The multiple use of road reserves within the Central Highlands for road infrastructure, utilities (that is, electricity, gas, telecommunications) and stockroutes means that these areas are subjected to increasing pressure from development. The Department of Main Roads (Central Highlands District) and consultants KBR have developed an ecological monitoring program and undertaken initial field surveys within eighteen of the District's most significant sites. This paper presents the monitoring methodology being used and the results obtained during these surveys. The most significant ecological values found within the road reserves will be discussed. The current and potential threats to these ecological values from existing and future road reserve infrastructure (and surrounding land uses) will be identified. Proposed changes to current road management practices will be presented. The paper illustrates the importance of a properly designed and conducted ecological monitoring program as a tool for those endeavouring to achieve sustainability. (Author/publisher) For the covering entry of this conference, please see ITRD abstract no. E208431.
Samenvatting