northern plains region pest management strategy 2008-2011 · in the northern plains region,...

Northern Plains Region

Pest Management Strategy 2008-2011

Back of Title Page © Department of Environment and Climate Change NSW (2007). You may copy, distribute, display, download and otherwise freely deal with this work for any purpose, provided that you attribute the Department as the owner. However, you must obtain permission if you wish to (1) charge others for access to the work (other than at cost), (2) include the work in advertising or a product for sale or (3) modify the work. Published by: Department of Environment and Climate Change NSW 59–61 Goulburn Street PO Box A290 Sydney South 1232 Ph: (02) 9995 5000 (switchboard) Ph: 131 555 (environment information and publications requests) Ph: 1300 361 967 (national parks information and publications requests) Fax: (02) 9995 5999 TTY: (02) 9211 4723 Email: [email protected] Website: www.environment.nsw.gov.au DECC 2009/105ISBN 978 1 74232 138 7 www.npws.nsw.gov.au For further information contact: Regional Operations Coordinator Northern Plains Region Western Branch Parks and Wildlife Group Department of Environment and Climate Change PO Box 848 Narrabri NSW 2390 Telephone: 02 6792 7350 Cover photo: Feral goats in Narran Lake Nature Reserve. Narrabri/DECC This plan should be cited as follows: Department of Environment and Climate Change NSW. (2007). Northern Plains Region Pest Management Strategy 2008-2011. DECC, Sydney, NSW The New South Wales National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is now part of the Department of Environment and Climate Change (DECC). Throughout this strategy, references to “NPWS” should be taken to mean the NPWS carrying out functions on behalf of the Director General and the Minister of DECC.

Northern Plains Region Draft Pest Management Strategy – 2008-2011

Contents 1 Introduction ................................................................................................................................................................... 1 2 Purpose of the Strategy.................................................................................................................................................. 1 3 Legislation and Policy ................................................................................................................................................... 2 4 Regional overview......................................................................................................................................................... 5 5 Pest Distribution Tables................................................................................................................................................. 7

Table 1: Pest Animal Distribution across reserves in the Northern Plains Region (continued).................................. 8 Table 2: Weed Distribution across reserves in the Northern Plains Region ............................................................... 9

6 Pest Management Objectives....................................................................................................................................... 11 7 Pest Management Principles........................................................................................................................................ 11 8 Pest Program Priorities ................................................................................................................................................ 12 9 Pest Program Recording and Monitoring .................................................................................................................... 14 10 Regional coordination and support of pest control programs .................................................................................... 15 11 Pest Program Overviews .................................................................................................................................... 15

Table 3: Prioritisation of Pest Programs in the Northern Plains Region................................................................. 16 11.1 European Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes)................................................................................................................. 17 11.2 Feral Goat (Capra hircus).............................................................................................................................. 19 11.3 Feral Pig (Sus scofra)..................................................................................................................................... 21 11.4 Wild Dogs (Canis familiaris) .......................................................................................................................... 23 11.5 Control of other pest animals ......................................................................................................................... 24 11.6 Weed control in Carbeen Open Forest Endangered Ecological Community ................................................. 25 11.7 Weed control in Brigalow Endangered Ecological Community ..................................................................... 26 11.8 Weed control to protect Bluegrass and Finger Panic Grass in Kirramingly Nature Reserve ........................ 28 11.9 Weed control in Coolibah-Black Box Woodland Endangered Ecological Community .................................. 30 11.10 Green Cestrum (Cestrum parqui) ................................................................................................................. 32 11.11 Sweet Briar (Rosa rubiginosa)...................................................................................................................... 33 11.12 Blue Heliotrope (Heliotropium amplexicaule) .............................................................................................. 34 11.13 Control of other weeds.................................................................................................................................. 35

12 References ................................................................................................................................................................. 36 13 Appendices ................................................................................................................................................................ 37

Appendix 1 – Distribution, Past and Future Control of Class 4 weeds .................................................................... 37 Appendix 2 – Emerging Pest Issues .......................................................................................................................... 40

Northern Plains Region Draft Pest Management Strategy – 2008-2011

1 Introduction

Pest species are animals (including invertebrates) and plants that have negative environmental, economic and social impacts. In this document they are collectively referred to as pests. Pests are most commonly introduced species, though native species can become pests. In parks, pests may have impacts across the range of park values, including impacts on biodiversity, cultural heritage, catchment and scenic values.

Pests are among the greatest threats to biodiversity throughout Australia. In New South Wales, they have been identified as a threat to 657 of 945 (70%) species, populations and communities listed under the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995; more than any other process except the destruction and disturbance of native vegetation. Minimising the impacts of pests on biodiversity is thus the main objective of National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) pest management.

Pests can also have significant impacts on economic values of neighbouring lands. The NPWS seeks to address these impacts when setting management priorities and significant resources are committed towards landscape wide pest programs, including wild dogs.

The control of pests outside of parks is the responsibility of private landholders and other agencies such as rural lands protection boards, local councils, the Department of Primary Industries and the Department of Lands. The NSW Invasive Species Plan provides the framework for the coordinated management of weeds and pests that occur over varying land tenure. NPWS is a committed partner to the implementation of this plan.

Many pests are distributed widely across Australia and eradication is not possible in the foreseeable future. They occur in most environments and across all land tenures. Pests often spread quickly and have high reproductive rates, allowing them to re-establish rapidly following control. In recognising that eradication of widespread pests across large areas is an unrealistic goal, NPWS prioritises control effort to focus on areas where impacts are greatest. Resources can then be directed to ensure that the resultant control programs are effective in reducing these impacts. It is the responsibility of all land managers to work together to control pests where significant impacts have been identified.

In New South Wales, the main pest management priorities for the conservation of biodiversity are focussed on threatened species and endangered ecological communities, and are identified in the Threatened Species Priorities Action Statement (PAS), individual threat abatement plans (TAPs) and reserve plans of management. Pest programs are also integrated with other park management programs such as fire management.

2 Purpose of the Strategy

The development of Regional Pest Management Strategies (RPMS) provides NPWS with a strategic approach to pest management across NSW. The Strategy developed for each Region provides a tool to broadly identify pest distribution and their associated impacts across the park system. It details priorities for each Region, including actions listed in the PAS and TAPs as well as other actions such as wild dog and feral pig control to protect neighbouring properties and site-based weed control and allows resources to be allocated to high priority programs. The RPMS also identifies the requirement for other plans or strategies, such as Wild Dog Plans or Bush Regeneration Plans, which provide a more detailed approach.

In the Northern Plains Region, additional to this strategy is the Regional Pest Operations Plan which guides and directs the implementation of this strategy on a year by year basis. The Regional

Northern Plains Region Pest Management Strategy – 2008-2011 1

Pest Operations Plan details specific programs, resources, budgetary requirements and the timing of implementation.

New pest species continue to establish in the environment either through the importation of new species into Australia or the escape of domestic plants and animals. Prevention and early detection followed by eradication is the most cost-effective way to minimise the impacts of new pests. The NPWS works with other agencies to prevent the introduction of new pests into the wild and to respond rapidly when new incursions occur. The response of NSW government agencies to new pests will be coordinated through the NSW Invasive Species Plan.

In this strategy, the generic term “parks” is used to refer to any lands managed by NPWS including national park, nature reserve, aboriginal area, historic site, state conservation area and regional park amongst others. This strategy has a four year life span. In the final year of the strategy, it is intended that the strategy will be reviewed and updated.

3 Legislation and Policy

The NPWS has a number of statutory responsibilities in relation to pest management.

National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 (NSW) The National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 (NPW Act) vests the care, control and management of national parks, nature reserves, historic sites and Aboriginal areas with the Director-General of the NPWS. Key management objectives include conservation, provision of appropriate scientific and educational opportunities, and management of fire and pest species. These are achieved through the preparation and implementation of plans of management for each reserve, which identify pest species present, control strategies and priorities for that reserve.

Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (NSW) The Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act) lists threatened species, endangered populations and endangered ecological communities. The TSC Act also lists key threatening processes (KTPs), which are identified as having significant impacts on the conservation of native flora and fauna. As of August 2006, 18 pests have been listed as KTPs e.g. Predation by the Red Fox, Invasion of Native Plant Communities by Bitou Bush and Boneseed. The NSW Threatened Species Priorities Action Statement (PAS) outlines the strategies for ameliorating threats listed under the TSC Act including the preparation of threat abatement plans. For each of these strategies the PAS lists one or more detailed actions which aim to protect threatened species by reducing the impact of listed threats.

Rural Lands Protection Act 1998 (NSW) The pest animal provisions of the Rural Lands Protection Act 1998 (RLP Act) outline the conditions under which animals, birds and insects are "declared" pests and provides for the control of such pest species. Gazettal of pest species occurs through Pest Control Orders that allow the Minister for Primary Industries to specify pest species on a state wide or local basis and the conditions or factors that apply to the control of each pest. Rabbits, wild dogs and feral pigs have been declared pest animals throughout NSW.

The RLP Act binds the Crown for the control of pest animals declared under the Act. Public land managers such as the NPWS are required to eradicate (continuously suppress and destroy) pest animals "…to the extent necessary to minimise the risk of the pest causing damage to any land" using any lawful method or, if the Order specifies a method to be used, by the method specified.

An approach to balance the conservation of dingoes with the need for wild dog control has been incorporated into the RLP Act through the Pest Control Order for Wild Dogs. This order allows for


the general destruction obligation for lands listed in Schedule 2 of the order to be satisfied through wild dog management plans with both control and conservation objectives.

Noxious Weeds Act 1993 (NSW) The Noxious Weeds Act 1993 provides for the identification, classification and control of noxious weeds in New South Wales. The Act aims to identify noxious weeds and their respective control measures, as well as the roles and responsibilities for their control for both public and private land managers/owners.

Amendments to the Noxious Weeds Act in 2005 repealed the NSW Seeds Act 1982 and introduced a new classification system of weed control classes based on the degree of threat and the distribution of the introduced plant within the state. These new control classes are: Control Class 1 – State Prohibited Weeds Control Class 2 – Regionally Prohibited Weeds Control Class 3 – Regionally Controlled Weeds Control Class 4 – Locally Controlled Weeds Control Class 5 – Restricted Plants. Under this new classification system, Control Classes 1, 2 and 5 noxious weeds are referred to as notifiable weeds.

Pesticides Act 1999 (NSW) The Pesticides Act 1999 and the Pesticides Regulation 1995, regulate the use of all pesticides in NSW, after point of sale, and includes specific provisions for record keeping, training and notification of use.

Specific requirements have been included under the Pesticides Regulation in relation the following.

Pesticide Record Keeping: Records must be kept by all people who use pesticides for commercial or occupational purposes such as on farm or as part of their occupation or business. There are also specific record keeping provisions for persons who aerially apply pesticides under both the Act and regulations.

Pesticides Training: People who use pesticides in their business or as part of their occupation must be trained how to use these pesticides. Any person employed or engaged by NPWS to use pesticides must also be trained. Staff supervising chemical users will also be trained in chemical risk management.

Pesticide Notification: Notification requirements apply to pesticide applications by public authorities in public places (including NPWS managed park lands). The NPWS Pesticide Use Notification Plan sets out how the Department will notify the community about pesticide applications it makes to public places. (The plan can be located on the NPWS web site).

Pesticide Control Orders are orders that: prohibit or control the use of a pesticide or a class of pesticide, or authorise the use or possession of a restricted pesticide eg. 1080.

Use of a pesticide must be in accordance with the Control Order where such exists. Current Control Orders can be found at:

www.environment.nsw.gov.au/pesticides/pco.htm.

Game and Feral Animal Control (Game) Act 2002 (NSW) The major aim of the Game and Feral Animal Control Act 2002 (Game Act) is to promote responsible and orderly hunting of game animals and certain pest animals. The public lands that are covered by this Act do not include any national park estate land.

