THREATENED AND IMPORTANT ECOLOGICAL COMMUNITIES

PRIORITY BC2

Melaleuca ericifolia Swamp Forest

This community typically occurs as almost pure stands of Melaleuca ericifolia, forming a dense canopy over a sedge-dominated understory. It is restricted to coastal areas and usually occurs on poorly-drained soils, often fringing saltmarshes. It is often impacted by agricultural practices.

outcome

By 2030, Melaleuca ericifolia Swamp Forest communities in the Cradle Coast have been identified and assessed and have increased protection from agricultural threats including land clearing.

threats

Local threats that can be addressed by NRM actions:

  • Land use pressures including development, intensification of agriculture and industries
  • Inappropriate land management practices including vegetation clearing
  • Weeds and feral animals
  • Increasing fire risk due to climate change
  • Lack of knowledge and understanding in the community about remnant vegetation

Actions

BC2.a

Identify vulnerable remnant patches of Melaleuca ericifolia Swamp Forest threatened ecological community, then work with landholders and government on appropriate management actions.

implementation

Investment Opportunity

  • Australian Government
  • Tasmanian Government
  • Regional or Local
  • Private or philanthropic

  • Information gathering activities including assessment and mapping of the threatened vegetation community.
  • Policy and planning activities such as prioritisation of appropriate management actions and locations for investment, and engagement in council land-use planning processes.
  • On-ground work including weed and feral animal management, and land management agreements focused on protection and rehabilitation of M. ericifolia Swamp Forests.
  • Behaviour-change and capacity-building activities – education, awareness and skill-building focused on biodiversity values and best management practice.

Local Councils; Government agencies (e.g. NRET, FPA and PWS); Landcare groups and community groups; Industry groups (e.g., Dairy Tas, beef groups); Farmers and land managers – land management agreements for on-ground works.

Field days, workshops and educational activities; extension, capacity building and land management agreement opportunities for landholders; volunteer and citizen science opportunities.