last resort, w here f ire is excluded for an extended period, ecological condit ions may be maintained around plants most likely to suffer from lack of biomass reduction through targeted slashing.

5.4 Follow-up work for burn areas Weed control w orks should be scheduled to be concentrated at a burn site in the year follow ing a burn due to;

• the improved conditions for targeted herbicide spraying minimising off-target damage due to regrow th being low to the ground, having a high susceptible surface area and reduced intermingling w ith indigenous vegetation

• susceptibility of the open ground to w eed invasion and potential of the open ground for indigenous plant regeneration

• potential for improved effectiveness of herbicide on w eeds where mobilisation of below ground stored resources w ill occur

Burning remains appropriate as a priority even if resources for follow up weed control have not been secured (although this is not desirable). The site appears to be in suff iciently intact condition that overall benefits from a burn w ill outw eigh possible declines in some areas due to not being able to address the second dot point above. Upcoming w eed control programs already funded for 2010 and 2011 w ill further strengthen the resilience of this grassland to such lapses in treatment. Increased opportunities for enhanced control measures may persist for 18 months after a burn, providing a relatively long timeframe for securing additional resources. Weed control activities w ith a high priority to occur in the year follow ing a burn include;

• Methodical treatments for eradication of high threat w eed grasses where these are occur within indigenous vegetation

• Treatment of regrow th from w oody weeds and bulky w eed grasses especially w here these pose a logistical threat for future f ire control actions if allow ed to build up biomass over more than tw o years. How ever, note that seedlings of gorse suffer high mortality in their f irst summer so treatment of these should not be a priority in f irst spring if it poses a high risk of off-target damage.

• Detailed treatment immediately around rare f lora w here regeneration into opened up ground is a goal. This may rely on treatment of w eed cover, including low er priority weeds to prevent it posing a competition threat to seedlings of the rare f lora.


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6 Weed Management and Control Thirty w eed species were identif ied during surveys conducted in October 2009. It is anticipated that this list w ill grow as further site visits gathers data, this should be recorded and list updated as a part of monitoring. These species are included in the list in Table 12.5-2 in Appendix 12.5

6.1 Overall Weed strategy The reserve has been broken into management zones, based on w eed issues and logistical requirements.

• The f irst priority is to prevent ongoing degrading actions. Pursue actions that limit further incursions of weeds into the grassland. (Fencing, hygeine, treatment of adjacent infestations).

• Weeds that pose a high threat and have best chance of eradication constitute the highest priority from an ecological and management perspective.

• Weeds that are scheduled under the CaLP act are a legal obligation for treatment form another priority.

• In restoring areas of treated w eeds, fostering natural regeneration should be the preferred method of restoration over replanting due to the high natural regeneration potential of the majority of the vegetation. Small areas of poor quality vegetation may require more intensive planting or direct seeding treatments.

• Weed control should be integrated w ith biomass reduction- scheduling w eed treatment in areas for approximately 18 months follow ing a f ire to take advantage of improved opportunities for identifying and treating w eeds w ith reduced risk of off-target damage.

• Where resources are limited, w eed treatment should aim to prioritise complete treatment of individual zones or parts of zones rather than spreading resources thinly and ineffectively over the larger areas. The f irst priority for treatment should be those areas where most vulnerable plants of conservation signif icance are found.

• Priorities for w eed control in any one round w ill alter depending on the lifecycle of the weed in question.

• ‘Required success rate’ for weed control w orks w ill be dependant on the strategy for chosen w eed control and timing of monitoring and follow -up works. ‘Success rate’ for weed control operates over different time scales and w ill vary according to the specif ic weed and its the ease of control, patchiness of infestation, speed of re-establishment and propagule sources etc. For the reasons above and because of uncertainties in resource availability, success rates specif ied in the Works Program in Section 9 are necessarily provisional.

• For single w eed control rounds, identifying the most effective treatment intensity (w hich will determine the possible short-term success rate) will require the f ield staff to follow a decision tree similar to Figure 6.1-1. Field-based-decisions w ill need to be integrated w ith broader and longer-term strategies.

This is only appropriate where firm plans to plant

exist

Field Assessment of weed infestation

These two strategies are

most effective for sites with

recurrent funding and lead to an

ultimate goal of eradication of the

specific weed issue.

Priority 1. Low density infestation w ith eradication feasible w ithin current round of

Priority 2. High/Mixed infestation levels, eradication not feasible w ithin projected resource allocation

Aim for 100% treatment

Priority 1. Seek Additional allocation to achieve eradication

Priority 2. Additional allocation to achieve eradication not available

Priority 1. Achieve contigouus ‘clean areas and infestation at interface w ith ‘clean’ areas or where weed dispersal potential is high

Priority 2. Treatment of Infestation areas aw ay from interface with clean areas

Option 2 Treat w eeds in areas of low est density that have greatest potential for natural regeneration w ith target of establishing addit ional ‘clean’ areas that can be consolidated w ith future rounds.

Option 1 In areas w ith low potential for natural regeneration, commence w eed eradication for intensive replanting or reseeding w orks

Option 3 Concentrate resource on specimens w ith the greatest potential for propagule production. Most relevant w here weeds are predominantly re-seeding annuals, biennials or in expanding phase of infestation.

Treatment rate variable

6.1-1 Decision tree for field staff identifying treatment strategy for a single round of weed control


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6.2 Prioritising exotic weeds Three criteria w ere used to create an index score to allocate management priority for the w eeds: • Regionally Controlled w eeds where there is a legal obligation to control the species (Score 2

[Regionally Controlled] or 0 [not Regionally Controlled]). • Potential for eradication w ith application of a moderate amount of resources (2 = high

probability, 1 = low probability in the short term, but possible w ith a concerted effort over a number of years, 0 = no likelihood of ever being eradicated from the reserve as a w hole).

• The degree of threat that the w eed poses to indigenous vegetation, (2 = invades established

indigenous vegetation areas and capable of altering conditions such that the viability of indigenous vegetation is impaired, 1= generally invades only heavily disturbed indigenous vegetation, and likely to co-exist w ith established vegetation w ithout causing serious ecological change, 0 = generally w eeds that tend to diminish in the absence of regular disturbance in the presence of indigenous vegetation).

Scores for points 2 and 3 have been subjectively allocated based on the experience of the author in the local area. The index results in a score of 0 to 6. Priority 1 (score 5-6)

Eradication feasible and highly indicated in the short term Priority 2 (score 3-4)

Intensive w orks to control are necessary for successful maintenance of remnants, but eradication across the entire reserve is generally impractical, at least in the short term.

Priority 3 (Score 1-2)

Usually don’t threaten established indigenous vegetation, but removal may be desirable for aesthetics or new planting establishment.

The Table of w eeds 12.5-2 in Appendix 12.5 Species Lists, includes individual w eed scores for the criteria and priority scores. Table 6.2-1 (over) includes management notes for all Pr iority 1 and selected Pr iority 2 w eed species.

Table 6.2-1Descriptions of Priority 1 and Selected Priority 2 Weed Species

WOODY WEEDS Scientific Name

Common Name Location & Population Threat/CaLP Status C=Regionally Controlled, R=Regionally Restricted

Ulex europaeus Gorse Scattered across the site, and as several dense patches.

Priority 1/ C Smother native vegetation. Nitrogen f ixing species that can alter soil conditions to favour exotic vegetation. High f ine-fuel loads conducive to development of high intensity w ildfire, greatly complicating ecological grassland burns. They also harbour rabbits and foxes.

Control notes Four of the dense patches burnt in May 2009 and regrowth was suff iciently advanced to spray from Oct. 2009. This w as sprayed in early 2010. Methodical herbicide application w ith an appropriate brush control herbicide w ill allow eradication of this species. New plants are likely to grow from soil-stored seed for years. Preventing seed set is essential to break the cycle and achieve eradication. Detailed notes on Gorse eradication are available in the Gorse National Best Practice Manual (Gouldthorpe, 2006) A large amount of seedlings emerged follow ing the f ires. Intensive control of these is likely to cause high off-target damage so these were only treated lightly. Mortality of such seedlings tends to be high in the f irst season. Ongoing, careful management continues to be essential to get full value from the burn w ithout damaging interspersed indigenous vegetation.

Season Herbicide application of regrow th and young plants in milder (spring and autumn) months, avoiding per iods of extreme cold and drought.

Crataegus monogyna

Haw thorn A few individuals mainly around margins of reserve

Priority 1/ C Readily spread by birds, a thorny, deciduous shrub that can shade out indigenous ground storey vegetation and generates cover for rabbits.

Control notes Cut and paint on this species. This species presents a low threat in its current low numbers, but could be readily eradicated from the park w ith minimum of time.

Season Herbicide applications need to occur during grow ing period (summer-autumn).

Rosa rubiginosa

Briar Rose A low number of scattered individuals esp. on fence lines

Priority 2/ C A thorny shrub that can become dense if left untreated. Restricts access for maintenance of indigenous vegetation and generates cover for rabbits.

Control note: Cut and paint this species where it is growing tall and straggly amid indigenous vegetation although regrow th is likely from the w oody rhizomatous root system. Spraying any regrow th with an herbicide containing metsufuron-methyl is a more effective treatment since resources from the rootstock w ill have been mobilised. Ideally map infestations and ensure areas are inspected and treated in the period follow ing removal of top grow th whether through f ire or cutting. This species presents a low threat in its current low numbers, but could be readily ‘eradicated’ from the reserve.

Season Herbicide applications need to occur during grow ing period (summer-autumn). Physical removal of young plants may occur at any time.


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GRASSY & BULBOUS WEEDS Scientific Name

Common Name Location & Population Threat

Allium triquetrum

Angled Onion Several dozen/hundred occurs in a limited area along the southern fence line.

