I agree with Julian that the ground flora appears to be more complex and if
roos have been excluded for some time it would be a good opportunity to
study the effect of roo grazing. It is good 'Yellow Box Red Gum Grassy
Woodland' and as such lessees are not allowed to remove timber or super it,
only graze it. However grazing itself can change the species composition
because stock like some species better than others and tend to eliminate
them leave less palatable plants and weeds. The area could easily become
weed infested if weeds are present or if stock are brought in from weedy
paddocks.
The area would make an excellent addition to Callum Brae as it has a
different structure and possibly a differect species composition.
I think a new property management agreement is drawn up in the ACT if it is
considered advisable to do so when a property changes hands.
I suggest that COG contact CALM and make something like following
recommendation.
Recommendation
1) that a vegetation survey be carried out.
2) that the area be considered for adding to Callum Brae reserve.
3) that if it is not added to Callum Brae reserve then a 'no grazing' clause
be considered on all or part, to protect plant diversity (and vegetation
structure?).
Note:-
If grazing is excluded then hazard reduction burning may be required.
However native plants in the ACT are adapted to fire as they have survived
fires like the 2003 fire and gentler fires before. They may take a year or
two to show up.
Peter
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