framework audit of knowledge and catchment … · 2010. 11. 10. · 7 executive summary the audit...

FRAMEWORK AUDIT OF KNOWLEDGE AND

CATCHMENT MANAGEMENT DATA FOR THE

CORANGAMITE CATCHMENT MANAGEMENT

AUTHORITY REGION

Adam Hood

Victor Sposito

Stephen Cook

Adam Skelton

VICTORIA

SEPTEMBER 2002

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS _____________________________________________________ 2

LIST OF KNOWLEDGE CATEGORIES _______________________________________ 3

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ___________________________________________________ 5

ABBREVIATIONS __________________________________________________________ 6

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY____________________________________________________ 7

INTRODUCTION__________________________________________________________ 10

Background _________________________________________________________________ 10

Format of this Compendium ___________________________________________________ 11

Regional and Local relevance __________________________________________________ 13

Data sources, Model Outputs and Information ____________________________________ 14

Data Categories and Purpose___________________________________________________ 16

DATA SETS_______________________________________________________________ 19

1. INLAND WATERS_____________________________________________________ 20

Inland Waters data categories __________________________________________________ 20

2. VEGETATION AND BIODIVERSITY ____________________________________ 25

3. CLIMATE ____________________________________________________________ 29

Climate Change on the agenda __________________________________________________ 29

4. LAND CONDITION ____________________________________________________ 31

Local Priority Issues __________________________________________________________ 31

REGIONAL ECONOMY AND HUMAN POPULATIONS________________________ 36

Local Priority Issues __________________________________________________________ 36

Regional Economy and Human Population Data sets _______________________________ 36

KNOWLEDGE NETWORKS – PEOPLE AND ORGANISATIONS________________ 41

SECTION FOUR – ONLINE ACCESS INFORMATION _________________________ 45

8. REFERENCES __________________________________________________________ 55

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LIST OF KNOWLEDGE CATEGORIES

Monitoring Data Category .......................................................................................................21

Index of Stream Condition (ISC) .............................................................................................21

Strategic Use Data Category ....................................................................................................23

Water availability & allocation ................................................................................................23

Asset Management Data Category ..........................................................................................24

Wetlands.....................................................................................................................................24

Asset Management Data Category ..........................................................................................26

Native Vegetation – Sites of Botanical Significance ...............................................................26

Threats Data Category..............................................................................................................27

Native Vegetation – Threatened Plant Species .......................................................................27


Pest Plants and Animals............................................................................................................28

Assets Data Category ................................................................................................................30

Climate .......................................................................................................................................30

Assets Data Category ................................................................................................................32

Land Systems and Landscape ..................................................................................................32


Salinity........................................................................................................................................34

Asset Data Category..................................................................................................................37

Primary Production ..................................................................................................................37


Planning Schemes ......................................................................................................................38


Crown Frontages .......................................................................................................................39


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Land Use .................................................................................................................................... 40

Knowledge Network Category .................................................................................................42

Avon Catchment – Knowledge Network .................................................................................42


Herbert River Catchment, QLD ..............................................................................................43


Bushvision ..................................................................................................................................44

On-line Access Information Category .....................................................................................46

Australian Natural Resources Atlas and Data Library .........................................................46


Catchment Indicators online –catchment management council of Victoria........................47


The Reference Database on Regional Coastal Values............................................................48


Infarmation ................................................................................................................................49


Community builders online ......................................................................................................50


Green Planning – resource renewal institute..........................................................................51


Sustainability Web Ring ...........................................................................................................52


Regional Environmental center for Central and Eastern Europe........................................53


MekongInfo................................................................................................................................54

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The valuable advice from many groups and individuals for the project is much appreciated.

Comments on any matter relevant to this report are welcome.

These should be addressed to:

Jo Roberts

NAP Project Officer

Corangamite Catchment Management Authority

64 Dennis Street

Colac, Victoria, Australia 3250

Telephone: 03 52329122

Email: [email protected]

Disclaimer

This publication may be of assistance to you, but Corangamite CMA and its officers do not guarantee that the

publication is without flaw of any kind or is wholly appropriate for your particular purposes and therefore

disclaims all liability for any error, loss or other consequence which may arise from you relying on any

information in this publication.

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ABBREVIATIONS

ABARE Australian Bureau of Agricultural Research and Economics

ABS Australian Bureau of Statistics

AV Agriculture Victoria, a research and development division of the Victorian Department of Natural Resources and Environment

BoM Bureau of Meteorology

CD Collection District - smallest ABS unit at which Population Census details are reported.

CData Census Data CD-Rom containing Census data resulting from the 5-yearly Households and Population Census

CGDL Corporate Geospatial Data Library

CLPR Centre for Land Protection Research

CMA Catchment Management Authority

CCMA Corangamite Catchment Management Authority

CAW Catchment and Water Division, DNRE

DNRE Department of Natural Resources and Environment

DSS Decision Support System

EPA Environment Protection Authority

ESD Ecological Sustainable Development

EVC Ecological Vegetation Classes

ISC Index of Stream Condition

Landsat

TM

Landsat 4 was launched in 1982 and has onboard two sensors, including a Thematic Mapper (TM), which detects infra-red (IR), themal IR and visible radiation reflected from Earth. It produces satellite images with a resolution of 30 to 120 metres.

LGA Local Government Area - area covered by municipal governments throughout Vcitoria and used by ABS asd a level at which to show population statistics.

NLWRA National Land and Water Resources Audit

NPI National Pollutant Inventory

OECD Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development

SKM Sinclair, Knight and Merz - Environmental Consultants

SLA Statistical Local Area - aggregation of CDs, as defined by ABS

SoE State of the Environment

SPOT Système Probatoire pour l´Observation de la Terre - Satellite launched by France in 1986 and capable of providing high resolution images.

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The Audit of Knowledge for Corangamite CMA Region is a compendium of datasets and information applicable for a full assessment of the region’s natural resources. The Project was funded by the Corangamite Catchment Management Authority as part of a National Action Plan for Dryland Salinity Project (NAP) – Corangamite Regional Knowledge Network – Strategy. The framework for this Audit of Knowledge was developed by the Strategic Resource Planning (SRP) Team, State Chemistry Laboratory, Agriculture Victoria, Department of Natural Resources and Environment (DNRE). The compendium is in four parts. 1. Introduction and Rationale

The first part describes the rationale, methods used and the criteria for selection of the datasets in the context of the Corangamite CMA Region and a Regional Catchment Strategy. Conclusions and recommendations are also included in this section.

2. Data and Information Categories

The second part provides a standard set of notes related to 5 broad areas of catchment management and a description for each of the categories of data and information available. These are also assigned a category status based on the specifications of the Regional Catchment Strategy outlines, in terms of their characteristic as an asset, threat, management tool/strategy, or monitoring device.

3. Knowledge Network

The knowledge network provides information on the community and their skills, individual knowledge, community knowledge groups amid the community structure, and regional and international interactions and relationships.

4. On-line Access Information

Section four is a summary of online accessible information for regional, state-wide, national and international purposes, concerning topics in environmental resource management, agriculture, planning, and economics.

Section 1 - Rationale

The compendium is intended as an audit of the existence, format, quality, coverage, compatibility and accessibility of a range of relevant catchment management data across the Corangamite CMA Region. The data and information to be included in this compendium, are those required for the review, development and implementation of a Regional Catchment Strategy (RCS) and the implementation of the Regional Knowledge Network. Regional Catchment Strategies are the umbrella documents, as defined by the Catchment and

Land Protection Act 1994, for management and investment in a region for ecological sustainable development (ESD). The twin objectives of economic development and the conservation, enhancement and restoration of the natural resources of the region underpin these strategies. All Victorian Catchment Management Authority Regions, including the Corangamite CMA, are required to review fully the RCSs by end of June 2002. The data and information

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required for the preparation of a RCS includes a range of social, economic and environmental aspects.

Section 2 - Data and Information Categories (Indicators)

The datasets and information investigated for region-wide applicability in this compendium are as follows: Relevant Catchment Information in the region is maintained and updated (custodianship) by a variety of organisations and agencies. Some are nationally maintained (Bureau of Meteorology, Australian Bureau of Statistics) while others are maintained at a State level (Department of Infrastructure, DNRE, Sinclair, Knight and Merz). The multiple locations and interests of each agency or organisation mean that the ongoing awareness and access to relevant, new information requires a great deal of effort on behalf of the Corangamite CMA Board. There is a wide range of diverse datasets and information available across the region. The following data and information categories have been investigated to date:

Data Category Category Purpose

Inland Waters:

Index of Stream Condition Monitoring

Water Availability and Allocation Planning & Implementation

Wetlands Asset

Vegetation and Biodiversity:

Native Vegetation - threatened plant species Threat

Native Vegetation - sites of botanical significance Asset

Pest plants and animals Threat

Climate

Rainfall and temperature Asset

Land Condition:

Land Systems, Landscape and Soils information Asset

Salinity Threat

Regional Economy and Human Populations:

Primary Production Asset

Crown Frontages Asset

Planning Schemes Planning & Implementaion

Land Use Monitoring

Each of the broad categories includes a number of region-wide datasets that can be used in the implementation of the Corangamite CMA RCS. Most of these can provide a spatial representation of the condition of the natural resources and the pressures facing them. These can be used in the form of overlays and as complementary graphical and textual information.