Other Relevant Legislation • Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 2000 (Australian)


• Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals Code Act 1994 (NSW) • Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (NSW) • Firearms Act 1996 (NSW) • Heritage Act 1977 (NSW) • Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979 (NSW) • Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000 (NSW) • Wilderness Act 1987 (NSW) • Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997 (NSW) Park Management Program and policies The Park Management Program is a series of guides which are being developed to define the values and objectives for park management and to integrate park policy, planning, operations, monitoring, evaluation and reporting. The aims of the guides are to improve the way we go about park management by: • providing clear and consistent management objectives and operational procedures, and • introducing a system to achieve consistent standards in park management and reporting on

performance.

The Park Management Program comprises a Policy Guide, a Planning Guide, an Operating Procedures Guide and a Monitoring and Evaluation Guide.

The Policy Guide describes the goals and objectives for park management and the key principles which are applied to guide the achievement of these objectives.

Some specific policies relating to the management of weeds and pest animals are mentioned below.

Policy 2.6 Wild Dogs acknowledges the complexities inherent in the need to conserve native dingoes (and their hybrids) together with the need to control wild dogs.

The NPWS Firearms Management Manual brings together the policy, procedural and technical information required for staff regarding the safety, security and legal procedures for keeping and using firearms. The manual replaced the NPWS Firearms Policy and provides policy and procedures for all aspects of firearms use and management including: • possession and use of firearms by NPWS staff and other approved users, • firearms administration and record keeping, • location and storage of firearms, • planning and risk management for firearms operations, • maintenance and modification of firearms, • animal welfare issues related to shooting pest animals and euthanasing native animals, and • firearms training.

A statewide policy directive requires conservation risk assessments for the application of pesticides on park to ensure that an appropriate level of environmental assessment is carried out prior to application.

Other plans Other plans that help direct pest management may include Catchment Action Plans for each of the 13 Catchment Management Authorities, regional weed plans, state and national strategies, and reserve Plans of Management.



4 Regional overview

The Northern Plains Region of the Parks and Wildlife Group (PWG) manages approximately 420000 hectares of the protected area reserve system in north western New South Wales. The region stretches from Gilgandra in the south to Gunnedah in the east, north to the Queensland border near Yetman, and west to the Narran River and the township of Warren (see Map 1).

The region is divided into 3 management areas, Narrabri, Coonabarabran and Baradine. In partnership with the community, these areas manage a combined total of 13 national parks, 16 nature reserves, 11 state conservation areas and 10 Aboriginal areas. The region assumed management responsibility of 32 of these 50 reserves in December 2005 following the dedication of approximately 220000 hectares in the Brigalow Belt South and Nandewar Bioregions assessment process. These new reserves are collectively known as Community Conservation Areas (CCAs) and are dedicated under the Brigalow and Nandewar Community Conservation Area Act 2005 (NSW) and the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 (NSW). The CCAs are in 3 zones according to their reserve category and management intent – Zone 1 National Park, Zone 2 Aboriginal Area and Zone 3 State Conservation Area.

A wide and varied range of pests occur due to the diversity of landscapes within the region. The reserve system includes sub-alpine mountain ranges, gorges, woodlands, floodplains, native grasslands and wetlands. Within these there are occurrences of a number of threatened species including, Brush-tailed Rock Wallabies and Black-striped Wallabies, significant Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal heritage, wilderness area and Ramsar wetlands.

Since 1995, with the appointment of a full time pest control officer, pest management across the region has been budgeted for and carried out on a regular basis. There is now 6 designated pest staff within the region and pest control continues to be a major focus in the management of all reserves.

The highest priority pest control programs within the Northern Plains region are specifically aimed at protecting species, populations and communities declared under the NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act. Example of such programs include;

- Reducing the impact feral goats and foxes have on populations of Brush-tailed Rock Wallabies

- Reducing the impact foxes have on Black-striped Wallabies, and

- Reducing the impact foxes and feral pigs have on ground nesting birds in the wetland reserves.

The region has and will continue to work with neighbours, Rural Lands Protection Boards and other departments to promote and increase the number of collaborative programs carried out. Over recent years these have been very successful, particularly around the Macquarie Marshes and Narran Lake Nature Reserves, Budelah and the Boomi Nature Reserves, Planchonella Hill Nature Reserve and Mount Kaputar National Park.

ains Region Pest Management Strategy – 2008-2011 6

Map 1: Northern Plains Region, Areas and Reserves

Northern Pl

5 Pest Distribution Tables

The following pest distribution tables give an overview of priority pest species for each reserve within the Region. Numbers within Table 2 refers to the current classification of each weed across Local Control Authority areas (LCAs) across the Region. A complete list of all Class 3 and 4 declared weeds for each LCAs across the Region is included at Appendix 1. Other data contained within the tables has been derived from a combination of systematic surveys, consultation with staff and other agencies and through planning processes. The tables are not comprehensive lists of all pest species within the Region.

Table 1: Pest Animal Distribution across reserves in the Northern Plains Region

Denotes not present

Denotes isolated populations restricted to a small area of the reserve

Denotes scattered populations throughout the reserve

Denotes widespread populations throughout the reserve Feral

Pig Fox Goat Rabbit Wild

Dog Cat Horse Deer

NARRABRI AREA Mount Kaputar NP

Budelah NR Boomi NR

Boomi West NR Boronga NR

Brigalow Park NR Claremont NR

Planchonella Hill NR Midkin NR

Careunga NR Gamilaroi NR

Kirramingley NR Narran Lake NR

Berrygil CCA Zone 2 Bobbiwaa CCA Zone 3

Bullala CCA Zone 1 Bullawa Creek CCA Zone 3

Campbell CCA Zone 2 Couradda CCA Zone 1 Courallie CCA Zone 2

Deriah CCA Zone 2 Gunyerwarildi CCA Zone 1

Irrigappa CCA Zone 2 Killarney CCA Zone 3

Leard CCA Zone 3 Mission CCA Zone 2 Moema CCA Zone 1

Montrose CCA Zone 2 Terry Hie Hie CCA Zone 2


Table 1: Pest Animal Distribution across reserves in the Northern Plains Region (continued)

Denotes not present



Denotes widespread populations throughout the reserve

Feral Pig

Fox Goat Rabbit Wild Dog

Cat Horse Deer

COONABARABRAN AREA Warrumbungle NP

Macquarie Marshes NR Weetalibah NR

Binnaway NR Trinkey CCA Zone 3

Tinkrameanah CCA Zone 1 Kelvin CCA Zone 2

Wondaba CCA Zone 3 Biddon CCA Zone 3

Somerton CCA Zone 1 Garrawilla CCA Zone 1

BARADINE AREA

Pilliga NR Pilliga West CCA Zone 1 Pilliga West CCA Zone 3

Pilliga CCA Zone 1 Pilliga CCA Zone 3

Merriwindi CCA Zone 3 Pilliga East CCA Zone 3 Pilliga East CCA Zone 2 Timallallie CCA Zone 1

Yarragin CCA Zone 1 Dandry Gorge CCA Zone 2


Table 2: Weed Distribution across reserves in the Northern Plains Region

Denotes not present



Denotes widespread populations throughout the reserve

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NARRABRI AREA Mount Kaputar NP 3 4 4 4 4 4 4

Budelah NR 4 4 4 4 Boomi NR 4 4 4 4 4 4

Boomi West NR 4 4 4 4 4 4 Boronga NR 4 4 4 4 4 4 4

Brigalow Park NR 4 4 Claremont NR 4 4

Planchonella Hill NR 4 4 Midkin NR 4 4 4 4 4

Careunga NR 4 4 4 4 Gamilaroi NR 4

Kirramingly NR 4 4 4 Narran Lake NR 4 4 4 4

Berrygil CCA Zone 2 4 4 4 Bobbiwaa CCA Zone 3 4 4 4 4 4 4

Bullala CCA Zone 1 4 4 4 4 4 4 Bullawa Creek CCA Zone 3 4

Campbell CCA Zone 2 4 4 Couradda CCA Zone 1 4 4 4 Courallie CCA Zone 2 4 4

Deriah CCA Zone 2 3 4 Gunyerwarildi CCA Zone 1 4 4 4

Irrigappa CCA Zone 2 4 4 Killarney CCA Zone 3 4 4 4

Leard CCA Zone 3 4 4 Mission CCA Zone 2 4 Moema CCA Zone 1 4 4 4

Montrose CCA Zone 2 4 4 Terry Hie Hie CCA Zone 2 3 4 4 4 4


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COONABARABRAN AREA Warrumbungle NP 3 4 4 4 4 4 4 4

Macquarie Marshes NR 4 4 4 4 Weetalibah NR 4 4

Binnaway NR 4 4 Trinkey CCA Zone 3 4 4 3 4

Tinkrameanah CCA Zone 1 4 4 Kelvin CCA Zone 2 4 4 3 4 4

Wondaba CCA Zone 3 4 3 4 Biddon CCA Zone 3 4 4 4

Somerton CCA Zone 1 4 3 Garrawilla CCA Zone 1 4 4

BARADINE AREA

Pilliga NR 4 4 Pilliga West CCA Zone 1 4 4 3 4 4 Pilliga West CCA Zone 3 4 4 3 4 4

Pilliga CCA Zone 1 4 3 Pilliga CCA Zone 3 4 3

Merriwindi CCA Zone 3 4 3 Pilliga East CCA Zone 3 4 3 4 Pilliga East CCA Zone 2 4 3 4 Timallallie CCA Zone 1 4 3

Yarragin CCA Zone 1 4 4 3 Dandry Gorge CCA Zone 2 4 3

Numbers in the above table refer to the following noxious weed classes:

Class 1 - State Prohibited Weeds - The plant must be eradicated from the land and the land must be kept free of the plant - All of NSW.

Class 2 - Regionally Prohibited Weeds - The plant must be eradicated from the land and the land must be kept free of the plant.

Class 3 - Regionally Controlled Weeds - The plant must be fully and continually suppressed and destroyed.

Class 4 - Locally Controlled Weeds - The growth and spread of the plant must be controlled according to measures specified in a management plan published by the local control authority.

Class 5 - Restricted Plants - The requirements in the Noxious Weed Act for a notifiable weed must be complied with.


6 Pest Management Objectives

The overriding objective of NPWS’s pest management programs is to minimise adverse impacts of pests on biodiversity and other park values whilst complying with legislative responsibilities.

Programs also aim to: • manage pest populations to minimise their impact on neighbours, • increase community understanding of the adverse impacts of pests on biodiversity and

Aboriginal and historic cultural heritage, and • support cooperative approaches and participation in pest management programs with the

community and other agencies.

7 Pest Management Principles

Wherever possible, NPWS adopts an integrated approach to pest management, where more than one control technique is used, across the landscape. Integrated pest management is likely to be more effective because it avoids selecting for herbicide resistant weed biotypes or bait-shy animals. Targeting more than one pest species is important as the control of one species may benefit another eg. control of foxes may benefit rabbits. Also, control is usually undertaken at particular times of the year when pests are most vulnerable (eg. translocation of herbicides to growing points is usually greater when weeds are actively growing).

So that pest management undertaken by the NPWS is carried out effectively and efficiently, the following principles are generally applied.

• Pest control is targeted to species/locations where benefits will be greatest.

• Development of control priorities are set by clearly defining the problem to be addressed ie. specific impacts are identified so that the purpose of control is clear.

• Where relevant, pest control is collaborative and across tenure, that is, undertaken on a landscape approach.

• Early detection of new incursions and rapid response is considered a high priority as this is the most cost-effective form of pest control.

• Priority is given to mitigating the impacts on biodiversity of a pest that has cultural significance, whilst minimising impacts on cultural values.

