Key lessons learnt from surveys of flood-impacted koala restoration sites

In February and March 2022, catastrophic floods impacted many koala habitat restoration planting sites in the NSW Northern Rivers, particularly those located in riparian and floodplain zones.

To better understand how the flood events affected the restoration plantings, the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water commissioned repeat rapid assessment surveys at locations across 6 local government areas (Tweed, Byron, Lismore, Kyogle, Ballina and Richmond Valley).

The project assessed severity of flood impacts, post-flood recovery of plantings, and factors contributing to short-term site resilience. Data was collated from a combination of sources, including survey results, site observations, discussions with landholders and expert advice from regional practitioners, and used to identify key trends and learnings.

These findings will support future strategic planning for restoration of habitat within flood-prone areas that can support local koala populations.