Priority 1/R This species can develop dense infestations in moist and w et microclimates, threatening indigenous plants that require these condit ions.

Control notes This species can be reduced in extent through targeted herbicide application to large infestations and physical removal of small infestations how ever this needs requires concerted effort over more than one season in order to eradicate. Biomass removal w ill stimulate strong grow th of bulbs and seeds allow ing more thorough control.

Season Herbicide application dur ing late w inter-early spring at ‘bulb exhaustion’ (see Muyt, 2001)

Anthoxanthum odoratum

Sw eet Vernal Grass

Scattered throughout but mainly in gilgai depressions

Priority 1/NA This species infiltrates indigenous vegetation cover and takes up intertussock space.

Control notes- This species requires a distinctly targeted effort. It may behave either as an annual or perennial. Mapping and concerted effort to contain infestations should be attempted.

Season Commit resources prior to Oct. f low ering. The species is readily identif ied over the w inter months.

Nassella hyalina

Cane Needle Grass

Scattered to moderate infestations, predominantly in the ‘Western perimeter’

Priority 1/NA This species can infiltrates indigenous vegetation cover and takes up intertussock space. It is less competit ive than N. neesiana but seed matures and drops earlier reducing the period the plant is readily treated.

Control notes: Due to the rapid f low ering and maturing of seed, often a few weeks before the more readily noticed N. neesiana, this species requires a distinctly targeted effort. The rapid seed maturation means that detailed seed removal from isolated and low density infestations is justif ied.

Season Commit resources in Oct. w hen ID is easiest and f low ers present. Experienced operators may be able to treat in other months.

Nassella neesiana

Chilean Needle Grass

Dozens, mainly along sthn. boundary of sthn. zone abuts a mod. infestation in the Pearson St roadside

Priority 1/R This species can smother small indigenous plants, grow ing strongly in w inter-spring and competing strongly w ith indigenous grasses.

Control notes- Glyphosate applied in grow ing season is effective but repeat sprays necessary to treat regrow th and seedling. Strategic approach to eradicating source is needed, in particular the Pearson St roadside infestation.

Season Commit resources in Oct-Nov w hen ID is easy and treatment may prevent seed set. Experienced operators may be able to treat in other months.

Phalaris aquatica

Phalaris, Toow oomba Canary Grass

Occurs throughout the reserve but dense in the eastern edge, especially in gilgais.

Priority 2/NA Smothers indigenous vegetation. Can seriously compete for soil w ater with native vegetation, causing decline and extirpation. Stands of this species produce very heavy fuel loads approximately three times larger than Kangaroo Grass grassland. (Stoner, Adams and Simmons (2004)

Control notes: Inspection and repeat applications is usually needed. An effective treatment sequence w ould include brush cutting or burning in autumn, an herbicide treatment of regrow th in late w inter and a repeat inspection to treat stray regrowth in spring prior to elongation of culms.

Season Herbicide application is best spring prior to f low ering (November) although brush cutting may stimulate susceptible regrow th later in season.

BROADLEAF WEEDS Scientific Name

Common Name Location & Population Threat

Arctotheca calendula

Capew eed Very low density infestation throughout reserve

Priority 1/NA This species can infiltrate indigenous vegetation cover and take up intertussock space although it is a minor problem unless disturbance occurs. The plant can how ever exacerbate Red-legged Earth mite by providing a favoured host and harbour. Control should be prioritised around susceptible indigenous species such as Microseris scapigera.

Control notes- Treat during rosette stage during w inter. Season May-October Cirsium vulgare

Spear Thistle Very Low density infestation throughout reserve. Reinvasion likely from windblow n seed from adjacent paddocks.

Priority 2/NA Common w eed of pastures, only occurring in low numbers in undisturbed grassland. Is a controlled w eed under CALP act.

Control notes- Treat during rosette stage. Suitable herbicides include MCPA Season May-October


14

6.3 Strategies for management of threats posed by weeds not yet established on site

Nassella neesiana is the most important threatening w eed that is invading the Kalkallo Grassland Reserve. Other w eeds occurring in the area that are not already present and may pose a threat include those in table 6.4-1 Table 6.3-1 Serious env ironmental weeds with potential to invade site Species Common name Likely sources *Allium vineale Crow Garlic Common at many grassland

reserves in area *Carthamus lanatus Saffron Thistle Common at reserves in Wollert,

Campbellf ield *Cynara cardunculus Artichoke Thistle Common at many other reserves *Foeniculum vulgare Fennel Common at many other reserves *Gladiolus undulatum Wild Gladiolus Very common at Beveridge

Wallan Rail Reserve *Hypericum perforatum St John’s Wort Very common at Beveridge

Wallan Rail Reserve and occurs at many other reserves

*Moraea flaccida and M. miniata

One leaf and Tw o leaf Cape Tulip

Frequent in parklands south of Craigieburn

*Nassella charruana Lobed Needle-grass Present in other conservation reserves in Epping, Wollert, and Thomastow n.

*Oxalis glabra *Oxalis obtusa

Finger-leaf Oxalis Present at Rushw ood Drive and reserves in Craigieburn

*Sparaxis bulbifera Harlequin f low er Common at Cooper St Grassland The most important immediate threat abatement measure for slow ing or preventing establishment of any of these species is the replacement of fencing that w ill limit vehicle and stock movements. Measures to prevent establishment of Nassella neesiana should be implemented immediately as the species is already found adjacent to the site and is likely in early stages of infestation. Concurrent w ith essential measures to contain and eradicate any infestations in the reserve should be immediate measures to limit the potential of the adjacent infestation to invade and program to eventually eliminate the threat from this source; the infestation on the slashed area of the Pearson St. Funding for the initial stage of this, to happen in the last quarter of 2010 has been secured by MCMC under a Bush Guardians Grant, Section 9.1. The other w eed species occur at other local sites w here vegetation management vehicles and staff constitute a likely vector for introducing propagules. Procedures for minimising the risk of this occurring are included in Tender Specif ication for the Provision of Land Management Services for Hume City Council Section 12.2 (Hygiene) See Box Overleaf.


Box 6.3-1

12.2 Hygeine (Extract from Tender Specification for the Provision of Land Management Services for Hume City Council Section)

12.2.1 Contractors must ensure that vehicles/machinery/plant are equipped w ith: • Inspection cleaning checklists • Appropriate cleaning kits and other necessary apparatus. • Water

12.2.2 Field Staff must assess the risk of contaiminating areas before entering sites, or becoming vectors themselves when leaving contaiminated sites, and take approporiate action including;

• Inspecting boots and clothing, vehicles/machinery or other equipment • Cleaning items w here necessary at an appropriate location prior to entry and exit to

ensure no movement of seed/soil from/to the property/site. • Leaving tracks only w here necessary and thereafter adopting requisite hygeine

procedures to prevent likelihood of spread w ithin the property 12.2.3 Field Staff must record any hygeine measures at the end of the day in:

• Vehicle log books • HCC Work and Herbicide record sheet

For Kalkallo Grassland, specif ic procedures for achieving above w ill include • Unless necessary, management vehicles should remain outside of the grassland,

preferably parked on roadside verge of Malcolm Street • Works at this site should be planned and resourced to allow for a heightened level of

hygiene as per the measures included in the tender specif ications. • Any f ield technicians entering the site should be inducted and informed of their ow n

responsibility to minimise risk of introductions according to the above provisions. • Field technicians engaged in w eed control w orks should be provided w ith information on

specif ic weed issues characteristics of the Reserve and be made familiar w ith the appearance and importance of notif ication and sw ift eradication of the w eed species in Table 6-4.1. It is proposed that this and the previous point be included in a Site diary Works Risk form to be developed in the f irst half of 2010 (See section 9.1)

• Additional species may be added to the Table 6. list as threats become apparent. The adjacent paddocks and cemetery represent likely ongoing sources of new weed issues.


16

7 Flora Fifty-f ive indigenous plant taxa and 30 exotic plant taxa w ere positively identif ied during the surveys carried out on 13th October 2009 and a short visit in November. These are listed in Table 12.5-1 in Appendix 12.5. It is anticipated that this list w ill increase as further site inspection is carried out. New species should be recorded and a cumulative list be maintained. Of these species, the follow ing f ive are listed as having conservation signif icance in Walsh and Stajsic 2007 Dianella amoena (Ee) Helichrysum aff. rutidolepis (Lowland Sw amps) (v) Lachnagrostis punicea subsp. punicea (syn. Agrostis aemula var. setifolia Rr) Microseris scapigera (v) Poa labillardierei var. (Volcanic Plains) (k) Further species of conservation signif icance that might be found or that may have occurred on this site, together w ith rationale for their inclusion are listed below . It should be noted that the Kalkallo Cemetery and other crow n land in Kalkallo have distinctly drier, rockier topography and that the Beveridge Wallan Rail Reserve, in particular the gilgai grasslands in the south of this site may represent a closer comparison w ith Kalkallo Common. Table 6.3-1 National and State conservation status of significant species that may occur/have occurred at this site.