• The aim of most pest control programs is to minimise the adverse impacts of pests, as many exotic pests are already widespread (eg. foxes, blackberries) and for these species eradication is not possible.

• The focus of control programs is directed towards the values to be protected, because killing pests, by itself, does not necessarily minimise their impacts due to the fact that ecological processes are complex and can be affected by a range of factors.

• Risk assessments are undertaken prior to pest control, where required.

• Pest management strives to strike a balance between cost efficiency, target specificity and animal welfare.

• Where appropriate, pest control employs a combination of control methods and strategies (integrated pest management).


• Pest control programs take a holistic approach, given that the control of one pest may benefit other pests, in that they attempt to control all significant pest threats at a site.

• Pesticide use complies with relevant legislation and is employed in a manner that minimises impacts on the environment.

• Pest management programs are often integrated with other land management activities such as fire management and recreation management.

• Monitoring is being implemented, at varying levels, to demonstrate and improve the ongoing effectiveness of control programs.

• Pest Management research will assist in refining priorities and control techniques where applicable.

8 Pest Program Priorities

NPWS prioritises its pest control programs to focus on those areas where the impacts of pests are likely to be greatest. Resources can then be directed to ensure that the resultant control programs are effective in reducing these impacts. The availability of suitable control techniques and resources (both financial and physical), as well as the practicality and cost effectiveness of control, also influence which programs can be implemented.

Where new pest incursions occur, early detection and eradication is the most cost-effective way to minimise the impacts. The NPWS will work with other agencies to prevent the introduction of new pests and to respond rapidly when new incursions occur.

The following 12 key criteria are used to determine priorities for pest management within the Region. Depending on the impact of the pest problem the program will be classified as critical, high, medium or low and implemented in accordance with this priority. The criteria and program classes are:

Critical Priority

1. Programs targeting pests which are, or are likely to be, significantly impacting on biodiversity, as largely identified in the NSW Threatened Species Priorities Action Statement eg. undertake fox control at the Warrumbungle NP priority site for brush-tailed rock wallaby as identified in the Fox Abatement Plan;

2. Programs that target pests which impact significantly on human health or are part of a declared national emergency eg. outbreak of foot and mouth disease or control of feral pigs in the catchment area of a domestic water supply reservoir;

3. Programs targeting pests that impact significantly on agricultural production eg. wild dog control where there is potential for significant stock losses as identified in Wild Dog Management Plans; programs to control State Prohibited or Regionally Prohibited Noxious Weeds (Control Class 1 and 2 weeds);

4. Programs addressing new occurrences of highly invasive pest species with potential for significant impacts on park values (subject to risk/feasibility assessment) eg. control of serrated tussock in an area previously free of the weed;


High Priority

5. Programs that target pests (other than those covered in priorities above) that impact significantly on World Heritage or international heritage values, eg. pest control in RAMSAR wetlands.

6. Programs targeting pests that impact significantly on important cultural heritage values eg. control of feral goats where they inhabit an area containing Aboriginal rock art – Pilliga Nature Reserve.

Medium Priority

7. Programs that target pests (other than those covered in priorities above) that impact significantly on Wilderness, Wild Rivers, national heritage values or other important listed values eg. control of willows along a declared Wild River or within a Wilderness area;

8. Programs that target pests that impact significantly on recreation, landscape or aesthetic values, eg. control of blackberry on the margins of camping areas; control of weeds in an area of natural beauty that is visited frequently;

9. Community or cooperative programs targeting pests that impact significantly on park values or agricultural production and that have ongoing, proven effectiveness and participation, eg. control of Regionally Controlled Noxious Weeds (Control Class 3 weeds);

10. Community or cooperative programs that are implemented as part of an endorsed state or regional plan (and not covered above in higher priorities), eg. control of a particular weed across boundaries as part of a regional control plan prepared by a regional weeds advisory committee and supported by NPWS.

Lower Priority

11. Community programs targeting pests that have localised impacts on natural ecosystems or agricultural lands and that promote community education and involvement with parks, eg. participation in a new bush regeneration project with a local community group; control of Locally Controlled and Restricted Noxious Weeds (Control Class 4 and 5 weeds);

12. Previous programs targeting pests that have localised impacts on native species and ecosystems, and that can be efficiently implemented to maintain program benefits, eg. the maintenance of areas treated previously for serrated tussock to continue keeping them weed free.

In some circumstances, new programs may be introduced, or priority programs extended to target pests where a control “window of opportunity” is identified e.g. where burnt areas become more accessible for ground control of weeds; where drought makes control of feral pigs and feral goats more efficient because they congregate in areas where water is available; or when a new biocontrol agent becomes available.

Future priorities for pest control will need to reflect changes in the distribution, abundance or impacts of pests that may occur in response to environmental changes including climate change. NPWS is supporting research to understand the interaction between climate change, pests and biodiversity.

Northern Plains Region will support monitoring of the changes in distribution, abundance or impacts of pest species as a result of climate change. The Region will respond by implementing


control programs aimed at preventing the establishment of new pest species and mitigating any increased threats posed by changes in the distribution and/or abundance of current species.

9 Pest Program Recording and Monitoring

Measuring the response of biodiversity (or other values) to pest control is necessary in order to: • demonstrate the degree of impacts and hence justify priorities for management, and • measure the effectiveness of ongoing control and direct resources to those programs with the

greatest effect.

Measuring the response of biodiversity can be difficult because populations of native species can vary in space and time for many reasons so that differentiating the effects of pest control from other sources of variation is often complex. Where populations cannot be counted directly, measurement is dependent on using indices of abundance. Rigorous attempts to measure population responses need to consider experimental design (eg. treatment and non-treatment sites, replication, time scale for measurable responses to occur), sampling design (because the entire population can rarely be measured) and standardisation of population measures to allow data to be collated across NPWS (across sites, times and land tenure where appropriate). As a result, measuring the response to pest control is expensive and can be afforded for only a small sub-set of control programs.

Where native populations are rare, cryptic or dispersed, or where a suite of species is predicted to be affected, indicator species, or other indices of relative abundance, can be used to provide an indirect measure of effectiveness. For example, while fox control may benefit a broad range of ground dwelling mammals, monitoring may focus on a particular “indicator” species which may be easy to capture.

The monitoring of response of pest species distribution and abundance provides an interim measure of effectiveness essential: • to aid comparison between control effort and biodiversity response; • to provide useful data where biodiversity, other park values or agricultural responses are too

difficult to measure or there is insufficient resources to make proper measurement; • to provide an interim measure where native species may take some time to respond to pest

control.

Where pest incursions have occurred recently, or where their distribution is otherwise limited, the objective of control is usually to eradicate the incursion completely or to contain its spread. In these situations, monitoring is required to confirm eradication or containment and should focus on the pest species rather than the response of native species to control. Such an approach may require methods that are capable of detecting populations at very low densities and prolonged monitoring will be required to ensure that containment or eradication has been achieved.

Where appropriate, monitoring programs should also include measures to verify the results of research being undertaken to gain a better understanding of the interaction between pests and climate change.

Systems and databases are being developed for the consistent and systematic collection, collation, storage and analysis of data as part of the Monitoring and Evaluation component of the Park Management Program.



10 Regional coordination and support of pest control programs

Pest control programs are coordinated by the local NPWS Area and Region in order to ensure that resources are utilised to achieve the best possible outcomes. Area and Regional assistance is also required to efficiently work with neighbours, community groups and other agencies. Education of staff and the broader community are essential requirements in integrated pest management and are also best achieved by centralised coordination.

Since 1995, with the appointment of two full time pest control officers, pest management across the Northern Plains Region has been budgeted for and carried out on a regular basis. In 2003 a revised structure with a Senior Ranger (Pests) and 2 designated Field Officer (Pests) enabled greater strategic management across the reserve system. With the additional reserves transferred to PWD management in 2005, 3 additional Field Officer (Pests) were appointed. The structure for pest management in the region now includes a Senior Ranger (Pests), a Senior Field Officer (Pests) and Field Officer (Pests) based at both Narrabri and Baradine (2 staff per area) and a Field Officer (Pests) based at Coonabarabran. This structure provides for planning and coordination across the region, with targeted on ground work by designated staff within each of the areas.

Over recent years the Northern Plains Region has encouraged, supported and assisted with the planning and implementation of a number of collaborative programs in and around several National Parks and Nature Reserves. These have involved working with neighbouring landholders, Rural Lands Protection Boards and other organisations such as Department of Lands and Catchment Management Authorities, to carry out pest control across all land tenures within an area. This approach provides enhanced control through a widespread control effort and affords longer lasting outcomes by minimising reinvasion. A number of the collaborative programs carried out have been very successful. These have included around Mount Kaputar National Park where feral goat and pig control has been implemented across NPWS, private and vacant crown land and around the Macquarie Marshes, Narran Lake, Planchonella Hill and Budelah and the Boomi Nature Reserves where feral pig control has been implemented across NPWS reserves and surrounding private land.

11 Pest Program Overviews

Table 3 identifies and prioritises pest control programs across the NPR according to the criteria outlined in section 8. Further details of all critical, high and medium priority programs are discussed in detail below. Not all low priority programs are identified or discussed within this document.

The presence of some native species, particularly in respect to endangered and vulnerable species, in a number of the recently gazetted Community Conservation Areas is unknown. The Priority Action Statement (PAS) has identified pest actions in several reserves to mitigate impacts on threatened species based on nearby or historical reports. In recent time such species have not been recorded or are presumed extinct (e.g. Malleefowl). In these instances pest actions will only be undertaken if confirmed records of the species occur. These priorities are marked with an asterix (*) in Table 3.

ains Region Pest Management Strategy – 2008-2011 16

Table 3: Prioritisation of Pest Programs in the Northern Plains Region.

Pest Program 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Reserve/sl to protect Brush-tailed Rock W allabies W arrumbungle NP & Mount Kaputar NPl to protect Black-striped W allabies Brigalow Park NR, Claremont NR and others l to protect ground nesting waterbirds Macquarie Marshes NR & Narran Lake NRl to protect Five-clawed W orm-skink Terry Hie Hie CCAl to protect Bush-stone Curlew Budelah NR & Pilliga NRl to protect Border Thick-tailed Gecko Mount Kaputar NP, Terry Hie Hie & Kelvin CCAsl to protect Little Bentwing-bat Mount Kaputar NPl to protect Australian Brush-turkey Mount Kaputar NP & Deriah CCAl to protect Pilliga Mouse Pilliga CCA Z1 & Z3, Pilliga NR and othersl to protect Eastern Bentwing-bat* Pilliga CCA Z1l to protect Rufous Bettong* Pilliga CCA Z3l to protect Malleefowl* Pilliga CCA Z3, Pilliga NR & Timallallie CCAol to protect Brush-tailed Rock W allabies W arrumbungle NP & Mount Kaputar NPol to protect Large-eared Pied Bat Mount Kaputar NPol to Ooline Mount Kaputar NP & Deriah CCAol to protect Little Bentwing-bat Mount Kaputar NPol to protect Eastern Bentwing-bat Mount Kaputar NP & Deriah CCAol to protect Eastern Cave Bat Pilliga East CCA Z2 & Pilliga NRol to protect Border Thick-tailed Gecko Kelvin CCAol to protect Large-eared Pied Bat Kelvin CCA & Trinkey CCA to protect waterbirds Macquarie Marshes NR & Narran Lake NR to protect W inged Peppercress Narran Lake NRrol in Brigalow EEC Budelah NR, Brigalow Park NR & Claremont NRrol in Carbeen Open Forest EEC Budelah NR, Boomi NR & Midkin NRrol in Coolibah-Black Box W oodland EEC Budelah NRrol to protect Bluegrass & Finger Panic Grass Kirramingley NRrol to protect Spiny Peppercress Brigalow Park NR & Claremont NR to protect neighbours crops Planchonella Hill NR & Budelah NR

ams targeting problem W ild Dogs W here they ariseol to protect Aboriginal cultural heritage sites Pilliga NR and Pilliga East CCAs

lass 3 weeds - compliance with legislation W arrumbungle NP & Mount Kaputar NPl in conjunction with cooperative group programs Mount Kaputar NP, Pilliga CCAs & Leard CCA in conjunction with cooperative group programs Trinkey CCA, Boomi NRs, Midkin NR & Careunga N

lass 4 weeds - compliance with legislation All other reservesared pest animals - compliance with legislation All other reserves

l to protect native fauna and neighbours sheep W here identified

Prioritisation Criteria and ClassesCritical High Medium Low

Fox controFox controFox controFox controFox controFox controFox controFox controFox controFox controFox controFox controGoat contrGoat contrGoat contrGoat contrGoat contrGoat contrGoat contrGoat contrPig controlPig controlW eed contW eed contW eed contW eed contW eed contPig controlControl progrGoat contrControl of CFox controPig control RControl of CControl of declFox contro

Northern Pl

11.1 European Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes) Distribution and abundance Foxes occur in most environments in Australia, however, they are probably most abundant in agricultural areas with patches of uncleared vegetation, because these areas provide abundant food, cover and denning sites. In contrast, foxes appear to be rare in closed forest distant from cleared land.

