ACT Nature Conservation Strategy 2013–23 Implementation Plan 2 (2019–2023)

2013. The Strategy provided a vision, outcomes, strategies and actions. It set a clear direction for the protection and management of biodiversity in the ACT and region. Vision Biodiversity rich, resilient landscapes stretching from the inner city to the mountains, where well-functioning ecosystems can meet the needs of people and the environment. Outcomes Outcome 1: Native vegetation and biodiversity is maintained and improved Outcome 2: Landscapes are more resilient, including to climate change Outcome 3:Community health and wellbeing is increased through use and appreciation of natural areas and ‘green assets’ in urban areas Strategies Strategy 1: Enhance habitat connectivity and ecosystem function Strategy 2: Manage threats to biodiversity Strategy 3: Protect species and ecological communities Strategy 4: Enhance biodiversity value of urban areas Strategy 5: Strengthen community engagement Thirty-three actions guide conservation management of the natural environment across nature reserves, and rural and urban areas in the ACT. The Strategy was supported by an Implementation Plan 1 (2013–18) (IP1). ACT Nature Conservation Strategy Implementation Plan 2 (2019–23) 1 2 ACT Nature Conservation Strategy Implementation Plan 2 (2019–23) PROGRESS TO DATE Implementation of the Nature Conservation Strategy 2013–23 has been well tracked and reported on. A report card on progress to December 2015 was released and is available here. A report card on progress to December 2018 is available Implementation Plan 1 (2013–18) (IP1). All milestones in Implementation Plan 1 have been progressed through strong collaboration between government, the community, land managers and researchers; 51 milestones have been completed, and 51 are ongoing. Highlights from Implementation Plan 1

1. Baseline information on our landscapes has significantly improved and shared with the community through ACTMapi, including vegetation communities, habitat connectivity and soil and hydrological landscapes.

2. The ACT Woodlands Restoration Program (2011–18) has restored and connected 60,000 hectares of the largest remaining box–gum grassy woodland landscape in Australia focussing on priority landscapes of: Belconnen Hills, Majura Valley, Callum Brae, Kowen Plateau, Greater Gooroyarroo, and Murrumbidgee River Corridor.

3. Grassland Enhancement Program research and on-ground trials has improved management of biomass in grasslands to enhance habitat for the Grassland Earless Dragon, Striped Legless Lizard, Button Wrinklewort and Small Purple Pea.

4. Artificial fish habitat (‘Cod Caves’) were deployed in the Molonglo River and Yerrabi Lake, and Engineered Log Jams (ELJs) were constructed near Tharwa. Conservation Research monitoring results show improved native fish passage and habitat.

5. New action plans have been developed to manage and protect the following species: Scarlet Robin (2016); Murray Cod (2017) and Listed Migratory Species (2018)

6. Action plans for 16 threatened species and threatened ecological communities have been reviewed and updated.

7. Long-term monitoring for ecosystems has been improved through development of a Conservation Effectiveness Monitoring Program.

8. Translocations and reintroductions of many species to the ACT, including the Eastern Bettong, Eastern Quoll, Brown Treecreeper and New Holland Mouse, have been undertaken as part of the Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary and Mulligans Flat – Goorooyarroo Woodland Experiment.

9. Seed banks are in place for Brindabella Midge Orchid, Murrumbidgee Bossiaea, Tuggeranong Lignum and Ginninderra Peppercress with seed collected and stored at the Australian National Botanic Gardens for future translocation and conservation purposes.

10. Continued strong community engagement: a. Reinvigorating ParkCare through creation of the ParkCare Hub and four volunteering streams to broaden and enhance opportunities: ParkCare Patch; RangerAssist; WldlifeAssist and VisitorAssist. b. Forums showcasing and promoting research undertaken by Landcare and ParkCare groups, including: ParkCare Forums; Woodlands Forum; Black Mountain Symposium. c. Citizen science including: Canberra Nature Map, Upper Murrumbidgee Waterwatch, Frogwatch, Woodlands and Wetlands Trust Latham’s Snipe project.