Plants Cons. status

Rationale for consideration

Amphibromus pithogastrus Ke Occurs in Beveridge Wallan Rail Reserve Bulbine bulbosa Occurs in Cemetery (declining in Merri) Chrysocephalum apiculatum Occurs in Cemetery (declining in Merri) Craspedia paludicola Occurs in Beveridge Wallan Rail Reserve (restricted in

Merri) Desmodium varians k Occurs in nearby road reservation Diuris palustris v Occurred at Beveridge-Wallan Rail Reserve Diuris chryseopsis Occurs in Beveridge Wallan Rail Reserve ?Diuris gregaria, D. basaltica

Ee Unconfirmed taxon resembling these endangered species occurs in Beveridge Wallan Rail Reserve

Lepidium pseudotasmanicum

Occurred until recently at Beveridge Wallan Rail Reserve (possibly extinct in Merri)

Pimelea glauca Occurs in Cemetery (restricted occurrence in Merri) Ptilotus spathulatus Occurs in crown land south of Cemetery (v. rare in Merri) Pultnea sericea Occurs in Cemetery (v. restricted in Merri) Xerochrysum palustrus Vv Occurs in Beveridge Wallan Rail Reserve

7.1 Significant species management including enhancement planting Priority in early years of management should be to secure populations of species already on site that occur in low numbers. A number of species qualify for such treatment due to low population numbers and lack of suitable pollination partners in adjacent areas. These include; Dianella amoena (1 individual) Velleia paradoxa (1 individual) Lachnagrostis punicea subsp. punicea (several individuals noted, possibly more common) Microseris scapigera (13 recorded up to November 2009, approximately a further tw enty individuals observed up to April 2010 suggesting a population of at least thirty at this period) Euchiton collinus (?gymnocephalus)) (1 individual)


Pimelea humilis (5 individuals) Once the immediate threat posed by inadequate fencing is addressed, Kalkallo Common may be considered as a site for careful enrichment planting to enhance diversity, increase populations of species considered to be at risk, or to provide a “rescue” site for species at risk elsew here. The reference site value of the Common means that any such attempts need to be carefully documented and a high standard of research should be applied before introducing species not already present in the reserve. Enhancement planting w ith species not already recorded fro mthe site is not considered further in this report as this is has a low er priority than securing existing species. Of these species, Microseris scapigera is the most vulnerable due to a relatively short lifespan and declines observed at other Merri Creek sites. Most of the other species are long-lived resprouters that may survive indefinitely for many seasons without the need to regenerate from seed. Euchiton collinus and Velleia paradoxa are, however, species that are not know n from other Merri Creek sites at present and so merit further attention in the short term to locate suitable sources of additional plants to provide potential pollination partners.

7.1.1 Purple Blown Grass Lachnagrostis punicea subsp. punicea Tufted, short-lived perennial grass to 65 cm tall w ith tightly folded leaves to 1 mm w ide and to 25 cm long; ligule membranous, obtuse and 2-8 mm long. (DPI 2009) This species is found scattered in gilgais w here competition from Themeda triandra is less intense. Removing serious environmental w eeds, in particular *Phalaris aquatica from gilgais is likely to provide the most important stimulation for this species to persist and maintain populations. A concerted assessment of the population and observation of behaviour is warranted due to the short-lived nature of the species and likely highly dynamic distribution dynamics. Documented attempts to collect seed collection, propagate and translocate the species should be sought and attempts to translocate may be w arranted if further investigation reveals this population is in a vulnerable posit ion. Resources to commence these actions should be sought form the second half of 2010

7.1.2 Plains Yam Daisy Microseris scapigera (vulnerable in Victoria) Historically the decline of this species has been attributed to its palatability to introduced livestock (e.g. Lunt, 1996). Other possible contributing factors to declines observed in reserves are susceptibility to exotic sap-sucking *Red-legged earth mites, Halotydeus destructor, noted by the author. Inbreeding depression among small populations as has been noted among other Asteraceae how ever this form of Microseris may represent the ‘f ine-pappus’ form described as ‘self ing’ in Gott (2008) in w hich case this is less likely to be a factor. A loss of soil disturbance due to extinction of burrow ing marsupials and traditional food gathering activities of indigenous peoples have also been nominated as potential factors. Recent taxonomic w ork has assigned this name to the form that w as formerly called ‘Microseris sp. aff. lanceolata (Basalt Plains)’ and later ‘Microseris sp. 1’. It is distinct from the species of Microseris occurring on the foothills and which is likely to occur in the upper catchment tow ard Heathcote Junction and Wallan, (currently designated ‘Microseris sp. 3.’) Active intervention may need to be implemented to ensure a disturbance regime suitable for this species. The effect of disturbing soil to enhance germination for this plant is to be assessed in a planted population in a managed grassland by MCMC. Observations of handw eeding in the vicinity of remnant plants may provide a low -risk means of testing w hether soil disturbance w ill enhance germination in the set of conditions pertaining at Kalkallo. As further gilgais w ith this species are identif ied, experimental treatments may become viable. The population at Kalkallo represents one of just a few sites w here this species may be sourced in the Merri Creek valley. Seed collection for establishing the genetics of this population in nurseries and at other secure sites as w ell as enhancing the populations at Kalkallo Common should be a high priority. Seed of this species appears to be produced sparingly over an extended period from November to May. Gathering seed in quantity w ill require a number of visits.


18

Maintaining a population of at least 100 individuals, spread across at least in each of the three main zones that are proposed to form the basis of biomass reduction program across the Kalkallo Common w ould provide an initial goal for increasing the security of this population. Exchanging stock from the nearest populations such as Beveridge Wallan Rail reserve (and Cooper St Grassland and Galada Tamboore if these populations can be relocated) may enhance genetic viability. Confirming the identity of a population of plants that appear to be this taxon at Beveridge Community Reserve is another task that could f it in w ith a local conservation strategy for this species. Establishing viable ex-situ populations in secure reserves using stock from this site would provide additional insurance against losing the local provenance of this species.

7.1.3 Spur Velleia Velleia paradoxa (rare in Merri Creek) A single specimen of this attractive species appears to be grow ing as a vigorous clone in the southern block of the grassland. This is the only specimen of this species know n to the author in the Merri Creek valley. Gathering of information for a pre-translocation assessment (as per Valle et al. 2004) appears to be essential f irst step in increasing the population and security of this plant. Commencing an investigation of likely sources of additional plants from the nearest appropriate sites, init ially through literature review and contacting experts and other know ledgeable people as a f irst step.

7.1.4 Creeping Cudweed, Euchiton collinus (Syn. E. gymnocephalus, rare in Merri Creek)

This is the only specimen of this species know n to the author in the Merri Creek valley; how ever it is a hardy and unobtrusive species and is likely to be found at w etter remnant grassland sites such as Beveridge Wallan Rail reserve w ith concerted searching. As with the Velleia, gathering of information for a pre-translocation assessment (as per Valle et al. 2004) appears to be essential f irst step in increasing the population and security of this plant. Commencing an investigation of likely sources of additional plants from the nearest appropriate sites, initially through literature review and contacting experts and other know ledgeable people as a f irst step.


8 Management Zones Seven management zones are identif ied for the f irst two years based on management priorit ies communicating f ield w orks and ongoing management logistics, in particular biomass management. Management zones w ill be review ed at the end of this Action Plan for possible simplif ications as specif ic weed issues are addressed.


20

Zone Name Area Priorities Southern Block

3.2 Patrolling for low intensity w eed infestations, intensive w eed control around rare f lora species, especially concentrating in gilgais. Protect and enhance populations of rare f lora. Possible focus for efforts at enhancement planting of rare f lora species.

Northern Block

2.7 Patrolling for low intensity w eed infestations, intensive w eed control around rare f lora species. Protect and enhance populations of rare f lora. Possible focus for efforts at enhancement planting of rare f lora species.

Western Block 1.6 Patrolling for low intensity w eed infestations, intensive w eed control around rare f lora species. Possible focus for efforts at enhancement planting of rare f lora species from drier grassland environments.

Eastern perimeter

0.7 Arresting degradation of the vegetation in this area and consolidation (including assisting vegetation so it is more resilient to infestations from the w estern property boundary. Degradation in this zone has probably been promoted by past livestock sheltering on this area and the susceptible w et gilgai soils. Aim in the longer term (possibly 5-10 years) is that this zone could be maintained w ith same intensity and so absobed into the adjoining Northern and Southern Blocks.

Western perimeter

1.5 Arresting degradation of the vegetation in this area and consolidation of the vegetation (possibly including assisted regeneration, planting or direct seeding) so it is more resilient to infestations from the surrounding property boundaries. Treatment of *Nassella, in particular *Nassella hyalina along w ith a range of other w eeds promoted by adjacent land uses and incursions of stock is needed.

Gorse eradication zone

0.6 Eradication of dense gorse stands pre-treated by f ire in 2009. One incursion of gorse in the north-w estern corner w ill require non-fire pre-treatment and as the stand occurs mainly on freehold property to the north of the reserve. The risk and expense of gorse pre-treatment along w ith the effect that gorse stands have on harbouring feral animals makes. After two years it is anticipated that components of this zone will be able to be absorbed into the surrounding management zones.

Pearson Street Roadside

0.3 The road reserve is slashed but includes a diversity of grassland species including Helichrysum sp. aff rutidolepis. It is also infested w ith Chilean Needle Grass. Aim in short term is to eradicate CNG and pursue measures to enhance this area w ith adjusted slashing regimes to maximise its buffering and habitat potential.

10.6


9 Seasonal/quarterly works program 2010-2012

9.1 Seasonal/quarterly works program Year 1 January -June 2010 Management issue Management Goal for

2010-2012 Management Action for quarter

Lead agency/ Priority (funding)

Hrs (indicativ e)

Performance measure

Variation, ecological rationale and re-allocation method

Autumn/Winter 2010 > June 2010

Works by contractors, field staff and researchers hav e potential to impact negativ ely

A Work Risk Assessment sheet for use by field staff, that can be incorporated in a works diary

Work Ri sk Assessment developed and being used for works

MCMC- HCC (Bush Guardian grant 9-10)

5 Work sheets being completed for each visit and fi led for reporting purposes to HCC, DSE, Funding bodies

No variation recommended

Decrepit internal fencing removed

Fence removal Hume CC (Offset Funding)

NA Decrepit fence removed on public land and where adjacent landholders are willing by end June 2010

No variation recommended. Incorporate with removal of dumped materials

Decrepit fencing replaced by secure fence and gate

Fence installation Hume CC (Offset Funding)

NA Fence installed by end June 2010


Illegal Access by vehicles and liv estock damaging vegetation and soil structure, dumping.