Foxes occur in all reserves throughout the Northern Plains Region (NPR) in varying densities (See table 1).

Impacts The introduction of foxes into Australia has had a devastating impact on native fauna. Studies have shown that predation by foxes continues to suppress remnant populations of many species. Predation by foxes was the first key threatening process to be listed under the NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act. Foxes are an agent for the dispersal of several species of weeds and are a potential carrier of disease. They are also significant predators of domestic stock including lambs and poultry; predation by foxes has the potential to reduce lambing rates significantly (NSW NPWS 2001).

Foxes have been identified as a threat to a number of endangered and vulnerable animal species and one endangered bird population that occur in the NPR. Fox control has been listed as an action for the protection of each of these species in the priority action statement (PAS). Additionally, the threat foxes pose to domestic stock makes them a problem around Careunga, Brigalow Park, Claremont, Kirramingley, Budelah, Boomi West and Planchonella Nature Reserves, Pilliga Nature Reserve and Community Conservation Areas, Warrumbungle and Mount Kaputar National Parks and a number of the newly gazetted Community Conservation Areas where neighbours have sheep breeding enterprises.

Priorities for control Critical 1 priority programs as largely identified within the PAS.

Fox control has been identified at priority sites in the NSW Fox Threat Abatement Plan and is listed as actions in the PAS. Although these have been prioritised within this document the same, Fox control at the following Fox TAP identified sites within the NPR will be implemented as the highest priority:

• Warrumbungle National Park – Brush-tailed Rock Wallaby protection

• Brigalow Park and Claremont Nature Reserves – Black-striped Wallaby protection

• Macquarie Marshes Nature Reserve – Brolga & Australasian Bittern protection

• Narran Lake Nature Reserve – Brolga, Magpie Goose & Australian Bustard protection

In addition to the priorities above fox control has been identified in the PAS to aid in the protection of various endangered and vulnerable species and one endangered populations found in the following reserves:

Narrabri Area:

• Mount Kaputar National Park – Brush-tailed Rock Wallaby, Border Thick-tailed Gecko, Little Bentwing-bat and Australian Brush-turkey population.

• Budelah Nature Reserve – Bush-stone Curlew

• Deriah Community Conservation Area – Australian Brush-turkey population


• Terry Hie Hie Community Conservation Area – Border Thick-tailed Gecko & Five-clawed Worm-skink

• Gamilaroi Nature Reserve – Black-striped Wallaby*

• Bullala Community Conservation Area – Black-striped Wallaby*

Coonabarabran Area

• Binnaway Nature Reserve – Pilliga Mouse

• Kelvin Community Conservation Area – Border Thick-tailed Gecko

Baradine Area

• Pilliga Community Conservation Area – Zone 1 – Pilliga Mouse and Eastern Bentwing-bat

• Pilliga Community Conservation Area – Zone 3 – Pilliga Mouse, Rufous Bettong* and Malleefowl*

• Pilliga Nature Reserve – Pilliga Mouse, Bush-stone Curlew and Malleefowl*

• Timallallie Community Conservation Area – Pilliga Mouse and Malleefowl*

• Pilliga East Community Conservation Area – Pilliga Mouse

Medium 10 priority programs – Fox control in conjunction with cooperative group programs.

• Pilliga Community Conservation Area Zones 1 & 3 – Merimborough fox baiting group

• Leard Community Conservation Area – Maules Creek fox baiting group

Low 11 priority programs – Fox control to protect other native species and neighbours sheep.

Fox control will be carried out in a number of other reserves for the protection of other native species and neighbouring enterprises.

Control The intensity of control programs will vary according to priority. Higher priority control programs will be carried out 2 to 12 times per year. Lesser priority control programs will be carried out only once per year.

Control programs will predominantly be implemented between March and September, which targets foxes during the peak dispersal period (autumn) and when common non-target species such as goannas are least active.

Where possible control programs will be coordinated and implemented in collaboration with neighbours, Rural Lands Protection Boards (RLPBs) and other agencies.

Control programs will consist of 1080 ground baiting. Trapping and ground shooting may be used in higher priority areas to aid in the removal of bait shy foxes. Foxes will also be opportunistically shot during aerial shooting programs targeting other species.

Monitoring The level of monitoring afforded to control programs will vary according to priority. Mapping of baits stations and recording of bait take will take place with all programs. Neighbours comments and the number of foxes seen during aerial shooting operations will also provide rough indications of fox abundance in some areas.

In addition, more specific monitoring will focus on higher priority programs and will include:

Warrumbungle National Park – Brush-tailed Rock Wallaby (BTRW) protection


- Monthly sand pad monitoring along baiting trail to determine fox presence and provide an indicator of abundance

- BTRW population counts and long-term monitoring

Brigalow Park and Claremont Nature Reserves – Black-striped Wallaby (BSW) protection

- BSW population counts and long-term monitoring

- Spotlight surveys to determine fox presence and abundance

Macquarie Marshes and Narran Lake Nature Reserves – Waterbird protection

- Bird surveys and monitoring during waterbird breeding events

- Increase monitoring of pest impacts during waterbird breeding events

Mount Kaputar National Park – Brush-tailed Rock Wallaby (BTRW) protection

- BTRW population counts and long-term monitoring

- Sand pad monitoring

Some of this data will be analysed by the Pest Management Unit and published periodically as part of the review of the Fox Threat Abatement Plan. Additionally, this data will provide information for the region on the effectiveness of specific high priority programs and act an indicator of the need for further control.

11.2 Feral Goat (Capra hircus) Distribution and Abundance Feral goats occur in varying densities in all states of Australia. The most extensive populations live in semi-arid pastoral areas where the construction of permanent water supplies and the control of predators have modified natural habitat to suit feral goats. Significant populations also exist in higher rainfall agricultural areas where patches of scrub or forest offer protection from control (Parkes et al 1996).

In the Northern Plains Region, the most extensive populations occur in Mount Kaputar and Warrumbungle National Parks, Narran Lake Nature Reserve and areas of the Pilliga Nature Reserve and Community Conservation Areas. Smaller, more isolated populations occur at varying densities in Kirramingley, Macquarie Marshes and Weetalibah Nature Reserves and in Deriah, Killarney, Trinkey, Kelvin and Garrawilla Community Conservation Areas.

Impacts Feral goats compete with native animals for food, water and shelter. They contribute to soil erosion, can have substantial impacts on vegetation through eating established plants and preventing regeneration of seedlings including, revegetation in sensitive areas such as rocky outcrops, and can degrade cultural heritage sites. They are also potential carriers of a number of endemic and exotic parasites and diseases. Competition and habitat degradation by feral goats is listed as a key threatening process under the NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act.

Endangered Brush-tailed Rock Wallabies are the most significant species in the NPR to be impacted by feral goats through competition for food and shelter. Other vulnerable species occurring within the region that are impacted by feral goats through habitat destruction or competition include the Border Thick-tailed Gecko and several cave dwelling bats.

Ooline Endangered Ecological Community that occurs within a number of reserves within the Region may also be impacted by feral goats through browsing.


Due to feral goats inhabiting rocky outcrops and caves, they pose a threat to a number of important Aboriginal cultural heritage sites found within several Nature Reserves and Community Conservation Areas within the region.

Priorities for control Critical 1 priority programs as largely identified within the PAS.

Narrabri Area

• Mount Kaputar National Park – Brush-tailed Rock Wallaby, Border Thick-tailed Gecko, Large-eared Pied Bat, Little Bentwing-bat, Eastern Bentwing-bat and Ooline EEC.

• Deriah Community Conservation Area – Eastern Bentwing-bat and Ooline EEC.

Coonabarabran Area

• Warrumbungle National Park – Brush-tailed Rock Wallaby

• Trinkey Community Conservation Area – Large-eared Pied Bat

• Kelvin Community Conservation Area – Large-eared Pied Bat and Border Thick-tailed Gecko

Baradine Area

• Pilliga East Community Conservation Area – Zone 2 – Eastern Cave Bat

• Pilliga Nature Reserve – Eastern Cave Bat

High 6 priority program - preservation of Aboriginal cultural heritage sites that are threatened by feral goats, in particular etchings found in a number of sandstone caves within the Pilliga Nature Reserve and Community Conservation Areas.

Control Due to the remoteness, limited accessibility and abundance of natural watering points within Mount Kaputar and Warrumbungle National Parks efficient and effective feral goat control has been and will continue to be carried out via aerial culling programs implemented twice per year (autumn and spring). Such programs have been planned and implemented since 1995. In recent years programs in Mount Kaputar National Park have at times been carried out in collaboration with RLPB programs on adjoining private and vacant crown land. Participation of these stakeholders provides a greater control effort and minimises the extent of reinvasion of feral goats from non-controlled land. The ongoing participation from these stakeholders will be encouraged but is dependent on funding attracted by RLPBs.

Feral goat control around Aboriginal cultural heritage sites within the Pilliga Nature Reserve and Community Conservation Areas is currently carried out via targeted aerial culling programs implemented twice per year (autumn and spring) within close proximity to known sites. This method of control is limited in this environment because it is not cost effective to extend control over the entire areas of these reserves and therefore reinvasion can occur quickly.

This program will continue, however, over the next 3 years alternative physical site protection options need to be investigated and implemented to ensure longer-term protection of these sites. Management options such as exclusion fencing or the erection of barriers may provide more sustainable protection of fragile sites against the impact of feral goats.

Due to its close proximity and connectivity to Mount Kaputar National Park, feral goat control in Deriah CCA will be undertaken via aerial culling in conjunction with the existing program.

Trinkey CCA – isolated population – no previous control - ground shooting


Kelvin CCA – widespread population – no previous control - initial aerial cull followed by ground shooting. Because this reserve is a Zone 2 Aboriginal Area, liaison with the local Aboriginal community will take place prior to undertaking control.

Monitoring Recording of total numbers controlled during programs has occurred to date and will continue to be carried out for each reserve. A standardised format for recording total number as well as recording and mapping of the number of individuals controlled in specific locations within reserves will be commencing in late 2007.

Comments from staff, neighbours and visitors regarding sightings of feral goats provide another rough indicator of feral goat abundance and the population reduction afforded from control programs.

Vegetation surveys and other visual assessments may provide information on regeneration of native vegetation that is susceptible to browsing from feral goats. Regeneration of these species may be linked with a reduction in feral goat abundance.

