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July 2015
Qindanning-Darken Rd
Masons Rd – Pear-fruited mallee
Chapman Rd East Boundary Rd Pink poker grevillea
Boundary Rd
Roadside Vegetation
and Conservation Values
in the Shire of Kalamunda
COVER PAGE PHOTOS
Left to right from top left
McCorkill Road, Pickering Brook –– Forest red-tailed black cockatoos
Valento Road, Pickering Brook – Fringe Lily (Thysanotus sp.)
Ozone Terrace, Kalamunda – Gould’s monitor overlooking city
Motteram Road, Carmel – Marri (Corymbia calophylla) and Dampiera sp.
Buttercup Crescent, High Wycombe – Many-flowered honeysuckle (Lambertia multiflora)
Lewis Road, Forrestfield - Orange Eremaea (Eremaea pauciflora)
Railway Rd street sign
Ozone Terrace, Kalamunda - Goulds monitor
Ridley Road, Wattle Grove – Kangaroo paw (Anigozanthos manglesii)
Repatriation Road, Pickering Brook – Everlasting daisy
Reeds Road, Carmel – high conservation curved section with grass tree’s (Xanthorrhoea sp.)
Merrivale Road, Pickering Brook – Common hovea (Hovea trisperma)
Hawtin Road, Maida Vale – hairy caterpillar
Valento Road, Pickering Brook – high conservation value road
Gilchrist Road, Lesmurdie – Pink myrtle (Hypocalymma robustum)
Motteram Road, Carmel - Common brown pea (Bossiaea ornata)
Hale Road, Forrestfield – Shire of Kalamunda sign
Gilchrist Road, Lesmurdie – Morning Iris (Orthrosanthus laxus)
Zig Zag Scenic Drive – Diana Papenfus volunteer undertaking surveys
Pickering Brook Road, Pickering Brook – Blue leschenaultia (Lechenaultia biloba)
Morrison Road, Forrestfield - Round-fruit banksia (Banksia sphaerocarpa)
Hawtin Road, Maida Vale – Scented sun orchid (Thelymitra macrophylla)
Ridley Road, Wattle Grove – Jarrah (Eucalyptus marginata) buds and leaves
Repatriation Road, Pickering Brook – Tamara Wilkes-Jones collecting samples from weedy creekline
crossing road
Hinkler Road, Kalamunda – Donkey orchids (Diuris sp.)
Mabel Road, Lesmurdie – Spotted pardalote
Fern Road, Piesse Brook – Sticky star flower (Calytrix glutinosa) with grass tree
Lewis Road, Forrestfield – skink on burnt tree stump
Hewison Road, Pickering Brook - Yellow flags (Patersonia umbrosa)
Pickering Brook Road, Pickering Brook – Blue leschenaultia (Lechenaultia biloba)
Hartfield Road, Forrestfield – Drumsticks (Kingia australis)
Whimbrel Green, High Wycombe – Poison Gully Creek wildlife corridor sign
McCorkill Road, Pickering Brook –– Coral vine (Kennedia coccinea)
Motteram Road, Carmel – Milkmaids (Burchardia multiflora)
Zig Zag Scenic Drive – Tree decline – dead trees from bushfire a few years back, colourful understory
plants coming back after fire
Whimbrel Green, High Wycombe – revegetation sign
Woodbine Road, Pickering Brook – Holly-leaved mirbelia (Mirbelia dilatata)
Photos: Kylie.Payne, Roadside Conservation Committee
CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY………………………………………………………………………… 1
PART A: OVERVIEW OF ROADSIDE CONSERVATION................................................... 2
1.0 Why is roadside vegetation important? ……………………………………………….…… 3
2.0 What are the threats? ………………………………………………………………………. 4
2.1 Lack of awareness ………………………..………………………………………… 4
2.2 Roadside clearing ………………………………………………………………….. 4
2.3 Fire …………………………………………………………………………………… 5
2.4 Weeds...………………………………………………………………………….…… 6
2.5 Phytophthora dieback...……………………………………………………….…… 8
3.0 Legislative requirements …………………………………………………………………… 10
4.0 Environmentally Sensitive Areas …………………………………….…………………….. 11
5.0 Flora Roads…………………………………………………………………………………… 12
PART B: THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT IN KALAMUNDA……..………...…..………… 13
1.0 Flora………………………………………………………………………………………….… 14
2.0 Threatened and Priority flora ……………………….……………………………….……. 14
2.1 Threatened Ecological Communities (TECs)…..……………………………… 17
3.0 Fauna……………………………………………………………………………….……….. 19
3.1 Threatened cockatoos…..………………………………………………………… 21
3.1 Threatened bandicoots…..………………………………………………………… 21
4.0 Remnant vegetation cover………………………………………………….……………. 22
4.1 Kalamunda Vegetation Associations………………..………………………… 23
PART C: ROADSIDE SURVEYS IN THE SHIRE OF KALAMUNDA……………….…… 24
1.0 Introduction …………………………………………………………………………………… 25
1.1 Methods……………………………………………………………………………… 26
1.2 Mapping Roadside Conservation Values……………………………………….... 27
1.3 Roadside Conservation Value categories……………………………………….. 28
2.0 Using the Roadside Conservation Value (RCV) Map…………………….……………. 30
3.0 Results……………………………………………………………………………………… . 32
3.1 Threats……………………………………………..………………………………… 38
3.2 Roadside Conservation Value scores…………..………………………………… 52
3.3 Comparison of conservation status with nearby shires……………………….. 53
3.4 Flora Roads…………………………………………………………………….….. 54
PART D: ROADSIDE MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS…………………………….. 56
1.0 Management recommendations……………………………………………………………. 57
2.0 Minimising disturbance………………………………………………………………………. 58
3.0 Planning for roadsides……………………………………………………………………. 59
4.0 Setting objectives…………………………………………………………………………….. 59
5.0 Specific recommendations for Kalamunda roadsides ………………………………….. 60 6
5.1 Weed management………………………………..…………………………… 60
5.2 Revegetation….………………………………………………………………….... 61
5.3 Education campaign………………………………..…………………………… 62
5.4 Habitat and protection for threatened fauna…………………………….... 62
6.0 Conclusion…………………………………………………………………………………... 63
REFERENCES ……………………………………………………………………………………. 64
FIGURES
Figure 1 The RCV map depicts roadside conservation values in the Shire of Kalamunda
Figure 2 Width of road reserve in the Shire of Kalamunda
Figure 3 Width of vegetation on roadsides in the Shire of Kalamunda
Figure 4 Native vegetation on roadsides in the Shire of Kalamunda
Figure 5 Number of native plant species along roadsides in the Shire of Kalamunda
Figure 6 Extent of native vegetation on roadsides in the Shire of Kalamunda
Figure 7 Habitat value on roadsides in the Shire of Kalamunda
Figure 8 Vegetation types along roadsides in the Shire of Kalamunda
Figure 9 Weed infestations along roadsides in the Shire of Kalamunda
Figure 10 Presence and abundance of chosen weeds along roadsides in the Shire of Kalamunda
Figure 11A-F Maps showing the spatial extent of chosen weeds on roadsides in the Shire of Kalamunda
Figure 12A-D Graphs of abundance of all weeds found on roadsides in the Shire of Kalamunda
Figure 13 Evidence of rabbits on roadsides in the Shire of Kalamunda
Figure 14 Possible reasons for tree decline on roadsides in the Shire of Kalamunda
Figure 15 Adjoining land use on roadsides in the Shire of Kalamunda
Figure 16 Roadside Conservation Value scores of all roadsides surveyed in the Shire of Kalamunda
Figure 17 Conservation status of roadsides in the Shire of Kalamunda
Figure 18 Comparison of the Shire of Kalamunda’s conservation status with nearby shires
TABLES
Table 1 Remnant vegetation remaining in the Shire of Kalamunda and surrounding shires
Table 2 Vegetation types and percentages remaining in the Shire of Kalamunda
Table 3 Summary of results from the roadside survey in the Shire of Kalamunda
APPENDICES
Appendix 1 RCC Verge Note: Guidelines for Managing the Harvesting of Native Flowers, Seed
and Timber from Roadsides
Appendix 2A RCC Verge Note: Guidelines for the Nomination and Management of Flora Roads
Appendix 2B Flora Road Nomination Form
Appendix 3 Threatened and Priority Flora definitions
Appendix 4 Shire of Kalamunda - Roadside Conservation Value Map
Appendix 5 Overview of survey program (Smartphone survey devices - screen shots)
Appendix 6 Summarised survey sheet showing sample roads and explanation of fields used to
calculate Roadside Conservation Values
Appendix 7A&B Lists and graphs of all weeds recorded on Shire of Kalamunda roadsides
Appendix 8 RCC Verge Note: Roadside Environmental Weeds List
CD
1. Report (.pdf)
2. Report Appendices (.pdf)
3. Council Presentation (.pdf)
4. Roadside Conservation Value map (.pdf)
5. Chosen weed locations on RCV maps with insets (.pdf)
6. Comprehensive spreadsheet showing all survey data and fields
7. Metadata
8. Readme document
9. Shape files of roadside conservation values
10. Shape files of nominated roadside weeds
11. Flora species in the Shire of Kalamunda
12. Fauna species in the Shire of Kalamunda
13. Photos
Report compiled by Kylie Payne, Roadside Conservation Committee (RCC) Map produced by Geographic Information Services (GIS) Section, Department of Parks & Wildlife (DPaW). Data supplied by RCC from Shire of Kalamunda roadside surveys conducted by RCC staff and volunteers, and Shire of Kalamunda staff.
1 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
Executive Summary
This report provides an overview of the conservation status of roadside remnant vegetation in the Shire of
Kalamunda. The report primarily gives detailed results of the roadside vegetation survey and is accompanied
by management recommendations. It also describes the natural environment in Kalamunda, legislative
considerations and threats to conservation values.
Aware of the need to conserve roadside remnants, the Shire of Kalamunda liaised with the Roadside
Conservation Committee (RCC) to survey roadsides in the Shire. Surveys to assess the conservation values
of roadside remnant vegetation were conducted between May 2013 and February 2015. Over 220km of the
Shire’s rural roadsides and roadsides adjoining bushland (including national parks, nature reserves & shire
reserves) were assessed by the RCC for their conservation status, and maps were produced via a
Geographic Information System (GIS). Roadside locations of six nominated weeds (African lovegrass,
eastern states wattles, fleabane, plantain, tagasaste and Victorian teatree) were also recorded and mapped.
The results of the survey indicated that 42% of the roadsides surveyed in the Shire had high conservation
value, and another 11% had medium-high conservation value. Medium-low and low conservation value
vegetation occupied 12% and 35% of roadsides surveyed respectively. A more detailed analysis of results is
presented in Part C of this report.