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Section 3 - Knowledge Networks

This section considers the known knowledge networks in the region. These include environmental groups, catchment groups, R&D networks etc. Section 4 - Online Access Information

This section includes a range of online access information that can assist in the sustainable development of the region. These include sites with information about regional activities and sites with information about general principles of sustainable development.

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SECTION ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND

The purpose of this report is to improve the framework for the collection, management and integration of catchment management data and information across the Corangamite CMA Region. The need for these improvements was recognised during the development of the regional knowledge network strategy by the Corangamite Catchment Management Authority (CMA); the Department of Natural Resources and Environment (DNRE); and a number of stakeholders within the Corangamite CMA Region. Collation of this report involved a preliminary audit of existing data sets to determine the existence of a number of biophysical, management and socio-economic data sets relevant to catchment management within the Corangamite CMA Region. The data sets were assessed for influencing factors that affect their suitability for catchment management including:

• Scale and coverage of the data;

• Currency;

• Location and custodianship of the data;

• Accessibility of the data; and

• Compatibility of the data and information to regional information networks and decision support systems, including DNRE’s Regional Data Net System.

Also part of the compendium is a preliminary collation of existing knowledge networks and on-line resources which are of relevance to CCMA. Importantly, it is expected that this compendium will form the basis of the Corangamite Knowledge Network implementation toolkit. Key aspects of the Knowledge Network are:

• People

• Access

• Content. This compendium will provide the people and content indexes for a system of access and exchange in the region. It is expected that this will be built into a very complete compendium as the knowledge network develops and grows.

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1.2 FORMAT OF THIS COMPENDIUM

This compendium of information is divided into 4 parts: 1. Section One

This section explains the full methodology and rationale for developing a standard framework and process for this information audit of the Corangamite CMA Region. 2. Section Two

This section describes the various data-sets audited to date in the compendium. The data are divided into five broad categories that include ‘Inland Water’, ‘Land Vegetation and Biodiversity’, ‘Climate’,’ Land Condition’, and ‘Regional Economy and Human Populations’. Each data category includes a written description of the broad category and technical summaries of each data-set. Within the broader data categories, the data-sets have been described in terms of their primary role as an ‘asset management’ data-set, a ‘threats management’ data-set, a ‘strategy implementation’ data-set or a ‘monitoring progress’ data-set. This is in line with the Corangamite Regional Catchment Strategy’s goal to manage the region by identifying its assets and threats, employing strategies to manage them, and monitoring and reporting the progress and results. Individual data types are detailed on a separate technical summary sheet (summarised on Table 1) in a simple format that can be used by a range of interested groups 3. Section Three

Knowledge Networks gives example for various organisations in Australia, and international bodies with similar networking objectives. This includes information sheets for each knowledge network example. The information sheets give a brief description of the knowledge network, detail of the contributors, the spatial area of the network, the aims of the network, the location of the information, and any key contacts. 4. Section Four

This section introduces various on-line access information sources for natural resource management, agriculture, economics and strategic planning and monitoring. This section also includes information sheets for each on-line resource example. The information sheets give a brief description of the resource, details the custodians of the resource, what area the information relates to, the aims of the resource, the URL location, and any key contacts.

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Table 1. The format of the technical summary tables (Section 2 – Data-sets).

Heading Definition

Knowledge Data Category The full name, the descriptive name, indicates the contents of the data set.

Data Set The exact title of the data set being audited. This may include the name of

the directory in which the data is located.

Description

A brief description of the nature of the data and the spatial information

contained within the data set. A description of the data capture method may

be included. The original purpose for the data collection and methodology

may affect data applicability to a project. This includes an indication of the

type of information - Primary Data Source, Secondary Data Source,

Modelling Output, and Information Product.

Custodian

The public/private organisation that is responsible for ensuring the

appropriate care for the collection (ie. Storage and maintenance of the data

set). The custodian represents the authoritative source for the data set and

may determine the body responsible for maintaining and updating the data

set.

Format

The format in which the data is stored (eg. Shapefile, grid, or an image for

remotely sensed data). This determines the level of processing required to

customise data for individual projects in order to conduct a meaningful

analysis. For example, if the data is contained within a remotely sensed

image, there is a requirement for image processing and interpretation to

elicit the information required.

Location

The current data location. This enables stakeholders within the CMA Region

to locate and access the data sets. Increased knowledge of availability of data

sets will enhance the decision-making ability of organisations involved in

catchment management.

Metadata Location

The metadata’s location and/or organisation at which it is held. The

availability of the data set information is also noted. This facilitates the

sharing of data between organisations and stakeholders. Users are able to

obtain information regarding data format and capture methods. Metadata is

important as it contains information regarding the accuracy and the level of

error that may be contained within the data. This is important when

considering the level of confidence that can be placed in the analysis results.

Scale The spatial scale at which the data is stored. This aids in determining if the

resolution is applicable to the requirements of the project.

Coverage

The spatial extent of the data to determine if there is sufficient coverage for

the purposes of the report. The coverage needs to be consistent over the

Corangamite CMA Region. Any gaps contained within the data set affects

the data quality and the validity of the analysis results.

Accessibility

Accessibility determines if there are any restrictions on the data set that may

limit access and use. Constraints on the data would limit the project’s ability

to develop a framework for data sharing between a number of organisations.

Development

Details any improvements required to make the data set applicable to the

project. Development also examines data fitness for regional catchment

strategy. This may include examining the level of detail and gaps in the data

coverage to determine if it is appropriate to the needs of the project.

Date

(Beginning - End)

The period of time over which the data was collected. This may be used to

determine data reliability and currency. Datasets (eg. Climate) collected over

extended periods of time will account for seasonal fluctuations and will be

more reliable.

Currency/Update

Data set currency relates to possible changes in the region since data

collection, and any schedule for dataset updates. The time elapsed since

collection affects the validity of the data. Data needs to be as recent as

possible to accommodate the dynamic nature of the factors under

investigation. Currency is less important for more static factors (eg.

Geology).

Agreement/Licensing/Cost Examines potential costs associated with the access & use of data sets.

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REGIONAL AND LOCAL RELEVANCE

It is important that information used at various scales has uniform coverage across the region and is relevant for the purpose. Figure 1.1 represents the hierarchy of scale and relevance for data and information. This compendium has been designed using a flexible and standard framework for collation, hence the datasets and knowledge networks investigated are regionally, nationally and internationally relevant. There are other sources of information that can be used for catchment and local strategies and they may be included during the implementation of the knowledge network.

Figure 1.1 Appropriate scale and information for various management applications.

Population and Housing trendsCommunity Participation (Landcare)

Regional Input and Output, Employment,

Productivity

N

0 500 1000 Kilometers

Australia

National

Planning Level Appropriate Policy Applications

State/Territory

Regional/Catchment

Local (Farmers & Councils)

Vert

ical

Dif

fere

nti

ati

on

SOUTH GIPPSLAND HIGHWAY

South Gippsland

0 5 10 Kilometers

N

0 30 60 Kilometers

West Gippsland

N

0 100 200 Kilometers

N

Victoria

Scale 1:1000,000 - 1:250,000

Scale 1:25,000 - 1:10,000

Scale 1:100,000 - 1:25,000

Scale 1:250,000 - 1:100,000

Social:

Economic:

Biophysical:

Management

Social:

Economic:

Biophysical:

Management:

Social:

Economic:

Biophysical:

Management

Population and Housing

Employment, Productivity

Land Use, Ecological Impacts (+ & -)

Commonwealth

National Industry Peak Body

Population and Housing

Regional Input and Output,

Employment, Productivity

Vegetation, Pest ManagementLand Use, Ecological Impacts (+ & -)

State Government

State Divisions of Peak Body

Population and Housing trendsCommunity Participation (Landcare)

Regional Input and Output, Employment,

Productivity

Vegetation, Sediment transport, LandUse & Suitability, Impacts (+ & -), Pests,Ecological Veg. Classes, Water andNutrient Management, Erosion Risk,

State, Catchment ManagementAuthorities, Regional Local GovernmentNetworks & Industry

Social:

Economic:

Biophysical:

Management

Vegetation, Sediment transport, LandUse & Suitability, Impacts (+ & -), Pests,Ecological Veg. Classes, Water andNutrient Management, Erosion Risk,

Catchment Management Authorities,Local Government Networks, Landcare

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DATA SOURCES, MODEL OUTPUTS AND INFORMATION

When considering different types of regional and catchment information it is important to understand the differences between primary and secondary data sources, outputs of modeling processes and information products. Figure 1.2 represents the relationship between each of those elements, their appropriate uses and limitations. While each of them can be a useful tool for gaining an understanding of a range of natural resource management issues, the three groups have varying advantages and limitations for application to the each part of the planning cycle. The following definitions are used in the technical summaries to indicate appropriate use.