Scat collection and analysis around Brush-tailed Rock Wallaby colonies in the Warrumbungle National Park will provide an indicator of feral goat presence and abundance within these areas.

11.3 Feral Pig (Sus scofra) Distribution and Abundance Within Australia feral pigs are widely distributed in Queensland, the North Territory, New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory and only isolated populations occur in the other states. The most critical factors affecting their distribution are the needs for daily water and dense shelter. Provided these requirements are met, the density of populations is largely dependent upon the availability of preferred foods (Choquenot et al 1996).

Historically, in the Northern Plains Region the most extensive populations have occurred in and around the Macquarie Marshes and Narran Lake Nature Reserves. Ultimately, this remains the case, however the density of these populations has significantly reduced as a result of the persistent dry conditions aiding the effectiveness of large-scale control campaigns over the past number of years. Major populations also occur in and around Planchonella Nature Reserve. Several of the Community Conservation Areas, Trinkey, Somerton, Couradda, Moema and Leard, contain more localised high-density populations. Moderate populations occur in and around Mount Kaputar and Warrumbungle National Parks, Budelah, Boomi, Boomi West, Midkin, Careunga, Pilliga, Brigalow Park and Claremont Nature Reserves and Bobbiwaa, Bullala, Gunyerwarildi, Killarney, Terry Hie Hie and Biddon Community Conservation Areas. Minor populations occur in all other reserves.

Impacts Feral pigs cause habitat degradation through selective feeding, trampling damage and rooting for underground parts of plants and invertebrates. They can also impact on a number of native species through either predation or aggressive competition. They eat newborn lambs, reduce crop yields, damage fences, foul water sources and compete with stock for feed. Feral pigs are a potential carrier of a number of endemic and exotic parasites and diseases (Choquenot et al 1996). Predation, habitat degradation, competition and disease transmission by feral pigs is listed as a key threatening process under the NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act.

The most significant threats posed by feral pigs in the NPR are associated with predation and habitat destruction in the Macquarie Marshes and Narran Lake Nature Reserves. These two internationally recognised wetlands are RAMSAR listed and provide important habitat for ground


nesting waterbirds. Feral pig control in these two reserves is listed in the priority action statement for the protection of several species of waterbirds.

Populations of feral pigs in and around Planchonella and Budelah NRs can cause extremely high losses in terms of damage to neighbours crops in the high yielding cropping areas. Similarly, they pose a high risk to crops adjoining Trinkey, Somerton, Couradda, Moema and Leard Community Conservation Areas, however, these populations are more localised and surrounding crops are generally not as high yielding. Moderate populations in a number of other reserves have the potential to cause significant damage to neighbouring crops if left uncontrolled.

*Feral pigs are a declared pest under the Rural Lands Protection Act 1998. This binds all land managers for control. Public land managers such as the NPWS are required to eradicate (continuously suppress and destroy) declared pest animals to the extent necessary to minimise the risk of the pest causing damage to any land. Priorities for control Critical 1 priority programs as largely identified within the PAS.

Due to the importance of the wetlands in the Macquarie Marshes and Narran Lake Nature Reserves as breeding sites for ground nesting waterbirds, these two reserves are the highest priorities for feral pig control. The PAS has also identified feral pig control as an action to protect Winged Peppercress in the Narran Lake Nature Reserve.

Critical 3 priority programs targeting feral pigs where they impact significantly on agricultural production.

NPWS in conjunction with the Northern Slopes RLPB and neighbours adjacent to Planchonella Nature Reserve have been carrying out targeted cooperative control programs (1-2 times per year) to minimise the impact feral pigs have on high yielding crops within close proximity to the reserve. Given the extensive damage that can be caused by high density feral pig populations in this area, participation in and support for this program will continue.

Similarly, high density feral pig populations in and around Budelah Nature Reserve have the potential to significantly impact on neighbours crops. To date control programs have been carried out both in conjunction with neighbouring landholders and solely by NPWS. Continuation of this program will continue.

Medium 9 priority programs targeting feral pigs where they significantly impact on park values and agricultural production.

Initial knockdown of localised high-density feral pig populations within Trinkey, Somerton, Couradda, Moema and Leard Community Conservation areas is a medium priority. The current and potential damage to neighbours crops caused by these populations is significant. Support for and cooperation in the initial control program will be sought from RLPBs and neighbours adjacent to these reserves to ensure a more thorough and longer lasting reduction in populations. Provided initial control is effective in significantly reducing the feral pig population in and around the reserve, and thus, substantially reducing the impact to surrounding cropping enterprises, ongoing control in these reserves may become a lower priority.

Ongoing control of feral pig populations in Mount Kaputar and Warrumbungle National Parks is a medium priority, to minimise the impacts on park values and neighbours.

Periodically, RLPBs and/or landholder groups carry out control programs across areas that encompass NPR reserves. Participation in cooperative landholder control programs surrounding reserves within the region is important in terms of obtaining the greatest control, minimising


reinvasion and maintaining and promoting good neighbour relationships. Assistance with and participation in such programs will be a medium 9 priority. Control Control programs in the Narran Lake and Macquarie Marshes Nature Reserves will be carried out via two aerial shooting programs in each reserve per year. This will be complimented by live trapping and shooting in between these programs. During significant flooding and subsequent waterbird breeding events the control effort will increase in these reserves to afford greater protection of species.

Control programs in Planchonella Nature Reserve will continue to be carried out via cooperative group aerial shooting programs implemented in conjunction with Northern Slopes RLPB and adjoining neighbours. These programs will be carried out 1-2 times per year and targeted at times when the greatest protection will be given to crops.

Control in Budelah Nature Reserve will be carried out via 1 aerial shooting program per year, plus live trapping and shooting as required throughout the remainder of the year. Where possible these programs will be carried out as part of cooperative group programs to achieve the greatest results.

Medium 9 priority programs will be carried out using a number of integrated control techniques. These will include 1080 ground baiting, live trapping and shooting, aerial and ground shooting.

Monitoring Recording of total numbers controlled during programs has occurred to date and will continue to be carried out for each reserve. A standardised format for recording total number as well as recording and mapping of the number of individuals controlled in specific locations within reserves will be commencing in late 2007.

Monitoring of feral pig populations within reserves will also be carried out via ground inspections by field staff.

Comments from staff, neighbours and visitors regarding sightings of and damage caused by feral pigs will provide an indicator of feral pig activity in various reserves.

11.4 Wild Dogs (Canis familiaris) Distribution and abundance Populations of wild dogs (including dingoes) occur mainly along the Great Dividing Range, coastal hinterlands and in north-western NSW.

In the Northern Plains Region they are known to occur as isolated to scattered populations in Mount Kaputar and Warrumbungle National Parks, Trinkey, Biddon and Tinkrameena Community Conservation Areas, as well as within the collective Community Conservation Areas and Nature Reserve of the Pilliga.

Impacts With only isolated to scattered populations of wild dogs in the NPR predation on native animals is likely to be of minimal impact. However, over recent years individual wild dogs have caused significant problems in terms of stock attacks on sheep on neighbouring properties adjoining Warrumbungle and Mount Kaputar National Parks.

Priorities for control Wild dogs, including dingoes, are a declared pest under the Rural Lands Protection Act 1998. This binds all land managers for control. Public land managers such as the NPWS are required to


eradicate (continuously suppress and destroy) declared pest animals to the extent necessary to minimise the risk of the pest causing damage to any land. As a result, the dingo is unprotected under Schedule 11 of the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974, but it is a native animal and provisions have been put in place to conserve it. These provisions include the listing of core areas for conservation under Schedule 2 of the Wild Dog Pest Control Order.

In those areas of the state where wild dog attacks are common Wild Dog Control Associations (WDCA) comprised of relevant stakeholders develop wild dog management plans that identify priorities for control across various land tenures giving consideration to minimising livestock predation and conservation of the dingo in the core areas.

Because wild dogs and the associated attacks to livestock are uncommon the development of WDCA and the subsequent management plans have not and will not occur in the NPR. However, in recent years there have been 1-2 reports of wild dog attacks to livestock adjoining NPWS reserves in NPR per year. In response to these attacks NPWS has implemented targeted control programs in conjunction with adjoining landholders. Within the NPR six individual wild dogs have been removed from NPWS reserves and adjoining land in the past 4 years. As a result attacks on livestock have ceased in all areas for a significant period after the removal of the individual animals.

Control programs implemented in response to stock attacks on properties adjoining NPR reserves will be a Critical 3 priority.

Control Due to the very low abundance of wild dogs and low occurrence of stock attacks within the NPR ongoing strategic control aimed at preventing livestock predation would be neither efficient nor effective. Reactive control targeting the wild dog attacking stock will be implemented in response to reports of livestock predation. The success of such control will be dependent upon prompt notification of attacks and the cooperation of all stakeholders including RLPBs, landholders and NPWS.

Control techniques may include trapping, 1080 baiting, ground shooting and/or opportunistic aerial shooting.

Monitoring Recording of individuals removed together with reports from neighbours regarding stock attacks will be carried out. Recording of wild dog presence will also occur in some reserves during sand pad monitoring programs.

11.5 Control of other pest animals Infestations of rabbits, feral cats, deer, horses and feral cattle occur in some reserves in the NPR. Generally, populations of these species are isolated and restricted in their distribution within reserves across the region. Control programs targeting populations of these species have been identified a lesser priority than the control programs discussed above. Some opportunistic control of these species may be carried out during the higher priority programs. Specific control programs targeting these species will be planned and implemented where problems arise.

Several pest fish species including European Carp and Plague Minnow have been identified within a number of reserves across the NPR. Control of such species is limited and has not been identified as a priority.


11.6 Weed control in Carbeen Open Forest Endangered Ecological Community

Under the NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act, Carbeen Open Forest has been listed as an Endangered Ecological Community in the Darling Riverine Plains and Brigalow Belt South Bioregions. Within the NPR weed control to protect these stands has been identified in the PAS as an action in Budelah, Boomi, Boomi West and Boronga Nature Reserves. Because this community is mostly associated with the sandy rises within these reserves it is specific weeds that occur within them. Spiny Burr Grass (Cenchrus incertus) and Buffel Grass (Cenchrus ciliaris) are present in several of the reserves and identified threats to Carbeen Open Forest Community. Common Prickly Pear (Opuntia stricta) also grows within areas of the Carbeen Open Forest.

Distribution and abundance Spiny Burr Grass (Cenchrus incertus) originated in North and Central America. Its early history in Australia is unknown however, it now occurs in most states including South Australia, Victoria, Western Australia, Northern Territory and New South Wales (Parsons & Cuthbertson 1992).

In the NPR it occurs in the Narrabri area in Budelah, Boomi, Boomi West and Boronga Nature Reserves. It also occurs within the Warrumbungle National Park in the Coonabarabran area. It grows most commonly on the sandy rises within these reserves.

Buffel Grass (Cenchrus ciliaris) originated in North Africa and the Middle East. It was accidentally introduced into Australia in the 1860’s, carried in by camel trains. It has since been widely planted as a pasture grass and a stabiliser to minimise erosion. It now occurs in every mainland state of Australia except Victoria (CSIRO Sustainable Ecosystems).

Buffel Grass is not a declared weed in any part of the NPR. It may occur in a number of reserves, however, the greatest concern is in Budelah Nature Reserve where it is established on a number of the ridges where the Carbeen Open Forest Community exists.

A number of Prickly Pears (Opuntia spp.) occur within reserves in the NPR including Common Prickly Pear, Tree Pear and Tiger Pear. Common Prickly Pear is the species found as isolated infestations in areas of the Carbeen Open Forest, but it also occurs in varying densities in most reserves across the region. It originated in southern North America, Central America and tropical America. It was introduced to Australia in the early days of settlement, possibly as an ornamental shrub, hedge plant, fodder crop or a food plant for cochineal insects. It now occurs in all states except Tasmania, however the most extensive infestations are in Queensland and New South Wales (Parsons & Cuthbertson 1992).