11. Continuation of the Murrumbung Ranger Program, involvement of Indigenous people in woodland restoration and increased knowledge and application of cultural burns in Caring for Country. ACT Nature Conservation Strategy Implementation Plan 2 (2019–23) 3 4 ACT Nature Conservation Strategy Implementation Plan 2 (2019–23) IMPLEMENTATION PLAN 2 Implementation Plan 2 (2019–23) (IP2) identifies priorities for implementing the Nature Conservation Strategy over the next five years. Following the experience gained with the first implementation plan, IP2 has given increased focus to: »» enhancing biodiversity values in urban areas »» working with rural landholders on promoting native vegetation and biodiversity on farms »» supporting Traditional Custodians to apply Aboriginal land management methods on Country »» building the ACT’s ability to monitor conservation effectiveness within reserves »» strengthening partnerships within the region for conservation management, including for cross-border collaboration. Implementation Plan 2 – also places continuing priority on: »» building our capacity to plan for and adapt to a changing climate »» managing threats to the natural environment from pest animals and weeds »» improving woodlands, grasslands and aquatic habitat including rehabilitating priority landscapes for habitat connectivity »» protecting threatened species through monitoring, research and on-ground actions »» expanding opportunities for people to enjoy nature through volunteering, recreation and eco-tourism »» encouraging and supporting citizen science. Relevant ACT Government directorates will focus efforts to secure resources for actions that demonstrate cost effectiveness in terms of responding to critical conservation priorities and achieving the greatest positive conservation impacts. Some of the actions are undertaken by the ACT Parks and Conservation Service and the ACT Government (under implementation of the Nature Conservation Act 2014). Other priorities are supported by ACT and Australian government programs. ACT Nature Conservation Strategy Implementation Plan 2 (2019–23) 5 6 ACT Nature Conservation Strategy Implementation Plan 2 (2019–23) IMPLEMENTATION ACTIONS AND PRIORITIES STRATEGY 1: Restoring priority landscapes and improving connectivity Priorities for Implementation Plan 2 (2019–23) Links to legislation and other plans and strategies Action 1.1: Develop baseline information on landscape function 1: Assess changes in tree canopy, including to identify areas of tree Nature Conservation Act 2014 decline from Dieback and regrowth from natural regeneration • Listing of Loss of Hollow Bearing Trees as a key and plantings. Implement the Living Infrastructure Plan - refer to threatening process Action 66. • ACT Woodlands Conservation Strategy • Climate Change Strategy 2: Monitor priority species including Grassland Earless Dragon, Nature Conservation Act 2014 Superb Parrot, Latham’s Snipe, Grey-headed Flying-fox and • Grasslands Conservation Strategy— Macquarie Perch to better understand impacts of climate Grassland Earless Dragon Action Plan change and ability to adapt. • ACT Woodlands Conservation Strategy— Superb Parrot Action Plan • Aquatic and Riparian Conservation Strategy— Macquarie Perch Action Plan • Action Plan for Listed Migratory Species Climate Change Strategy Action 1.2: Undertake fine-scale planning for habitat connectivity 3: Revegetation activities including the Protecting and Connecting ACT Natural Resource Management Programs Box-Gum Woodlands in the ACT project, guided by the • Australian Government National Landcare Program Conservation Effectiveness Monitoring Program. Action 1.3: Enhance regional connectivity 4: Improve regional habitat corridors in partnership with ACT and Region Catchment Strategy South East Local Land Services, Kosciusko to Coast and ACT Woodlands Conservation Strategy Great Eastern Ranges. Action 1.4: Assess conservation investment opportunities across public and privately managed lands in the ACT 5: Continue to update the integrated ACT Natural Resource ACT Natural Resource Management Programs Management Investment Plan to: • Australian Government National Landcare Program • adapt and reflect priorities in new and updated ACT strategies and plans • respond to emerging funding opportunities • support engagement with key stakeholders and delivery partners • guide development of proposals for new program funds. 6: Continue to seek investment for nature conservation including ACT Natural Resource Management Programs through Australian Government programs. • Australian Government National Landcare Program ACT Nature Conservation Strategy Implementation Plan 2 (2019–23) 7 Priorities for Implementation Plan 2 (2019–23) Links to legislation and other plans and strategies 7: Work with rural landholders to identify ways to protect the ACT Natural Resource Management Programs natural resource base and promote biodiversity on farm. • Australian Government National Landcare Program 8: Explore opportunities for introducing Land for Wildlife, a voluntary program that encourages and assists people to manage wildlife habitat on their properties, both in rural and urban areas. Action 1.5: Fund priority landscape actions 9: Fund restoration in lowland rural landscapes including Naas ACT Natural Resource Management Programs Valley, Murrumbidgee River corridor and Bullen Range area, • Australian Government National Landcare Program including through delivery of: • Protect and Connect Box–Gum Woodlands project. 