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In 2004, nghenvironmental completed the bushfire, biodiversity and archaeological constraints analysis of Bournda Downs, a site south-east of Bega proposed for residential development. The site has a history of grazing but also retains important biodiversity values. The site contains areas of native pasture, riparian vegetation and several forest types including Bega Wet Shrub Forest, an under-reserved vegetation community. Several threatened species occur onsite including the Powerful Owl, Yellow-bellied Glider, Glossy Black Cockatoo and Common Bent-Wing Bat. Furthermore, the location of the site between Bournda Nature Reserve and Bournda National Park underscored the importance of identifying and minimising adverse impacts likely to be associated with site development.
Through liaison with the Department of Environment and Conservation, Parks and Wildlife (DEC PWD) and the Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Natural Resources (DIPNR), strategic revegetation was recommended to offset some of the impacts the proposal would have on the natural values of the site. nghenvironmental prepared a detailed revegetation plan, consulting with local experts including Jackie Miles (Botanist) and Liz Clark (Far South Coast Landcare Seed Bank).
Two areas were identified as appropriate for revegetation. Site 1 was a 4 hectare area able to provide a wildlife corridor linking onsite resources to the adjacent reserves. Site 2 was a 6 hectare area able to provide a buffering function to the bordering Nature Reserve. Recommendations were also detailed for riparian areas onsite. The plan documented current and recommended species compositions, taking into account the specific roles of each area. Roles included ecological functions such as foraging and refuge provision to fauna, bank stability and improved water quality. The plan also detailed preferred planting methods and ongoing management requirements.
Strategic revegetation can be an effective means to retain ecological functions that are commonly degraded by site development. It requires careful definition of onsite goals, consideration of the broader environmental context, development of site specific management actions and attention to ongoing management issues.
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