Primary Data Sources

A primary data source is typically a set of quantified or qualified interpretations of an attribute or as set of attributes in a system. They are often used to supply inputs to models and as monitoring and evaluation sets. These sources range in type and collection method. They include attributes as different as soil pH measured from samples taken at designated soils pits and age of farmers taken from agricultural statistics. They are properly collected and collated using a strict rule system to ensure that each measurement is the best possible representation of the system being studied. A strict regime is adhered to so that minimal errors are introduced the vital first stage of interpreting a system. A collection regime for primary data sources usually includes a uniform, repeatable and well-defined process. It is important to have a quantifiable understanding of the confidence limits of primary data sets.

Secondary Data Sources

These are usually a set of reconfigured primary measurements. They may include the development of important ranges of pH for plant growth requirements or a classification of ecological vegetation groups into conservation status categories. These are often used for monitoring and evaluation. They are developed based on a set of rules. A strict rule set means that the errors or limitations to these sources are confined mainly to those of their primary data source. However, the theory of averages shows that very different outcomes can be obtained from the same primary source whether the mean, median or mode is chosen to represent groups of raw data. It is important that all aspects of the development of secondary data sources are documented and maintained with the data set.

Modelling Outputs

A model is usually a way of extending the value or usefulness of primary and secondary sources for a better understanding of the system. Models are most often based on primary and secondary sources but not always. The spatial simulation of depth to groundwater is a modeling output based on interpolating a number of fixed-site bore measurements. The advantage of this modeling method is that less bores need to be sunk and costs can be minimised, while still allowing for an understanding of the height of the water table in places where there is no bore. Models have limitations and the outputs should be provided with a quantified estimate of error. Confidence limits in modeling outputs result from the primary data sets, the compounding effect of integrating data sources and from the extent to which the model represents the real world. Quantifying error in models can be a difficult process, often more difficult that developing the model itself.

Information Products

In this case, an information product refers to the most heavily interpreted and interrelated understanding of a system. These are often used to inform strategic planning and policy development and examples include: maps of Local Government areas divided into policy zones based on like characteristics with primary, secondary and modeled outputs overlaid to indicate key issues.

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summaries for policy-makers on global climate change with tables of 20 year temparature predictions and lists of likely effects on agricultural production and water availability. At this level, confidence limits are often given only summary treatment. Maps usually have a disclaimer indicating appropriate, recommending precautions against extending the use beyond that. Reports may cite figures and refer to technical papers that allow for further investigation. In all cases, knowledge of the date of publication, the purpose, the context and the creator of the information product is as important as the information product itself. Rarely can these products be used to inform processes other than that for which they were created.

Figure 1.2. Data, modelling outputs and information products - uses and limitations.

Real World:

Complex interrelated/interdependent systems

Information

Products

Modeling Outputs

Secondary Data Sources

Primary Data Sources

•Reports

•Maps

•Spatial simulations

•Predictions

•Summary Tables

•Reclassified Data

•Sample Results

•Survey Results

•Sit e Monitoring

•Quantified/Qualified

•Repeatable

•Transferable

•Minimal Errors

•Based on Primary Data

•Repeatable

•Statistical Errors

•Broad Application

•Integration

•Complex

•Compounded Errors

•Dedicated Application

•Strategic/Policy Development

•Highly Subjective

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DATA CATEGORIES AND PURPOSE

This compendium is designed to inform and build efficiencies into the natural resources assessment (of assets & threats), modelling and monitoring processes in the planning and implementation cycle. The data categories investigated have been developed following the Gippsland Model and in consultation with the Corangamite CMA Board. The following data and information categories have been investigated to date:

Data Category Category Purpose

Inland Waters:

Index of Stream Condition Monitoring

Water Availability and Allocation Planning & Implementation

Wetlands Asset

Vegetation and Biodiversity:

Native Vegetation - threatened plant species Threat

Native Vegetation - sites of botanical significance Asset

Pest plants and animals Threat

Climate

Rainfall and temperature Asset

Land Condition:

Land Systems, Landscape and Soils information Asset

Salinity Threat

Regional Economy and Human Populations:

Primary Production Asset

Crown Frontages Asset

Planning Schemes Planning & Implementaion

Land Use Monitoring

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A WIDE RANGE OF INFORMATION AND DATASETS ARE AVAILABLE

A number of region-wide datasets can be used in the further development and review of the Corangamite Regional Catchment Strategy (RCS). These can inform the RCS process by providing a spatial representation of the condition of the natural resources and the pressures facing them. These can be used in the form of overlays and/or as complementary graphical and textual information.

GAPS IN INFORMATION

There is a number of key catchment management datasets, modelling outputs and information sources that are not available for the whole of the Corangamite CMA Region. Land Resource Assessment (LRA) - In the rural areas of the region, pressure for urban development and subdivision is high. Land suitability mapping and LRA (Sposito and et al, 1999) is a useful determining tool for urban growth. The maintenance of good quality, highly versatile agricultural land is important to the sustainable development of the region and to Victoria as a whole. Soils Information - A number of soil characteristics, at a strategic scale (1:100,000) and in targeted local areas, is needed to ascertain agricultural suitability and land capability in general. At present, there is a patchy mosaic of soils information in the rural zones. In developing an RCS, and even for the preparation of individual Municipal Strategic Statements (MSS) for urban-growth areas, digitised maps of soil attributes (eg. pH, texture and soil depth) are required as inputs to the latest modelling of suitability/capability and LRA. Currently there is only Land Systems mapping available at 1:250,000 for the whole region. Erosion - High levels of sediment transport can cause a number of off-site impacts to streams, lake and marine environments. Mapping of current erosion and inherent risk is important for defining the development of activities likely to adversely impact the integrity of the soil. Tools for mapping risk have been developed by CSIRO and Agriculture Victoria - DNRE and are applicable to the region depending on the availability of good quality inputs such as soil structure, digital elevation modelling (DEM), rainfall intensity and vegetation cover. Land Use Mapping - land use mapping is used extensively as input for assessing the current management of the natural resources. The Corangamite CMA Region will be mapped by DNRE - AV by early 2003 at 1:25,000 – intensive areas and 1:100,000 – broadacre areas Land Resource Assessment - multi-criteria modelling that defines areas of high value agricultural land based on soils, climate and topographic information. The base outputs are then integrated with environmental aspects. These datasets would be extremely useful for developing strategies in urban/rural zones at the outer edges of Corangamite CMA Region. Climate Modelling - Local climate and microclimate information is based on an enhanced interpolation (ANUCLIM) of meteorological station data. It is useful as an input to LRA modelling and climate change prediction modelling.

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Climate Change prediction modelling - Increasingly the Greenhouse Effect will be included in regional strategic planning. The impacts of long-term rainfall temperature variation need to be understood in planning for 20 - 50 year time horizons. The Greenhouse Policy Unit of DNRE is currently developing the Victorian Greenhouse Strategy.

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DATA SETS

The Regional Catchment Strategy outlines the process of assessing the reigons assets, identifying threats, employing management strategies, and developing frameworks for the monitoring and reporting of progress. This section outlines key data sets used in the Corangamite CMA Region. It is divided into categories which include: Inland Water, Land Vegetation and Biodiversity, Climate, Land Condition, Regional Economy and Human Populations. Within these broader categories, the data sets have been assigned a category status based on their primary role as a data-set of ‘asset management’, ‘threats management’, ‘strategy implementation’ or a ‘monitoring progress’ data-set. ASSET MANAGEMENT The RCS indicates assets in terms of environmental, social or economic values. Environmental assets include marine and coastal environments, rivers and streams, groundwater systems, atmosphere, vegetation and flora, fauna and soil. Social assets include heritage values, recreational venues, visual landscape, and the community itself. Finally, economic assets are in the form of water, land, and infrastructure. Data-sets in this category status group include: Wetlands, Native Vegetation, Sites of Botanical Significance, Climate, Land systems and landscape, Primary Production, Crown Frontages, Land Suitability and Land Capability. THREATS MANAGEMENT The region’s natural and environmental assets are exposed to a large amount of threats, with implications for it future prosperity and community well-being. The RCS categorises these in terms of bio-physical threats, and also those imposed by society. Generally threats are interactive with one relating to another, however this compendium does not attempt to represent these complex systems in anything other than in their broader sections of Inland Water, Vegetation and Biodiversity, Climate, Land Condition, Regional Economy and Human Populations. Data-sets included in this section are: Native vegetation – Threatened Plant Species, Pest Plants and Animals, Erosion and Salinity. STRATEGY IMPLEMENTATION In accordance with the RCS, the data-sets which relate to strategic planning implementation, (employed to manage threats to assets) are included in this category status. Specific data-sets included are: Water Availability and Water Allocation, and Planning Schemes. MONITORING OF PROGRESS These data-sets and include the measurement indicators, evaluation and reporting of progress for identified threatened and remediated assets. Data-sets included in this section are: Index of Stream Quality, and Land Use.

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1. INLAND WATERS

“Australia is the driest of all the world’s inhabited continents. It has the lowest percentage of

rainfall as run-off, the lowest amount of run-off, the least amount of water in rivers and the

smallest area of permanent wetlands” (SEAC, 1996). The pressures affecting inland waters can be classified as intentional changes from direct human modifications or unintentional changes that have been indirectly caused by human actions (SEAC 1996). Priority issues related to Australia’s inland waters primarily stem from “the environmental consequences of post-war development” (SEAC 1996). Such consequences include wetland reduction, changes to natural hydrology regimes, over-abstraction of groundwater and the over-allocation of water resources. One of the most serious and widespread problems associated with existing water use practices in Australia is dryland salinity, which results from the removal of native vegetation for agriculture, affecting productivity and increasing the salt concentration of local waterways. High nutrient run-off from has been recognised as a problem for local streams and lakes, as such nutrient inputs can lead to increased eutrophication and algal blooms.