Significant flora conservation signs installed

Installation of Standard Hume or DSE flora protection signs

Hume CC (Offset Funding)

NA Signs installed by end June 2010


Gorse regrowth intensively treated in ‘Gorse eradication zones’

Intensive herbicide application in Gorse eradication zones

MCMC (Bush Guardian grant 9-10)

56

All gorse in burnt ‘Gorse eradication zones’ treated

Leave sensitive areas for cut and paint activity in next quarter. Move into other zones if all feasible spraying is complete.

Woody weed eradication

Gorse eradicated throughout grassland

Methodical herbicide treatment of small Gorse across site; in following order Northern, Southern Western blocks


51

All ‘gettable’ Gorse in Northern and Southern and Western block treated.

Target Gorse that can be sprayed without off-target damage (to 40cm, amid grasses) to minimise the amount of gorse flowering. Leave larger gorse for more labour-intensive cut-paint in subsequent year. Begin with Northern Zone (where threat to sig. spp. is greatest), then Southern then Western zone. Commence cut-paint if all ‘gettable’ gorse has been treated.


22

Management issue Management Goal for 2010-2012

Management Action for quarter


Hrs (indicativ e)

Performance measure


Priority Grassy Weed eradication

Priority 1 and selected Priority 2 grassy weeds eradicated

Supervised Pre-treatment slashing of the Western Perimeter

High (Bush Guardian grant 9-10)

5 Western perimeter completely slashed.

Do while soil conditions are hard, noting increased likelihood of soft ground later in year.

Monitoring Photopoint monitoring Photopoints occur on 6 monthly intervals


6 Photopoints taken, labelled and filed. Used in reporting for actions in this site.

Photopoints to occur in November- to capture period of maximum visibil ity of threatening Priority grasse s and May-to capture images of bare ground suitable for germination at a critical period for this process. These images will also capture more visible progress toward Gorse eradication and biomass reduction measures. Photos to be taken in following month if missed.

Maintain and update species list for site

New species identified at site are added to fi le as found with estimate of numbers and location.

High (Bush Guardian grant 9-10)

1 Site species list updated annually and included in Site diary.

Newly observed species are likely to represent restricted species for this site, possibly warranting conservation actions requiring resourcing.


Management issue Management Goal for

2010-2012 Management Action for quarter


Hrs (indicativ e)

Performance measure


Monitoring of plant no’s, health and regeneration including observations from handweeding.

High 8 Map and describe all patches of Murnong. May 2010 (number, size/health, weediness of the gilgai

Timing of monitoring likely to vary with year as the detectability varies with rainfall. Good detection has occurred in November and in April after good summer rains

Targeted weed control- handweed and cut paint. Also treat gilgais with potential for translocation via planting or direct seeding

High 10 Known murnong sites have all had high threat weeds removed from immediate vicinity.

Periods of Murnong dormancy would provide good windows of opportunity for herbicide control of grassy weeds such as Phalaris. Handweed in summer and autumn to ensure open conditions for germination.

Microseris scapigera population thriving. Population of at least 300 individuals, distributed across the North and South Block where approporiate gilgai habitat is present. Additional managed populations using Kalkallo seed to be established at selected Merri Creek sites, eg. Galada Tamboore and Bababi Marning (Cooper St G’land).

Seed collection High 4 Collect up to 300 seeds from remnant plants for production of at least 100 plants and for direct seeding on site.

Likely to be adventive. Record quantities in site diary. Repeated annually throughout the warmer months to eventually secure a range of the genetic diversity from the site.

Significant Species management

Recovery plans for other species devised

Monitoring of significant and low populations species identified in Section 7.1 Map Helichrysum sp. aff. rutidolepis

Moderate 8 Population estimates and distribution map produced for Helichrysum sp. aff. rutidolepis (April/May)

See Section 7.1 Reliant on good seasons for growth. If drought prevents this from happening, re-schedule for following year.

Removal and disposal of tyres and inner tubes in mid south

HCC (Offset Funding)

10 Tyres removed with minimal disturbance to fauna and surrounding vegetation

More efficient to remove during fence removal. Ensure removal prior to ecological burn.

Site management Careful Removal of rubbish that forms a threat to vegetation or to safe conduct of Ecological burns Removal and disposal

of loose corrugated iron and other rubbish throughout reserve

High 10 Remove ASAP


24

9.2 Seasonal/quarterly works program Year 2 July 2010-June 2011




Hrs (indicativ e)

Performance measure


Winter June–August 2010

Illegal Access Fences maintained Inspect and report/repair fence

Hume CC NA



Methodical herbicide patrol across site in following order; North, South, West

High (*?CfoC)

64 All grassy priority species in Northern and Southern and Western block treated.

Follow Decision process according to 6.1 for identifying individual round goals. Concentrate resources in 18 months following ecological burns when burn regime commences.

General weed control in high quality areas

Lower priority weeds reduced to less than 5% of vegetation cover


Low

64 Work out from the vicinity of the rare flora (note separate activities for immediate vicinity for Significant flora) . Concentrate effort in post-burn and slashed areas targeting seasonally-appropriate weeds. Use non-herbicide techniques in most sensitive areas.

General Weed control in moderate and low quality areas


Methodical herbicide patrol in Gorse eradication zone and , Eastern interface (Pearson St and Western interface subject to separate projects this period)

Med 64 Gorse eradication Zones have highest priority given presence of high quality remnants and post-fire opportunity/threat.


Management issue Management Goal

for 2010-2012 Management Action for quarter


Hrs (indicativ e)

Performance measure


Microseris scapigera population secure and thriving. Aim for a population of at least 300 individuals, distributed across the North and South Block where approporiate gilgai habitat is present. Additional managed populations using Kalkallo seed to be established at selected Merri Creek sites, eg. Galada Tamboore and Bababi Marning (Cooper St Grassland).

Targeted detailed weed control- handweed and cut paint. Also treat gilgais with potential for translocation via planted or direct seeding

High 16 Treat all known occurrences for Phalaris and Sweet vernal



Gilgais suitable for Purple Blown Grass and Pale Everlasting are made free of weeds

Targeted detailed weed control- spray, (handweed and cut/paint in sensitive areas in Gilgais

High 32 Treat all mapped occurrence of these species for Phalaris and Sweet vernal

See Section 7.1.1


26




Hrs (indicativ e)

Performance measure


Spring-Summer Sept.- Dec. 2010


Follow up Intensive herbicide application in Gorse eradication zones

High 32 All gorse in burnt areas treated- concentrate on cut and paint in sensitive areas

Adjust times with next as necessary Woody weed eradication


Methodical herbicide treatment of small Gorse across site; in following order Northern, Southern Western blocks

High 40 All ‘gettable’ Gorse in Northern and Southern and Western block treated.

Target Gorse needing labour intensive Cut-paint or other top removal methods (too big to spray). Begin with Northern Zone, then Southern then Western zone based on threat to significant species.


Nassella neesiana, N. hyalina control within Western perimeter Herbicide treatment x 2

MCMC Bush Guardians 10-11

30 Treat all Nasella hyalina (October) and N. neesiana (November)

Inspect in September for N. hyalina in case of early flowering. Control might be able to control beyond this season if sprayers gain sufficient site experience to ID outside of seeding period.

Liaise to erect and remove temporary barriers on roadside to allow Nassella growth

HCC-MCMC Bush Guardians 10-11

15 Erect and remove barriers to slashing on roadside

No variation recommended- this action essential for treatment


Nassella neesiana in roadside reserve eradicated

Herbicide treatment x 2

MCMC Bush Guardians 10-11

60 All Nasella treated within Pearson St Roadside

Inspect in September for N. hyalina in case of early flowering. Control might be able to control beyond this season if sprayers gain sufficient site experience to ID outside of seeding period.



Methodical herbicide patrol across site in following order; Gorse eradication, Eastern interface, Southern interface, Pearson St






Hrs (indicativ e)

Performance measure


Monitoring Photopoint monitoring Photopoints occur on 6 monthly intervals

High 6 Photopoints taken, labelled and fi led. Used in reporting for actions in this site.

Photos in Nov. to capture period of maximum visibility of high threat Priority grassy weeds and May to identify bare ground suitable for germination at a critical period. Images also record progress toward Gorse eradication and biomass reduction. Take in following month if missed.

Monitoring Provide data on progress of Vegetation management actions

Establish monitoring quadrats in 7 management Zones

High 40 Quadrats surveyed (2 x 2 days) and data written up and analysed (I day)

Aim for October. No variation recommended.

Monitoring of plant numbers, health and regeneration including observations from handweeding.



Targeted weed control; h’weed and cut/paint. Treat gilgais with potential as translocation sites

High 10 Cut paint and handweeding applied all known populations

Handweed in summer and autumn to ensure open conditions for germination.

Microseris scapigera population thriving. Aim for a population of at least 300 individuals across the North and South Block with gilgai habitat. Additional managed populations using Kalkallo seed to be established at selected Merri Creek sites, eg. Galada Tamboore and Bababi Marning

Seed collection High 4 Aim to collect up to 300 seeds from remnant plants for production of at least 100 plants and for direct seeding into gilgais on site.



Monitor sig spp. (Sect. 7.1,) Lachnagrostis (Dec), Euchiton & Velleia (Nov)

Moderate 16 Population estimates and distribution on site.

See Section 7.1 Reliant on good seasons for growth. If drought prevents this from happening, re-schedule for following year.