10: Continue to invest in Mulligans Flat and Greater Goorooyarroo ACT Natural Resource Management Programs Sanctuary, including through delivery of: • Australian Government National Landcare Program • Safe Haven for Bettongs and Quolls project • extension of Sanctuary fence • species reintroductions. 11: Continue to implement restoration works to maintain or Environment Offsets improve matters of National Environmental Significance pursuant to offset commitments, including: • Molonglo Valley Strategic Assessment • Gungahlin Strategic Assessment • Eastern Broadacre Strategic Assessment. 8 ACT Nature Conservation Strategy Implementation Plan 2 (2019–23) Strategy 2: Manage threats to biodiversity Priorities for Implementation Plan 2 (2019–23) Links to legislation and other plans and strategies Action 2.1: Implement ACT Weed Strategy (2009-2019) 12: Review ACT biosecurity legislation (2019). Biosecurity legislation 13: Develop (2020) and implement new ACT Weed Strategy. Biosecurity legislation 14: Continue mapping of weeds and control activities in parks and Parks and Conservation Service nature reserves. 15: Continue to improve ability to identify and respond to new and Biosecurity legislation emerging pest (plant and animal) species. Action 2.2: Implement ACT Pest Animal Management Strategy 2012–2022 16: Develop and implement new Pest Animal Management Strategy. Biosecurity legislation 17: Deliver pest control programs for wild pigs, rabbits, foxes and deer. Biosecurity legislation 18: Implement Namadgi National Park Feral Horse Management Biosecurity legislation Plan 2007 and control, if present, wild horses in Namadgi National Park. 19: Participate in National Carp Control Plan. National program 20: Strengthen partnerships for invasive species research, including Biosecurity legislation through the Centre for Invasive Species Solutions (CISS), on: • peri-urban foxes (2022) • integrated management of wild dogs, deer, cats and foxes. Action 2.3: Manage total grazing pressure on ecosystem function in reserves 21: Continue to improve management of grassland reserves through: Parks and Conservation Service • development of herbage mass guidelines (2019) Grassland Conservation Strategy • use of strategic grazing and fire. 22: Annual monitoring of kangaroo populations to identify areas Nature Conservation Act 2014 of over grazing and inform annual conservation cull in selected • Kangaroo Management Plan nature reserves. 23: Progress fertility control research in macropods including the Nature Conservation Act 2014 Eastern Grey Kangaroo. • Kangaroo Management Plan Action 2.4: Establish and implement ecologically appropriate fire regimes 24: Revision of the ACT Strategic Bushfire Management Plan, Emergencies Act 2004 including Regional Fire Management Plans, which guide ACT Strategic Bushfire Management Plan appropriate fire regimes in reserves. 25: Timely post-fire recovery action. Parks and Conservation Service 26: Monitor and evaluate the implementation of ecological Parks and Conservation Service guidelines for fire and fuel management. 27: Increased collaboration with Aboriginal people to conduct ACT ATSI Agreement 2019–28 cultural burns or use traditional fire techniques, including Parks and Conservation Service through: • development and implementation of Cultural Fire Management Framework (2020) • on-ground land management. ACT Nature Conservation Strategy Implementation Plan 2 (2019–23) 9 Priorities for Implementation Plan 2 (2019–23) Links to legislation and other plans and strategies Action 2.5: Implement improved catchment management to support aquatic ecosystems 28: Monitor riparian and in-stream condition of river systems. Aquatic and Riparian Conservation Strategy Water • ACT Water Strategy • ACT and Region Catchment Strategy • ACT Water Resource Plan—under Murray Darling Basin Plan 29: Monitor priority aquatic species including Macquarie Perch, Aquatic and Riparian Conservation Strategy Galaxiads, Murray Cod, Murray Crayfish, Two-spined Black Fish Water and Platypus. • ACT Water Strategy • ACT and Region Catchment Strategy 30: Improve aquatic habitat and connectivity in river corridors, Aquatic and Riparian Conservation Strategy including through: Water • installing fishways and other structures to improve fish • ACT Water Strategy habitat • ACT and Region Catchment Strategy • targeted riparian restoration to manage erosion and reduce sediment load to rivers. • ACT Water Resource Plan—under the Murray– Darling Basin Plan 31: Protect and improve waterways in rural lands including through: Nature Conservation Act • riparian vegetation and ground cover • Aquatic and Riparian Conservation Strategy • reducing stock access to rivers ACT Natural Resource Management Programs • rehabilitating former dams. • Australian Government National Landcare Program Water • ACT Water Strategy • ACT and Region Catchment Strategy • ACT Water Resource Plan—under Murray–Darling Basin Plan 32: Explore options for enhancing environmental flows to support Aquatic and Riparian Conservation Strategy ecosystem health, especially in the Murrumbidgee River. Water • ACT Water Strategy • ACT and Region Catchment Strategy • ACT Water Resource Plan—under Murray–Darling Basin Plan 33: Complete review of Fisheries Act 2000. Fisheries Act Action 2.6: Develop and implement a migratory species and action plan 34: Implement Action Plan for Listed Migratory Species. Nature Conservation Act 2014 • Action Plan for Listed Migratory Species Action 2.7: Develop and implement an ACT Soils Strategy 35: Promote importance of soils as a natural resource and practical ACT and Region Catchment Strategy ways to improve soil health. 