This project aims to complement works of the GBR Coastal Wetland
Protection Program to clear weeds on the perimeter of the
lagoon and increase the open shallow wetland habitat preferred by
some birds. Work is bieng carried out on Barringa and involves
CWPP, Wetlandcare Australia and ACTFR.
Summary: Serpentine Lagoon habitat values are
presently adversely impacted by a range of factors, one of which is
a woody weed infestation of chinee apple bush ( Ziziphus
mauritiana ). Many water birds prefer areas with little
adjacent vegetation to reduce the risk of predation. This project
will reduce the infestations of chinee apple that are presently
degrading habitat on the perimeter of Serpentine Lagoon, especially
the melaleuca swamp forests in the vicinity of the bird hide. This
project will restore natural values for birds dependent on open
shallow wetland habitat whilst at the same time protecting native
vegetation and enhancing opportunities for natural regeneration of
native species.
This project is designed to complement works being undertaken
through the Great Barrier Reef Coastal Wetland Protection Program -
Pilot Program (CWPP) on aquatic areas at Serpentine Lagoon.
Outcomes from the project include:
- An environmental values and works plan for mechanical and
manual weed removal
- Removal of woody weeds and reduction of re-infestation
potential (the lagoon is a headwater for
- Use of the area as a demonstration site and production of a
clearing guideline to assist other landowners who are clearing
chinee apple bush.
Current highlights: As of 25 January 2007, some
80% of the Chinee apple infestation was cleared, and of the cleared
areas all had been stick-raked. Clearing will recommence as the end
of the wet season. A photo series of pre-clearing, post-clearing
and post-stickracking has been undertaken. Detailed costing of the
project has been supplied by the landowner and a cost benefit
analysis shall be included in the clearing guidelines.
Linkages to other activities: The CWPP project
will address aquatic weeds, grazing management and grazing
exclusion trials as well as providing administrative and project
management funding. Townsville City Council have worked with the
landholders in the past and established bird hides, with funding
provided by NHT.