It is envisaged that the primary purpose of the roadside survey data and Roadside Conservation Value (RCV)
map will be for use by Shire and community groups as a management and planning tool. Applications may
range from prioritising work programs to formulating management strategies. Past experience has shown that
this document and the accompanying maps are valuable in assisting with:
formulating a roadside vegetation management plan for road maintenance work;
identifying priorities for strategic weed control programs
identifying degraded areas for strategic rehabilitation or specific management techniques;
re-establishing habitat linkages throughout the Shire’s overall conservation network;
developing regional or district fire management plans;
identifying potential tourist routes (roads with high conservation value provide visitors with an insight into
the natural landscape of the district); and
planning for natural resource management or similar 'whole of landscape’ projects.
Successive surveys of some Shires have revealed an alarming decline in the conservation status of many
roadside reserves. In some cases the conservation value has declined at a rate of approximately 10% in nine
years. This trend indicates that without appropriate protection and management, roadside reserves may
become biological wastelands in the near future. However, proactive and innovative management of roadside
vegetation has the potential to abate and reverse this general decline. Opportunities exist for the Shire of
Kalamunda to utilise the RCV map in many facets of its landcare, tourism, road maintenance operations and
natural resource management (NRM) strategies.
2 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
PART A
OVERVIEW OF
ROADSIDE
CONSERVATION
3 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
1.0 Why is roadside vegetation important?
The south western part of Western Australia (roughly from Kalbarri to
Esperance) is home to Australia’s only globally significant biodiversity
hotspot, with a large number of species of native plants and animals, many of
which occur nowhere else in the world. Since European settlement, it is also
where large areas of native vegetation have been cleared for agriculture,
settlements and other development. The fragmentation of native vegetation
by clearing has resulted in a mosaic of man-made ‘islands’ of often small
native vegetation remnants.
The plants and animals in these areas are in jeopardy due to limited
resources, increased disease risk and reduced genetic diversity caused by a
diminishing gene pool. Some habitat fragments may be too small to provide
the requirements for even a small population; therefore it is essential to species’ survival that they have a
means of dispersing throughout the landscape. The presence of native vegetation along roadsides often fills
an important role in reducing this isolation effect by providing connectivity between bush remnants. While
many roadside reserves are inadequate in size to support plant and animal communities on their own, they
are integral in providing connections between larger areas of remnant vegetation. It is therefore important that
all native vegetation is protected, regardless of its apparent
conservation value in isolation. It is important to acknowledge that
even degraded roadsides have the ability to act as corridors for the
dispersal of a variety of fauna.
Other important values of transport corridor remnants are that they:
are often the only remaining example of original vegetation within
extensively cleared areas;
often contain rare and endangered plants and animals - roadside
plants represent more than 20% of the known populations of
threatened flora, and three species are known to exist only in
roadside populations (DPaW, 2015c);
provide the basis for our important wildflower tourism industry, as
roadside native vegetation in good condition is aesthetically pleasing
and colourful in season, and easily accessed by travellers;
provide a sense of place for tourists and residents alike;
often contain sites of Aboriginal or European historic or cultural
significance;
provide windbreaks and stock shelter areas for adjoining rural land,
helping to stabilise temperature and reduce evaporation;
assist with erosion and salinity control, in both the land adjoining the
road reserve and further afield; and
provide a valuable source of seed for regeneration projects, especially
shrub species, as clearing and grazing beneath farm trees often
removes this layer. Approval of the Shire and a Department of Parks
and Wildlife (DPaW) permit are required prior to collection. Guidelines
for seed and timber harvesting can be found in Appendix 1.
Wandoo tree hollows are of vital importance to breeding birds.
Photo: L. McMahon, Birds Australia
Aesthetically pleasing and colourful roadside vegetation on McCorkill Rd, Pickering Brook.
Photo: K. Payne, RCC
Flora Roads have high conservation value, and are often scenic drives.
Photos: RCC
4 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
2.0 What are the threats?
2.1 Lack of awareness
The general decline of the roadside environment can, in
many instances, be attributed to the lack of awareness of
the functional and conservation value of the roadside
remnants, both by the general community and those who
work in the road reserve environment. The lack of
awareness of the roadside vegetation’s values means that
those connected with the roadside are unable to modify their
actions to minimise their impact. As a result, activities such
as road maintenance and the use of fire can act as a
catalyst for decline in environmental quality.
2.2 Roadside clearing
Western Australia’s Intensive Land-use Zone, covers an
area of approximately 25 million ha, of which only 7.5 million
ha (30%) retains the original native vegetation. Of the 86
rural Local Government Authorities (LGAs) in this zone, 10
have less than 10% of the original remnant vegetation and a
further 38 LGAs have more than 10% but less than 30% of
native vegetation extent (DAFWA, 2011).
Road management practices have a significant impact on
the conservation of roadside vegetation. The decision to
clear selectively for road construction and maintenance,
avoiding unnecessary clearing which creates irreversible
damage, will enable roadside vegetation to continue to support native plants and animals. Intact native
vegetation also suppresses weeds on roadsides.
Due to the movement and disturbance of soil, all road
construction and maintenance activities have the
potential to introduce and spread weeds and dieback,
which have a devastating impact on native vegetation. It
is thus important to work from “clean” areas to “dirty” –
that is, from areas that are weed and/or dieback free to
those areas in which weeds and/or dieback exist. It is
also important to clean down machinery before moving
between work sites.
In 2004, amendments to the Environmental Protection
Act 1986 (EP Act) put in place a permit application
process designed to assess proposed native vegetation
clearing based upon a number of clearing principles
which ensure environmental values and land
degradation issues are considered. Under the EP Act clearing native vegetation requires a permit unless it is
for exempt purposes (see pgs. 11-12). The EP Act native vegetation clearing provisions are designed to
provide improved protection for native vegetation, maintain biodiversity and allow for some specified clearing
activities to continue without the need for a permit.
Care must be taken when clearing to ensure roadside vegetation remains, that the clearing is actually necessary and that the required permits are obtained.
Kings Mill Road, Pickering Brook, (above) and Ash Road,
Carmel (below).
Photos: RCC
Creative solutions include creating passing areas rather than widening a whole road.
Photo: C. Macneall, RCC
5 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
2.3 Fire
Although Western Australia’s flora and fauna have evolved with a
tolerance to pre-European fire regimes, these are generally not
present today. Fire is a potential threat to roadside native
vegetation; however the extent of impact is dependent on a
number of factors such as:
native and weed species present;
intensity of fire;
frequency of fire; and
seasonality of the fire.
The RCC’s policy on fire management is:
roadside burning should not take place without the consent of
the managing authority;
local government authorities should adopt by-laws to control roadside
burning;
roadside burning should be planned as part of a total Shire / area Fire
Management Plan;
only one side of a road should be burnt in any one year; this will ensure
habitat retention for associated fauna and also retention of some of the
scenic values associated with the road.
when designing a Fire Management Plan, the two principles which must be
kept in mind are the ecological management of vegetation and the
abatement of fire hazard;
no firebreaks should be permitted within the road reserve unless the
width of the roadside vegetation strip is greater than 20m;
a firebreak on any road reserve should be permitted only when, in the
opinion of the road manager, one is necessary for the protection of
the roadside vegetation. The road manager shall specify the
maximum width to which the break may be constructed; and
in the case of any dispute concerning roadside fire management, the
Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) should be called
in to arbitrate.
Before any decision is made to burn a road verge, particularly if
threatened flora is present, the proponent should be aware of all values
present and the impact the fire will have. It is illegal to burn roadsides
where threatened flora is present without written permission from the Minister
for the Environment. Fire can also be particularly destructive to heritage sites of
either Aboriginal or European origin.
More information about fire management in roadsides can be found in the
RCC’s publication, Biodiversity Conservation and Fire in Road and Rail
Reserves: Management Guidelines (2011).
It is illegal to burn roadsides where threatened flora is present without Ministerial permission Photo: DPaW, Moora District
Before a decision is made to burn a road verge, the impact on natural, cultural and landscape values should be carefully considered and permission from the road manager should be obtained.
Repatriation Road, Pickering Brook
Photo: K.Payne, RCC
Roadside burnt by bushfire showing signs of regeneration. Weeds also come up after fire, so follow up weed control is needed to ensure flammable weeds don’t establish/expand in the bare ground.
Photo: K.Payne, RCC
Controlled burning of roadside vegetation should result in a mosaic of burnt & unburnt patches.
Photo: DFES
6 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
2.4 Weeds
Weeds are generally disturbance opportunists, and the soil disturbance common on road verges provides an
easily colonised niche. Their establishment can impinge on the survival of existing native plants, increase
flammability of the vegetation and interfere with the engineering structure of the road. The effect of weed
infestations on native plant populations can be severe, often with flow-on effects for native fauna such as
diminished habitat or food resources.
Once weeds become established in an area, they become a long-term management issue, costing
considerable resources to control or eradicate. The roadside survey recorded populations of six significant
weeds:
• African lovegrass – Eragrostis curvula
• Eastern states wattles - Acacia sp.
• Fleabane – Conyza sp.
• Plantain - Plantago lanceolata
• Tagasaste - Chamaecytisus palmensis
• Victorian teatree - Leptospermum laevigatum
Roadside populations of these weeds can be observed on the Shire of Kalamunda Roadside Conservation
Value maps provided which highlight the locations of each weed. These maps will assist the shire and
community in planning, budgeting and coordinating strategic weed control projects. Further information on the
presence of these nominated weeds is presented in Part C of this report.
Eastern states wattles - were introduced into native vegetation as garden escapes or during tree plantings. They are now becoming a growing problem along roadsides and within native vegetation.
Flinders Range wattle (A. iteaphylla) -shrub 2-5m, leaves silvery blue green, flowers yellow from March to September
Sydney golden wattle (Acacia longifolia) - shrub or tree 2-10m, flowers yellow from July to September
Cyanides in the leaves can lead to stock poisoning
Golden wattle (Acacia pycnantha) shrub or tree, 2-8m, flowers: yellow from July to October.
Biology for these wattles: 2-3 years to first flowering. Fire stimulates mass germination of stored seed and adult plants can resprout after fire.
FloraBase. florabase.dpaw.wa.gov.au/browse/profile/17861
florabase.dpaw.wa.gov.au/browse/profile/18217
florabase.dpaw.wa.gov.au/browse/profile/3504
Accessed March 2015
African lovegrass – Perennial grass growing in dense tufts, 0.3-1.2m high
Flowers: purple/green from August to December or January to May
Grows in: a variety of soils in disturbed sites
Dispersal: birds, foxes, rabbits, water, soil, machinery –slashing, vehicles, garden refuse. Time to first flowering: 12 years and seedbank persistence of 5 years. Often only top killed by fire and rapidly resprouts, forming dense monocultures, creating large fuel loads
FloraBase: florabase.dpaw.wa.gov.au/browse/profile/376
Accessed: March 2015
.