INLAND WATERS DATA CATEGORIES

Five categories contain data sets relating to the inland waters of the Corangamite CMA Region. These are specified in Table 2 below, together with the issues each addresses and a brief description.

TABLE 2 Inland waters data sets

Name of data category Status of Category Data sets included Brief description

Index of Stream Quality Monitoring Index of stream

quality

Provides a holistic approach to the assessment

of river and stream health, measuring changes in

stream condition over time.

Water Availability and

Allocation Strategic Use

Groundwater/

Surface water

availability, use,

sustainable yield,

maximum yield

Uses core DNRE volumetric assessments and a

categorisation of 4 stages or levels of

development. Provides a measure of the water

use and sustainability of the catchment .

Wetlands Asset

Management

Wetlands Wetlands, environment and extent

Shows the extent and type of wetlands in Victoria

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MONITORING DATA CATEGORY INDEX OF STREAM CONDITION (ISC)

WHAT DATA SETS DOES THIS CATEGORY INCLUDE? Index of Stream Condition (ISC) Format: Table of Reach information Scale: Reach by reach WHAT DO THESE DATA SETS SHOW? The ISC is designed to assess the status of rural streams in Victoria, with data collected for groups of ecologically similar stream reaches within a particular waterway. For each group of stream reaches, the ISC summarises human-induced changes over time for the following: Hydrology – Amended annual proportional flow deviation, daily flow variation due to change of catchment permeability and daily flow variation due to peaking hydro-electricity stations. Physical form – Bank and bed stability, impact of artificial barriers on fish migration and in-stream physical habitat. Streamside zone – Width of streamside zone, longitudinal continuity, structural intactness, exotic vegetation cover, regeneration of indigenous woody vegetation and billabong condition. Water quality – Total phosphorus, turbidity, electrical conductivity and alkalinity/acidity. Aquatic life - SIGNAL (Stream Invertebrate Grade Number – Average Level) and AUSRIVAS (Australian River Assessment System). It is recommended that the scores for particular groups of stream reaches are not to be aggregated and each group considered on a case-by-case basis.

WHY USE THEM? The ISC is an important assessment tool that allows the user to benchmark the condition of rural Victorian streams, assess the long term effectiveness of programs to maintain and rehabilitate streams and to set priorities on target resources, in this case freshwater. COVERAGE Spatial coverage: Victoria Temporal coverage: 1999 only LIMITATIONS OF THE DATA The ISC is designed to detect long-term changes in environmental condition for homogenous rural stream reaches. As with any indicator, but particularly when dealing with complicated indices, misinterpretation may result from insufficient understanding. LOCATION OF THE DATA The custodian of the data is DNRE. (http://www.vicwaterdata.net/) KEY CONTACTS Stuart Minchin Team Leader Groundwater, Water Resource Management, Dept. Natural Resources & Environment, 240 – 250 Victoria Parade, East Melbourne Phone: (03) 9412 4051 Mobile: 0418 203 500

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STRATEGIC USE DATA CATEGORY WATER AVAILABILITY & ALLOCATION

WHAT DATA SETS DOES THIS CATEGORY INCLUDE?

Water availability - Characterisation, Categorisation, Allocation and Use (NLWRA). Format: Grid. Scale: 1:5,000,000 - Surface Water Management Areas and Subcatchment. WHAT DO THE DATA SETS SHOW

Assesses the current status of the water resources in terms of its availability, use, allocation, and management regime. The data set is seperated into two parts: Surface Water and Groundwater. The NLWRA data set contains an analysis of surface water availability and use for Australian Water Resource Council (AWRC) basins across Australia. In some cases the AWRC basins have been further divided into Surface Water Management Areas (SWMAs). WHY USE THEM?

The NLWRA data set enables the user to determine the location and spatial extent of water resources, volume and quality of available

water, the allocation of available water, and the sustainable yield of water for an area. COVERAGE

Spatial coverage: Australia. Temporal coverage: The data is complete for the NLWRA base year 1996/97. LIMITATIONS OF DATA SETS

The data set may require further development to capture sub-catchment variability. LOCATION OF THE DATA SETS

SKM and DNRE developed the data under the auspices of the NLWRA. The custodian of the data set is the NLWRA (http:/www.nlwra.gov.au). KEY CONTACTS

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ASSET MANAGEMENT DATA CATEGORY WETLANDS

WHAT DATA SETS DOES THIS CATEGORY INCLUDE? Wetlands (WETLAND500) Format: Arc/Info Scale: 1:100 000 Wetlands, environment and extent (WETLAND 1994) Format: Arc/Info Scale: 1:25 000 WHAT DO THE DATA SETS SHOW? WETLAND 1994 is based upon aerial photographs and shows the extent and type of wetlands in Victoria using polygons. WETLAND500 shows wetland centroids with points. WHY USE THEM? To determine location and extent of wetlands within the PPWR. This data is also useful to determine whether wetland extent is decreasing, ecosystem health, underlying hydrology issues. Highlight areas of concern, use to direct Landcare and community group activities, to be incorporated into local, regional and national action plans. COVERAGE Spatial coverage: All wetlands greater than one hectare; national, state-wide??? Temporal coverage: WETLAND500 – unknown WETLAND 1994 – 01/01/65 – 01/01/92

LIMITATIONS OF THE DATA SETS Wetland data is primarily based upon 1970s and 1980s arial photos. Most recent from 1992 or dates unknown. Not up to date, no current data available on which to base action and management plans. Only wetlands greater than one hectare included LOCATION OF THE DATA SETS The custodian of both data sets is DNRE (Parks, Flora and Fauna Division). Other locations: DNRE, Data Manager, East Melbourne KEY CONTACTS Data Manager Dept. Natural Resources & Environment, PO Box 500, East Melbourne, 3002. Phone: (03) 9269 4521 E-mail: [email protected]

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2. VEGETATION AND BIODIVERSITY

"Australia is a dry continent with infertile soils and high climatic variability. These factors themselves do not put pressure on our land resource,

but human activities that fail to take them into account do." State of the Environment Advisory Council, 1996, p6-5

Land resources comprise terrestrial resources above mean sea level, and include landforms - such as plateaux, mountains, peninsulas, basins - soils and weathered rock, vegetation cover, and faunal biomass (Hamblin, 1998, P.10)Land resources are used for various activities and the different people often utilise the same resource for different purposes. The pressures on land resources are diverse, and the extent to which those pressures affect the quality of land resources varies with management practices. General pressures on the land include human settlement, vegetation clearing, overgrazing, changes in water availability or quality, and generation of pollution and waste. Such problems are evident as, for instance, erosion, changes in soil fertility and water chemistry and loss of biodiversity. There is a growing acceptance within Australian society that the wise use of the land requires more than maximising economic returns. As noted in Australia - State of the Environment, "acceptance of the land ethic - that is, our individual and collective responsibility for the stewardship of our land - is widespread in the Australian community" (SEAC, 1996, p6-4).

TABLE. Land, vegetation & biodiversity data categories

Data category Status of

Category

Data sets included Brief description

Native Vegetation -

Sites of botanical

significance

Asset Management

Sites of botanical significance

Identifies sites of botanical significance within Victoria.

Native vegetation –

threatened plant

species,

Threat Threatened plant species

Identifies the location of rare and threatened plant species

Pest plants and

animals

Threat Spread of pest plants & animals

The rate of change in the distribution and abundance of introduced species, including pathogens, weeds and feral animals, declared as a pest in each catchment region.