Impacts Spiny Burr Grass is an annual grass that grows well on low-fertility, sandy, well drained soils where it competes with and displaces native species. It readily establishes on disturbed sites and each plant can yield up to 1000 seeds. The seeds are encased within burrs containing barbed spines. These burrs readily attach to vehicles, machinery and animals. They contaminate wool and can degrade visitor areas (Parsons & Cuthbertson 1992). Spiny Burr Grass is an identified threat to Carbeen Open Forest Communities.

All infestations in the NPR are within Moree Plains Shire Council and Castlereagh Macquarie County Council Areas where this species has been declared a Class 4 weed under the Noxious Weeds Act.

Buffel Grass is a perennial tussock grass that prefers sandier and sandy loam soils. It readily spreads in semi-arid areas displacing native species and reducing species diversity. It will often out compete other pasture grasses planted with it. In many situations it will dominate to a point that all other species are removed. It spreads well by seed and where it is established will withstand considerable grazing, drought and fire. When it dries off it produces a higher fuel load than native


species, which has made wildfires more frequent in some areas of northern Australia and has resulted in a reduction in some native shrubs (CSIRO Sustainable Ecosystems). Buffel Grass is an identified threat to Carbeen Open Forest Communities. Invasion of native plant communities by exotic perennial grasses is listed as a Key Threatening Process under the NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act.

Common Prickly Pear is an erect succulent shrub that grows well in both exposed and semi-shaded situations. Before the introduction of biological control agents it was the most serious weed in Australia and capable of growing in most parts of the continent. Patches grow densely forming an impenetrable barrier and provide harbour for pest animals such as rabbits. It can spread short distances when segments and fruit drop to the ground and take root, however, birds passing viable seed, segments being moved after attaching to animals, and human movement of plant parts have caused spread over larger areas (Parsons & Cuthbertson 1992).

Infestations of Prickly Pear occur within all Local Control Areas (LCAs) across the NPR. It is declared a Class 4 weed under the Noxious Weeds Act in all these LCAs.

Priorities for control Control of Spiny Burr Grass, Buffel Grass and Prickly Pear that exists in Budelah, Boomi, Boomi West and Boronga Nature Reserves where the Carbeen Open Forest EEC exists will be Critical 1 priority as identified within the PAS.

Spiny Burr Grass infestations in Warrumbungle NP will be controlled according to the requirements of Class 4 weeds. Infestations of all Prickly Pear species within reserves across the NPR that have not been identified as a higher priority for control will also be controlled according to the requirements of Class 4 weeds. The Noxious Weeds Act requires that all Class 4 weeds – the growth and spread of the plant must be controlled according to the measures specified in a management plan produced by the local control authority. According to the criteria within this document control of Class 4 weeds has been prioritised as a Low 11.

Control Chemical control of Spiny Burr Grass has been carried out in Boomi, Boomi West and Boronga Nature Reserves. Due to the extent of infestations of both Spiny Burr Grass and Buffel Grass, the most efficient and effective method of control is herbicide application. Paraquat or Glyphosate applied to actively growing plants (late spring – early summer) are effective but non selective controls.

Prickly Pears are constantly being impacted by biological control agents including, cochineal and cactoblastis. The impact of these control agents can be increased by moving infected pear segments into areas where uninfected plants exists. In addition, chemical control has and will continue to be used. Triclopyr and triclopyr + picloram are spot sprayed as an overall spray applied when plants are in a healthy condition. Follow up control is often necessary.

Monitoring All weed infestations in areas of Carbeen Open Forest within the NPR will be mapped and recorded. Recording and ongoing mapping of control programs that are implemented each season will provide information on the effectiveness of control as well as increases or decreases in area of infestations. Ground inspections will continue to monitor the effectiveness of control programs and for any new incursions within these EECs.

11.7 Weed control in Brigalow Endangered Ecological Community

Under the NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act, Brigalow has been listed as an Endangered Ecological Community in the Brigalow Belt South, Nandewar and Darling Riverine


Plains Bioregions. Within the NPR weed control to protect these stands has been identified in the PAS as an action in Budelah, Brigalow Park and Claremont Nature Reserves. Weed control in Brigalow Park and Claremont Nature Reserves has also been identified in the PAS as an action to protect Spiny Peppercress (Lepidium aschersonii). This erect perennial herb occurs on the ridges of gilgais in grey loamy clays dominated by Brigalow (Acacia harpophylla). It is listed as a vulnerable species under the NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act.

The stand in Budelah NR is less than 2ha and currently does not require weed management. Ongoing monitoring to ensure weeds do not infest and establish within this community will occur.

Brigalow Park and Claremont NRs contain infestations of a number of declared weeds including Bathurst Burr (Xanthium spinosum), Noogoora Burr (Xanthium strumarium) and Common Prickly Pear (Opuntia stricta).

Several other weeds occur within the reserves including saffron thistle (Carthamus tinctorious) and spear thistle (Cirsium vulgare). These are mostly on the fringes and although control has not been identified in the PAS they will be controlled during programs targeting other weeds.

Distribution and abundance Bathurst and Noogoora Burr originated in South America and North America respectively. The distribution of both species across Australia is similar, being found predominantly in Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria, but occurring in all mainland states. Bathurst Burr has also been found in Tasmania (Parsons & Cuthbertson 1992).

In the NPR they occur in patches throughout the region. The largest infestations occur in the Macquarie Marshes and Narran Lake Nature Reserves after inundation of the wetlands. Within Brigalow Park and Claremont Nature Reserve infestations tend to be within close proximity to the boundaries and the dams.

For the origin and general distribution of Common Prickly Pear see Weed Control in Carbeen Open Forest EEC – distribution and abundance.

Within Brigalow Park and Claremont Nature Reserves Common Prickly Pear occurs as isolated infestations throughout most parts of the reserves.

Impacts Noogoora Burr is highly invasive in flood out areas growing in a range of soil types from sandy clay loams to heavy self mulching clays. Masses of seedlings establish after late spring to summer rain, crowding out other species. Bathurst Burr is very similar, growing on high fertility disturbed soils often associated with watercourses, dam banks and floodplains. Both species are vigorous competitors against native species (Parsons & Cuthbertson 1992).

The seeds of both species are encased in burrs covered in spines that readily attached to wool, animal fur, clothing and any fibrous material. They are major contaminants of wool which incurs a reduced price as a result. The burrs also float on water, enabling movement along watercourses (Parsons & Cuthbertson 1992).

Both Noogoora and Bathurst Burr have been declared a Class 4 weed under the Noxious Weeds Act in all LCAs across the NPR.

For the impacts of Common Prickly Pear see Weed Control in Carbeen Open Forest EEC – Impacts.

Priorities for control Control of Noogoora Burr, Bathurst Burr and Common Prickly Pear that exists in the Brigalow EEC in Brigalow Park and Claremont Nature Reserves will be Critical 1 priority as identified within the PAS.


Where control of infestations of these species in other reserves across the NPR has not been identified as a higher priority, they will be controlled in accordance with the requirements of Class 4 weeds. The Noxious Weeds Act requires that all Class 4 weeds – the growth and spread of the plant must be controlled according to the measures specified in a management plan produced by the local control authority. According to the criteria within this document control of all Class 4 weeds has been prioritised as a Low 11.

Control Noogoora and Bathurst burrs are affected by several insects and fungal diseases. While these may account for controlling some infestations or individual plants they cannot be relied upon for control. Small infestations can be controlled via hoeing and hand removal, however spot spraying using selective broadleaf chemicals will be used on larger infestations within the region. These species will be controlled prior to seed set in late spring and early summer when they are actively growing.

For the control of Common Prickly Pear see Weed Control in Carbeen Open Forest EEC – Control.

Monitoring All weed infestations in areas of Brigalow within the NPR will be mapped and recorded. Recording and mapping of control programs that are implemented each season will provide information on the effectiveness of control as well as increases or decreases in the area of infestations. Ground inspections will continue to monitor the effectiveness of control programs and for any new incursions within these EECs.

11.8 Weed control to protect Bluegrass and Finger Panic Grass in Kirramingly Nature Reserve

Under the NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act Bluegrass (Dichanthium setosum) and Finger Panic Grass (Digitaria porrecta) are listed as vulnerable and endangered species respectively. Within the NPR weed control to protect these species has been listed in the PAS as an action in Kirramingley Nature Reserve. This reserve is predominantly grassland and contains a number of other endangered and vulnerable plant species including Creeping Tick-trefoil (Desmodium campylocaulon) and Slender Darling Pea (Swainsona murrayana).

Declared weeds present within Kirramingly Nature Reserve include African Boxthorn (Lycium ferocissimum), Noogoora Burr (Xanthium strumarium), Bathurst Burr (Xanthium spinosum) and Common Prickly Pear (Opuntia stricta).

Other weed species that have been identified within the reserve include Devils Claw (Proboscidea louisancia), Common Thornapple (Datura stramonium) and Mexican Poppy (Argemone ochroleuca). These species mostly occur on the fringes, around the dams and other areas that have previously been disturbed. Specific control of these species has not been listed in the PAS, however, they will be controlled during programs targeting other species.

Mimosa Bush (Acacia farnesiana) is an invasive native species commonly found within the reserve. Control of this species may occur if research determines that it is having an adverse impact on the grassland communities of the reserve. The distribution, abundance, impacts and control of Mimosa Bush are discussed under Weed control to protect Coolibah-Black Box Woodland EEC.

Distribution and abundance African Boxthorn is native to the southern coast of Africa. It was introduced to Australia as a hedge plant and is now one of the country’s most widespread weeds being found in all states (Parsons & Cuthbertson 1992).


In the NPR it occurs in varying densities in most reserves in the Narrabri area. It also occurs in Macquarie Marshes Nature Reserve in the Coonabarabran Area. In Kirramingly Nature Reserve there are scattered infestations, predominantly on the eastern end of the reserve.

For the distribution and abundance of Noogoora and Bathurst Burr see Weed control in Brigalow EEC – distribution and abundance. Within Kirramingly Nature Reserve these species occur as scattered infestations predominantly found around the dams and other disturbed areas within the reserve.

For the distribution and abundance of Common Prickly Pear see Weed control in Carbeen Open Forest EEC – distribution and abundance. Within Kirramingly Nature Reserve Common Prickly Pear occurs as a light density but widespread infestation across the reserve.

Impacts African Boxthorn can grow to 5m high and 3m wide, often growing in dense thickets along watercourses and under trees. It provides ideal habitat for feral pigs, rabbits, foxes and feral cats and it out competes and displaces native vegetation. It spreads mostly as a result of the fruit being eaten by birds and foxes, and excreting viable seeds.

African Boxthorn is declared a Class 4 weed under the Noxious Weeds Act in all LCAs in the NPR.

For impacts of Noogoora and Bathurst Burr see Weed control in Brigalow EEC – impacts.

For impacts of Common Prickly Pear see Weed control in Carbeen Open Forest EEC – impacts.

Priorities for control As identified in the PAS control of infestations of African Boxthorn, Noogoora Burr, Bathurst Burr and Common Prickly Pear within Kirramingly Nature Reserve is a Critical 1 priority to protect Bluegrass (Dichanthium setosum) and Finger Panic Grass (Digitaria porrecta).

Where infestations of African Boxthorn, Noogoora Burr, Bathurst Burr or Common Prickly Pear occur in other reserves across the NPR and control has not been identified as a higher priority, these species will be controlled in accordance with the requirements of Class 4 weeds. The Noxious Weeds Act requires that all Class 4 weeds – the growth and spread of the plant must be controlled according to the measures specified in a management plan produced by the local control authority. According to the criteria within this document control of Class 4 weeds has been prioritised as a Low 11.