36: Support rural landholders to improve soil condition and reduce ACT Natural Resource Management Programs risk of soil erosion. • Australian Government National Landcare Program 10 ACT Nature Conservation Strategy Implementation Plan 2 (2019–23) Strategy 3: Protect species and ecological communities Priorities for Implementation Plan 2 (2019–23) Links to legislation and other plans and strategies Action 3.1: Manage the protected area estate 37: Update and implement reserve management plans for the Nature Conservation Act 2014 following areas: • Reserve Management Plans • Canberra Nature Park 1999 (update) • Molonglo River Corridor 2001 (update) • Murrumbidgee River Corridor 1998 (update) • Lower Cotter Catchment 2018 • Tidbinbilla 2012 • Namadgi National Park 2010 • Jerrabomberra Wetlands 2010. 38: Update and implement offset management plans. Environmental Offsets 39: Improve interpretation and education about the ACT Parks and Conservation Service conservation estate. Action 3.2: Develop, implement and review action plans for threatened species and communities 40: Conservation advices finalised for all ACT-listed threatened Nature Conservation Act 2014 species and ecological communities. • Threatened species and ecological communities listings 41: Review and update the following action plans for threatened Nature Conservation Act 2014 species and ecosystems: • Action plans • Yellow Box–Red Gum Grassy Woodland • Swift Parrot • Superb Parrot • Regent Honeyeater • Tarengo Leek Orchid • Canberra Spider Orchid • Small Purple Pea • Little Eagle • Northern Corroboree Frog • Glossy Black Cockatoo. 42: Improve knowledge and data on current species identified as Nature Conservation Act 2014 ‘data deficient’ under the Nature Conservation Act 2014. • Native species list 43: Progress alignment of ACT and Australian governments’ listings Nature Conservation Act 2014 of threatened species and ecological communities. • Listing Action 3.3: Restore and manage priority landscapes 44: Protect high country wetlands through: Nature Conservation Act 2014 • implementation of Ginini Flats wetland complex Ramsar site • Listing management plan 2017 • Action plans • development of an Action Plan for Bogs and Fens. ACT Nature Conservation Strategy Implementation Plan 2 (2019–23) 11 Priorities for Implementation Plan 2 (2019–23) Links to legislation and other plans and strategies 45: Manage Mulligans Flat Sanctuary for ecological and cultural ACT Natural Resource Management Programs values. • Australian Government National Landcare Program Action 3.4: Identify biodiversity refugia under drought and climate change 46: Enhance ACT’s understanding and management of high priority Climate Change Strategy sites important for climate change adaptation including through: • collaboration with NSW in climate modelling • analysis of biodiversity refugia. Action 3.5: Monitor five priority ecosystems most vulnerable to threats 47: Develop and implement the Conservation Effectiveness Parks and Conservation Service Management Program (CEMP) for the following ecosystems: • Lowland Grasslands • Upland Grasslands • Riparian/Aquatic • Lowland Woodlands • Upland Woodlands • Lowland Forests • Upland Forests • Bogs and Fens. Action 3.6: Implement captive breeding programs and translocation programs 48: Implement innovative breeding programs for reintroducing Nature Conservation Act 2014 native animals to the ACT: • Action plans • Corroboree Frog • Brush-tailed Rock-wallaby • Yellow-footed Antechinus • New Holland Mouse • Grassland Earless Dragon. 49: Improve systems and processes for approving and tracking Nature Conservation Act 2014 translocations. • Conservator guideline - translocation • EPBC Act • Conservation Agreement Action 3.7: Propagate and translocate threatened plants 50: Investigate and implement, where feasible, propagation and Nature Conservation Act 2014 translocation programs for: • Action plans • Tuggeranong Lignum • Button Wrinklewort • Small Purple Pea • Ginninderra Peppercress • Canberra Spider Orchid. 12 ACT Nature Conservation Strategy Implementation Plan 2 (2019–23) Priorities for Implementation Plan 2 (2019–23) Links to legislation and other plans and strategies Action 3.8: Establish seed banks and seed orchards 51: Continued development, management and use of seed Nature Conservation Act 2014 banks and seed orchards with the Australian National Botanic • Action plans Gardens. 52: Investigate options for establishing areas for native plants used ACT ATSI Agreement 2019–28 by local Aboriginal people including public areas, backyards and rural areas. 53: Testing of the susceptibility of a variety of Eucalyptus blakelyi ACT Woodlands Conservation Strategy provenances (seed collected across natural range) to Dieback. Climate Change Strategy ACT Nature Conservation Strategy Implementation Plan 2 (2019–23) 13 Strategy 4: Enhance biodiversity value of urban areas Priorities for Implementation Plan 2 (2019–23) Links to legislation and other plans and strategies Action 4.1: Manage impacts of urban development on biodiversity 54: Continue to manage impacts of urban development on Environmental Offsets significant biodiversity assets through Environmental Impact Statement processes and Strategic Environmental Assessments. 