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ASSET MANAGEMENT DATA CATEGORY NATIVE VEGETATION – SITES OF BOTANICAL SIGNIFICANCE

WHAT DATA SETS DOES THIS CATEGORY INCLUDE? Sites of botanical significance (BOT100_P) Format: Shapefile Scale: 1:100 000 WHAT DO THE DATA SETS SHOW? BOT_100P identifies botanically significant sites. WHY USE THEM? These criteria include the numbers of individuals and populations, previous or projected declines in numbers or habitat, extent of occurrence, area of occupancy and extreme fluctuations in numbers or habitat. COVERAGE Spatial coverage Sites of botanical significance: Victoria

Temporal coverage: Sites of botanical significance: 01/02/1996 - current LIMITATIONS OF DATA SETS LOCATION OF DATA SETS The custodian the data set is DNRE (Parks, Flora and Fauna Division). Other locations: DNRE, Data Manager, East Melbourne KEY CONTACT: Data Manager Dept. Natural Resources & Environment, PO Box 500, East Melbourne, 3002. Phone: (03) 9269 4521 E-mail: [email protected]

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THREATS DATA CATEGORY NATIVE VEGETATION – THREATENED PLANT SPECIES

WHAT DATA SETS DOES THIS CATEGORY INCLUDE? Threatened plant species (THFLOR500) Format: Acr/Info Scale: 1:25 000 - 1:100 000 WHAT DO THE DATA SETS SHOW? THFLOR500 identifies rare or threatened plant species across Victoria, within a 1km grid. WHY USE THEM? To determine the status and spatial distribution of threatened plant species. To maintain a list of threatened plants in Victoria. Threatened is a general term used for species whose survival is at risk, as defined by criteria set out in the IUCN Red List Categories. These criteria include the numbers of individuals and populations, previous or projected declines in numbers or habitat, extent of occurrence, area of occupancy and extreme fluctuations in numbers or habitat. COVERAGE Spatial coverage Threatened plant species: Victoria Temporal coverage: Threatened plant species: 01/01/1974 - current

LIMITATIONS OF DATA SETS The datasets have been compiled from data used in 1996 and are not necessarily representative of the present distribution of threatened species. LOCATION OF DATA SETS The custodian of the data set is DNRE (Parks, Flora and Fauna Division). Other locations: DNRE, Data Manager, East Melbourne KEY CONTACT: Data Manager Dept. Natural Resources & Environment, PO Box 500, East Melbourne, 3002. Phone: (03) 9269 4521 E-mail: [email protected]

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THREATS DATA CATEGORY PEST PLANTS AND ANIMALS

WHAT DATA SETS DOES THIS CATEGORY INCLUDE? Pest infestation sites (PMIS100) Format: Shapefile (point) Scale: 1:25 000 – 1:100 000 WHAT DO THE DATA SETS SHOW? Pest infestation sites. Several primary datasets depict the distribution and abundance of pest plants and animals. The first shows the distribution of those pest plants declared as State or Regionally Prohibited as declared under the Victorian Catchment

and Land Protection Act, 1994. The second set shows Regionally

Controlled weeds and the third details other pest plants not specifically listed under the Act. The range of classification levels under the Act reflects the severity of the pest per se and the specific situation with respect to the pest across the State or region. The final datasets depicts pest animal abundance, which is comprised mostly of foxes and rabbits. These datasets can be thought of as a snapshot of current pest plant and animal abundances. WHY USE THEM? Weeds affect the productive capacity of agricultural land and also compete with native vegetation for light and water. Leaving the ground bare increases the risk of erosion, altering downstream water quality and near-stream habitats. Weeds are generally difficult to remove, may be poisonous to animals, and pose a fire hazard because of their dense canopies. Pest animals, particularly foxes, pose a direct threat to many species of native wildlife. Rabbits graze closely, contributing to the exposure of ground to erosion and weakening perennial grasses, while burrowing affects revegetation and also increases soil erosion. Reduction in native

vegetation by rabbits and other pest animals can seriously disadvantage native fauna. COVERAGE Spatial coverage: Victoria Temporal coverage: Current LIMITATIONS OF THE DATA Focus is on a limited number of weed species. There is no guarantee that all pest plant and animals have been captured on the system. Furthermore, the Pest Management Information System (PMIS) is constructed from many individual reports - originating from DNRE officials local organisations and interest groups, and the public - of pest infestations. Given the wide range of sources, from which raw data has been obtained, there are valid concerns regarding data reliability. Since plants grow differently throughout the year, maps depicting infestations within a particular month may not adequately demonstrate the full extent of a pest plant infestation. LOCATION OF THE DATA SETS The custodian of is DNRE (Catchment Management and Sustainable Agriculture). Other locations: DNRE, Data Manager, Ross Williamson, East Melbourne The PMIS is accessible by all DNRE staff to assist with pest management programs. The PMIS is managed by the Keith Turnbull Research Institute (KTRI) in Frankston, part of AV - DNRE.

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3. CLIMATE

"Australia is a dry continent with infertile soils and high climatic variability. These factors themselves do not put pressure on our land resource,

but human activities that fail to take them into account do." State of the Environment Advisory Council, 1996, p6-5

Climate is a crucial factor affecting most aspects of biophysical systems relating to catchment management. It is important to understand many elements of climate for assessing the environment and the state and potential of the natural resources These elements include rainfall, temperature, solar radiation and humidity. In many cases the availability of climate information is limited to point measurements. This requires a spatial modelling exercise to be completed before an overlay can be created and other modelling can take place. The need for this modelling means that the detail of climate information is limited. Micro and local climate information is not often very well understood.

CLIMATE CHANGE ON THE AGENDA

The Inter-Governmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) was established in 1988 by the World Meteorological Organisation and the United Nations Environment Program as the body responsible for providing the international community with authoritative advice on scientific, technical and economic issues relating to climate change. In 1995, the IPCC released its Second Assessment Report, which concluded that, the ‘balance of evidence suggests a discernible human influence on global climate’. These conclusions were strengthened in the IPCC’s Third Assessment Report which stated that there is new evidence that most of the warming that has occurred over the last 50 years is attributable to human activities. Victoria is now responding to these findings with the Victorian Greenhouse Strategy. The climate prediction models should be included in long term strategic planning in Corangamite CMA Region.

TABLE Climate Categories

Name of Data

Category

Status of

Category Data Sets Included Brief Description

Climate Asset Rainfall Temperature

Shows annual and monthly averages for temperature and rainfall in Victoria, giving an estimate of long-term climate trends.

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ASSETS DATA CATEGORY CLIMATE

WHAT DATA SETS DOES THIS CATEGORY INCLUDE? Mean monthly rainfall (RAIN (month)) Format: ASCII ArcInfo Grid Scale: ~1:100 000 Mean annual rainfall (RAIN ANN) Format: ASCII ArcInfo Grid Scale: ~1:100 000 Mean monthly/daily maximum temperature (MAXT (month)) Format: ASCII ArcInfo Grid Scale: 1:100 000 Mean monthly/daily minimum temperature (MINT (month)) Format: ASCII ArcInfo Grid Scale: 1:100 000 Mean annual temperature (TEMP ANN) Format: ASCII ArcInfo Grid Scale: 1:100 000 WHAT DO THE DATA SETS SHOW? These data sets show rainfall and temperature data, collected over a 30 year period, in a spatial context in Victoria. All data sets show estimated long-term climate trends, interpolated to a 500m grid using the DEM250 layer and ESOCLIM software. WHY USE THEM? To determine appropriate land use for climatic ranges and to detect climate changes at a local, regional, national and international levels. To relate changes in other variables to climatic data. And to predict future climatic trends to aid in planning of land use and prediction of demographic trends.

COVERAGE Spatial coverage: All data sets, Victoria Temporal coverage: All data sets, 1961-1990 LIMITATIONS OF THE DATA Purchase of this data is costly ($250 for a set of 13 coverages). Commonwealth copyright laws require purchasers to acknowledge the data’s source. Data updated only every 10 years cannot detect short-term trends. Only 40 years of data, most recent results available 1990, 2000 results under compilation. Cannot detect infrequent events. LOCATION OF THE DATA Custodian of all data sets is the Bureau of Meteorology. Other locations: National Climate Centre at the Bureau of Meteorology. KEY CONTACT Mary Voice National Climate Centre, Bureau of Meteorology PO Box 1289k, Melbourne, 3001. Phone: (03) 9669 4086 E-mail: [email protected]

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4. LAND CONDITION

The rate and occurrence of salinity and soil erosion is influenced by many factors including climate, topography, soil characteristics, vegetation clearing, and land management. Consideration of these factors in conjunction with land systems and geological information is required to identify risk areas and plan for management actions, such as the installation of Landcare programs. The data categories in this section address these areas through provision of specific data sets.

LOCAL PRIORITY ISSUES

SALINITY Salt in soils is derived from past cycles of geological weathering and is accumulated in oceans, lakes and groundwater. This can be delivered to the soil as part of soil formation, weathering, atmospheric deposition and changes in hydrological processes. In Australia, high evaporation rates and high variability in rainfall over very long periods has built up dissolved salt loads in the groundwater. Also, as groundwater rises, it dissolves and mobilises salts in the soil. In conjunction with the natural processes that cause salinisation in low-lying discharge areas, deforestation and the removal of deep-rooted vegetation has contributed to the rising of water tables and the increase in salt loads of topsoils. SOIL EROSION Soil erosion is a natural geological process that occurs without human intervention. However, disturbance of the land through human activity may accelerate soil erosion, especially where these activities remove the vegetation cover from the soil. Native vegetation forms a protective layer for the soils, when this is removed soils become exposed and are at risk to water and wind erosion. There are several types of accelerated erosion including: sheet; rill; gully; tunnel; streambank; and wind.

TABLE - Data Sets used for Land Condition

Name of Data

Category

Status of

Category Data Sets Included Brief Description

4.1 Land

Systems &

Landscape

Asset Management

Surface Geology Land Systems

Physical characteristics of the land useful determining potential and limitations of systems.

4.2 Salinity Threat

Dryland Salinity Discharge sites Salinity Regions Groundwater Bore data Potential Recharge Areas

A range of primary data sources that provide a sense of where land is most affected by Salinity.