Acacia iteaphylla
7 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
Tagasaste - Erect shrub or tree, 0.7-6 m high.
Flowers: white-cream-yellow from April to October.
Grows in: white sand, grey sandy clay, lateritic loam.
Invades disturbed bushland and roadsides.
Naturalised in almost all areas where it has been planted as a fodder shrub. Forms a dense infestation that can smother native vegetation.
Flowers after 3 years, seedbank persistence over 10 years, seeds are poisonous to humans
Soil stored seed germinates prolifically following fire and mature plants occasionally resprout.
FloraBase. florabase.dpaw.wa.gov.au/browse/profile/18156
Accessed March 2015
Plantain - Rosetted perennial, herb, 0.1-0.9 m high.
Flowers: green-yellow-brown from November to December or January to March.
Grows in: a variety of soils, in gardens, roadsides and other disturbed sites.
Dispersal: soil, water, birds including galahs and cockatoos. Reproduces mainly from seed and also stem fragments. Resprouts after fire.
Deep persistent taproot gives some drought tolerance
FloraBase: florabase.dpaw.wa.gov.au/browse/profile/7303
Accessed March 2015
Fleabane – Erect annual, herb; 0.15-1.5 m high
Flowers: white from January to December.
Grows in: a variety of soils, waste places & roadsides.
Dispersal: wind, water run-off
Seedbank persistence: 3 years. Light stimulates germination. Resprouts after fire.
FloraBase: florabase.dpaw.wa.gov.au/browse/profile/7939
Accessed March 2015
Victorian teatree is a large shrub or tree, 1.5 to 6m high
Flowers: white with 5 broad petals from July to October.
Leaves: greyish-green, leathery
Grows in: white or grey sand, loam
Native to south eastern Australia; a garden escape in Western Australia and was planted for revegetation, dune stabilisation and windbreaks.
Dispersal: wind, vehicles, soil movement, water, garden refuse
Adults are killed by fire but seed is released from woody fruits and germinates prolifically after fire
FloraBase florabase.dec.wa.gov.au/browse/profile/5850
Accessed: March 2015
8 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
2.5 Phytophthora dieback
Another major threat to the biodiversity of Western Australia’s ecosystems is Phytophthora dieback.
Phytophthora dieback is caused by the microscopic soil-borne pathogens in the Phytophthora genus. These
cause the roots to rot in susceptible species. Plant death occurs because plants cannot take up the water and
nutrients they need for survival. Infected plants often appear to be dying from drought conditions.
Over 40% of native WA plant species are susceptible to this pathogen (Dieback Working Group, 2014).
Phytophthora cinnamomi, the most widespread and well known species, usually affects plants in rainfall
zones of greater than 400mm. Maintenance of roads and firebreaks often provide an avenue for the spread
of the disease as soil is moved along by machinery.
Dieback can cause:
Significant loss of biodiversity including loss of
key canopy and understorey species and
disruption to woodland vegetation structure;
loss of habitat and food sources for birds, small
mammals and insects;
extinctions of threatened plant and animal
species;
disruption of ecological function/ change in
ecosystem cycles;
increased fire risk;
altered hydrology and increased erosion; and
the increased dominance of resistant plants such
as grasses, rushes and sedges.
The pathogen is spread through the movement of infested soil and mud, especially by vehicles and footwear.
It also moves in free water and via root to root contact between plants.
Phytophthora dieback does not have a cure. However, it has been shown plants can improve their resistance
to the pathogen by being sprayed or injected with the fungicide phosphite (a derivative of phosphorus acid).
The most cost effective way of managing Phytophthora dieback is by limiting the spread of the disease rather
than managing the impacts of the pathogen once it is introduced into bushland.
Management practices include:
information signs and education;
seasonal or permanent road and trail closures;
vehicle washdown using established cleaning
stations where available to avoid transport of
contaminated soil and vegetative material.
Please note: Dry cleaning (cleaning
vehicles/machinery when dry) is preferable to
wash-down if the cleaning stations are off-site;
Universal Dieback signage system
Recent infestation: Banksia species are very susceptible. Moving gravel and bringing infected soil/gravel to a new area can spread Phytophthora.
Photo: K.Payne, RCC
9 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
cleaning of all equipment that comes into contact with soil or plant material (vehicles, tools and
footwear) before a job, and before moving to next job
(eg. with stiff brush, rag, methylated spirits);
using only dieback-free construction and revegetation
material. Ensure gravel and seedlingsare sourced from
a dieback-free supplier/location; and
applying phosphite to infected plants to help combat symptoms.
Where an infestation has been identified, it is important that
works crews take great care to:
schedule activities for low rainfall months and plan
activity for dry soil conditions;
grade toward the infestation area (rather than away
from it);
lift the blade frequently to minimise the distance
that dirt is carried;
clean (dry clean or wash down) the blade (and the
whole machine) before leaving the infested area;
A little time and care taken can ensure the disease is not spread to another area.
It is also important to note that where dieback-free areas
are mapped, emphasis should be given to the protection
of these areas.
Plan activity for dry soil conditions only.
Start clean, stay clean – clean machinery before
arriving/working in these areas. This also includes
footwear or any equipment which comes into
contact with any soil or plant material.
Phytophthora dieback tends to occur in low-lying areas
following drainage lines, flats, swamps etc. Upland areas
are more often dieback-free and it is important to be
aware of this when moving vehicles/equipment from
lowland areas to upland (e.g. hills) potentially spreading
infection. When moving through the landscape you can
stay low or stay high in the profile or clean when moving
from low to high areas.
Cleaning/disinfecting also reduces other biosecurity
threats such as weeds so it has multiple benefits.
More information about managing Phytophthora dieback
can be obtained from the Dieback Working Group
website www.dwg.org.au where you can also download
the ‘Managing Phytophthora Dieback: Guidelines for
Local Government’
http://www.dwg.org.au/files/dieback_lga_guidelines.pdf.
Recent infestation: Some species are very susceptible
which suggests that the infestation has just reached this
area. Close by is a firebreak and it is very likely that the
spread of the infestation was accelerated by moving dirt
along the firebreak
Photo: J. Brooker, Project Dieback
Dieback protection area at the end of Hill Street in Gooseberry Hill which adjoins Kalamunda National Park
Photo: K.Payne, RCC
Dieback boot cleaning station.
Photo: South West Catchments Council
10 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
3.0 Legislative requirements
Uncertainty often exists about the ‘ownership’, control and management of 'the roadside'. This problem is also
exacerbated by the multitude of legislative reference to activities within a transport corridor.
The legislation pertaining to the management of road reserves is complex and includes those listed below.
State legislation:
- Aboriginal Heritage Act 1972
- Biosecurity and Agriculture Management Act 2007
- Bush Fires Act 1954
- Environmental Protection Act 1986
- Environmental Protection (Clearing of Native Vegetation) Regulations 2004
- Heritage of WA Act 1990
- Land Administration Act 1997
- Local Government Act 1995
- Main Roads Act 1930
- Mining Act 1978
- Soil and Land Conservation Act 1945
- State Energy Commission Supply Act 1979
- Water Authority Act 1984
- Wildlife Conservation Act 1950, 1979
Commonwealth legislation:
- Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999
The Department of Parks and Wildlife has the legislative responsibility to manage and protect all native flora
and fauna in Western Australia. It is important to note that all native flora and fauna is protected under
provisions of the Wildlife Conservation Act 1950 (Wildlife Conservation Act) and cannot be impacted on
unless relevant permits are held. In addition to the general provisions relating to protected flora under the
Wildlife Conservation Act, special protection is afforded to flora that is declared as rare or threatened under
Section 23F of that Act.
Under the Environmental Protection Act 1986 all clearing of native vegetation requires a permit, unless it is for
an exempt purpose as described in Schedule 6 of the EP Act and the Environmental Protection (Clearing of
Native Vegetation) Regulations 2004. Clearing applications are assessed against ten clearing principles,
which incorporate the:
biological diversity of the vegetation;
potential impact on wetlands, water sources and drainage;
existence of rare flora and threatened ecological communities; and
land degradation impacts.
There are two types of native vegetation clearing permits available: area and purpose. For example, where
clearing is for a once-off clearing event such as clearing for pasture or development, an area permit is
required. Where clearing is necessary for a specific purpose, such as a road widening program, a purpose
permit is needed. Clearing of regrowth to maintain an existing road formation is exempt, to the width and
height legally cleared for that purpose within the last 10 years (refer to Schedule 2 of the Regulations).
11 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
A clearing permit is required for road upgrades. More information can be found on the Department of
Environment Regulation’s (DER) website www.der.wa.gov.au/your-environment/native-vegetation or contact
Clearing Regulation at DER on 6467 5020.
It is recommended that a precautionary approach be taken when working within roadsides and that the
relevant authority be contacted if there is any doubt about the management or protection of heritage or
conservation values present in the roadsides.
4.0 Environmentally Sensitive Areas
Environmentally Sensitive Areas (ESAs) are protected under the
Environmental Protection (Clearing of Native Vegetation) Regulations
2004. They require special protection due to their environmental values
at state or national levels. Some of the reasons include protection of:
threatened species or threatened ecological communities;
wetlands and water courses;
sites that have other high conservation, scientific or aesthetic
values; and/or
Aboriginal or European cultural sites.
Environmentally Sensitive Areas can be delineated by the use of site
markers. The RCC publication Guidelines for Managing Special
Environmental Areas in Transport Corridors (2000) has advice on the
design and placement of ESA markers. Workers who come across an
ESA marker in the field should not disturb the area between the markers
unless the markers were specifically mentioned in their
instructions. If in doubt, the Works Supervisor, Shire
Engineer or CEO should be contacted. Western Power and
Brookfield Rail also have systems for marking sites near
power or rail lines.
To ensure that knowledge of threatened flora and other sites
does not get lost due, perhaps, to staff changes, is it
recommended that the Shire establish an Environmentally
Sensitive Area Register. This should outline any special
treatment that the site should receive and be consulted prior
to any work being initiated in the area. This will ensure that
inadvertent damage does not occur.
Local governments are also encouraged to permanently mark ESAs to prevent inadvertent damage to
threatened flora or other values being protected. Markers of a uniform shape and colour will make recognition
easier for other authorities using road reserves.
Threatened flora marker Repatriation Road, Pickering Brook
Photo: K Payne, RCC
Roadside ESA markers are highly visible to ensure roadside workers see them and are aware of the significance of the area.
