Bitou bush and boneseed threat abatement plan - what's new

On-ground implementation of the TAP wins an award!

The Society for Ecological Restoration International (SERI) supported by the Ecological Management and Restoration journal launched a search for the best Australasian restoration projects in 2008 as part of its Global Restoration Network (GRN). The projects provide a snapshot of some of the best projects being carried out in Australasia. The implementation of the NSW Bitou Bush Threat Abatement Plan was 'highly commended' as an on-ground ecosystem restoration project and a subsequent presentation was given on the implementation of the TAP at the SERI conference in August 2009. See the GRN award page for more information, and view case studies that detail sites where the Bitou TAP is being implemented.

New implementation tools

Monitoring manual for bitou bush control and native plant recovery

The monitoring manual designed to monitor the effectiveness of bitou bush control programs is now available! The manual, written in consultation with land managers, community groups and agency staff, proposes a multi-tier approach to monitoring, where varying techniques can be used depending on the biodiversity present at the site, and the resources and skills of the land manager. The monitoring manual comprises three tiers: standard, advanced and research-level monitoring, all of which can now be downloaded on the monitoring page.

The standard tier is aimed at most land managers and details creating a map for monitoring, photopoints, observational data to support these photos, and information on costs incurred during control and monitoring. The advanced tier builds on the standard tier by adding more detailed methods, including the use of replicated transects and quadrats to allow for collection of more robust data. The research tier is for those wanting to determine causality (for example, that bitou bush control lead to the recovery of native species) and takes a more scientific approach to monitoring. 

Bitou TAP signs now present at a site near you

Over 60 TAP sites throughout coastal NSW now have interpretive signs posted in prominent locations. Signs explain the threat bitou bush poses to native biodiversity, detail what is being done to reduce this threat, and provide contact information for those interested in becoming involved. TAP sites are across land tenure, so call the number on the sign, or your local National Parks and Wildlife Service Office, to become involved.

Bitou bush management manual

The manual contains the most up-to-date information on current best practice management and control options for bitou bush. It draws heavily on contributions from community volunteers and weed management professionals across the range of bitou bush in Australia. It details current chemical, physical and biological control options, some of which are unique to bitou bush management. For details on how to obtain a free copy email the Bitou TAP Coordinator or see the best practice management page.

Identification guide to the native species at risk from bitou bush in NSW

An identification guide to the native plant species at risk from bitou bush invasion in NSW has been produced by OEH as a companion document to the Bitou Bush TAP. Hard copies are available free of charge as well as a downloadable electronic version. For information on how to obtain a copy see the ID guide page on this site.