Hello All
Serious land clearing has been going on in the Top End for years but I've
seen nothing official on the extent of it. Much of the land along the
Arnhem Highway out to Fogg Dam and around Adelaide River has been cleared
for agricultural and housing. Given the attitude toward native
vegetation of many in the Top End I assume that many stations are simply
razed.
But introduced grasses may be a bigger problem in the Top End. Gamba
grass an African species introduced for stock, is a bulky grass growing
to 3 or so metres tall, which takes over woodland and open forest. It's
apparently fine food if cropped short, but once this grass reaches a
certain height stock won't touch it. Worse Gamba burns so fiercely that
it can destroy those plants that are usually not affected by the low-heat
fires carried by spear grass. Scientists believe that Gamba Grass has
the capacity to threaten woodland communities right across northern
Australia.
Regards
Denise
Denise Goodfellow (Lawungkurr Maralngurra)
Specialist Guide
Ph/fax 08 89818492
PO Box 39373
WINNELLIE NT 0821, AUSTRALIA
www.earthfoot.org
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