Monitoring
Monitoring is an important component of control programs to ensure they are delivering the desired outcomes. Consistent statewide monitoring protocols will be developed to enable a higher uptake of monitoring, to ensure the NRC target is met and to assist with monitoring under the MERI framework.
How will this be done?
Effective monitoring requires collection of baseline data on vegetation originally present and an assessment of the recovery of native species following weed control operations. Monitoring protocols to be developed will build on those developed for the Bitou Bush Threat Abatement Plan (TAP). These guidelines have already been adopted for the national Lantana Plan as the monitoring guidelines provide a standardised methodology across a range of differing resource and skill levels to measure the response of the weed to control and the response of the native plant species at risk. The level of monitoring that then occurs depends on resources and expertise available.
A three-tiered approach, similar to the Bitou Bush guidelines, will provide standardised protocols to suit different stakeholder capabilities:
Tier 1: Simple techniques - Mapping of weed and native cover, photo points
Tier 2: Advances techniques - Quantifying weed and native abundance with more precision using transects and quadrats
Tier 3: Scientific study - Investigation of weed and native response in controlled and uncontrolled areas.
It is envisaged that in most cases, stakeholders will be able to carry out either Tier 1 or Tier 2 monitoring.
How can you be involved?
The guidelines will be tested on land managers before they are finalised. If you would like to be involved in this process, please email us.
Page last updated: 26 February 2011