Photo: RCC
12 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
5.0 Flora Roads
A Flora Road is one which has special conservation
value because of the vegetation contained within the
road reserve. The managing authority may decide to
declare a Flora Road based on the results of the
survey of roadside conservation value and upon
recommendation of the RCC. The RCC has prepared
Guidelines for the Nomination and Management of
Flora Roads (Appendix 2). The Flora Road signs
(provided by the RCC) draw the attention of both the
tourist and those working in the road reserve to the
roadside flora, indicating that it is special and worthy
of protection. The program seeks to raise the profile
of roadsides within both the community and road
management authorities.
There are currently no Flora Roads in the Shire of Kalamunda.
The roadside survey and the RCV map highlighted a number of
roads or sections of roads that have the potential to be
nominated as Flora Roads. These roads can be investigated
further to see if they warrant declaration as a Flora Road (see
Part C of this report). A number of shires have produced Flora
Drives pamphlets in conjunction with the RCC.
In order to plan roadworks so that important areas of roadside
vegetation are not disturbed, road managers should be aware of
these areas. To ensure this is not overlooked, it is suggested that
areas declared as Flora Roads be included in the Shire’s
Sensitive Environmental Area Register.
Attractive roadsides are an important focus in Western Australia,
the "Wildflower State". Flora Roads will by their very nature be
attractive to tourists and would often be suitable as part of a
tourist drive network. Consideration should be given to:
promoting these roads by means of a small brochure or booklet;
showing all Flora Roads on a map of the shire; and
using specially designed signs to delineate the Flora Road section
(provided free of charge by the RCC).
Flora Roads also provide habitat for fauna
Photo: K. Payne, RCC
Flora Roads are high conservation value roadside remnants
Photo: C. Wilson, RCC
Roadsides are one of the most accessible places tourists to view wildflowers. Pickering Brook Road (left)
Some landholders are doing their bit by planting local native shrubs on their verges.
Isaacs Road, Pickering Brook (right) Photos: K Payne, RCC
13 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
PART B
THE NATURAL
ENVIRONMENT IN
KALAMUNDA
14 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
1.0 Flora
On a global scale Western Australia has almost ten times more vascular plant varieties than countries such
as Great Britain (JNCC, 2014). In fact, Western Australia has about four percent of the 281,600 known
vascular flora present on Earth (Australian National Herbarium, 2012). The native flora of the south-west of
Western Australia (which includes the Shire of Kalamunda) is internationally renowned for its diversity and
uniqueness, with over 8000 species of native flora. Of these, over 75% are endemic to WA and found
nowhere else in the world. (DPaW, 2015a).
The WA Herbarium has recorded 1149 species of native plants from the Shire of Kalamunda. The most
prolific families are Fabaceae (peas - 141 species), Proteaceae (eg banksias and grevilleas - 94 species),
Myrtaceae (eg eucalypts and melaleucas - 76 species), Orchidaceae (orchids - 70 species), Poaceae
(grasses 68 species) and Asteraceae (daisies - 55 species) (NatureMap, DPaW, 2007-2015). The complete
list of recorded flora can be viewed on the CD attached to this report.
2.0 Threatened and Priority flora
Threatened flora species are of great conservation significance and should
therefore be treated with special care when road and utility service,
construction or maintenance is undertaken. Populations of threatened flora
along roadsides are designated ESAs and should be delineated by yellow
markers. It is the responsibility of the road manager to ensure these markers
are installed in consultation with Parks & Wildlife. The RCC suggests using
the publication Guidelines for Managing Special Environmental Areas in
Transport Corridors (2000) as a guideline for managing these sites.
Priority flora are species which may be threatened, but insufficient
information is available to make an assessment. ‘Priority’ refers to the
priority of searching other appropriate habitat as circumstances and
resources allow.
As of March 2015, there are eleven species of threatened flora and thirty
seven species of priority flora throughout the Shire of Kalamunda (DPaW,
2015c).
Four species of threatened flora are found on nine shire-managed roadside locations, and four species of
priority flora are found on four databased shire-managed roadside locations (DPaW, 2015c).
There was also a possible new location of Priority 4 species Grevillea pimeleoides found during the surveys.
Threatened flora sites should be clearly marked with these yellow posts.
Photo: RCC
15 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
Threatened flora on Kalamunda roadsides
Grass wattle (Acacia anomala)
Wavy-leaved smokebush (Conospermum undulatum)
Keighery's macarthuria (Macarthuria keigheryi)
Star sun orchid (Thelymitra stellata)
Grass wattle
Acacia anomala slender, rush-like shrub
grows 0.2-0.5m high
yellow flowers August to November
found in lateritic soils on slopes
FloraBase: florabase.dpaw.wa.gov.au/browse/profile/3219
Accessed: March 2015
Wavy-leaved smokebush
Conospermum undulatum erect, compact shrub
0.6 to 2m high
white flowers from May to October
found in grey or yellow-orange clayey sand
FloraBase: florabase.dpaw.wa.gov.au/browse/profile/13999
Accessed: March 2015
Keighery's macarthuria
Macarthuria keigheryi
erect or spreading perennial herb or shrub
0.2 to 0.4m high, 0.3 to 0.6m wide
cream flowers from September to December
found in white or grey sand
FloraBase: florabase.dpaw.wa.gov.au/browse/profile/17106
Accessed: March 2015
Star sun orchid
Thelymitra stellata
tuberous perennial herb
0.15 to 0.25m high
yellow & brown flowers from October to November
found in white or grey sand
FloraBase: florabase.dpaw.wa.gov.au/browse/profile/10862
Accessed: March 2015
16 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
Priority flora on Kalamunda roadsides
Cats-paw grevillea (Grevillea pimeleoides) - Priority 4
Bloodroot (Haemodorum loratum) Priority 3
Granite tetratheca (Tetratheca sp. Granite) - Priority 3
Crystal Brook star orchid (Thelymitra magnifica) - Priority 1
Lindley’s featherflower (Verticordia lindleyi subsp. lindleyi) - Priority 4
Bloodroot
Haemodorum loratum
Priority 3
bulbaceous perennial herb
0.45 to 1.2m high
black, brown, green flowers in November
found in grey or yellow sand or gravel
FloraBase: florabase.dpaw.wa.gov.au/browse/profile/1469
Accessed: March 2015
Granite tetratheca
Tetratheca sp. Granite - Priority 3
erect shrub
grows to 0.4 m high
pink to purple flowers in Spring
found in clay, moist loam, clayey sand and near granite boulders
FloraBase: florabase.dpaw.wa.gov.au/browse/profile/14333
Accessed: March 2015
Lindley’s featherflower
Verticordia lindleyi subsp. lindleyi
Priority 4
erect shrub
0.2-0.75 m high
pink flowers in May or November to January
found in sand, sandy clay or winter-wet depressions
FloraBase: florabase.dpaw.wa.gov.au/browse/profile/14714
Accessed: March 2015
Crystal Brook Star Orchid
Thelymitra magnifica - Priority 1
perennial, herb
0.15 to 0.25m high
yellow & brown flowers from September to October
found on stony ridges
similar to Thelymitra stellata but T. magnifica flowers 2-3 weeks earlier
FloraBase: florabase.dpaw.wa.gov.au/browse/profile/20729
Volunteer survey report
http://www.dpaw.wa.gov.au/images/documents/plants-
animals/threatened-
species/Volunteer_surveys_for_Crystal_Brook_sun_orchid.pdf
Accessed: March 2015
Cats-paw grevillea
Grevillea pimeleoides - Priority 4
non-linotuberous shrub, hairy leaves, clustered flowers
0.4 to 2.4m high
yellow-orange flowers from May to November
found in gravelly soils over granite on rocky hillsides
FloraBase: florabase.dpaw.wa.gov.au/browse/profile/13086
Accessed: June 2015
17 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
For definitions of threatened and priority flora refer to Appendix 3. For more detailed information regarding
threatened and priority flora in the Shire of Kalamunda, contact Parks and Wildlife’s Threatened Flora
Administrative Officer in Perth via flora.data@dpaw.wa.gov.au; the Conservation Officer (Flora) in Parks and
Wildlife’s Perth Hills District on 9290 6100 for the majority of the Shire; or Parks and Wildlife’s Swan Coastal
District on 9303 7740 for the western part (west of Roe and Tonkin Highways). The district borders can be
seen on the map in Appendix 4.
Knowledge of roadside populations may change over time, so it is important that the Shire update information
through Parks and Wildlife periodically to avoid inadvertent damage to newly discovered populations of
threatened or priority flora. If roadworks need to be carried out near known threatened flora sites, contact
Parks and Wildlife at least six weeks in advance to obtain necessary permits and have an inspection to
confirm exactly where plants occur near the road.
2.1 Threatened Ecological Communities (TECs)
An ecological community is a naturally occurring group of plants, animals
and other organisms that occur in a particular habitat (DPaW, 2014d). The
Minister for Environment may list an ecological community as being
threatened if the community is at risk of becoming totally destroyed.
There are a number of TECs in the Shire of Kalamunda including:
Banksia attenuata and/or Eucalyptus marginata woodlands of
the eastern side of the Swan Coastal Plain - Endangered
Banksia attenuata woodland over species rich dense
shrublands - Endangered
Eucalyptus calophylla - Eucalyptus marginata woodlands on
sandy clay soils of the southern Swan Coastal Plain –
Vulnerable
Eucalyptus calophylla - Kingia australis woodlands on heavy
soils, Swan Coastal Plain – Critically Endangered
Eucalyptus calophylla - Xanthorrhoea preissii woodlands
and shrublands, Swan Coastal Plain – Critically
Endangered
Herb rich saline shrublands in clay pans – Vulnerable
Shrublands and woodlands of the eastern side of the Swan
Coastal Plain – Critically Endangered
Shrublands and woodlands on Muchea Limestone –
Endangered
Shrublands on dry clay flats – Endangered
Southern wet shrublands, Swan Coastal Plain -
Endangered
Banksia attenuata woodland over species rich dense shrublands – Endangered - Forrestfield
Photo: Val English, DPAW
Banksia attenuata and/or Eucalyptus marginata woodlands of the eastern side of the Swan Coastal Plain - Endangered – Watsonia Rd, Gooseberry Hill Photo: Val English, DPAW
18 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
These all occur in the western urban part of the shire.
