Managing for Biodiversity

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Managing for Biodiversity on Public Land

National parks and conservation parks are important areas for biodiversity conservation in the West Region, with 9,570,000 ha (almost one third of the region's area) currently dedicated to preserve native vegetation, wildlife and landscape features.

See map of West Region Protected Areas (150Kb PDF).

Five national parks - Coffin Bay, Gawler Ranges, Lake Gairdner, Lincoln and Nullarbor - have been established to protect flora, fauna and landscapes of national significance. The Great Australian Bight Marine Park has been established to protect the biological diversity of the Bight while providing for ecologically sustainable use of the park's natural resources. The region's offshore environments are further protected with 149 islands included in 27 of the conservation parks.

For more information on national parks and conservation parks in the West Region please contact a local Department for Environment and Heritage office.

Managing for Biodiversity on Private Land

Remnant native vegetation that has been fenced and protected from grazing under a Heritage Agreement

A significant amount of the remnant (remaining) vegetation in the West Region occurs outside State Government parks and reserves, on private land, roadsides and Council reserves. This vegetation includes a diverse range of plants and provides vital habitat for native animals.

Our wildlife depends on a functioning landscape for survival, so native vegetation on private lands is crucial for wildlife conservation. Many rare and threatened species rely totally on areas outside of parks and reserves for their survival. In addition, native vegetation can also help control soil erosion, improve water quality, absorb greenhouse gases and add amenity.

Restored farm

Private land-holders, local government and community groups have a vital role to play in managing for biodiversity. Our Green Tips web page has some great ideas for land-holders interested in protecting biodiversity on the farm.

Natural Resources Management (NRM) Officers from the Eyre Peninsula Natural Resources Management Board help private land-holders and community organisations to protect and manage native vegetation by providing site visits, information and management advice. The Heritage Agreement Scheme offers additional ongoing support to land-holders who set aside areas of remnant vegetation in perpetuity. NRM Officers can also advise on funding opportunities to assist with managing vegetation for biodiversity. For more information contact your local NRM Officer at the Eyre Peninsula Natural Resources Management Board.