Control Control of African Boxthorn, Noogoora Burr, Bathurst Burr and Common Prickly Pear has been carried out in Kirramingly Nature Reserve and as a result, infestations of African Boxthorn and Noogoora and Bathurst Burr have been significantly reduced. Follow up control is still required.

African Boxthorn can be controlled via cut stump, basal bark treatment or overall spraying. Cut stump requires cutting the bushes off close to ground level using a chainsaw or brushcutter and immediately applying chemical to the remaining stump. Triclopyr may be applied. Basal bark treatment requires triclopyr or access mixed with diesel applied to the full circumference of the trunk or stem of the plant. The mix should be applied from ground level to a height of 30cm. Overall spraying may be carried out using glyphosate or triclopyr + picloram and should take place after significant rainfall events, when bushes are actively growing and have good leaf cover (no leaf fall). Control of African Boxthorn often requires follow up to treat regrowth and/or newly germinated seedlings.

For the control of Noogoora and Bathurst Burr see Weed Control in Brigalow EEC – Control.

For the control of Common Prickly Pear see Weed Control in Carbeen Open Forest EEC – Control.


Monitoring All weed infestations in Kirramingly Nature Reserve will be mapped and recorded. Recording and ongoing mapping of control programs that are implemented each season will provide information on the effectiveness of control as well as increases or decreases in the area of infestations. Ground inspections will continue to monitor the effectiveness of control programs, requirements for follow up control and for any new incursions.

11.9 Weed control in Coolibah-Black Box Woodland Endangered Ecological Community

Under the NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act, Coolibah-Black Box Woodland of the northern riverine plains has been listed as an Endangered Ecological Community in the Darling Riverine Plains and Brigalow Belt South Bioregions. Within the NPR weed control to protect these stands has been identified in the PAS as an action in Budelah Nature Reserve. This community covers approximately 1500ha of the reserve and is predominantly associated with the heavy clay soils on the floodplain of the Boomi and Macintyre rivers and Boomangera creek. Weeds that have been identified within the community include Common Prickly Pear (Opuntia stricta) and Lippia (Phyla canscesans). Mimosa Bush (Acacia farnesiana) is an invasive native species found within the reserve. Control of this species will be investigated and implemented to prevent its further establishment and over dominance within the Coolibah-Black Box Woodland EEC.

Distribution and abundance For the distribution and abundance of Common Prickly Pear see Weed control in Carbeen Open Forest EEC – Distribution and abundance. Within the Coolibah-Black Box Woodland in Budelah Nature Reserve, Common Prickly Pear occurs as a scattered infestation across most of the stand.

Lippia is thought to be native to South America, however, as it has been widely cultivated and is considered naturalised in a number of other areas, its exact origin is not clear (Leigh & Walton 2004). Within Australia it is considered a weed and occurs in Western Australia, New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria and South Australia, and it is estimated to infest 5.3 million ha in the Murray Darling Basin alone (Earl 2003).

In the NPR Lippia occurs in the Macquarie Marshes, Narran Lake, Budelah, Boomi, Boomi West, Boronga, Careunga and Midkin Nature Reserves. Within the Coolibah-Black Box Woodland EEC it exists as isolated infestations within close proximity to watercourses.

Mimosa Bush is native to tropical America but is thought to have been introduced into Australia prior to European settlement (Harden 2002). Within Australia this species is considered naturalised, however, there is some conjecture over this determination. It occurs in New South Wales, Queensland, Northern Territory, South Australia and Western Australia.

In the NPR Mimosa Bush occurs in a number of reserves including but not limited to Kirramingley, Planchonella, Midkin and Careunga Nature Reserves, however, currently its control has only been highlighted as a priority in Budelah Nature Reserves.

Impacts For the Impacts of Common Prickly Pear see Weed control in Carbeen Open Forest EEC – Impacts.

Lippia is a broadleaf perennial herb that grows well on clay soils associated with wetland and floodplain areas. It forms a dense mat-like ground cover with a deep root system that dries out the soil. It is suspected to be allelopathic, thus, suppressing the growth of other plants. These characteristics mean that Lippia significantly increases the potential of erosion and becomes dominant and out competes native species, greatly reducing biodiversity in riparian areas. Where it


establishes it dramatically reduces stocking capacity, having considerable impact on grazing enterprises. It spreads both vegetatively and via seed primarily moved by floodwater (Earl 2003).

All infestations in the NPR are within the Moree Plains Shire Council and Castlereagh Macquarie County Council Areas. Lippia is declared a Class 4 weed under the Noxious Weeds Act in the Moree Plains Shire Council Area. It is not a declared weed in the Castlereagh Macquarie County Council Area.

Mimosa Bush is a spreading shrub, 1-4m tall that grows well on loam and clay soils. It grows in woodlands, shrublands and grasslands, on open plains and near watercourses. It is invasive, particularly where there is little or no shrub competition, forming dense thickets and displacing native species. It provides ideal habitat for feral pigs, foxes and feral cats and limits the movement of stock. It spreads by seeds which are encased in pods that are palatable to sheep, cattle and some bird species. After consuming the pods these species excrete viable seed (Harden 2002).

In the NPR it is considered an invasive native species for the purposes of the Native Vegetation Act in all Catchment Management Authority Areas, however, currently its control has only been highlighted as a priority in Budelah Nature Reserves.

Priorities for control Control of Common Prickly Pear and Lippia within the Coolibah-Black Box Woodland EEC in Budelah Nature Reserve will be a critical 1 priority as identified within the PAS. In addition, control of Mimosa Bush within this community will be carried out to an extent that will prevent it from over-dominating in areas where it is currently present and establishing in areas where it is not currently present. This will also be implemented as a Critical 1 priority.

Where infestations of Common Prickly Pear occur in other reserves across the NPR and control has not been identified as a higher priority, this species will be controlled in accordance with the requirements of Class 4 weeds. Similarly, where Lippia occurs in reserves in the Moree Plains Shire Council Area and control has not been identified as a higher priority, this species will be controlled in accordance with the requirements of Class 4 weeds. The Noxious Weeds Act requires that all Class 4 weeds – the growth and spread of the plant must be controlled according to the measures specified in a management plan produced by the local control authority. According to the criteria within this document control has been prioritised as a Low 11.

Control For the control of Common Prickly Pear see Weed Control in Carbeen Open Forest EEC – Control.

The most effective form of control for Lippia involves a cultivation regime. This is not desirable in any of the reserves in the NPR. Herbicide control is limited in its effectiveness, only suppressing the growth of plants for a short period of time. Multiple applications throughout a season have been more effective in controlling infestations. Selective broadleaf products with 2,4-D Amine (eg. Amicide 625) as the active constituent are approved for Lippia control under permit PER6827. Using the broadleaf selective product will avoid removing native grass species that will compete with and help prevent the re-establishment of Lippia in areas controlled.

Mimosa Bush is a difficult plant to control. Several herbicides have been approved by off-label permits for use as an overall spray. These include Clopyralid (eg. Lontrel) and Clopyralid and Metsulfuron methyl (eg. Brushoff). Permits for these applications are PER6326 and PER9005 respectively. Triclopyr + picloram (eg. Access) mixed with diesel is also registered for basal bark application. Plants must be actively growing with good leaf coverage for effective control. This species closes down over winter, making the control window late spring, summer and early autumn, provided sufficient rainfall. Desirable species may be temporarily removed from areas


under treated bushes as a result of the sustained action of residual chemicals. Follow up control of Mimosa Bush is necessary.

Monitoring All weed infestations within Coolibah-Black Box Woodland in Budelah Nature Reserve will be mapped and recorded. Recording and ongoing mapping of control programs that are implemented each season will provide information on the effectiveness of control as well as increases or decreases in the area of infestations. Ground inspections will continue to monitor the effectiveness of control programs, requirements for follow up control and for any new incursions.

11.10 Green Cestrum (Cestrum parqui)Distribution and abundance Green Cestrum originated in Chile and Peru. It was planted widely in Australia as a garden ornamental and hedge plant. Within Australia it is most commonly found in parts of Victoria, New South Wales and South-eastern Queensland (Parsons & Cuthbertson 1992).

In the NPR it occurs as isolated infestations along several creek lines in Warrumbungle National Park, Mount Kaputar National Park and Deriah Community Conservation Area. In Warrumbungle National Park infestations are predominantly found in the northern area of the Park, in Mount Kaputar National Park it is found on the western boundary (Ningadoo) at the head of Eulah Creek and, in Deriah Community Conservation Area infestations occur along the creek.

Impacts Green Cestrum is an invasive plant that grows well on alluvial creek flats, often to the exclusion of other vegetation. It is toxic to domestic animals including cattle, sheep, horses, pigs and poultry and is also claimed to be toxic to birds and bees that feed on the fruit and flowers (Parsons & Cuthbertson 1992). The plant produces a large seed bank from which it readily re-establishes following treatment.

All incursions within the NPR occur in Narrabri Shire Council and Castlereagh Macquarie County Council areas. Green Cestrum has been declared a Class 3 weed under the Noxious Weeds Act in both of these areas.

Priorities for control The Noxious Weeds Act requires that all Class 3 weeds are fully and continuously suppressed and destroyed. According to the criteria within this document control has been prioritised as a Medium 9. As a result of past control efforts, all infestations within the NPR have been reduced to a level that will allow full control each season. Follow up control will be necessary to remove plants that are missed and new germinations.

Control Control can be carried out either via physical removal or herbicide application. Physical removal requires careful attention to remove the entire plant as persistent regrowth from roots can be common. A number of herbicides are registered for control. These are generally applied as an overall spray thoroughly wetting the plant in the active growth stage prior to flowering. Flowering occurs over several months during summer and autumn.

Both physical removal and herbicide application will be used to control infestations within NPR. Several of the registered herbicides will be used.

Monitoring All infestations within the NPR will be mapped and recorded. Recording of control programs that are implemented each season will provide information on increases or decreases in infestations.


Ground inspections will continue to monitor the effectiveness of control programs and for any new incursions.

11.11 Sweet Briar (Rosa rubiginosa) Distribution and abundance Sweet Briar originated in Europe and Western Asia. It was originally planted in Australia as an ornamental or hedge plant and now occurs in all states except Northern Territory. It mostly occurs on well drained areas of moderate to high fertility receiving more than 600mm annual rainfall. However, it does tolerate a range of conditions and extend into more arid areas (Parsons and Cuthbertson 1992).

Within the NPR extensive control programs have greatly reduced its distribution and currently it only occurs as isolated infestations along the lower altitude disturbed areas of the Warrumbungle National Park and on the eastern boundary of Mount Kaputar National Park, most predominantly along the Horton River, Second Water Creek and Horsearm Creek (around Scutt’s Hut).

Impacts Sweet Briar can be a fast spreading weed, particularly in areas where there is little competition. It is most commonly spread by birds and other animals eating the fruit and excreting the seed. In agricultural situations it can cause significant losses to production because of competition with and reduced space for palatable species. In bushland situations it similarly competes with and reduces space for native species. Dense patches provide harbour for pest animals, particularly rabbits and feral pigs (Parsons and Cuthbertson 1992).

Incursions within the NPR occur in Narrabri Shire Council and Castlereagh Macquarie County Council areas. Sweet Briar has been declared a Class 4 weed under the Noxious Weeds Act in both of these areas.

Priorities for control The Noxious Weeds Act requires that all Class 4 weeds – the growth and spread of the plant must be controlled according to the measures specified in a management plan produced the local control authority. According to the criteria within this document control has been prioritised as a Low 11. As a result of past control efforts, all infestations within the NPR have been greatly reduced in size and density. Ongoing and follow up control will be necessary to remove plants that have been missed and/or re-established after treatment.