55: Continued development of offset management plans and Environmental Offsets establishment of suitable offset sites. 56: Review of ACT Environmental Offsets Policy (2020). Environmental Offsets Action 4.2: Manage urban open space 57: Stocking native fish in urban lakes. Aquatic and Riparian Conservation Strategy Fisheries Act 2000 58: Enhance habitat and increase knowledge of the role urban Water wetlands play in terms of biodiversity. • ACT Water Strategy 14 ACT Nature Conservation Strategy Implementation Plan 2 (2019–23) Priorities for Implementation Plan 2 (2019–23) Links to legislation and other plans and strategies Action 4.3: Enhance connectivity through urban areas 59: Enhance habitat complexity and connectivity in urban spaces, ACT Natural Resource Management Programs for example by planting trees and adding rocks, logs, under- • Australian Government National Landcare Program story and ground cover. City Services Climate Change Strategy. Living Infrastructure Plan 60: Develop and implement the Key Threatening Process Action Nature Conservation Act 2014 Plan for Loss of Mature Trees. ACT Woodlands Conservation Strategy Action 4.4: Manage the urban edge 61: Improved management of the urban edge, to protect the estate, Parks and Conservation Service including through: • weed management • pest management • ParkCare. 62: Finalise and implement the ACT Cat Management Plan. ACT Animal Welfare and Management Strategy Action 4.5: Support Urban Landcare and ParkCare activities 63: Continue to support ParkCare and the Urban Open Space Parks and Conservation Service Volunteer program. Transport Canberra and city Services 64: Showcase and promote the research undertaken and Community engagement knowledge held by Urban Landcare and ParkCare groups as examples of community driven, urban-based nature conservation initiatives. 65: Provide training opportunities for Urban Landcare and ParkCare Parks and Conservation Service groups in biodiversity research techniques and mapping Community engagement (2013–18). Action 4.6: Assess urban areas, manage and enhance green assets and infrastructure 66: Develop and implement the Living Infrastructure Plan, including Climate Change Strategy. through setting targets for: ACT Water Strategy • tree canopy cover • surface permeability. 67: Improve water quality in urban lakes and water flowing from Water urban areas to the Murrumbidgee River through ACT Healthy • ACT Water Strategy Waterways infrastructure projects and water efficiency projects including catchment restoration urban wetlands, ponds and • ACT and Region Catchment Strategy rain gardens. • ACT Water Resource Plan—under the Murray–Darling Basin Plan ACT Nature Conservation Strategy Implementation Plan 2 (2019–23) 15 Strategy 5: Strengthen community engagement Priorities for Implementation Plan 2 (2019–23) Links to legislation and other plans and strategies Action 5.1: Support greater community involvement through volunteering 68: Promote volunteering for all through ParkCare, including people Parks and Conservation Service from diverse backgrounds and people with low mobility. 69: Support volunteer ACT Wildlife carers to continue assisting in Parks and Conservation Service educating community about living with wildlife. Community engagement 70: Promote volunteering through the ACT Region Landcare Community engagement Gateway and community events. Action 5.2: Enhance and promote the use of citizen science projects 71: Encourage and support citizen science to: Community engagement • monitor flora, fauna and landscape health Water • raise awareness of biodiversity in the ACT and region • ACT Water Strategy • enhance environmental reporting and decision making. • ACT and Region Catchment Strategy 72: Continually improve access to conservation spatial data through Community engagement ACTmapi. 73: Fund community projects through ACT Environment Grants. Community engagement Action 5.3: Implement targeted community education campaigns on priority issues (See also Action 4.3) 74: Continue to provide education/outreach activities with anglers Fisheries Act 2000 on responsible fishing. 75: Improve awareness of waterway function and protection (e.g. Community Engagement species reliant on good water quality such as Platypus, native Water fish, waterbugs and frogs). • ACT Water Strategy • ACT and Region Catchment Strategy 76: Deliver and support community forums to: Community engagement • share knowledge • promote collaboration • raise awareness. 77: Promote ‘living with nature’ through: Community engagement • responsible pet ownership • raising awareness of ‘backyard biosecurity’ e.g. Weed Swap • raising awareness of benefits of native plants in gardens and habitat trees in urban areas. Action 5.4: Build indigenous engagement in the management of natural resources 78: Work with the local Aboriginal community to integrate Water traditional knowledge into land and water management • ACT Water Strategy through, for example: • ACT and Region Catchment Strategy • cultural burning • ACT Water Resource Plan—under the • landscape management including resource use and cultural Murray–Darling Basin Plan values • Aboriginal Waterways Assessments. 