There is also a Priority Ecological Community (PEC)
Central Northern Darling Scarp Granite Shrubland Community – Priority 4
Eucalyptus calophylla - Kingia australis woodlands on heavy soils, Swan Coastal Plain – Critically Endangered – Dundas Road, High Wycombe
Photo: Val English, DPAW
Herb rich saline shrublands in clay pans – Vulnerable – Wattle Grove
Photos: Val English, DPAW
Eucalyptus calophylla - Xanthorrhoea preissii woodlands and shrublands, Swan Coastal Plain – Critically Endangered, High Wycombe / Hazelmere
Photo: Val English, DPAW
Shrublands on dry clay flats – Endangered – Wattle Grove
Photo: Jill Pryde, DPAW
Shrublands and woodlands on Muchea Limestone – Endangered
Photo: Jill Pryde, DPAW
Central Northern Darling Scarp Granite Shrubland Community – Priority 4
Photos: Val English, DPAW
19 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
3.0 Fauna
The Western Australian Museum records approximately 304 species of fauna from the Kalamunda area.
This list can be viewed on the CD attached. WA Museum fauna records comprise specimen records, museum
collections and observations from 1850 to present and therefore it is intended to act only as a general
representation of the fauna in the area. Of the fauna species recorded in the Kalamunda area, there were 13
amphibia, 143 bird, 3 fish, 67 invertebrate, 28 mammal and 50 reptile species (DPaW, 2007-2015).
Many fauna species, particularly small birds, need
continuous corridors of dense vegetation to move
throughout the landscape. Roadsides therefore
are of particular importance to birds because they
can contain the only continuous vegetation
connection in some areas.
The Wildlife Conservation Act 1950 provides for
native fauna (and flora) to be specially protected
where they are under an identifiable threat of
extinction, and as such, are considered to be
"Threatened". According to distributional data from
NatureMap (DPaW, 2007-2015), 23 species of
threatened and priority fauna have been
recorded or sighted within the Shire of Kalamunda,
and these are listed below.
Birds
Australian peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus subsp.
macropus) Specially protected
Baudin's cockatoo, long-billed black-cockatoo
(Calyptorhynchus baudinii) Threatened
Carnaby's cockatoo, short-billed black-cockatoo
(Calyptorhynchus latirostris) Threatened
Common greenshank (Tringa nebularia) International
agreement
Common sandpiper (Actitis hypoleucos) International
agreement
Eastern great egret (Ardea modesta) International agreement
Forest red-tailed black-cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus banksii subsp.
naso) Threatened
Peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus) Specially protected
Rainbow bee-eater (Merops ornatus) International agreement
Invertebrates
Cricket (Kawaniphila pachomai) Priority 1
Forest red-tailed black cockatoos in bushland adjoining McCorkill Road, Pickering Brook
Photo: K. Payne, RCC
Rainbow Bee-eater
Photo: Kimberley Page
Adult male Baudin's cockatoo
Photo: Zara Kivell
20 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
Mammals
Chuditch, western quoll (Dasyurus geoffroii) Threatened
Numbat, walpurti (Myrmecobius fasciatus) Threatened
Quokka (Setonix brachyurus) Threatened
Quenda, southern brown bandicoot (Isoodon obesulus) Priority 5
Southern brush-tailed phascogale, wambenger (Phascogale tapoatafa
subsp. tapoatafa) Threatened
Rakali, water-rat (Hydromys chrysogaster) Priority 4
Western brush wallaby (Macropus irma) Priority 4
Woylie, brush-tailed bettong (Bettongia penicillata subsp. ogilbyi)
Threatened
Reptiles
Black-striped snake (Neelaps calonotos) Priority 3
Carpet python (Morelia spilota subsp. imbricata) Specially protected
Dell's ctenotus, Darling Range heath ctenotus (Ctenotus delli) Priority 4
Southern death adder (Acanthophis antarcticus) Priority 3
Mammal Photos
From top: chuditch family, chuditch on the move (K. Page), quenda (K. Page), western brush wallaby
From left: numbat (A. Thomas), brush-tailed phascogale, woylie
All photos: © B. & B. Wells, DPaW unless labeled otherwise
Black-striped snake
Photo: Jordon Vos
Southern death adder Photo: Rob Valentic, Gondwana reptile
productions
Carpet python
Photo: © B. & B. Wells, DPaW
Dell’s ctenotus
Photo: WA museum
Southern death adder Photo: Rob Valentic, Gondwana Reptile
Productions
21 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
3.1 Threatened cockatoos
Three species of threatened black cockatoo are found in the Shire of
Kalamunda. All are endemic (restricted) to the south west of Western
Australia. The Carnaby’s cockatoo has been most extensively studied
due to the destruction of habitat (urbanisation) on the Swan Coastal
Plain and clearing in the Wheatbelt. Since the late 1940s the species
has experienced a thirty percent reduction in range and a fifty percent
decline in population (DPaW, 2013).
The Shire of Kalamunda is a significant Carnaby’s cockatoo feeding, breeding and
roosting area and is also important for the Baudin's and forest red-tailed black
cockatoos. They feed on flowering shrubs such as banksia, grevillea and hakea
species and also on seeds of tree species, such as marri and pines.
Old wandoo trees provide ideal breeding sites for these threatened birds. However,
remaining nesting and feeding areas are becoming degraded due to clearing,
urbanisation, weed invasion, storm damage, firewood collection, changes in fire
management, grazing, water logging and salinity. There is a lack of new eucalypt
trees growing to replace dead trees in remaining nesting sites and existing nesting
hollows are deteriorating.
Threatened black cockatoos face competition for hollows from other species (eg.
galahs and corellas) that use hollows to nest in. In the metropolitan area, galah and
corella flocks are boosted by aviary escapes, increasing competition further. Feral
bees also cause problems when they use suitable nest hollows for their hives.
While roadsides aren’t the ideal place for nesting birds, with so much of their habitat
destroyed, roadsides are now a significant habitat for Carnaby’s cockatoos. It is
important that the vegetation around tree hollows is retained or replaced to ensure
close-by feeding areas remain. A recent report confirms the importance of native
vegetation close to breeding areas to ensure chicks fledge successfully (Saunders
et al, 2014). Roadsides also provide corridors to allow movement between nesting
and feeding areas in larger patches of remnant vegetation.
3.2 Threatened Bandicoots
The Shire of Kalamunda includes a substantial amount of quenda habitat and there have been numerous
recorded sightings in the shire. A number of these sightings have been on roads or road verges. Dead
vegetation on roadsides can provide important habitat for bandicoots due to much of their habitat being
cleared due to urbanisation.
Carnaby’s cockatoo chicks
Photo: R. Dawson, DPaW
Carnaby’s cockatoo in roadside hollow
Photo: R. Dawson, DPaW
Carnaby’s cockatoo food source Banksia woodland Photo: K.Payne, RCC
Forest red-tailed cockatoos with chicks in a marri tree in bushland alongside McCorkill Rd, Pickering Brook Photo: K.Payne, RCC
22 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
4.0 Remnant vegetation cover
The Shire of Kalamunda retains 72.9 per cent of the original native vegetation (Table 1) which compares
favourably to surrounding shires. The remaining native vegetation is located in a variety of tenures including
shire bushland reserves, privately-owned land, road reserves, national parks and nature reserves. While this
is higher than most of the other surrounding shires, the remaining vegetation could easily be depleted without
proactive management of this priceless resource.
Table 1. Remnant vegetation remaining in the Shire of Kalamunda and surrounding shires (Govt. WA, 2013)
Shire Total Area (ha) Area Cleared
(ha)
Vegetation Cover Remaining
(ha) (%)
Kalamunda 32,388 8,774 23,614 72.91
Mundaring 64,372 20,955.55 43,416.18 67.45
Gosnells 12,716.25 9,043.70 3,672.55 28.88
Armadale 55,948.71 12,893.98 43,054.73 76.95
Belmont 3,939.30 3,513.31 425.99 10.81
Swan 104,435.40 58,778.59 45,656.82 43.72
York 213,260.36 137,100.20 76,160.16 35.71
Canning 6,432.09 5,986.77 445.32 6.92
The continued presence of the flora and fauna living in these remnants is dependent on connectivity
throughout the landscape. This enables access to habitat and food resources, essential for the survival of
species and the overall biodiversity of the region. In many situations remnant native vegetation in transport
corridors is of vital importance as it provides a continuous link through the landscape.
Jarrah, Marri, Sheoak, Parrot bush - Mabel Rd, Lesmurdie
Photo: K.Payne, RCC
Jarrah Marri with grass trees - Sadler Drive, Maida Vale
Photo: K.Payne, RCC
23 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
4.1 Kalamunda Vegetation Associations
The vegetation associations known from the Shire of Kalamunda, noted in Table 2, provide an indication of
the assemblages of native vegetation present prior to European settlement. It should be noted that these
assemblages are indicative of the shire overall and not specifically representative of roadside remnants.
Table 2. Vegetation types and percentages remaining in the Shire of Kalamunda (Govt. WA, 2013)
Kalamunda Vegetation Association Types* % Remaining
Medium forest; jarrah-marri (3) 80.49
Medium woodland; marri & wandoo (4) 71.04
Medium woodland; jarrah, marri & wandoo (968) 16.10
Medium very sparse woodland; jarrah, with low woodland; banksia & casuarina (1001) 8.22
Medium woodland; marri & river gum (Eucalyptus rudis) (1009) 5.30
Mosaic: Medium forest; jarrah-marri / Low woodland; banksia / Low forest; teatree / Low woodland; Casuarina obesa (1018) 12.13
* Numbers in brackets refer to the identification numbers of vegetation associations listed in the Statewide Vegetation Statistics Report (Govt. WA, 2013).
Figure 8 in Part C of this report shows the vegetation types and amounts recorded along the Shire of
Kalamunda roadsides during the survey.
Jarrah-marri forest – Elson Road, Piesse Brook
Wandoo woodland – Girrawheen Drive Gooseberry Hill
Photos: K.Payne, RCC
Jarrah-marri, banksia
Ash Road, Carmel Jarrah-marri, sheoak, parrot bush
Horace Road, Lesmurdie
24 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
PART C
ROADSIDE
SURVEYS IN THE
SHIRE OF
KALAMUNDA
25 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
1.0 Introduction
The roadside survey and mapping program was developed
to provide a method of determining the conservation status
of roadsides. Using this method, community volunteers are
able to participate in a ‘snap-shot’ survey of roadside
vegetation to identify a range of attributes that, when
combined, give an overall indication of the conservation
value of the vegetation.
Usually the survey is undertaken by a group of local
volunteers, who, aided by their knowledge of the area, are
able to provide a useful and cost effective method of data
collection. Community participation also ensures a sense of
'ownership' of the process, which increases the likelihood of
its acceptance and use by the local community and road
managers.