Gilgais suitable for Lachnagrostis and Pale Everlasting are made free of weeds

Targeted weed control- spray, (handweed and cut/paint in in Gilgais

High 32 See Section 7.1.1


28




Hrs (indicativ e)

Performance measure


ate Summer January-March 2011


Microseris scapigera population secure and thriving.

Seed collection High 4 Aim to collect up to 300 seeds from remnant plants to nurseries for production of at least 100 plants and for direct seeding into gilgais on site.


Liaison

MCMC (*?CfoC)

10

Cutting Breaks MCMC (*?CfoC)

50

Breaks cut satisfying CFA requirements

Biomass Reduction Biomass reduction occurs across site at least every 5 years and not less than 3 yearly intervals, such that at least a third of grassland is consists of regrowth greater than two years old.

Conduct Ecological burn in late March in Southern Block

Conduct burn (includes hrs for contingency measures)

MCMC (*?CfoC)

86 Burn whole of Southern Block although patchiness and small protection zones are desirable.

Conduct burn in April if needed but do not burn in winter or spring due to risk of favouring winter annuals, lack of cracking soil refuge and damage to soft soils.





Hrs (indicativ e)

Performance measure


Autumn April-June 2011

Priority Non-grassy weed eradication

Priority 1 and selected Priority 2 non-grassy weeds eradicated

Methodical herbicide patrol across site in following order; North, South, West then moving into interface zones.

Med 32 All non-grassy priority species in Northern and Southern and Western block treated.

Follow Decision process according to 6.1 for identifying individual round goals




Low 64 Work out from the vicinity of the rare flora (note separate activities for immediate vicinity for Significant flora) . Concentrate effort in post-burn and slashed areas targeting seasonally-appropriate weeds. Use non-herbicide techniques in most sensitive areas.




Med 64 Gorse eradication Zones have highest priority given presence of high quality remnants and post-fire opportunity/threat. The Pearson St roadside is subject to a separate funded activity for CNG in Sept-Dec 2010.

Photopoint monitoring Photopoints occur on 6 monthly intervals




New species identified at site are added to file as found with estimate of numbers and location.

High 4 Site species list updated annually and included in Site diary.



30




Hrs (indicativ e)

Performance measure


Monitoring of plant numbers, health and regeneration – including observations from handweeding disturbance.




High 10 Known Murnong sites have all had high threat weeds removed from immediate vicinity.


Microseris scapigera population secure and thriving. Aim for a population of at least 300 individuals, distributed across the North and South Block where approporiate gilgai habitat is present. Additional managed populations using Kalkallo seed to be established at selected Merri Creek sites, eg. Galada Tamboore and Bababi Marning (Cooper St Grassland).








9.3 Seasonal/quarterly works program Year 3 July 2011-June 2012




Hrs (indicativ e)

Performance measure


Winter July-August 2012

Community cut and paint of gorse

High (*?CfoC)

18 Physical removal of gorse on northern boundary

Keep to this timing to allow for treatment of regorwth



High (*?CfoC)

36

All gorse in burnt areas treated

Move into other zones if all feasible spraying is complete.



Methodical herbicide treatment of small Gorse across site-in following order Southern, (regrowth) Northern, Western, block then Eastern interface

High (*?CfoC)

56

All ‘gettable’ Gorse treated acrosss whole of reserve

Target Gorse that can be sprayed without off-target damage (approx to 40cm, amid grasses) to minimise the amount of gorse reaching flowering size and where more labour intensive techniques are needed.











32




Hrs (indicativ e)

Performance measure










Microseris scapigera translocation and direct seeding

Plantings of Microseris to achieve increased population size and distribution across the grassland

High 24 Documented planting of 150 plants into prepared gilgai areas of the grassland Documented spreading of seed into new sites.

Planting could spread into September but this is undesirable for plant establishment purposes.


Gilgais for Purple Blown Grass and Pale Everlasting are made free of weeds

Targeted weed control spray, (handweed and cut/paint in sensitive areas in Gilgais


Significant species translocations

Plantings of other four significant species as determined by species specific action plans

Med 24 Documented Plantings of 150 selected rare species into treated gilgai zones as per. Individual species action plans.

See Section 7.1.1





Hrs (indicativ e)

Performance measure


Spring-Summer September- December 2012

Community Gorse Cut & Paint

‘Final’ Cut and paint activity

High (*?CfoC)

10 All gorse in sensitive areas treated

Envisage this will be a ‘Mopping up’ operation with participants potentially providing the extra eyes for a patrol.



High (*?CfoC)

32

All gorse in burnt areas treated

Move into other zones if all feasible spraying is complete.



Methodical herbicide treatment of small Gorse across site-in following order Southern, Northern, Western block

High (*?CfoC)

56

All ‘gettable’ Gorse in Northern and Southern and Western block treated.

Target Gorse that can be sprayed without off-target damage (approx to 40cm, amid grasses) to minimise the amount of gorse reaching flowering size and where more labour intensive techniques are needed. Begin with Northern Zone, then Southern then Western zone based on threat to significant species. Commence cut-paint if all ‘gettable’ gorse has been treated.



Patrol and treatment of all previously treated Nassella infestation areas. (x 2)

High (*?CfoC)

89 Concentrate in Southern regrowth area. All previously treated areas inspected and treated twice this season Oct (N. hyalina) and Nov (N. neesiana) . Inspect site in September in case of early flowering by N. hyalina

May be able to extend later if experienced sprayers are confident of their ID skil l.







34




Hrs (indicativ e)

Performance measure





Low 64 All high quality areas treated

Work out from the vicinity of the rare flora (note separate activities for immediate vicinity for Significant flora) . Concentrate effort in post-burn and slashed areas targeting seasonally-appropriate weeds. Use non-herbicide techniques in most sensitive areas.




Med 64 Complete weed control to the point that potential revegetation sites are treated for planting/seeding in subsequent year.

Gorse eradication Zones have highest priority given presence of high quality remnants and post-fire opportunity/threat. The Pearson St roadside is subject to a separate funded activity for CNG in Sept-Dec 2010.

Monitoring Provide data on progress of Vegetation management actions

Conduct survey in permanent monitoring quadrats 1 in each management Zone (7)

High (*?CfoC)

40 Survey complete and analysed to asse ss project to date. Use for re-directing final year of CfoC grant works

Complete surveys and as a goal in analysis identify whether interface or Gorse eradication zones are sufficiently improved to be added to the adjacent High Quality areas for ongoing maintenance prescription purposes.


(*?CfoC) 6 Photopoints taken, labelled and fi led. Used in reporting for actions in this site.










Hrs (indicativ e)

Performance measure



High 8 Map and describe all patches of Murnong. May 2010 (number, size/health, weediness of the gilgai Progress toward population goals





Microseris scapigera population secure and thriving. Microseris scapigera population thriving. Aim for a population of at least 300 individuals across the North and South Block with gilgai habitat. Additional managed populations using Kalkallo seed to be established at selected Merri Creek sites, eg. Galada Tamboore and Bababi Marning




Monitoring of significant and low populations species identified in Section 7.1

Moderate 16 Population estimates and distribution on site. Optimum months Helichrysum (April/May) Lachnagrostis (December) Euchiton and Velleia, November)

See Section 7.1 Reliant on good seasons ofr growth. If drought prevents this from happening, re-schedule for following year.






36




Hrs (indicativ e)

Performance measure


Summer January-March 2013





Microseris scapigera population secure and thriving. Microseris scapigera population thriving. Aim for a population of at least 300 individuals across the North and South Block with gilgai habitat. Additional managed populations using Kalkallo seed to be established at selected Merri Creek sites, eg. Galada Tamboore and Bababi Marning


Likely to be adventive. Record quantities in site diary. Repeated annually throughout the warmer months to eventually secure a range of the genetic diversity from the site. Use this time to collect other significant species as identified in specific action plans. If Murnong seed goal is reached or if no Murnong seed is available.

Liaison

High (*?CfoC)

10 Sign-off by all stakeholders is achieved.

Cutting Breaks High (*?CfoC)

50

Breaks cut satisfying CFA requirements

Biomass Reduction Biomass reduction occurs across site at least every 5 years and not less than 3 yearly intervals, such that at least a third of grassland is consists of regrowth greater than two years old.

Conduct Ecological burn in late March in Northern Block

Conduct burn (includes hrs for contingency measures)

High (*?CfoC)

86 Burn whole of Northern Block although patchiness and small protection zones are desirable.

Conduct burn in April if needed but do not burn in winter or spring due to risk of favouring winter annuals, lack of cracking soil refuge and damage to soft soils. See 5.3, Variations to scheduled burns for details.





Hrs (indicativ e)

Performance measure


Autumn April June 2013



High (*?CfoC)

32

All gorse in 2009 burnt areas treated except in Northern Block

Leave sensitive areas for cut and paint activity. Move into other zones if all feasible spraying is complete.



Methodical herbicide treatment of small Gorse across site-in following order Southern, Western, block (northern block sti ll l ikely to be in early regrowth)

High (*?CfoC)

56

All ‘gettable’ Gorse throughout reserve treated except in early regrowth Northern Block

Target Gorse that can be sprayed without off-target damage (approx to 40cm, amid grasses) to minimise the amount of gorse reaching flowering size and where more labour intensive techniques are needed.



Nasella neesiana eradication patrol

High (*?CfoC)

56 April/May Adventive- only if seasonal conditions have promoted an autumn flowering. Use this to do Vernal grass control if this is not the case.












Methodical herbicide patrol across site in following order; Gorse eradication, Eastern

Med 64 Gorse eradication Zones have highest priority given presence of high quality remnants and post-fire opportunity/threat. The Pearson St


38

interface, Southern interface, Pearson St

roadside is subject to a separate funded activity for CNG in Sept-Dec 2010.