Control Mechanical removal, grazing and/or herbicide application can all be used to aid in the control of Sweet Briar. Within the NPR herbicide via basal bark application, cut stump and overall spray will be used to continue control.

Monitoring All infestations within the NPR will be mapped and recorded. Recording of control programs that are implemented each season will provide information on increases or decreases in infestations. Ground inspections will continue to monitor the effectiveness of control programs and for any new incursions.


11.12 Blue Heliotrope (Heliotropium amplexicaule) Distribution and abundance Blue Heliotrope is native to South America. It was originally introduced to Australia as an ornamental and is now widespread in parts of Queensland and New South Wales. It is a coloniser of roadsides, old cultivations and degraded pastures (Parsons and Cuthbertson 1992).

In the NPR it occurs as widespread infestations in the central valley of the Warrumbungle National Park and isolated infestations in Biddon Community Conservation Area.

Impacts Blue Heliotrope proliferates aggressively due to high seed output and regeneration from root buds. It out competes and displaces most other species. It is known to cause death in cattle through poisoning and is also poisonous to humans (Parsons and Cuthbertson 1992).

In the NPR, both reserves containing Blue Heliotrope infestations are within the Castlereagh Macquarie County Council Area where this species has been declared a Class 4 weed under the Noxious Weeds Act.

Priorities for control The Noxious Weeds Act requires that all Class 4 weeds – the growth and spread of the plant must be controlled according to the measures specified in a management plan produced by the local control authority. According to the criteria within this document control has been prioritised as a Low 11. Targeted control within the central valley of Warrumbungle NP has been and will continue to be carried out within this reserve.

Control Control around picnic areas and campgrounds and along roadsides within the central valley of the Warrumbungle NP is and will continue to be carried out using a broad-leaf selective herbicide. This encourages the recruitment of grasses which act as competition for the re-establishment of Blue Heliotrope and other broadleaf weeds such as Paterson’s Curse.

A tree planting program was carried out on old cultivation areas within the valley. This was implemented to speed up succession and provide competition to Blue Heliotrope and other weeds such as Paterson’s Curse, growing in the area.

Blue Heliotrope Leaf Feeding Beetle (Deuterocampta quadrijuga) was released (10/10/2001) at two sites along Wombelong Creek in the central valley. To date its impact on the overall infestation has been minimal.

An integrated management approach incorporating the above control methods together with measures to improve the degraded pastures (e.g. limit overgrazing from native herbivores and encourage establishment of perennial grasses) will be required to achieve a long term reduction in Blue Heliotrope within the central valley of Warrumbungle NP. Weed control alone will not effectively reduce infestations.

Monitoring All infestations within the NPR will be mapped and recorded. Recording of control programs that are implemented each season will provide information on increases or decreases in infestations. Ground inspections will continue to monitor the effectiveness of control programs and for any new incursions.

Vegetation monitoring within Warrumbungle NP will also provide information on increases or decreases in infestations within the central valley of this reserve.


11.13 Control of other weeds

Control of Class 4 weeds that have not been identified as a higher priority above have been prioritised according the criteria within this document as a Low 11 priority. These weeds include Blackberry (Rubus fruticosus), Golden Dodder (Cuscuta campestris), Mothers-of-millions (Bryophyllum spp), Paterson’s Curse (Echium spp.), Tiger Pear (Opuntia aurantiaca), Tree Pear (Opuntia spp.) and St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum). A brief description of the distribution and past and future control of each of these species is detailed in Appendix 1.

Many other weeds occur within reserves across the NPR. These include but are not limited to Khaki Weed, Castor Oil Plant, Horehound, Cathead, Coolatai Grass, Cotton Bush and several species of thistle. Control of species such as these has and will continue to be carried out where they impact upon reserve values, such as around campgrounds and visitor areas. Additionally, control may be carried out in some reserves in conjunction with control programs targeting other weed species.


12 References

Choquenot, D., McIlroy, J. & Korn, T. (1996). Managing Vertebrate Pests: Feral Pigs. Bureau of Resource Sciences, Australian Government Publishing Service, Canberra.

CSIRO Sustainable Ecosystems. www.cazr.csiro.au/documents.buffell_tc.pdf

Earl, J. (2003). The Distribution and Impacts of Lippia (Phyla canescens) in the Murray Darling System. Agricultural Information and Monitoring Services, Guyra.

Harden, G. J. (2002). Flora of New South Wales – Volume 2. University of New South Wales Press Ltd, Sydney.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (2001). Threat Abatement Plan for Predation by the Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes). NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Hurstville.

Parkes, J., Henzell, R. & Pickles, G. (1996). Managing Vertebrate Pests: Feral Goats. Australian Government Publishing Service, Canberra.

Parsons, W. T. & Cuthbertson, E. G. (1992). Noxious Weeds of Australia. Inkata Press, Melbourne.


http://www.cazr.csiro.au/documents.buffell_tc.pdf

13 Appendices Appendix 1 – Distribution, Past and Future Control of Class 4 weeds

Paterson’s Curse is widespread in the central valley of Warrumbungle NP, with its distribution very similar to that of Blue Heliotrope. It is currently controlled in conjunction with Blue Heliotrope via broadleaf selective chemical application around the picnic areas and campgrounds and along roadsides within the park. A tree planting program was carried out on an old cultivation area within the central valley. This was implemented to speed up succession and provide competition to Blue Heliotrope and Paterson’s Curse growing within the area. Specific biological control agents, Paterson’s Curse Flea Beetle (Echii and Larvatus), have been released within the park to target Paterson’s Curse. These were released on the 16/10/2005, and to date their overall effect has been minimal.

Blackberry occurs as isolated infestations within Warrumbungle NP. In the past an extensive control effort has been targeted at reducing infestations which has resulted in Blackberry being reduced to the remote gullies and area inaccessible to vehicles. Control will continue to be targeted at maintaining and where possible further reducing infestations within the park.

Golden Dodder was most extensively recorded in Narran Lake NR. Due to the prolonged drought and subsequent drying up of the lake, the extent of infestations within the reserve has been greatly reduced. Ongoing monitoring and possible control will be implemented to ensure this species does not re-establish as a widespread infestation when water returns to the lake. Golden Dodder has also been recorded in isolated infestation in Mount Kaputar National Park, along Bullawa Creek, and as widespread infestations in the Macquarie Marshes Nature Reserve.

Mothers-of-Millions occurs as small isolated infestations in Mount Kaputar National Park adjoining the property ‘Evansdale’ and on the old properties ‘Beresford Park’ and ‘Carinya’ and around the East Mullane homestead adjoining Narran Lake NR. In the past chemical control of these infestations has been carried out. This will continue with the intention of reducing these infestations and possibly eradicating this species from these areas. Mothers-of-Millions has also been recorded and/or controlled in the Boronga NR and Trinkey, Pilliga, Terry Hie Hie, Bobbiwaa and Bullawa Creek CCAs. Control of these infestations will be carried out to prevent further spread and establishment of infestations.

Tiger Pear occurs as isolated infestations in Kelvin CCA and scattered infestation in Midkin NR and Bobbiwaa and the Pilliga CCAs. In the past some chemical control has been carried out in Midkin NR and Bobbiwaa and the Pilliga CCAs. Tiger Pear, like other Prickly Pears, is constantly being attacked by biological agents, cochineal and cactoblastis. Manual spreading of infected plants assists in the overall effectiveness and control given by these agents. Tiger Pear may be considered a greater priority than other Class 4 weeds in the Pilliga CCAs due to its impact on Koala populations within these reserves. Segments detach from the plant, embedding into Koalas, causing discomfort and irritation.

Tree Pear occurs as scattered infestations in Midkin NR and isolated infestations in the Boomi NRs and Bobbiwaa, Kelvin Wondaba and the Pilliga CCAs. Some chemical control of these infestations has been carried out.

St John’s Wort occurs as very small isolated infestations within Warrumbungle National Park. In the past control of these infestations has almost totally eradicated them from known areas of the park. Ongoing monitoring and control is carried out each year prior to plants flowering. This will continue with intention of fully eradicating infestations from the park.


Table 4 is a list of all Class 3 and 4 weeds across all Local Control Authority areas in the Northern Plains Region. Ongoing vegetation surveys and monitoring within Reserves across the Region will assist in identifying the presence/absence of these species. Control programs will be implemented according to control requirements.

Table 4: Class 3 and 4 weeds across Local Control Authority areas in Northern Plains Region

Narrabri Shire Council

Moree Plains Shire Council

Gwydir Shire Council

Tamworth Regional Shire Council

Gunnedah Shire Council

Liverpool Plains Shire Council

Castlereagh Macquarie County Council

Columbus Grass 4 4 4 4 4 3

Green Cestrum 3 3 3 3 3 3

Giant Parramatta Grass

3 3 3 3

Johnson Grass 4 4 4 4 4 3

Serrated Tussock 4 4 3 3 4 3 4

Silk Forage Sorghum

4 4 3

Silver-leaf Nightshade

3 3 3 3 3 3 4

St John’s wort 3 3 3 4 3 4 4

African Boxthorn 4 4 4 4 4 4

Bathurst/Noogoora

Californian/Cockle Burrs

4 4 4 4 4 4 4

Blackberry 4 4 4 4 4 4 4

Blue Heliotrope 4 4 4

Chilean Needle Grass

4 4 4 4 4 4 4

Galenia 4 4

Galvanised Burr 4 4 4

Golden Dodder 4 4 4 4 4 4 4

Harrisia Cactus 4 4 4 4 4 4 4

Hemlock 4 4 4 4

Lippia 4 4 4 4

Long-style Feather Grass

4 4 4 4

Mintweed 4 4

Mother-of-millions 4 4 4 4 4 4


Table 4 continued

Narrabri Shire Council

Moree Plains Shire Council

Gwydir Shire Council

Tamworth Regional Shire Council

Gunnedah Shire Council

Liverpool Plains Shire Council

Castlereagh Macquarie County Council

Nodding Thistle 4 4 4 4

Pampas Grass 4 4 4 4 4 4 4

Paterson’s Curse 4 4 4 4

Perennial Ragweed

4 4 4 4

Prickly Pear 4 4 4 4 4 4 4

Prickly Pear spp. 4 4 4 4 4 4 4

Rhus Tree 4 4 4 4 4 4 4

Scotch Broom 4 4

Scotch, Stemless, Illyrian, Taurian Thistles

4 4

Sagittaria 4

Spiny Burrgrass 4 4 4 4 4 4

Spotted Golden Thistle

4

Star Thistle 4

Sweet Briar 4 4 4 4

Tree-of-heaven 4

Wild Radish 4


Appendix 2 – Emerging Pest Issues

A number of weeds and pest animals that are not currently known or only known in small infestations have been identified as emerging pest issues in the Northern Plains Region. Species of concern, the location of current infestations and possible reserves where infestations may establish are outlined below. Monitoring will be implemented for these species and where necessary control programs will be carried out. Pest Current Infestations Future Threats Deer Somerton National Park, Wondaba

and Biddon State Conservation Area, Mount Kaputar and Pilliga National Park and Pilliga Aboriginal Area

All reserves

Horse Pilliga West National Park and Pilliga West State Conservation Area

All Baradine Reserves

Salvinia Nil Macquarie Marshes and Narran Lake Nature Reserves

Water Hyacinth Nil Macquarie Marshes and Narran Lake Nature Reserves

Parthenium Weed Nil All reserves Hudson’s Pear Nil Narran Lake Nature Reserve Coolatai Grass Mount Kaputar and Gunyerwarildi

National Park Northern Reserves in the Narrabri Area

Scotch Broom Nil Coonabarabran Area Reserves and Mount Kaputar National Park


northern plains region pest management strategy 2008-2011 · in the northern plains region,...

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