This project seeks to provide an opportunity within the
Australian Capital Territory to build public education about pest
animal issues generally, and to improve community understanding of
modern technologies for control of invasive animals and their role
in biodiversity conservation and recovery of threatened
species.
A predator-proof fence is being installed by the ACT Government
within the boundaries of Mulligans Flat Nature Reserve. The
fenced area will be subject to eradication of foxes and cats.
The new residential development of Forde commenced development in
2007 and in the period up to 2012 a further suburb of Bonner will
also be constructed adjacent to the nature reserve. It is
expected that bird and mammal fauna typical of Yellow Box - Red Gum
Grassy Woodland habitats in the south-eastern highland bioregion
will be reintroduced to the sanctuary once it is free of foxes and
cats.
IA CRC participation will be directed towards assistance with
the development and implementation of surveys of community
understanding about the impact of fox and cat predation on
threatened species; preparation of education/information materials;
and production of signage.
The project dovetails with community-based projects being
managed by the Conservation Council of the South-east Region and
Canberra (CCSERAC) and the Ginninderra Catchment Group (GCG).
Funds for these projects have been secured through the Natural
Heritage Trust.
This proposal is likely to play a role in supporting other IA
CRC projects by providing an opportunity to showcase their products
and demonstrate to the general public the biodiversity benefits of
invasive animal control.
Main project aims:
- to provide an opportunity for the IA CRC/TAMS to showcase
products for control of feral predators and demonstrate
biodiversity benefits by permitting reintroduction of threatened
species to natural habitat
- to establish at Mulligans Flat Nature Reserve information and
education materials on invasive animals and their impact on
threatened species
- to develop an understanding of:
- local residents and reserve users' views of predator control
and
- their motivations for participation/non-participation in key
activities associated with predator control in the reserve and
adjacent areas.
Project collaborators:
ACT Department of Territory
and Municipal Services (TAMS)
University of Canberra (UC)