Photopoints to occur in November- to capture period of maximum visibil ity of threatening Priority grasse s and May-to capture images of bare ground suitable for germination at a critical period for this process. These images will also capture more visible progress toward Gorse eradication and biomass reduction measures. Photos to be taken in following month if missed.




Newly observed species are likely to represent restricted species for this site, possibly warranting conservation actions requiring resourcing. Action not likely to be affected by




Targeted weed control h/weed and cut paint. Also treat gilgais with potential for translocation


Periods of Murnong dormancy provide good windows for herbicide control of grassy weeds such as Phalaris. Handweed in summer and autumn to ensure open conditions for germination.


Seed collection High 4 Collect up to 300 seeds from remnant plants for production of at least 100 plants and for direct seeding into gilgais on site.



Gilgais for Purple Blown Grass and Pale Everlasting are made free of weeds



* ?CfoC = A Caring for our Country Grant application has been submitted for this task by MCMC, pending as of May 2010.


9.4 Additional Tasks

Task Subtask Reference this report Priority Responsibility

9.4.1 Survey vegetation in Kalkallo Common and Cemetery, to characterise and compare ecological conditions, and dynamics for informing translocations.

Section 2. Ecological Principles

Med Educational Institution

9.4.2 Conduct sensitive rabbit control and harbour removal on adjoining properties, in particular Cemetery and road reserve


High Kalkallo Cemetery Trust HCC

9.4.3 Establish robust communication flow regarding this site between stakeholders

Confirm Committee of Management responsibilities


High HCC/DSE

9.4.4 Seek advice on risk, abatement and hygeine measures for Red Legged Earth mite and exotic molluscs

Section 4 Threats to Biodiversity

High DSE/DPI/MCMC

9.4.5 Develop understanding with and encourage/assist adjoining landholders to manage properties to be compatible with biodiversity needs of site

• End of incursions, innappropriate uses

• Weed control on their land for high threat weeds, eg Nassella and Gorse.

• Appropriate pet restraint


High HCC

9.4.6 Identify full suite of species at risk of genetic deterioration due to habitat deterioration and specific population enhancement. Identify habitat corridor link enhancement with surrounding areas using Focal Species approach

Identify actions to secure and enhance Habitat links identified in the Merri Creek and Environs Strategy


Low HCC/MCMC/Acacademic institution

9.4.7 Identify setback and interface requirements for any future intensification of urbanisation


Low HCC/MCMC


40

10 Acknowledgements This report w as made possible by the signif icant contributions of Alan Webster (DSE), Megan Jericho, Dave Crawford, Ben North and Katrina Roberg (Merri Creek Management Committee).


11 References Australian Plants Society Maroondah Inc., 2001, Flora of Melbourne 3rd Ed. Hyland House Beardsell, C. 1997, Sites of Faunal and Habitat Signif icance in the North East Melbourne, A report

prepared for the North-East Region of Councils (NEROC) by Dunmoochin Biological Surveys, Melbourne.

Bush, J. and Faithfull, T. 1997 Management Guidelines for the Native Grasslands of the Merri

Creek. Merri Creek Management Committee Clew ell, Andre F. and Aronson, James 2007. Ecological Restoration. Principles, Values and

Structure of an Emerging Profession Island Press Washington. Department of Primary Industries (DPI) 2009 Purple Blow n-grass. Victorian Resources Online.

http://www.dpi.vic.gov.au/DPI/Vro/vrosite.nsf/pages/w ater_sss_purple_blow n_grass . (View ed 28/4/2010)

Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) 2004. EV C/Bioregion Benchmark for

Vegetation Quality Assessment, Victorian Volcanic Plain bioregion, EV C 132_61: Heavier-soils Plains Grassland. http://www.dse.vic.gov.au/conserv/EVC-PDF/VVP_0132_61.pdf (View ed 16/1109)

Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) 2005, Biosites, Maps and Reports for Land

and Water Management Agencies, Port Phillip Region The State of Victoria Department of Sustainability & Environment (CD-ROM)

Frood, Douglas, 1992, Vegetation of the Native Grasslands in the Merri Creek Valley, Outer

Melbourne Area, Ecological survey report No. 92 Department of Conservation & Environment

Gott, Beth 2008, Indigenous use of plants in south-eastern Australia. Telopea 12(2) 215-226 Gouldthorpe, Jonah, 2006, Gorse National Best Practice Manual, National Gorse Taskforce, in

partnership w ith the Australian Government Hugget, A. 2007, A Review of the Focal Species Approach in Australia. Land & Water Australia,

Canberra Jones, Roger N. 1999 Natural and Human Influences on the Distribution and Extent of Victorian

Low land Grasslands. In The Great Plains Crash. Proceedings of A Conference on the Grasslands and Grassy Woodlands of Victoria. Victorian Institute of Technology, October 2nd & 3rd, 1992. Edited by Roger N. Jones pp. 19-39

Lunt, Ian, D. 1990 Impact of an autumn fire on a long-grazed Themeda triandra (Kangaroo Grass)

grassland: implication for management of invaded, remnant vegetations. The Victorian Naturalist Vol. 107 No. 2 pp. 45-51

Lunt, Ian, D. 1996 A Transient Soil Seed Bank for the Yam-daisy, Microseris scapigera. The

Victorian Naturalist Vol. 113 (1) pp. 16-19 Lunt, Ian, D. 1997 Effects of long-term vegetation management on remnant grassy forests and

anthropogenic native grasslands in south-eastern Australia. Biological Conservation 81 287-297

Melw ay (2009) Melw ay Greater Melbourne Ed. 36. Melw ay Publishing Pty. Ltd. Mount Waverley


42

Merri Creek Management Committee 2009 Merri Creek and Environs Strategy 2009-2014 Merri

Creek Management Committee, Melbourne Morgan, J.W. 1998 Comparative Germination Responses of 28 Temperate Grassland Species.

Aust. Journal of Botany 46, 209-219 Muyt, Adam. 2004, Operational Management Plan for Evans Street Grassland Reserve, Sunbury,

2004 –2009. Unpublished report for the Friends of Evans Street Grassland and City Environment Department, Hume City Council, October 2004.

Port Phillip & Westernport Catchment Management Authority, 2006, Port Phillip and Westernport

Native Vegetation Plan, Port Phillip and Westernport Catchment Management Authority Richardson, F. J., Richardson, R. G. and Shepherd, R. C. H. 2006, Weeds of the south-east: an

identif ication guide for Australia. R. G. and F. J. Richardson Ralph, Murray, 2003, Grow ing Australian Plants from Seed, Murray Ralph/Bushland Horticulture Stoner, John, Adams, Robyn and Simmons, Dianne 2004 Management implications of increased

fuel loads follow ing exotic grass invasion. Ecological Management & Restoration 5, pp. 68-69

Vallee, L., Hogbin, T., Monks, L., Makinson, B., Matthes, M. and Rossetto, M. 2004, Guidelines for

the Translocation of Threatened Plants in Australia 2nd Ed. Australian Netw ork for Plant Conservation. Canberra

Walsh, N. G and Stajsic, V. 2007, A Census of the Vascular Plants of Victoria 8th Ed. Royal Botanic

Gardens, Melbourne


12 Appendices

12.1 Map of Aerial photo of site with site outline


44

12.2 Map of Fencing priorities

12.3


Map of Vegetation Quality


46

12.4 Map of Significant Species


12.5 Species Lists Table 12.5-1 Indigenous plant species identified during surveys in spring 2009

Species Common name Acaena echinata Sheep's Burr Asperula conferta Common Woodruff Austrodanthonia duttoniana Brown-back Wallaby Grass Austrodanthonia geniculata Kneed Wallaby Grass Austrodanthonia setacea Bristly Wallaby Grass Bossiaea prostrata Common Bossiaea Burchardia umbellata Milkmaids Calocephalus citreus Lemon Beauty-heads Calocephalus lacteus Milky Beauty-heads Convolvulus remotus Grassland Bindweed Crassula sieberiana Austral Stonecrop Dianella admixta Black-anther Flax-lily Ee Dianella amoena Matted Flax-lily Drosera peltata ssp. peltata Pale Sundew Einadia nutans Nodding Saltbush Epilobium hirtigerum Grey Willow Herb Eryngium ovata Blue Devil Eryngium vesiculosum Pricklefoot Euchiton gymnocephalus s.s. Creeping Cudweed Geranium solanderi s. l. Austral Crane's Bill Goodenia pinnatifida Cut-leaf Goodenia Haloragis heterophylla Variable Raspwort v Helichrysum aff. rutidolepis Pale Everlasting (Lowland swamps) Hypericum graminifolium Small St John's Wort Isolepis cernua var. platycarpa Flat-fruit Club-sedge Ø Isolepis marginata Little Club-sedge Ø Juncus bufonius Toad Rush Juncus holoschoenus Joint-leaved Rush Juncus subsecundus Finger Rush Rr Lachnagrostis punicea ssp. punicea Purple Blown Grass Leptorhynchos squamatus Scaly Buttons Leptorhynchos tenuifolius Wiry Buttons Lomandra fili formis Wattle Mat Rush Lomandra fili formis ssp. coriacea Wattle Mat Rush M Lomandra nana Pale Mat-rush Lythrum hyssopifolia Small Loosestrife Microlaena stipoides var. stipoides Weeping Grass v Microseris scapigera Plains Yam Daisy Microtis unifolia Common Onion Orchid Oxalis perrenans Wood Sorrel Pimelea humilis Common Rice-flower Plantago varia Variable Plantain Poa labil lardierei Common Tussock Grass k Poa labil lardierei var. (Volcanic plains) Common Tussock Grass (Plains Form) Poa sieberiana ssp. sieberiana Tussock Gra ss Rumex brownii Slender Dock Rumex dumosus Wiry Dock Schoenus apogon Common Bog Rush M Senecio squarrosus Groundsel Solenogyne dominnii Solenogyne


48

Thelymitra pauciflora sensu lato Slender Sun-orchid Themeda triandra Kangaroo Grass Tricoryne elatior Yellow Rush-li ly M Velleia paradoxa Spur Velleia Veronica gracilis Slender Veronica

E = Endangered Nationally e = Endangered in Victoria R = Rare Nationally R = rare in Victoria v = Vulnerable in Victoria k = Poorly know n but suspected of belonging to one of the rare or threatened categories in Victoria Ø = Origin of status in Victoria uncertain- possible introduced populations or unresolved taxonomy Status of taxon in Victoria uncertain Source: Walsh & Stajsic (2007) M = While not a VROT, considered by author to represent an signif icant occurrence in the context of remnant vegetation in the Merri Creek catchment due to infrequency of know n occurrence across Merri Creek sites.