16 ACT Nature Conservation Strategy Implementation Plan 2 (2019–23) Priorities for Implementation Plan 2 (2019–23) Links to legislation and other plans and strategies 79: Increase opportunities for and benefits from Aboriginal and ACT ATSI Agreement 2019-2028 Torres Strait Islander (ATSI) employment in ACT Government: Parks and Conservation Service • support employment of Aboriginal people including through traineeships and the Aboriginal Ranger Program • Murrumbung Yurung Murra (good strong pathways) network. • implement EPSDD Reconciliation Action Plan and ATSI whole of government Agreement. 80: Strengthening collaboration with the local Aboriginal ACT ATSI Agreement 2019-2028 community in Caring for Country including through: • Aboriginal ACT Natural Resource Management Facilitator • working with community leaders • supporting establishment of a Traditional Custodians Caring for Country Council • sharing knowledge between generations and with other regions. 81: Increase appreciation and understanding of Aboriginal culture ACT ATSI Agreement 2019-2028 including: • language • places • knowledge • land and water management • traditions. 82: Strengthen Traditional Custodians specific and distinct cultural ACT ATSI Agreement 2019-2028 land and water rights: ACT Water Resource Plan (under Murray Darling Basin • enable collection and harvesting of food and fibre for cultural Plan) and ceremonial purposes Fisheries Act 200 • facilitate access to Country and practice of culture Nature Conservation Act 2014 • develop cultural resource management plan including for cultural fishing • include intellectual property rights of traditional knowledge. 83: Work with local Aboriginal community to protect culturally ACT ATSI Agreement 2019–28 significant areas: Parks and Conservation Service • manage visitors to parks and reserves ACT Heritage Act 2004 • improve information including ‘parks interpretation’ • foster aboriginal businesses • manage and maintain sites. ACT Nature Conservation Strategy Implementation Plan 2 (2019–23) 17 Priorities for Implementation Plan 2 (2019–23) Links to legislation and other plans and strategies Action 5.5: Encourage the involvement of youth in nature conservation 84: Encourage and support schools to engender a love of nature Community engagement and understanding of Country: ACT ATSI Agreement 2019–28 • ranger visits • connect schools with Traditional Custodians and Aboriginal businesses. 85: Recognise and expand opportunities for Aboriginal ACT ATSI Agreement 2019–28 children and youth: • Engage youth with support from Elders on Caring for Country • Provide students with increased opportunities through Kickstart My Career Through Culture program • Foster emerging leaders including through mentoring. Action 5.6: Support appropriate recreational and tourism use of natural areas 86: Develop and implement a Visitor Experience Strategy. Parks and Conservation Service 87: Enhance Nature Stays experiences in parks and reserves. Parks and Conservation Service 88: Encourage visitors to Namadgi National Park for its wilderness, Parks and Conservation Service wildlife and Aboriginal and European cultural sites. 89: Promote Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve for its wide range of natural Parks and Conservation Service experiences including bushwalking, Sanctuary wetlands, Discovery Playground and wildlife. 90: Foster Jerrabomberra Wetlands as a place located in the heart Parks and Conservation Service of Canberra for visitors to learn, explore and be inspired. 91: Support construction of a Woodlands Learning Centre at Parks and Conservation Service Throsby. 92: Facilitate and support Aboriginal businesses to deliver nature- ACT ATSI Agreement 2019-2028 based tourism. Action 5.7: Enhance key partnerships across government, community and the private sector 93: Work with traditional custodians and Aboriginal community to: ACT ATSI Agreement 2019–28 • strengthen Traditional Custodian representation • foster relationships between traditional custodians and Canberra’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community. 94: Work with ACT rural landholders on promoting: Woodland Conservation Strategy • sustainable land management ACT Natural Resource Management Programs • native vegetation and biodiversity on farms. 95: Strengthen research partnerships and collaboration to: Nature Conservation Act 2014 • monitor ecosystems and individual plants and animals to • ACT Woodlands Conservation Strategy better understand state of (condition), trends, impacts and • Grassland Conservation Strategy management effectiveness • Aquatic and Riparian Conservation Strategy • build new knowledge and strengthen the evidence base to inform decision making and on-ground management. • Biodiversity Research and Monitoring Program ACT State of Environment Report 18 ACT Nature Conservation Strategy Implementation Plan 2 (2019–23) Priorities for Implementation Plan 2 (2019–23) Links to legislation and other plans and strategies 96: Strengthen whole-of-government collaboration on nature ACT ATSI Agreement 2019–28 conservation and Aboriginal cultural heritage through: • health • education • justice. 