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ASSETS DATA CATEGORY LAND SYSTEMS AND LANDSCAPE

WHAT DATA SETS DOES THIS CATEGORY INCLUDE? Digital elevation model (Vicmap DEM) Format: ASCII, Arc/Info Grid Scale: 1:25 000 Surface geology formation mapping (GEOL250) Format: Arc/Info Scale: 1:250 000 Land systems of Victoria (LSYS250) Format: Arc/Info, MapInfo Scale: 1:250 000 WHAT DO THESE DATA SETS SHOW? Surface geology formation, land systems of Victoria, digital elevation models (DEM) COVERAGE Spatial coverage: All data sets, Victoria Temporal coverage: Digital elevation model – unknown Surface geology formation mapping – 01/01/1995 – 31/12/1995 Land systems of Victoria – 01/01/1950 – current WHY USE THEM? These data sets are useful to determine terrain, topology, topography, special variation according to geomorphology, lithology, land form and climate. They can also be used to determine land use, potential productivity and areas for rehabilitation.

LIMITATIONS OF DATA SETS Surface geology formation mapping was last conducted in 1995. More detailed mapping and interpretation is required. Data reliability is variable, due to its development from a range of studies using different methodologies and scales. The DEM is still under development and is an ongoing, long-term project. Explanatory variables may not entirely account for variation in data. Interpretation of data may be biased. LOCATION OF DATA SETS The custodian of Vicmap DEM is the Land Information Group, DNRE, Victoria. Other locations: www.giconnections.vic.gov.au/vicmap_elevation_11.pdf The custodian of GEOL250 is Energy and Minerals, Victoria, Natural Resource Systems. Other locations: DNRE, Data Manager, East Melbourne The custodian of LSYS250 is the Land Catchment and Appraisal Unit. Other locations: DNRE, Data Manager, East Melbourne KEY CONTACTS DEM Data Manager, Land Information Group, Land Victoria, Dept. Natural Resources & Environment, PO Box 500, East Melbourne, 3002. Phone: (03) 9269 4531 E-mail: [email protected] Surface Geology, Land systems

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Data Manager Dept. Natural Resources & Environment, PO Box 500, East Melbourne, 3002. Phone: (03) 9269 4521 E-mail: [email protected]

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THREATS DATA CATEGORY SALINITY

WHAT DATA SETS DOES THIS CATEGORY INCLUDE? Dryland Salinity Discharge Sites (areas) (DISCH25_AREA) Format: Arc/Info Scale: 1:25 000 Salinity Regions (SALREG500) Format: Arc/Info Scale: 1:500 000 Groundwater Bores Database (BORES100) Format: Arc/Info Scale: 1:100 000 Dryland Salinity Risk - 2020, 2050 Potential Recharge Areas (RECHARGE25) Format: Shapefile (polygons) Scale: 1:25 000 WHAT DO THE DATA SETS SHOW? DISCH25_AREA shows the extent of dryland salt-affected soil throughout Victoria and gives a dryland salinity rating for each of 3000 sites. SALREG500 uses polygons to show boundaries of salinity-affected regions. BORES100 gives the location of groundwater bores and associated information. Dryland Salinity Risk are modelled outputs predicting depth to water table in 1996-97, 2020 an 2050. RECGARGE25 identifies areas of very high to low recharge potential. WHY USE THEM? These data sets can be used to determine current and future salinity risk in Victoria and the impact of shallow water tables and dryland salinity on agricultural production, infrastructure, the natural

environment and water resources. Water table movement can be estimated, which aids in prediction of salinity risk and prediction of environmental impacts. Other data that is useful when predicting the impact of salinity includes: agricultural land use gross margins for agricultural production physical infrastructure distribution of threatened flora and fauna natural wetland habitat water quality. Salinity problems arise when the amount of water recharging groundwater causes the watertable to rise. Salts in the unsaturated soil zone redissolve as the watertable encroaches on the soil profile, affecting soil productivity. High salt levels can be toxic to vegetation, decreasing productivity and eventually causing vegetation dieback. Furthermore, subsequent recharge events can return salts to the water table, affecting groundwater discharge regions, such as wetlands and streams. The removal of native vegetation has contributed to salinity problems, especially dryland salinisation, which results from vegetation changes from deep-rooted perennials to shallower-rooted annuals which take up less water. COVERAGE Spatial coverage DISCH25_AREA and RECHARGE25: partial coverage SALREG500 and BORES100: Victoria Temporal coverage DISCH25_AREA: 01/01/1975 - current

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RECHARGE25: unknown SALREG500: unknown BORES100: 01/01/1995 - current LIMITATIONS OF THE DATA Bore data was collected from 3000 bores spread unevenly across the state. Some data may contain inaccuracies or misrepresentations due to date, lack of access for field checking and few bores. Generally, significant areas without bores are assigned water table levels of >10m, which may result in inaccurate predictions of salinity. Efforts to map salinity discharges have concentrated on known problem areas, potentially neglecting areas with high salinity risk in the future. Also, in large areas of contiguous forest, it was presumed that salinisation would not occur. Underlying assumptions are numerous and should be considered carefully. Scale is such that smaller topographical variations are not detectable. Dryland Salinity Risk is a modelled output with little consideration for the salt content of the groundwater and it does not include irrigation areas. LOCATION OF THE DATA Dryland Salinity Risk was developed by SKM and is held at www.nlwra.gov.au The custodian of DISCH25_AREA is Catchment and Water. Other locations: DNRE, Data Manager, East Melbourne The custodian of SALREG500 is Catchment and Water. Other locations: DNRE, Data Manager, East Melbourne The custodian of BORES100 is Catchment and Water. Other locations: Sinclair Knight Merz . The custodian of RECHARGE25 is Catchment and Water. Other locations: DNRE, Data Manager, East Melbourne

KEY CONTACT Data Manager, Dept. Natural Resources & Environment, PO Box 20, Melbourne, 3007. Phone: (03) 9269 4521

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REGIONAL ECONOMY AND HUMAN

POPULATIONS

“The major economic effect on the environment resides simply in the fact of

economic growth and steadily increasing average wealth of the population.

This results in greater usage of resources of all kinds”.

Newton et al. 1998

LOCAL PRIORITY ISSUES

Growth of population is seen as a major indicator of increased human impact on the environment and of growing resource use, whilst the level of poverty can be used to describe the most economically vulnerable groups (Newton et al. 1998). Australia-wide, certain priority issues have been related to the economy and human settlements including:

• the rapid growth and sprawl of suburbs.

• improving livability in an equitable way and reducing resource inputs. Of particular relevance to rural areas are the issues of unsustainable land-use planning and the declining population and economic viability associated with major regional environmental problems (SEAC 1996). Globalisation and other economic processes have also led to a decline in rural industries, and this is predicted to continue in many regional areas. Maintaining and expanding regional infrastructure and services is seen as essential for reversing further rural decline (SEAC 1996). A range of key issues have been identified by different authors for the economy and human settlements within the PPWR including:1

REGIONAL ECONOMY AND HUMAN POPULATION DATA SETS

Data sets have been selected to illustrate the spatial and temporal variations of the issues raised in section. These are listed in Table 6 below, together with the issues each data set addresses and a brief description. The use of the data set as a Pressure (P), State (S) or Response (R) guide is also included.

TABLE Regional economy and human population data sets.

Data set name Status of Category

Datasets Included Brief description

Primary

production Asset

Management Agricultural Census

Primary Data Source offers a range of survey result from 1983

Planning schemes Strategic Use Planning Scheme Zones Planning Scheme Overlays

Council by Council scheme overlays

Crown frontages Asset Public Land Legal Status Public Land Management Status

These datasets locate pubic land and it status.

Land use Asset Exploration Licenses etc Extractive Licences Land Use

A group of datasets that provide an important link between current use and capability.

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ASSET DATA CATEGORY PRIMARY PRODUCTION

WHAT DATA SETS DOES THIS CATEGORY INCLUDE? Agricultural statistics (Agricultural Census) Format: Access Scale: Parish (1982-1997), SLA, SD levels WHAT DO THESE DATA SETS SHOW? Agricultural Census contains a large number of agricultural statistics. WHY USE THEM? This data set can help the user to identify dominant industries in the region, in terms of contribution to overall regional output and/or regional employment generation and/or regional impact on natural resources. Dominant industries significantly influence the capacity of, and opportunity for, farmers and other natural resource managers to implement change which may be needed to introduce new management practices and/or technologies to improve productivity. Industries having a major impact on natural resources can be identified by activity type and production processes employed in the manufacture of products and/or by the geographic extent of their activities. COVERAGE Spatial coverage: Australia wide

Temporal coverage: 1982 – 2001 LIMITATIONS OF DATA SETS Agricultural Census is a large data set and may be hard to manage. Certain statistics are difficult to collect and estimate accurately. The data that is not in fixed parish boundaries is difficult to concord between census years. A corporate license is required to gain access to this data set. LOCATION OF DATA SETS The custodian of Agricultural Census is the Australian Bureau of Statistics. KEY CONTACTS Client Service Officer, Agriculture National Project Centre, Australian Bureau of Statistics, GPO Box 66A, Hobart, TAS 7001. Phone: (03) 1300 135 070 E-mail: [email protected]

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ASSET DATA CATEGORY PLANNING SCHEMES

