A Field Guide to Ecological Survey

There are many benefits in being able to record the natural resources of your land.  Could it be habitat for koalas or other native fauna (including nesting area for birds)? Perhaps it could be suitable for recreation such as bushwalking, trail biking or access to a waterway? Is it forest that has been invaded by weeds? Or you may be interested in applying for a grant to help you conserve your block and its biodiversity. You can assess a site for answers to any of these questions with the help of a Field Guide to Ecological Survey, recently released by Tocal College.

The publication includes practical directions and 85 colour images on soil testing, collecting data, using data sheets, collecting specimens, and finally saving your report and sharing it with any other stakeholders. It indicates how to seek more information about flora and fauna you could find in the area.

There are two case studies which show the application of the information in the Guide: one study conducted for the Koala Prioritisation Project shows how a site was assessed for suitability for koala habitat, and the other assessed the impact of Paterson’s Curse on native plant biodiversity in a river red gum forest.

With information from how to select a map relevant to the site, to seeking any permissions required to conduct a survey, and protecting the environment and cultural heritage as you proceed, this book is very useful in planning and completing your survey.

The publication is recommended for individuals or groups such as:

• Landcare
• NSW Local Land Services (LLS)
• NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS)
• NSW Local Aboriginal Land Councils (LALCs)
• Australian Association Bush Regenerators (AABR).
• Conservation Agreement applicants and participants.