97: Strengthen regional collaboration and partnerships through Water regional networks such as the ACT and Region Catchment • ACT Water Strategy Management Coordination Group and Upper Murrumbidgee Catchment Coordinating Committee. • ACT and Region Catchment Strategy 98: Work with the Australian Alps National Parks to support Parks and Conservation Service coordinated management and cooperative activities across the Alps. 99: Continue participation in the Upper Murrumbidgee Water Demonstration Reach program, which aims to improve • ACT Water Strategy fish habitat and river health for native fish in the upper Murrumbidgee. • ACT and Region Catchment Strategy ACT Nature Conservation Strategy Implementation Plan 2 (2019–23) 19 20 ACT Nature Conservation Strategy Implementation Plan 2 (2019–23) TRACKING PROGRESS Implementation of the Strategy will continue to be monitored. Progress will be reported against priorities identified in Implementation Plan 2. The Strategy also includes targets and indicators that will be tracked. Targets and indicators Implementation Target 1—The overall extent of lowland native vegetation across the ACT will be maintained, and the condition of lowland native vegetation communities will be improved 1.1 Extent of lowland native Baseline vegetation community mapping was completed in 2018. The data are available vegetation on ACTmapi. The data provide detailed community descriptions that are used to inform protection, management and conservation priorities. 1.2 Condition of lowland native The ACT Conservation Effectiveness Monitoring Program is a new ACT Government vegetation approach to monitoring the condition and change in condition of ecosystems. Three lowland vegetation ecosystems have been identified for the ACT and the development of programs for each is underway: 1: Lowland native grasslands • Ecosystem monitoring plan completed in 2017 and being implemented. 2: Lowland woodlands • Ecosystem monitoring plan due to commence 2019. 3: Lowland forests • Ecosystem monitoring plan due to commence 2020. Indicators include: • extent of native versus exotic grasslands within reserves • extent of Natural Temperate Grasslands within reserves • native plant species richness • ground cover • threatened flora and fauna species. Target 2—A measurable increase in connectivity between patches of native vegetation, non-native vegetation in urban areas, and along riparian areas 2.1 Spatial links habitat Information to be collected based on the monitoring protocol prepared by CSIRO under connectivity score, including the functional connectivity project, and update into the ACT connectivity layer on increase in the number of ACTmapi. habitat patches as verified by 10 yearly on-ground assessments 2.2 Riverine connectivity Mapping of stream connectivity and data collection on barriers to fish passage in the ACT measure (number of in-stream being undertaken. A report is to be released in 2019. barriers) ACT Nature Conservation Strategy Implementation Plan 2 (2019–23) 21 Targets and indicators Implementation Target 3—A reduction in threats to biodiversity from inappropriate fire regimes, weeds, pest animals and urban development 3.1 Abundance and distribution The ACT Weeds Strategy establishes best practice in reducing weed impacts on the of priority ACT weeds in reserves environment, economy, human health and amenity. Information on invasive plants is collected through standard operations and invasive plant control works. Infestation data is collected and mapped using the ArcGIS Online Collector app to assist control work. The Invasive Plants Operation Plan for 2018–19 has assessed the risk of weed species and uses these to prioritise weed control works (see Table 1 of the Plan). Weed control areas for priority species is mapped and publicly available on ACTmapi. The abundance and distribution of priority weed species invasive plants is mapped out on Canberra Nature Map. 3.2 Abundance and distribution Information is collected through standard operations and reporting on annual pest of significant pest animals; management activities. Operations and actions to manage, reduce and prevent pest significance and levels of animal impacts are set out in the Pest Animal Management Strategy. damage from pest animals The abundance and distribution of pest animals is reported and mapped on Canberra Nature Map. 3.3 Area of reserve addressed by Bushfire management is directed by the ACT Strategic Bushfire Management Plan. an appropriate fire regime that During the 2018–19 financial year, 17,538 hectares were subject to prescribed burns appropriately addresses both for fuel management; this includes cultural (20.5 hectares) and ecological burns (172.5 risk to assets and ecology, in hectares). This information is provided in the 2018–19 Bushfire Operations Plan. hectares Target 4—Climate change impacts and refugia in the ACT are identified and appropriately managed 4.1 Monitoring programs Significant amounts of data are collected as part of routine monitoring of threatened established in the five ACT species and ecological communities. priority ecosystems considered The ACT Conservation Effectiveness Monitoring Program (CEMP) enables consistency to be most sensitive to threats in the collection, analysis and evaluation of data, and uses an adaptive management including native grasslands, framework to learn from and inform conservation actions. woodlands, alpine bogs, montane forests, and the The CEMP identifies eight ACT ecosystems and a monitoring program for each is under Murrumbidgee–Cotter River development: system