Over 220km of the Shire of Kalamunda’s roads were
surveyed between May 2013 and February 2015. This is
almost 100% of the shire’s urban roads adjoining bushland
reserves and rural roads. RCC, Shire of Kalamunda staff
and volunteers surveyed the conservation status of the 204
road reserves. The enthusiastic effort of the roadside
surveyors ensured that this project was successfully
completed. A total of 220 volunteer hours were contributed
to this project, plus hundreds of staff hours. The roadside
surveyors were:
Alexandra Kirkby
Andrea Wernli
Annette Morris
Carmel O’Halloran
Chris Morris
Chris Munro
Diana Papenfus
Djuarli Taylor
Gillian Stack
Glen Speering
Jade Kelly
Katherine Hope
Katrina Zeehandelaar
Kaye Amann
Kendra Vallejo
Kylie Payne
Lynne King
Marilyn Grenda
Mark Anthes
Peta Douglas
Ray Maher
Robin Faulkner
Rosemary Zeehandelaar
Steve Cam
Tamara Wilkes-Jones
Roadside surveyors: Glen Speering, Kaye Amman, Jade Kelly & Tamara Wilkes-Jones.
Photos: K.Payne, RCC
26 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
1.1 Methods
The roadside surveys were undertaken in a
vehicle, generally with two people per vehicle. The
passenger recorded the roadside survey data
using a smart phone with software developed
specifically for the roadside surveys, as shown in
Appendix 5. The survey devices have inbuilt GPS
and camera and collect a large amount of data
including vegetation type, tree decline,
environmentally sensitive areas, fauna habitat
features and weeds. The data is uploaded to a
purpose-built RCC survey website via the mobile
phone network. This data is then downloaded and
analysed by the RCC. The RCC then works with Parks and Wildlife’s Geographic Information Systems
(GIS) section to generate the Roadside Conservation Value and weed maps.
The methods to assess and calculate the conservation
value of the roadside reserves are described in Assessing
Roadsides: A Guide for Rating Conservation Value
(Jackson, 2002). However, this has been expanded with
the new computerised system. All volunteers participate in
a one day pre-survey training session. During this session,
volunteers are given an overview of the survey process,
information to assist with identifying vegetation types and
weeds, step by step instructions on how to use the survey
device and survey safety information.
The survey process involves choosing an option from a set of attributes, which when combined represent
a roadside's conservation status.
The following attributes are used to produce a quantitative measure of conservation value:
the structure of native vegetation (e.g. layers - trees, shrubs, groundcovers) (Scores: 0-2)
the extent of native vegetation (% of native vegetation cover) (Scores: 0-2)
the approximate number of different native plant species (diversity) (Scores: 0-2)
the degree of weed infestation (% weed cover) (Scores: 0-2)
habitat value/value as a biological corridor (Scores: 0-3)
(i) connects to other bushland areas;
provides habitat or food for reptiles, birds and other animals e.g. (ii) hollow logs, (iii) tree hollows and
(iv) flowering shrubs;
(v) environmentally sensitive areas (yellow hockey stick markers)
width of vegetated roadside (Scores: 0-1).
Roadside surveyor volunteer: Diana Papenfus
Photos: K.Payne, RCC
Surveying Repatriation Road, Pickering Brook
27 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
Each of these attributes is given a score ranging from 0 to 3 points (see above). Their combined scores
provide a Roadside Conservation Value score ranging from 0 to 12. The conservation values are
represented on the roadside conservation value map by the following colour-coded conservation status
categories.
Conservation Value Conservation Status Colour Code
9 – 12 High Bright Green
7 – 8 Medium High Pale Green
5 – 6 Medium Low Orange
0 – 4 Low Yellow
The following attributes are also noted but do not contribute to the conservation value score:
adjoining landuse;
width of road reserve;
vegetation type;
tree decline;
revegetation;
clearing;
rabbits;
presence of utilities/disturbances;
general comments;
presence and percentage of six nominated weeds; and
presence and extent of additional weeds.
It is intended that the recording of these attributes will provide a dataset capable of being used by a broad
range of shire staff as well as other community and land management interests.
1.2 Mapping Roadside Conservation Values
The RCC in conjunction with Parks and Wildlife’s GIS section produced maps at a scale of 1:50,000 and
1:1,000,000 for the Shire of Kalamunda. Known as the Roadside Conservation Value map (RCV map), it
shows the conservation status of the roadside vegetation within the Shire of Kalamunda. The data used
to produce both the map and the following figures and tables is on the CD attached. A simplified data
sheet with a small sample of roads can be found in Appendix 6.
Digital information of roads, remnant vegetation and watercourses on both Crown estate and privately
owned land used in the map was obtained from Main Roads WA, Landgate, Parks and Wildlife,
Department of Agriculture and Food WA and Geoscience Australia.
28 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
1.3 Roadside Conservation Value categories
High conservation value roadsides are those with a score
between 9 and 12, and generally display the following
characteristics:
intact natural structure consisting of a number of
layers, often ground, shrub and tree layers;
extent of native vegetation greater than 70%, i.e. little
or no disturbance;
high diversity of native flora, i.e. greater than 20
different species;
few weeds, i.e. less than 30% of the total
plants; and
high value as a biological corridor; i.e. may
connect uncleared areas, contain flowering
shrubs, tree hollows and/or hollow logs for
habitat, and/or environmentally sensitive
areas.
Medium-high conservation value roadsides are those with a score of 7 or 8, and generally have the
following characteristics:
generally intact natural structure, with one layer disturbed or absent;
extent of native vegetation between 30 and 70%;
medium to high diversity of native flora, i.e. between 6 and 19 species;
few to half (less aggressive) weeds, i.e. between 30 and 70% of the total plants; and
medium to high value as a biological corridor and with some habitat features.
High conservation value
Lewis Road, Forrestfield
(above) and Valento
Road, Pickering Brook
(right) - contain intact,
undisturbed and diverse
remnant vegetation with
a variety of habitat
features.
Photo: K.Payne, RCC
Medium-high conservation value roadsides contain
a moderate number of native species, some weed
invasion, but have relatively intact natural structure.
For example: Hewison Road, Pickering Brook and
Tanner East Road, Carmel.
Photos: K.Payne, RCC
29 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
Medium-low conservation value roadsides are those with a score between 5 and 6, and generally have
the following characteristics:
natural structure disturbed, i.e. one or more vegetation layers absent;
extent of native vegetation between 30 and 70%;
medium to low diversity of native flora, i.e. between 0 and 5 species;
half to mostly weeds, i.e. between 30-70% of total plants; and
medium to low value as a biological corridor and with few habitat features. May still contain ESAs
with yellow hockey stick markers.
Low conservation value roadsides are those with a score
between 0 and 4, and generally have the following
characteristics:
narrow roadsides with no natural structure i.e. two or more
vegetation layers absent;
low extent of native vegetation, i.e. less than 30%;
low diversity of native flora, i.e. between 0 and 5 different
species;
mostly weeds, i.e. more than 70% of total plants, or ground
layer totally weeds; and
low value as a biological corridor and minimal habitat value.
Medium-low conservation value roadsides have some native vegetation but may not have understorey plants and often have many weeds. For example, Forrest (left) and Hewison (right) Roads, Pickering Brook have some local eucalypts but the shrub layer is dominated by eastern states wattles and ground layer by watsonia.
Photos: K.Payne, RCC
Low conservation value roadsides are often dominated by weeds (for example, soursob, cotton bush and a variety of other weeds on Aldersyde Road, Bickley).
Photo: K. Payne, RCC
Low conservation value roadsides have little or no native vegetation due to clearing (for example Anderson Road, Forrestfield (above)or Buttercup Rd, High Wycombe(below)).
Photos: K. Payne, RCC
30 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
2.0 Using the Roadside Conservation Value (RCV) map
The Roadside Conservation Value (RCV) map (Figure 1 and Appendix 4) initially provides an inventory of
the condition of the roadside vegetation. This is important as the quality of roadside vegetation has far
reaching implications for sustaining biodiversity, tourism and landcare values.
Moreover, the data and map can be incorporated as a management and planning tool for managing the
roadsides, as it enables the condition of roadside vegetation to be easily viewed. This information can
then be used to identify environmentally sensitive areas, high conservation roadsides or strategically
important areas, and thus ensure their conservation. Conversely, it enables degraded areas near high
conservation values (eg nature reserves) to be identified as areas important for strategic rehabilitation or
in need of specific management techniques or weed control programs.
The map can also be used as a reference to overlay other information relevant to roadside conservation.
This enables the roadside vegetation to be assessed in the context of its importance to the Shire’s overall
conservation network. Using the shire’s GIS system and the data sheet and shape files provided with the
CD, other data layers could be added to the map via GIS such as the degree of weed infestation, the
location of environmentally sensitive areas, habitat value, vegetation type, vegetation decline or future
planned developments, to aid roadside management.
Figure 1. The RCV map depicts Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
31 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
As well as providing a road reserve planning and management tool, the RCV map can also be used for
developing:
roadside vegetation management plans;
regional or district fire management plans;
natural resource management projects that would be able to incorporate the information from this
survey into 'whole of landscape’ projects; and
tourist routes, i.e. roads depicted as high conservation value would provide visitors to the district with
a view of the native flora of the district.
Figure 1. The RCV map depicts Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Cranbrook
Weed control along a rural roadside
Photo: D.Morgan, Morgan Rural Services
Landcare projects, such as revegetation programs can utilise the information conveyed on roadside conservation value maps.
Photo: D. Perrie, Wagin Woodanilling Landcare Zone
The road manager can declare high conservation value roads as Flora Roads. Repatriation Road - a potential Flora Road in the Shire of Kalamunda
Photo: K. Payne, RCC
The survey data and map can be used in developing regional or district fire management plans.
Photo: K. Payne.
32 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
3.0 Results
Data collected during the Shire of Kalamunda roadside survey has been compiled and a summary is
presented in Table 3. Total distances and percentages of roadside vegetation within each of the
conservation status categories and the attributes used to calculate the conservation values are provided.
As roadsides occur on both sides of the road, roadside distances (km) are equal to twice the actual
distance of road travelled.