Table 12.5-2 Introduced plant species identified during surveys conducted in spring 2009

Species Common name

CaLP status R

C S

core

Thre

at

T S

core

Pos

sibi

lity

of

erad

icat

ion

Kal

kallo

Pos

s S

core

Kal

kallo

Pri

ority

inde

x K

alka

llo

Pri

ority

Ran

king

K

alka

llo

Allium triquetrum Angled Onion Restricted 2 High 2 High 2 6 1

Cirsium vulgare Spear Thistle Regionally Controlled 2 Low 1 High 2 5 1

Crataegus monogyna Hawthorn Regionally Controlled 2 Low 1 High 2 5 1

Echium plantagineum Patterson's Curse

Regionally Controlled 2 High 2 High 2 6 1

Nassella neesiana Chilean Needle Grass

Regionally Controlled 2 High 2 High 2 6 1

Rosa rubiginosa Briar Rose Regionally Controlled 2 Low 1 High 2 5 1

Ulex europaeus Gorse Regionally Controlled 2 High 2 High 2 6 1

Agrostis stolonifera Creeping Bent High 2 High 2 4 2 Anthoxanthum odoratum Sweet Vernal High 2 Low 1 3 2 Arctotheca calendula Capeweed Low 1 High 2 3 2

Capsella bursa-pastoris Shepherd's Purse Low 1 High 2 3 2

Holcus lanatus Yorkshire Fog High 2 High 2 4 2 Lolium perenne Perrenial Rye High 2 Low 1 3 2

Nassella hyalina Cane Needle Grass High 2 High 2 4 2

Nassella leucotricha Texan Needle Grass High 2 High 2 4 2

Phalaris aquatica Toowoomba Canary Grass High 2 High 2 4 2

Plantago lanceoloata Ribwort High 2 Low 1 3 2 Tragopogon porrifolius Salsify Low 1 High 2 3 2

Trifolium subterraneum Subterreranean Clover High 2 Low 1 3 2

Aira caryophylla Hair Grass Low 1 Low 1 2 3

Anagallis arvensis Scarlet Pimpernel Low 1 Low 1 2 3

Briza maxima Large Quaking Grass Low 1 Low 1 2 3

Briza minor Lesser Quaking Grass Low 1 Low 1 2 3

Bromus hordaceus Soft Brome Low 1 Low 1 2 3 Centaurium erythraea Centaury Low 1 Low 1 2 3 Hypochoeris radicata Cat's Ear Low 1 Low 1 2 3 Romulea rosea Onion Grass Low 1 Low 1 2 3 Sonchus asper ssp. asper

Rough Milk Thistle Low 1 Low 1 2 3

Soncus oleraceus Milk Thistle Low 1 Low 1 2 3 Stellaria media Chickweed Low 1 Low 1 2 3

Vulpia bromoides Squirrel-tail Fescue Low 1 Low 1 2 3


50

12.6 Photos

Senecio squarrosus October 2009 A w idespread daisy in the grassland Plains Yam-Daisy, Microseris scapigera October 2009. The population of this vulnerable species may play an important role in the regional conservation of this species by providing in situ population, a seed source and reference for ex-situ conservation.

Regrow th from burn targetting gorse carried out in May 2009 at f ive months in October 2009


Incursion of storage and sheds by adjoining resident in October 2009- most of this has been placed since 2007. The main part of the w aste is on former (unused) road reservation.

Trailbike riding w itnessed on October 2009. The pattern of trails evident since 2007 suggests that this recreational use is likely to be the main cause of the damage.

Eastern fence alignment show ing drystone wall and degraded grassland. The source of the stones in the w all is likely to be from the grassland how ever the relatively low height of the w all suggests that the area w as not heavily rocked.


52

12.7 Summary of Beardsell (1997) Table 12.7-1Summary of notes for Kalkallo Common (Beardsell 1997 pp.64-81).

Kalkallo Common Site 5b Map Reference; 7822 193449 Site 5 Part of the Kalkallo- Donnybrook North Rail Reserve 400 ha Public land - Common Private land - Some of the adjoining paddocks STATEM ENTS RELATING TO SIGNIFICANCE OF THE KALKALLO COMMON

• “The Kalkallo Common/Kalkallo Cemetery is the most extensive and intact area of gilgai plain on public land in NEM (North-East Melbourne) and on of the most intact remaining of the volcanic plains of GM (Greater Melbourne). It is representative of a formerly widespread volcanic plains landscape that has been virtually eliminated. It should receive priority protection and conservation management.”

• Beardsell (1997)Entire Site 5 rated as ‘Very High’ category 3 for Habitat signif icance • The ‘Kangaroo Grass Plains Grassland and ‘Brow n-back Wallaby-grass seasonal Wetland’

at Kalkallo Common w ere identif ied as ‘reference stands’the highest category of assessment for Stand viability/distribution – ‘one of the most viable and intact stands representative of its habitat know n in Greater Melbourne’ Beardsell 1997, Vol. 1 p. xxv It is the presence of multiple reference stands at the Kalkallo Site that led to the Very High catgory ranking Habitat Signif icance

• Rare species listed for the site as a w hole include; o Agrostis aemula var. setifolia (=Lachnagrostis punicea subsp. punicea) o Pale Sw amp Everlasting (Helichrysum aff . rutidolepis (Lowland Sw amps) o Slender Tick Trefoil (Desmodium varians).

• Identif ied as a Cr itical Conservation Area for Gilgai Plains Grassland. This area contains the most intact example of gilgai plains grassland in NEM. This consists of Kangaroo Grass plains Grassland at the cemetery (the only remaining in GM w ith a shrub-pea stratum) and higher ground on the common and Brow n-back Wallaby Grass seasonal w etland in the low -lying gilgais in the common. Such intact plains grassland/seasonal w etland are rare on the volcanic plain.

RARE SPECIES ON ADJOINING LAND • VROT Slender Tick trefoil (Desmodium varians) (south of cemetery) • Regionally vulnerable Pussy tails (Ptilotus spathulatus) (south of cemetery) • Narrow -leaf New Holland Daisy (Vittadinia muelleri) (south of cemetery) • Regionally vulnerable Chaffy Bush-pea (Pultnea sericea) (cemetery) • Regionally depleted Smooth Rice Flow er (Pimelea glauca)(cemetery)

FAUNAL SIGNIFICANCE Rarity: Rare or threatened fauna

• Rare fauna- regional Red-chested Button Quail- 10th January 1990 Diversity: Species/assemblage richness

• Frogs- 5 species including Plains Froglet and Common Spadefoot Toad 31 May 1991 • Regional diversity of reptiles south of Kalkallo Common- including Bougainville’s Skink,

Eastern Three-lined Skink, Low land Copperhead and Litt le Whip Snake likely to occur on Common

Representativeness; Faunal Assemblies • Eastern Grey Kangaroo and Echidna at Kalkallo common

Population density: viability and abundance • Over 50 Plains Froglets and 30 Ew ings Tree-frogs calling at Kalkallo Common on the

evening of 14 November 1989. Recent heavy rains had inundated the gilgais I nthe common. A chorus of over 100 Common Spadefoot toads w as heard on the common on 17th May 1989- this w as the largest number encountered in the NEM during the survey.

OUTLOOK The faunal signif icnace w ill decline under the present management as the habitat links to the common/cemetery have been severed by housing at Kalkallo to the w est and by rock-picking to the east. With management, the faunal signif icance of the ground fauna of the common w ould


increase. RARE OR THREATENED FAUNA-

• Red Chested Button quail- One seen w ith several Stubble Quail in Kangaroo Grass plains grassland on 10th January 1009. The preceding months had been w et and the common remained ungrazed during spring. The button quail requires dense grassland cover. Livestock grazing conducted in 1991 and 1992 in combination w ith the lack of cover resulting from successive years of low rainfall over the late summer-early autumn prevented the button quail from revisit ingthe area. Searches should be conducted for the Plalins Wanderer at the common.

• Common Spadefoot Toads- in w et years the gilgais are inundated and the grasslands are saturated. Calls on rainy nights from mid-autumn to mid-w inter. Larval stage is rapid and adults breed in temporary w ater rin the roadside table drains and gilgais in w et years. The spadefoot toad is a burrow ing species adapted to loose soils. It may have declined elsew here due to ground compaction caused by hoofed animals. The draining of ephemeral w etlands has been a further limit ing factor.

• Catt le egrets, White-faced herons and ibis are common in w et winters, attracted by frogs and invertebrates such as land yabbies in gilgais. This gives rise to the term ‘crab-holes’ given to the gilgais by farmers.

