Over 75% of the original swamps on the Fleurieu Peninsula of South Australia have been lost as a consequence of drainage, clearing and filling (Duffield & Hill, 2002). Remaining Fleurieu Peninsula Swamps are under immense threat from a wide range of degrading processes. Impacts of vegetation clearance are often exacerbated by stock grazing and the introduction of weedy plant species. Most remaining swamps have been changed or modified requiring some level of intervention to restore them to a healthy functioning ecosystem.

The Mount Lofty Ranges Southern Emu-wren also lives in dry land heath communities on the Fleurieu. Dry heath vegetation has been significantly cleared in the past and suffers today from grazing by stock and weed invasion.Restoration activities including fencing and weed control are also needed to maintain and improve dry heath vegetation. Revegetation and natural regeneration can be used to expand the size of habitat patches as well as to link together isolated habitats.

This is where the MLRSEW / FPS Recovery Program can provide assistance.

Our Extension & Works Officers can provide assistance in the form of: -

• Project adviceand support for landholderswho have either Fleurieu Peninsula Swamps or dry-heath vegetation on how to manage sites for conservation and/or

• Funding for on ground activities (when surplus program funding is available) to assist landholders in undertaking on ground activities to protect swamps and dry-heath vegetation (link to financial incentives)

• coordination of Heritage Agreements and applications for external sources of funding

Reference

Duffield, R. & Hill, B. (2002) Swamp Management Guidelines for the Fleurieu Peninsula. Conservation Council of South Australia, Adelaide