Table 3. Summary of results from the roadside survey in the Shire of Kalamunda
Total (km) (%) Score Total (km) (%)
High (9-12) 186.28 42.25 0 6.20 1.4
Medium-high (7-8) 49.50 11.23 1 21.23 4.8
Medium-low (5-6) 50.48 11.45 2 41.76 9.5
Low (0-4) 154.66 35.08 3 44.69 10.1
Total 440.92 100.00 4 40.78 9.2
5 24.79 5.6
6 25.69 5.8
Total (km) (%) 7 25.39 5.8
2-3 vegetation layers 297.12 67.4 8 24.11 5.5
1 vegetation layer 93.80 21.3 9 21.15 4.8
0 vegetation layers 50.00 11.3 10 27.29 6.2
Total 440.92 100.0 11 61.42 13.9
12 76.42 17.3
Total 440.92 100.0Total (km) (%)
Over 20 species 159.81 36.2
6 to 19 species 91.08 20.7 Total (km) (%)
0 to 5 species 190.03 43.1 1 to 5 m 225.65 51.2
Total 440.92 100.0 5 to 20 m 61.47 13.9
Over 20 m 4.87 1.1
Unfenced 148.93 33.8
Total (km) (%) Total 440.92 100.0
Cleared 19.68 4.5
Scattered 44.31 10.0
Native Veg 174.95 39.7 Total (km) (%)
Plantation 2.10 0.5 Over 70% 176.02 39.9
Orchard 23.54 5.3 30% to 70% 96.67 21.9
Planted Natives 2.52 0.6 Less than 30% 168.23 38.2
Urban/farm houses 164.58 37.3 Total 440.92 100.0
Other 9.24 2.1
Total 440.92 100
Total (km) (%)
Low (0) 113.33 25.7
Total (km) (%) Medium low (1) 106.73 24.2
Light <30% weeds 274.33 62.2 Medium high (2) 106.12 24.1
Medium 30-70% weeds 131.78 29.9 High (3-5) 114.74 26.0
Heavy >70% weeds 34.81 7.9 Total 440.92 100.0
Total 440.92 100.0
Habitat Features
Weed Infestation
Roadside surveys were carried out in the Shire of Kalamunda from May 2013 to February 2015
Summary Information: Shire of Kalamunda 2015
Length of roadsides surveyed (left & right): 440.92km (Length of road 220.46km)
Roadside Conservation Status Roadside Conservation Values
Structure of Native Vegetation
Number of Native Plant Species
Width of Vegetated Roadside
Adjoining Land Use
Extent of Native Vegetation
33 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
Width of road reserve
The RCV map indicates the width of
assessed road reserves as well as their
conservation value. The width of road
reserves was recorded in increments of
20 metres, generally from fence to fence.
The majority (61%) of road reserves were
20 metres wide (Table 3, Figure 2). Thirty
six percent of road reserves were
unfenced. These are usually found along
roads adjacent to uncleared vegetation,
for example nature reserves and national
parks.
Width of vegetated roadside
The width of roadside vegetation is closely
linked with its resilience and is often related
to conservation value. The wider the
reserve, the more resilient to disturbance it
is, and often the higher conservation value it
has (i.e. more bush equals more habitat,
generally in better condition).
The width of vegetated roadside was
recorded by selecting one of four
categories: 1-5 metres, 5-20 metres or
over 20 metres or unknown in width. The
left and right hand sides were recorded
independently, and then summed to give the
figures presented here (Table 3 and Figure
3). Most roadsides (51%) had vegetation
between 1 and 5 metres wide. 34% of
roadsides were ‘unfenced’ where no fence
line defined the edge of the road reserve.
These results indicate that a majority of
roadsides in the shire are highly vulnerable
to disturbance, and that care will be needed
to prevent a marked decline in condition.
Figure 2. Width of road reserve in the Shire of Kalamunda
Figure 3. Width of vegetation on roadsides in the Shire of Kalamunda
34 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
Structure of native vegetation on roadsides
The number of native vegetation
layers present (i.e. tree, shrub and/or
ground layers) determined the ‘native
vegetation on roadside’ score. Most
of the surveyed roadsides (68%) still
had two to three layers of native
vegetation present (Table 3 and
Figure 4). This vegetation will
maintain more natural ecosystem
function than that with one or no
layers of native vegetation. It will also
have value to a greater range of
plants and animals. The tree layer is
often retained in road management - this is very positive, as they are long-lived and provide both home
and food for many vertebrates and invertebrates. Retaining the shrub and ground layers is also
extremely important for conservation, as they provide home and food for a different set of species. These
layers also do a great deal to suppress weeds, and in wildflower season will provide a colourful display for
residents and tourists. If care is taken during maintenance such as pruning, slashing and clearing, these
layers should persist with minimal input.
Number of native plant species
As mentioned in Section B, Western Australia has a very high number of native plant species in world
terms, with many restricted to small areas of the state. In Kalamunda, a diverse range of native plant
species would be expected in intact vegetation. The ‘number of native plant species’ score provides a
measure of the diversity of the roadside vegetation. Survey sections with over 20 plant species spanned
36% of the roadsides surveyed, while 43% of surveyed roadsides contained less than 5 indigenous plant
species (Table 3 and Figure 5).
These figures suggest that natural
plant diversity is dropping in
roadside vegetation and with it the
range of animals that can be
supported there. Hopefully these
species persist in larger remnants
of vegetation, but the ease with
which residents and tourists can
see and appreciate local flora and
fauna is falling. Likewise, the
animals’ ability to traverse the
landscape to meet their various
needs is also dropping. Measures
need to be taken to ensure this diversity is not lost altogether.
Figure 4. Native vegetation on roadsides in the Shire of Kalamunda
Figure 5. Number of native plant species along roadsides in the Shire of Kalamunda
35 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
Extent of native vegetation
The ‘extent of native vegetation’
cover refers to the continuity of the
roadside vegetation and takes into
account the presence of
disturbances such as weeds.
Gaps in vegetation cover provide
more opportunity for weeds to
establish and spread. Roadsides
with extensive vegetation cover,
i.e. greater than 70%, occurred
along 176km (40%) of the
roadsides surveyed. Survey
sections with medium vegetation
cover, i.e. 30% to 70%, accounted
for 96km (22%) of the roadsides. The remaining 168km (38%) had less than 30% native vegetation cover,
and would therefore be very vulnerable to weed incursion (Table 3 and Figure 6).
Habitat value
This factor considered the presence
of five attributes: connection of
remnant vegetation patches;
presence of flowering shrubs;
presence of large trees with hollows;
presence of hollow logs; and
environmentally sensitive areas.
Roadsides with a high number (more
than 3 out of 5) of habitat features
were present along 26% (115km) of
the roadsides surveyed. Roadsides having no habitat features at all were recorded along another 26%
(113km) of the roadsides (Table 3 and Figure 7). This indicates that three quarters half of the roadsides
surveyed in the shire are serving at least some habitat function.
Flowering shrubs, tree hollows, branches, leaves and hollow logs provide food source/nectar, nesting and habitat value for birds, bees and caterpillars and reptiles.
Photos: K.Payne, RCC
Figure 6. Extent of native vegetation on roadsides in the Shire of Kalamunda
Figure 7. Habitat value on roadsides in the Shire of Kalamunda
36 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
Roadside vegetation types
Surveyors were asked to record the main vegetation type along each section of roadside to identify the
variety of types present. There was an extensive range of vegetation types found within the shire. The most
common vegetation type recorded along roadsides in the Shire of Kalamunda was jarrah marri (23%). Non-
native weeds bare ground was the next most common at 12%, followed by jarrah marri parrot bush (9%)
jarrah marri sheoak parrot bush (8%) and planted non-natives (8%). Sparse shrubs and weeds, mixed
shrubland and jarrah marri sheoak were each found on 5% of roadsides.
Less common vegetation types included wandoo, found on 4% of roadsides (2% of that being with jarrah
and marri), flooded gum and grass trees which were each found on 1% of roadsides. Banksia dominated
woodland and melaleuca were the other minor vegetation types. (Figure 8).
Some of the vegetation types found on Kalamunda roadsides:
Jarrah Marri Banksia (left) – Francais Road, Pickering Brook.
Mixed shrubland (right) – Zig Zag Scenic Drive, Gooseberry Hill.
Photos: K. Payne, RCC
37 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
Environmentally Sensitive Areas
ESA markers were noted along:
Carmel Rd East, Carmel;
Falls Rd, Lesmurdie;
Pipers Place, Kalamunda; and
Repatriation Rd, Pickering Brook.
A possible new location of Priority 4 species Grevillea pimeleoides was found in Bickley.
There are other roadsides in the shire which contain threatened and priority flora which has either not
been marked or was not noted during the surveys.
It is important to maintain contact with the local Parks & Wildlife Office when road upgrades and
maintenance work are to be undertaken to find out about any threatened or priority flora populations
which may be impacted. Sometimes these populations are found in weedy and otherwise unattractive
roadsides, so it is important to check even if it appears there is nothing there but weeds. The Flora
Conservation Officers in the Perth Hills District of Parks and Wildlife can be contacted for information and
advice on 9290 6100.
ESA markers marking threatened flora on roadsides
Left: Burnt bushland on neighbouring property dangerously close to threatened flora on roadside. Photo: DPAW, Moora District.
Middle: Priority 3 species Tetratheca sp. Granite on a roadside in Kalamunda.
Right: Threatened flora marker on a roadside in Pickering Brook. Photo: K. Payne, RCC
38 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
3.1 Threats
Weed infestation
Light levels of weed infestation (weeds
comprising less than 30% of total plants), were
recorded on most of the roadsides surveyed
(274km, 62%), while heavy infestations (more
than 70% of the plants present were weeds)
were recorded on 35km (8%) of roadsides
surveyed (Table 3 and Figure 9). Roadsides
with light or no weed presence are a priority
for protection and minimising soil disturbance.
This is because it is more efficient and cost
effective to prevent weed invasion by retaining
native vegetation than it is to control weeds
once established.
Nominated weeds
The following weeds were chosen for the Shire
of Kalamunda survey:
• African lovegrass – Eragrostis curvula
• Eastern states wattles - Acacia sp.
• Fleabane – Conyza sp.
• Plantain - Plantago lanceolata
• Tagasaste - Chamaecytisus palmensis
• Victorian teatree - Leptospermum laevigatum
Roadside populations of nominated weeds were
recorded as being present in the road reserve,
and were not recorded specifically for the left
and/or right hand sides. Therefore, the
occurrence of each weed (in kilometres)
indicates the presence of the weed within the
road reserve generally.
Of the selected weed species, African lovegrass was the most prevalent and was recorded on 134km of
the roads surveyed. For 13km of this distribution it was at a density greater than 30%. This was followed
closely by eastern states wattles which were found on 133km of road. Over 20km of weedy wattles
were found at a density greater than 30% and 2km at greater than 70%. Plantain was found on 85km of
roadside, mostly at low density.
Tagasaste (55km), Victorian tea tree (53km) and fleabane (52km) occurred along smaller sections of
roadside (Figure 10). However the densities of Victorian tea tree and tagasaste were significant.
Victorian tea tree occurred at a density greater than 30% on 14km of road, while tagasaste occurred at
density greater than 30% on 6km of road. If a targeted program to control the nominated weeds is
instigated along with an education program for property owners the outbreaks could become more
manageable. Contact RCC if advice on control methods is required.
Figure 10. Presence and abundance of chosen weeds along roadsides
in the Shire of Kalamunda
Figure 9. Weed infestations along roadsides in the Shire of Kalamunda
39 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
Figures 11A to 11F show the spatial extent of these chosen weeds on the Kalamunda Roadside
Conservation Value map. There are also inset maps for each weed plus broom on the PDFs plus
shapefiles for each weed on the CD attached to this report.