MANAGEMENT • ‘Kalkallo Common lacks effective habitat links’ • Threatening process include Farm intensif ication, pasture improvement, rock clearing and

grassland cultivation. • Land Protection and conservation of links betw een Kalkallo Common and Merri Creek –

several measures are sugggested to reinforce the open space between the Kalkallo common and the grasslands along Merri Creek such as Bald Hill.

• Urban Encroachment- propsod response is a ‘buffer zone’ from the Kalkallo tow nship to protect the biological values

• The Kalkallo Common should be managed for nature conservation: • Land protection activities and other aspects of conservation management need to be

urgently upgraded. The common has excellent nature conservation potential and contains rare habitats and landscapes that are unreserved in the NEM.

• Rationalisation of stock agistment policy required. Rare plant, frog and quail conservation requires cessation of grazing. – w ould then make area suitable for rare w aders including; Little Button Quail, Australasian Bittern, Latham’s Snipe, Buff-banded Rail, Brow n Quail and Striated Fieldwren. “The Kalkallo common is at times heavily grazed by livestock and structural damage to the soil and loss of seasonal w etland herbs (e.g. Plains Yam Daisy) caused by trampling and grazing of the herbfield has occurred. Over 10 horses are frequently present. Grazing damage on the common has occurred form May to December due to the fragility of the hrbfield and substrate w hen they become damp or inundated.”

• A perimeter slash break along the road boundaries may be necessary for fire protection. • ‘Replanting of seasonal wetland herbs including the Plains Yam Daisy could be undertaken. • Require a flora and fauna survey. An intensive f lora and fauna survey, particularly specif ic

surveys for the Plains Wanderer and striped Legless Lizard is required for the Kalkalllo Common, Cemetery and south of the cemetery. Existing surveys are described in NEROC as being only brief

• Foxes and rabbits common among the gorse and dramatically increased over the last three years (1997)

• Staged revegetation On the knolls south of the cemetery, gorse eradication is recommended to be preceded by establishing indigenous shrubs.


54

12.8 MCMC Safety plan/burn procedure

MCMC ECOLOGICAL MANAGEMENT BURNS CFA Areas

Safety plan / burn procedure Updated Nov 09

Informing authorities about the burn Notify local CFA and council off icers at the start of the burn season.

Obtain a permit from Council by the February prior to the scheduled date for the ecological burn.

The day before the burn, consult the EPA to ensure it w ill not be a smog alert day. If it is not, notify the EPA at this time of the intention to burn. Obtain a spot forecast from the Bureau of Meteorology, predicting w ind speed and direction, temperature and humidity for the scheduled burn t ime, to allow planning of burn direction and ignit ion point.

On the day of the burn, obtain a “spot forecast” to confirm predicted w eather parameters have not changed signif icantly. Notify Vic Fire, local police stations, and local CFA of the intention to burn, and provide the contact mobile phone number of MCMC’s nominated ‘f ire captain’. Contact council off icers (Local Law s, Open Space Planning Coordinator, Citizens Response or other off icers as required) to confirm the burn w ill go ahead. Community consultation / information before the burn Distribute information leaflets (see attached for example) to all houses or businesses in the vicinity of the area to be burnt at least 3 w orking days before the scheduled burn day and record on map which properties have been leafleted. The leaflet should explain the reason for the burn, the scheduled dates of the burn, a map show ing location of area to be burnt and provide a contact name and phone number of responsible MCMC staff member w ho residents can speak to if they require further information.

Firebreaks Firebreaks to be mow n or brushcut around all areas to be burnt, and the cut material raked into the area to be burnt, preferably 1-2m from edge of break to keep f ire edge low . The w idth of the f irebreak should be determined w ith reference to fuel load, fuel type, slope, adjacent land and access. Firebreaks may be w etted dow n before and during the burn to prevent ignit ion. Site fire plan A fire plan is to be prepared prior to undertaking the burn. The f ire plan should be based on forecast weather conditions and site conditions. The f ire plan w ill be indicated on a map of the site and w ill show the areas to be burnt, the location and order of light-up, access points, vehicle tracks, f ire hydrants, fall back lines and escaped f ire lines, and the location of staff resources and equipment. Staff on site on the day and their experience MCMC staff w ill be present and carry out all aspects of the burn. At least six staff members w ill be present during grassland f ires; f ire captain (w ho directs entire burn, including light-up t ime, light-up pattern, etc), f ire lighter, at least 3 f ire crew on water tanks or backpacks and, if needed, 1 community liaison off icer. The f ire captain and f ire lighter should both have completed f ire safety and w ildfire behaviour modules. Few er staff may be required to undertake scorching operations for annual grasses, dependant on site and w eather conditions. All staff have at least level 1 f irst aid. One staff will be nominated f irst aid off icer. Type of equipment and vehicles to be used on the day Staff will be equipped w ith a f ire-f ighting w ater tank (f itted w ith a high strength pump and w ide gauge hoses) as w ell as a second smaller w ater tank w ith a pump and hose and individuals w ill carry knapsack w ater sprayers to ensure the f ire is controlled. Both w ater tanks to be tow ed by 4WD


vehicles to allow access over most of the site. The tow ing vehicles, f ire captain and f ire lighter w ill also carry mobile phones and w alkie-talkies. The f ire w ill be lit by a drip torch or f lamethrow er dependent on w eather and site conditions on the day.

All equipment should be checked at least tw o w eeks before the commencement of the burn season to ensure it is in good w orking order.

Personal Protective Equipment All staff w ill be issued w ith leather gloves, leather boots, long cotton trousers and long-sleeved cotton shirts, eye protection (goggles or sunglasses) and smoke inhalation protection (face mask, dust mask or scarf tied over nose and mouth). Weather parameters The combined w eather conditions during the period of the burn should fall w ithin moderate f ire danger according to the CSIRO Grassland Fire Danger meter. If combined conditions are expected to exceed moderate f ire danger, the burn must be postponed. Procedure for assessment of fire danger 1. Obtain a spot w eather forecast from the Bureau of Meteorology on the afternoon before the

burn. Use the CSIRO Grassland Fire Danger meter to determine the expected f ire danger rating under maximum forecast conditions (i.e. temperature maximum, humidity minimum, and w ind speed maximum).

2. On the morning of the burn obtain another spot forecast to identify any changes to the expected weather conditions. If changes have been made, use the f ire danger meter to re-assess the rating.

3. Check and record temperature, humidity, w ind speed and direction every half-hour before and during the burn. If conditions on site exceed the expected top temperature and/ or w ind speed and/ or humidity low the staff member taking w eather readings should notify the f ire captain as soon as possible. A new assessment of the f ire danger rating should also be given to the f ire captain.

4. The f ire captain should cease light-up and extinguish the f ire as soon as possible after conditions exceed moderate f ire danger.

Escaped fire line If a f ire moves beyond a line designated as the escaped f ire line it w ill be designated as an escaped f ire, the control of which is beyond the resources of MCMC to contain. In these circumstances, MCMC’s f ire captain w ill ensure all staff leaves the area and emergency services are immediately notif ied of the escaped f ire and the need for immediate assistance. Project coordinator and contact details TBC ph 9380 8199 0407012206.

Staff at the f ire w ill have mobile telephones to enable emergency contact if necessary. Communication and enquiries w ill be to MCMC off ice (ph 9380 8199) and can be directed to staff on site w here necessary.

The attached form allow s the project coordinator to record notif ication and other details to ensure a complete and accurate record of the burn is kept.

Extinguishing the fire Staff will ensure the f ire is completely extinguished, and no rising smoke is visible before leaving the site. Woody debris is to be specif ically inspected to ensure complete extinguishment. The f ire w ill be extinguished by 3:30pm.


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12.9 Fencing recommendations GENERAL: Fencing shall be erected by experienced or professional fencers under the supervision of a person capable of specifying vegetation protection measures. The work to be executed includes setting out, clearing of fence line, supply of material and erection of gates.

DISTURBANCE: Due to the high conservation status of the nearby vegetation the work shall be executed in a manner that minimises disturbance to the soil and grassy vegetation. Works and vehicles travel will occur, where possible, outside of the proposed fence line.

STRAINER ASSEMBLIES. Galvanised steel metal strainers assemblies. These assemblies will be installed at all line changes and at maximum 100 metres intervals. Between each strainer assembly supply and fit 1 metal star post at 3.00 metre centres.

STEEL POSTS: Steel posts shall be "STAR" pattern, of manufacture approved by the superintendent. Posts shall be drilled to suit the spacing of the wires and shall be black varnished or galvanised. The total weight of 300 posts each 1.65m long shall be at least one (1) tonne.

Fence Standards

Description Requirement Height of fence f rom ground lev el (top plain wire) 1220 mm

Height of middle plain wire f rom ground lev el 515 mm

Height of bottom plain wire f rom ground lev el 60 mm

Distance between strainers 100 m

Distance between posts 3 m

Posts steel ‘star’ type black varnished or galvanised 1.65m long

Plain wire standard galvanised drawn annealed steel wire of 4 mm diameter

Strainers galv anised steel metal strainers

GATES: Gates shall be of galvanised tubular steel construction, 3.6 metres in w idth by 1.2 metres in height, and shall be f itted w ith substantial hinges, catch, drop bolts and locking chains unless otherw ise directed by the Superintendent. At the location of gates the surface shall be nearly horizontal. Required levelling shall have minimal impact on surrounding grassy vegetation. The area w here the gates swing shall be similarly level. Gates shall be sw ung so that there are no gaps betw een posts and the gate.


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This report has been endorsed by;

Merri Creek Management Committee representativ e

Name : DATE

Signature :

Hume City Council Natural Heritage Officer

Name : DATE

Signature :

Hume City Council Bushland Planner

Name : DATE

Signature :

att cncl report operational management plan for kalkallo ...€¦ · operational management plan...

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