WHAT DATA SETS DOES THIS CATEGORY INCLUDE? Planning Scheme Zones Format: MapInfo, .JPG Scale: 1:25,000 Planning Scheme Overlays Format: MapInfo, .JPG Scale: 1:25,000 WHAT DO THESE DATA SETS SHOW? Planning Scheme Zones shows current municipal planning schemes for each LGA. Planning Scheme Overlays incorporates land use, agriculture, planning and industry layers into overlays that cover each LGA. WHY USE THEM? To determine which areas are designated as particular planning zones, for land use planning (agriculture, residential, industrial), to determine current municipal planning schemes for LGAs, to identify and predict future areas of concern relating to land use. COVERAGE Spatial

Both data sets: Victoria Temporal Planning Scheme Zones: 01/01/1955 – current Planning Scheme Overlays: 01/01/1995 – current LIMITATIONS OF DATA SETS Updated daily – good! Cost of transfer LOCATION OF DATA SETS The custodian of both data sets is the Department of Infrastructure, Planning, Heritage and Business Systems. Other locations: DoI, Business Systems Unit, Melbourne. KEY CONTACTS Business Systems Unit Department of Infrastructure Level 21, Nauru House, 80 Collins Street, Melbourne, 3000. Phone: (03) 9655 6815 E-mail: [email protected]

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ASSET DATA CATEGORY CROWN FRONTAGES

WHAT DATA SETS DOES THIS CATEGORY INCLUDE? Public land describing current legal status (PLMLS100) Format: Scale: 1:25 000 – 1:100 000 Public land with current management status (PLMMT100) Format: Scale: 1:100 000 WHAT DO THESE DATA SETS SHOW? PLMLS100 describes the current legal status of public land, allowing themes, such as the proposed legal status of the land by government Act. PLMMT100 shows public land with a simplified management status and gives information such as general management categories. WHY USE THEM? To determine future potential land use and allow appropriate action/plans to be taken/made… COVERAGE Spatial coverage Both data sets: Victoria Temporal coverage Both data sets: 01/01/89 – current LIMITATIONS OF DATA SETS Current legal status of public land: data is in the form of complicated overlay, designed for display, rather than analysis purposes, also is incomplete, no plans for update

LOCATION OF DATA SETS The custodian of both data sets is the Land Information Group, Land Victoria. Other locations: PLMMT100: Data Manager, DNRE, East Melbourne. KEY CONTACT Land Information Group

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ASSET DATA CATEGORY LAND USE

WHAT DATA SETS ARE INCLUDED IN THIS CATEGORY? Exploration Licences and Moratorium Periods Victoria (MNEL100) Format: MapInfo/ASCII Scale: 1:100 000 Mining Extractive Leases and Licences Victoria (MINML100) Format: MapInfo Scale: 1:100 000 Agricultural Land Uses (LUSE250) Format: MapInfo/ASCII Scale: 1:250 000 Land Use Mapping in Southern Victoria (complete June 2002) Format: Shape Files Scale: 1:25,000 WHAT DO THE DATA SETS SHOW? NEL100 representing areas that are under investigation for potential mining. MINML100 shows areas that are being actively mined. LUSE250 delineates broad agricultural land uses. WHY USE THEM? These data sets can be used to determine which areas are currently being mined and those that may be mined in the future. This information is useful when making planning decisions, … COVERAGE Spatial coverage All data sets: Victoria Land Use Mapping in Southern Victoria - mixed scales

Temporal coverage MNEL100: 30/09/1980 - current MINML100: 11/10/1956 - current LUSE250: 01/011987 – 01/01/1996 Land Use Mapping in South - due June 2002 LIMITATIONS OF DATA SETS MNEL100 and MINML100 are updated weekly, but LUSE250 is updated irregularly and some areas require refinement. LOCATION OF DATA SETS Custodian of MINEL100 and MINML100 is Mining Titles, Minerals and Petroleum Custodian of LUSE250 is the DNRE. Land Use Mapping - DNRE AV, Bureau of Rural Science

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KNOWLEDGE NETWORKS – PEOPLE AND

ORGANISATIONS

This section focuses on existing knowledge networks in Australia and abroad. The main conjoining element of these networks is that they aim to facilitate the development and exchange of information and knowledge to enhance the sustainability of a region. The usefulness of these knowledge networks is that the Corangamite Knowledge Network can capitalise on the wide ranging experience of similar approaches across Australia and the world.

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KNOWLEDGE NETWORK CATEGORY AVON CATCHMENT – KNOWLEDGE NETWORK

ABOUT THIS KNOWLEDGE NETWORK The Avon Catchment Council has developed a strategy to implement a Knowledge Network in Western Australia. The draft vision of this network is that “All land managers in the Avon River

Basin will have access to the knowledge needed to undertake

sustainable natural resource management” (ACC, 2002). Created in response to the Avon River Basin's community demand for ease of access to information about Natural Resource Management (NRM). WHAT DOES THE INFORMATION SHOW? A regional profile, current information, agribusiness projects, library, events, natural resource information COVERAGE Avon Catchment, Western Australia. LOCATION OF INFORMATION http://www.avonicm.org.au/

KEY CONTACTS The Avon Catchment Network Centre for Cropping Systems Lot 12, York Road Northam Western Australia PO Box 311 Northam WA 6401 Phone 08 9690 2250 Fax 08 9690 2255

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KNOWLEDGE NETWORK CATEGORY HERBERT RIVER CATCHMENT, QLD

ABOUT THIS KNOWLEDGE NETWORK The only similar approach in Australia is in the Herbert River Catchment in Queensland. It is difficult to find an equivalent approach anywhere else in the world. The "Herbert Resources Information Centre" operates as an independent information broker and a geographic information support provider. It operates under the auspices of a Joint Venture Partnership. Joint Venture Partners are committed to a medium/long-term (5 years plus) role in the program. There are six partners comprising the Hinchinbrook Shire Council, CSR Ltd., The Herbert Cane Protection and Productivity Board, CANEGROWERS, the Queensland Department of Natural Resources and CSIRO (CSIRO et al. 1999).

There is an independent chair and a board made up of Joint Venture Partners. Partners to the program provide seed funding for the centre and the data/information which underpins the functionality of the centre. The centre itself has a small professional staff (depending on projects running) and a high level technical capacity that supports Partner project work. It also provides fee-for-service support and data brokerage to a range of non-Partner clients. The centre offers

the possibility for regional training in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and spatial data collection and modeling. Generally, the centre lifts the capacity of the partners and, more generally, the region to develop an integrated understanding of the natural resources in the region. It is considered that a variation of the Herbert River approach would be a very appropriate end point for a Corangamite Information Network and Decision Support System. COVERAGE Herbert river catchment, Queensland. LOCATION OF INFORMATION Excellent information regarding the Herbert River Centre is available at http://www.hric.tag.csiro.au KEY CONTACTS .

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KNOWLEDGE NETWORK CATEGORY BUSHVISION

ABOUT THIS KNOWLEDGE NETWORK A non-profit rural information group ‘Knowledge Share International Television’ with a proposal for a satellite TV station PROJECT AIMS 1) To enhance the quality, content and relevance, of audiovisual communications between the non-metropolitan regions of Australia. 2) To establish and maintain a more accurate, comprehensive and representative historical record of events and issues that concern the non-metropolitan regions of Australia. 3) To protect, restore and enhance the values perspectives and customs that contribute to healthy, prosperous and enduring non-metropolitan communities of Australia. 4) To protect, restore and enhance the unique social, economic and environmental attributes that embody and distinguish our non-metropolitan communities from each other while maintaining and developing our common bonds. 5) To proclaim, promote and pursue the economic, social and environmental interests of Australian, non-metropolitan communities to the national and international community and to enhance their knowledge and understanding of us. 6) To assist community groups (especially disadvantaged groups) in disseminating helpful information to rural and remote Australia. 7) To reduce the disadvantage of lack of performing opportunities for artists residing in non-metropolitan areas.

8) To develop partnerships (joint initiatives) with other parties (groups) who have similar aims and objectives. 9) To reduce the disadvantage of fewer educational opportunities due to distance for rural Australia. COVERAGE Regional Australia LOCATION OF INFORMATION http://landholders.tripod.com/ KEY CONTACTS [email protected]

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SECTION FOUR – ONLINE ACCESS

INFORMATION

On-line information has become increasingly more accessible in today’s global society. Many resources for natural resource management, agriculture, economics, planning and development exist on-line, some of which are specifically useful for the Corangamite CMA. This section includes a brief description, the project coverage, URL locations and key contacts for a variety of examples of these national and international resources. Included in the list are: Australian Natural Resources Atlas and Data Library Catchment Indicators On-line – Catchment Management Council of Victoria. Infarmation The Reference Database on Regional Coastal Values Community Builders On-line Green Planning – Resource Renewal Institute Sustainability Web Ring, Sustainable Development Communications Network Regional Environmental Center for Central and Eastern Europe Mekong Info.