1. Lowland Native Grasslands Ecosystem Condition Monitoring Plan

2. Lowland woodlands

3. Lowland forests

4. Aquatic and riparian ecosystems

5. Upland native grasslands

6. Upland woodlands

7. Upland forests

8. Upland bogs and fens. 4.2 Number of refugia identified The ACT Government invested in the Biodiversity Refugia Project, which undertook and appropriately managed research on areas of the ACT where biodiversity is most likely to persist under future (maintained or enhanced) climate change scenarios. This project is informing future conservation planning. 22 ACT Nature Conservation Strategy Implementation Plan 2 (2019–23) Targets and indicators Implementation Target 5—An increase in the area of land under volunteer effort (ParkCare, ‘Friends of’ or other volunteer groups) in management of the CNP 5.1 Total number of groups The Parks and Conservation Service (PCS) currently supports 26 ParkCare groups. Within the ParkCare program, three new programs have been implemented: • RangerAssist Program • WildlifeAssist Program • VisitorAssist Program The implementation of the ParkCare Hub has been an important driver of increasing community involvement. 5.2 Total number of ‘community The 2017–18 period saw 521 registered volunteers contribute a total of 28,895 hours work hours’ devoted to volunteering through the four ParkCare streams: management of reserves and ParkCare Patch volunteers contributed 21,093 hours of weeding, rehabilitation, heritage other natural areas works, survey work, events, administration and training. VisitorAssist volunteers contributed 4633 hours of public engagement and assistance at Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve or Namadgi National Park. RangerAssist volunteers contributed 1489 hours of assisting PCS staff and adding value to land management tasks including survey work, track work and rehabilitation. WildlifeAssist volunteers contributed 1164 hours working with wildlife carers at Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve undertaking animal husbandry tasks. 5.3 Total area treated by Volunteers are active in the following reserves: volunteers in hectares 4: Aranda Bushland 15: The Pinnacle 5: Cooleman Ridge 16: Tidbinbilla 6: Black Mountain 17: Gudgenby Valley 7: Bruce Ridge 18: Isaacs Ridge 8: Farrer Ridge 19: Mount Mugga Mugga Majura Pines 9: Jerrabomberra Wetlands 20: Mount Taylor Mount Ainslie 10: Mount Majura 21: Red Hill 11: Mount Painter 22: Urambi Hills 12: Mount Pleasant 23: Uriarra 13: Mulligans Flat 24: Watson Woodlands 14: Oakey Hill 25: Namadgi National Park 5.4 Level of support provided Approximately $100,000 per year was allocated to the Parks and Conservation Service to to ParkCare groups (budgets directly support ParkCare. and Parks and Conservation Parks rangers also play a valuable role in supporting and facilitating community Rangers) involvement including for weed management, revegetation, erosion control and surveys. The new Ranger Assist stream also provides opportunities for volunteers to work alongside park rangers. ACT Nature Conservation Strategy Implementation Plan 2 (2019–23) 23 Targets and indicators Implementation Target 6—Ten areas of conservation significance (including areas outside reserves) ‘adopted’ by ACT schools or higher learning institutions as sites for nature based education 6.1 Number of reserves or Many ACT schools are situated near or adjacent to reserves and provide an opportunity for other natural areas adopted nature-based education. and actively used by schools or An Education Manager has recently been employed within the Community and Visitor higher learning institutes Programs team (Parks and Conservation Service) to develop a nature-based curriculum 6.2 Number of students involved for schools. A formal relationship between the Education Directorate and the EPSDD in learning activities in these Environment Division will be established to provide these important nature-based sites education opportunities in collaboration with the Parks and Conservation Service. This will build on how schools currently utilise the conservation estate for learning, such as the Kickstart My Career through Culture Program aimed at engaging at risk students, including through environmental programs and land management training. Target 7—Increased community understanding of, and support for, the protection of the ACT’s biodiversity 7.1 Community surveys and Public consultation on ACT Government plans, strategies, policies and legislation consultation occurs primarily through the YourSay website and/or Environment website. This type of consultation often includes polls, questions and interactive maps to seek opinions and information across the Territory. Recent examples include: • Review of the Fisheries Act 2000 • ACT Biosecurity Act • Reserve Management Plans • Lower Cotter Catchment • Molonglo River Reserve • Volunteering Action Plan • Threatened Species Action Plans • Spotted-tailed Quoll • Pink-tailed Worm-lizard • Migratory Species • Tourism and Visitor Experience in Reserves • Nature-based Tourism Strategy 7.2 Number of education Ranger-guided tours and other educational activities and events are continuously held at campaigns delivered Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary and Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve. Engagement events include: • Tidbinbilla Open Day • Bush Blitz • Weed Swap • Volunteering expos Forums and seminars hosted by ACT Government include: • The annual Ecofocus forum (ACT Government, Conservation Research) • The 2018 Woodlands Forum • The 2018 Fire Forum • The 2018 ACT and Region Grasslands Management Forum and Restoration Forum. 24 ACT Nature Conservation Strategy Implementation Plan 2 (2019–23)