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ON-LINE ACCESS INFORMATION CATEGORY AUSTRALIAN NATURAL RESOURCES ATLAS AND DATA LIBRARY

ABOUT THIS ONLINE RESOURCE Part of the official website of the National Land and Water Resources Audit, the Australian Natural Resources Atlas and Data Library provides regional context with broad scale overview data. WHAT DOES THE INFORMATION SHOW? The site encompasses scientific assessments, reports, publications data sets, defined and agreed reporting links, frameworks, in the form a search engine. The Audit covers seven topics: Agriculture, Coasts, Land People, Range-lands, Vegetation, Bio-diversity, and Water. COVERAGE National LOCATION OF INFORMATION http://audit.ea.gov.au/ANRA/atlas_home.cfm

KEY CONTACTS National Land and Water Resources Audit Address: Level 2, UNISYS Building 91 Northbourne Avenue Turner ACT 2612 AUSTRALIA Postal Address: GPO Box 2182 Canberra ACT 2601 AUSTRALIA Telephone: +61 2 6257 9516 Email: [email protected] Facsimile: +61 2 6257 9518 WebSite: http://www.nlwra.gov.au

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ON-LINE ACCESS INFORMATION CATEGORY CATCHMENT INDICATORS ONLINE –CATCHMENT MANAGEMENT COUNCIL OF VICTORIA

ABOUT THIS ONLINE RESOURCE Catchment Indicators Online provides current information about the management and changing condition of Victoria’s land and Water Resources. Features ongoing monitoring and timetabled expert commentary. WHAT DOES THE INFORMATION SHOW? Information in the form of a search engine for various environmental indicators including: LAND, acidification, wind and water erosion, soil structure decline, groundwater recharge; WATERWAYS; index of stream condition, stream pH, stream turbidity, stream EC, stream phosphorus, and nitrogen; MANAGING WATER, Compliance with bulk water entitlements, environmental flows, environmental water consumption, irrigation induced drainage flows, irrigation area requiring drainage; BIODIVERSITY, Conservation of Native Vegetation Types, Conservation of Native Species; SOCIO-ECONOMIC SETTING, agricultural use of the landscape, agriculture in the regional workforce, farm family income, gross value of production, net farm worth.

COVERAGE Victoria. LOCATION OF INFORMATION http://www.nre.vic.gov.au/ins-clpr/vcio/ KEY CONTACTS For general information about NRE please contact: NRE Customer Service Centre Phone: 136 186 Email: [email protected]

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ON-LINE ACCESS INFORMATION CATEGORY THE REFERENCE DATABASE ON REGIONAL COASTAL VALUES

ABOUT THIS ONLINE RESOURCE The Reference Database on Regional Coastal Values is an on-line compilation of the references within the Western Coastal Board’s reference Database. Expected to be online late 2002.

COVERAGE Western Coastal Region – Victoria Australia LOCATION OF INFORMATION http://www.westerncoastalboard.vic.gov.au/

KEY CONTACTS Fiona Chandler, Executive Officer Ph: 03 5562 7843; Email: [email protected]

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ON-LINE ACCESS INFORMATION CATEGORY INFARMATION

ABOUT THIS ONLINE RESOURCE Information service for the agribusiness industry. This free Internet based service delivers localised weather updates, current commodity prices, stories on farm production and other rural issues, as well as an Australia wide rural events calender. WHAT DOES THE INFORMATION SHOW? This website has a range of useful information for rural communities. It offers a range of networking tools such as a chat channel and a bulletin board available to all communities. COVERAGE Australia

LOCATION OF INFORMATION www.infarmation.com.au KEY CONTACTS Aine Kenny infarmation.com.au PO Box R145 Royal Exchange NSW 1225 Phone 02 9247 6788 Fax 02 9247 6799 Email [email protected]

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ON-LINE ACCESS INFORMATION CATEGORY COMMUNITY BUILDERS ONLINE

ABOUT THIS ONLINE RESOURCE Community builders online – NSW government site that provides a range of tools for people interested in building communities.. WHAT DOES THE INFORMATION SHOW? Information on community building, case studies, discussion forums, information on drugs and community action, events calender, links to other similar sites, funding facts, government information, information on capacity building for NGO’s COVERAGE New South Wales LOCATION OF INFORMATION http://www.communitybuilders.nsw.gov.au/

KEY CONTACTS Carolyn Leigh Project Manager Premier's Department Governor Macquarie Tower 1 Farrar Place Sydney 2000 phone: 02 9228 3051 email: [email protected]

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ON-LINE ACCESS INFORMATION CATEGORY GREEN PLANNING – RESOURCE RENEWAL INSTITUTE

ABOUT THIS ONLINE RESOURCE Official Website of the Resource Renewal Institute. The RRI's mission is to catalyse the development and implementation of green plans. RRI evaluates the effectiveness of existing and emerging green plans and uses this information to spearhead green planning processes throughout the United States WHAT DOES THE INFORMATION SHOW? Case Studies of Best Practice, information on Green Plans, Processes of Green Plan projects, recommended reading, Worldwide Environmental Atlas, COVERAGE United States, Worldwide case studies.

LOCATION OF INFORMATION http://www.rri.org/library.html KEY CONTACTS Resource Renewal Institute Fort Mason Center,Building D, Room 290 San Francisco, CA 94123 Phone: 415.928.3774 Fax: 415.928.4050 e-mail: [email protected]

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ON-LINE ACCESS INFORMATION CATEGORY SUSTAINABILITY WEB RING

ABOUT THIS ONLINE RESOURCE This Internet tool allows users to navigate easily between Web sites that deal with the principles, policies, and best practices for sustainable development. This information is particularly suited to decision-makers within civil society, government, business, research and funding institutions, and communities WHAT DOES THE INFORMATION SHOW? Information on a broad range of topics including business and trade, communities and society, danger signs, environment, managing sustainability, climate change, cleaner production, waste, poverty, consumerism, natural resource management, and governance. COVERAGE Covers all regions worldwide.

LOCATION OF INFORMATION http://sdgateway.net/webring/default.htm KEY CONTACTS Sustainable Development Communications Network (SDCN) c/o International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD) 161 Portage Ave. E., 6th Floor Winnipeg, MB, R3B 0Y4 Canada Tel: +1 (204) 958-7700 Fax: +1 (204) 958-7710 E-mail: [email protected]

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ON-LINE ACCESS INFORMATION CATEGORY REGIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL CENTER FOR CENTRAL AND EASTERN EUROPE

ABOUT THIS ONLINE RESOURCE The official website of the Regional Environmental Center for Central and Eastern Europe (REC), a non-advocacy, not-for-profit organisation with a mission to assist in solving environmental problems in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) WHAT DOES THE INFORMATION SHOW? Projects; project websites, project search engines, Publications; new REC publications, Archived publications, ordering publications. Directory Library; funding sources, government directory, media source directory, NGO directory, local directory, grants, Envirodirectory and Calender of events. COVERAGE Central and Eastern Europe

LOCATION OF INFORMATION http://www.rec.org/ KEY CONTACTS REC Head Office 2000 Szentendre Ady Endre út 9-11 Hungary Tel: (36-26) 504-000 Fax: (36-26) 311-294 E-mail: [email protected]

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ON-LINE ACCESS INFORMATION CATEGORY MEKONGINFO

ABOUT THIS ONLINE RESOURCE MekongInfo is an interactive system for sharing information and knowledge about participatory natural resource management (NRM) in the Lower Mekong Basin. WHAT DOES THE INFORMATION SHOW? In addition to over 2,600 documents (full-text and abstract) in the Library, MekongInfo provides: a Contacts database of individuals, projects and organisations, news and Announcements of events, relevant Web Links, a Gallery of useful resource materials, a Forum for online discussions, and a free Web hosting service. COVERAGE South East Asia

LOCATION OF INFORMATION http://www.mekonginfo.org/ KEY CONTACTS Main Office c/o MRC Secretatiat No 364 Monivong Boulevard Phnom Penh Cambodia Tel.: (85-5) 23 720 979, ext. 6288 Fax: (85-5) 23 720 979, ext. 6313 E-mail: [email protected] Chief Technical Advisor: Dr. Hans Helmrich Country Office

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8. REFERENCES

Hamblin, A., (1998), Environmental Indicators for National State of the Environment

Reporting: The land, Commenwealth of Australia, Mitchell, V. G. and Argent, R. M., (1998), Port Phillip Catchment Decision Support

and Water Quality Management Investigation, Centre for Environmental Applied Hydrology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne. SEAC, (1996), Australia - State of the Environment, CSIRO - State of the Environment Advisory Council, Melbourne. Sposito, V., Dean, J., Hood, A. and Lumb, K., (2000a), West Gippsland

Implementation Project - Natural Resource Use, Productivity and Sustainability -

Volume Two, Agriculture Victoria - Department of Natural Resources and Environment, Werribee. Sposito, V. and et al, (1999), Land Resource Assessment : application of Enhanced

Resource Assessment and Biophysical Land Suitability Methods in the West

Gippsland Region., Department of Natural Resource and Environment, Victoria, Melbourne. Sposito, V., Hood, A. and Hossain, H., (2001), Gippsland - Information Network and

Decision Support System - Proposal, Agriculture Victoria - Department of Natural Resources and Environment, Werribee. Sposito, V., Thatcher, A., Itami, B., Weiss, J. and Cotter, M., (2000b), Priority Setting

Framework for Natural Resources Management: Application of the Analytical

Heirarchy Process and Natural Resources Accounting, Department of Natural Resource and Environment, Natural Heritage Trust, Melbourne.

framework audit of knowledge and catchment … · 2010. 11. 10. · 7 executive summary the audit...

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