Figures 12A-D show graphs of abundance for all the weeds recorded along roadsides throughout the May
2013 to February 2015 surveys.
Most records of weeds were at a density of less than 30%. Therefore, control will need to be done with
care to minimise harm done to the native vegetation. If the native vegetation maintains or improves in
health, it will help to suppress future weed levels.
Appendix 7 shows the weed tables which the graphs were produced from.
The final data sheet (on CD attached) is a comprehensive spreadsheet which includes all the data for all
the roads surveyed, including which weeds were recorded on each section of each road during the
surveys.
Roadside Weeds
Top inset: Tangier pea on Reserve Rd, Pickering Brook
Top left: Tagasaste and African veldt daisy on Valencia Road, Carmel
Top middle: Eastern states wattle on John Street, Gooseberry Hill
Top right: Flaxleaf broom on Mottram Road, Carmel
Bottom left and insets: Tambookie grass on Kalamunda Road
Bottom right: Bridal creeper, fumitory and soursob on Brook Road, Wattle Grove
Photos: K.Payne, RCC
40 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
Figure 11A - Spatial extent of African lovegrass
41 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
Figure 11B - Spatial extent of Eastern states wattles
42 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
Figure 11C - Spatial extent of Fleabane
43 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
Figure 11D - Spatial extent of Plantain
44 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
Figure 11E - Spatial extent of Tagasaste
45 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
Figure 11F - Spatial extent of Victorian tea tree
46 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
All weeds
Figure 12: Graphs showing all weeds recorded on Shire of Kalamunda roadsides.
Graphs show distance of roadside each weed was recorded along and the degree of infestation:
less than 30%, 30-70% or greater than 70%.
* weed is on Roadside Conservation Committee’s Roadside Environmental Weed List
47 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
48 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
* On Roadside Conservation Committee - Environmental Roadside Weed List
49 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
* On Roadside Conservation Committee - Environmental Roadside Weed List
50 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
* On Roadside Conservation Committee - Environmental Roadside Weed List
51 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
52 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
Feral animals – rabbits
There was no evidence or sightings of rabbits
on 98% (434km) of the roadsides surveyed. On
2% (7km) of road reserves there was evidence
(e.g. warrens) of the presence of rabbits (Figure
13). This is positive for the condition of
vegetation, as rabbits foster weeds through their
disturbance of soil and spread of weed seed.
Rabbit presence was noted along sections of:
East Terrace, Kalamunda;
Kings Mill Road, Pickering Brook;
McCorkill Road, Pickering Brook;
Morrison Road, Forrestfield;
Mottram Road, Carmel;
Snowball Road, Kalamunda;
Valcan Road, Wattle Grove; and
Watsonia Road, Gooseberry Hill.
Tree decline
Roadside surveyors were asked to
record areas of tree decline and to
suggest a possible reason for that
decline. Of the roadsides surveyed, 84%
(370km) did not have noticeable signs of
tree decline. The majority of tree decline
recorded (71%) was from an unknown
cause. Recent fire was the likely cause of
18% (12.6km) of tree decline, while
dieback was the probable cause of 9%
(6.4km) and recent clearing was the
cause of 2% of tree decline (Figure 14).
Nightshade
Figure 13. Evidence of rabbits on roadsides in Kalamunda
Figure 14. Possible reasons for tree decline
Rabbit on roadside of Morrison Road, Forrestfield
Photo: K.Payne, RCC
53 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
Adjoining land use
Most (40%) of surveyed roadsides
adjoined land that supported native
vegetation. Another 37% of roadsides
surveyed adjoined urban land. Ten
percent of the roadsides were next to
land which was mostly cleared but
retained scattered native vegetation.
Five percent adjoined orchards and 4%
was cleared with no vegetation or
housing. It is important to protect the
areas adjoining native bushland
particularly from weed invasion to
prevent the roadside acting as a launch
pad for weeds into these larger areas of vegetation. (Figure 15). The photos below show some of the
different adjoining landuses.
Figure 15.
Adjoining land use
Planted natives- Morrison Road, Forrestfield
Remnant native vegetation - Lewis Road, Forrestfield
Orchard – Repatriation Road, Pickering Brook
Photos: K.Payne, RCC
Scattered native vegetation Hewison Road, Pickering Brook Photos: K. Payne, RCC
Transition zone – cleared front on left, then planation, then native vegetation.
Canning Road, Canning Mills
Urban - Palmer Crescent, High Wycombe
54 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
3.2 Roadside Conservation Value scores
Roadside Conservation Value (RCV) scores were calculated for each section of roadside surveyed. Scores
ranged from 0 to 12, from lowest to highest conservation value respectively (Figure 16). The graph shows the
scores were generally at the high conservation value end rather than low conservation value. The single
most commonly occurring RCV score was 12, followed by 11, which is very encouraging and is also a
reflection of the amount of roadsides adjoining native bushland. There were also quite a few roadsides with
very low conservation value - 128km of roadside scored 2, 3 or 4.
Conservation Status
The conservation status category
indicates the combined conservation
value of roadsides surveyed in the
Shire of Kalamunda. A total of
154km (35%) of roadsides surveyed
rated as low value (coloured yellow
in Figure 17), and 50km (12%) rated
as medium-low value (orange).
Eleven percent of the surveyed
roadsides were of high or medium-
high conservation value, with 49km
(11%) rated as medium-high (pale
green) and 186km (42%) rated as
high (dark green) (Table 3 and
Figure 17). Although a number of these roadsides are alongside nature reserves and national parks,
considering all the pressures that roadside vegetation has faced and continues to face, this resilience is
considerable.
Figure 16. Roadside Conservation Value scores of all roadsides surveyed in the Shire of Kalamunda
Figure 17. Conservation status of roadsides in the Shire of Kalamunda
55 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
3.3 Comparison of conservation status with nearby shires
Roadside conservation mapping has been undertaken in two other urban rural fringe shires with comparable
vegetation and landscapes to Kalamunda: Mundaring and Serpentine-Jarrahdale. The Shire of Kalamunda
had the highest percentage of high conservation value roadsides of the roadsides surveyed (42%), followed
by the Shire of Mundaring (25%), and Serpentine-Jarrahdale (24%). In contrast the Shire of Serpentine-
Jarrahdale had the highest percentage of low conservation value (42%) roadside vegetation followed by the
Shire of Kalamunda with 35%. The Shire of Mundaring had the lowest occurrence of low conservation value
roads with 29%. (Figure 18). However, it should be noted that the roadside conservation status values
recorded for the other shires may have decreased since being surveyed 5 to 15 years ago, due to the general
trend of declining vegetation condition along roadsides.
Figure 18. Comparison of the Shire Kalamunda roadside conservation status with nearby mapped shires
56 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
Zig Zag Scenic Drive, Gooseberry Hill
3.4 Flora Roads
A Flora Road is one which has special conservation value
because of the vegetation contained within the road reserve.
The Roadside Conservation Committee has prepared
Guidelines for the Nomination and Management of Flora
Roads (Appendix 3).
There are currently no Flora Roads in the Shire of
Kalamunda. However, the roadside survey and the 2015 RCV
map highlight a number of roadsides that have the potential to
be declared as Flora Roads. Roadsides determined as having high
conservation value in the Shire of Kalamunda include:
Asher Road, Paulls Valley;
Canning Mills Road, Canning Mills;
Dodd Road and Punai Place, Bickley;
Gladstone Road, Kalamunda/Walliston;
Edward, Francis, Gilchrist, Horace,
Mabel, Moffett and Reid Roads,
Lesmurdie/Carmel;
Palmateer Drive,
Walliston /Bickley;
Westons Road,
Pickering Brook;
and
Zig Zag Scenic Drive,
Gooseberry Hill.
These were not assessed
for access or other
Flora Road
characteristics, but
they all had high
conservation value vegetation for most or all of their length.
Above: Native fuchsia (Grevillea wilsonii) Moffett Road, Carmel
Sticky Starflower
(Calytrix glutinosa) - Edward Road, Lesmurdie
Photos: K. Payne, RCC
Mabel Road, Lesmurdie
Francis Road, Carmel
Canning Mills Road
Gilchrist Road, Lesmurdie – Main photos from left: Sundew flower (Drosera), pink myrtle (Hypocalymma), Insets: Sundew (Drosera) hibbertia, dampiera and milkmaids (Burchardia multiflora).
57 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
Roads with large sections of medium to high
conservation value vegetation can also become
Flora Roads. In some cases these roads can be
targets for weed control or revegetation to
improve the consistency of conservation value.
The following roads have some sections of low
value vegetation, but also high value sections
which may be long
enough to be
considered for Flora
Road nomination:
Canning Road, Carmel/Canning Mills;
Elson and Fern Roads, Piesse Brook;
Glenisla Road, Carmel;
Mitchell Road, Bickley (middle section
through national park);
Patterson Road, Pickering Brook/Bickley
(northern section);
Reeds Road,
Carmel/Bickley;
Repatriation Road,
Pickering Brook
(northern section);
Tanner East Road,
Carmel;
Valento Road, Pickering
Brook (first section off
Repatriation Road); &
Walnut Road, Bickely
(some sections after
Dodd Rd particularly on
the southern side of the road).
These roadsides have sections which could be
targeted for revegetation & weed control.
Several of these roads could be linked into a
wildflower drive or tourist route through the
area.
There may be other roads in
the shire which could also be
considered for Flora Road
nomination. Nominated Flora
Roads are assessed by the
RCC to determine their
suitability with regard to
landscape, tourism, access and
other factors, in addition to their
high roadside conservation
value.
Elson Road, Piesse Brook is a quiet road in the north east of the shire with pink Tetratheca hirsuta and yellow hibbertia.
Below: Fern Road, Piesse Brook - grass tree and sticky starflower (Calytrix glutinosa)
Photos: K. Payne, RCC
Potential Flora Roads – Valento Road, Pickering Brook.
Lovely wildflowers in spring including yellow flags (Patersonia umbrosa) and fringe lily’s (Thysanotus sp.)
These are all relatively quiet roads with safe areas for tourists to pull off road and reserves to
explore.
Reeds Road, Carmel
Tanner East Road, Carmel
Top: large overhanging marris produce a cathedral effect.
While the road has some weed issues, it has a diverse array of colourful wildflowers including purple hovea and
yellow hibbertia.
58 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
PART D
ROADSIDE
MANAGEMENT
RECOMMENDATIONS
59 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
1.0 Management recommendations
The primary aim of road management is the creation and maintenance of a safe, efficient road system.
However, there are often important conservation values within the road reserve and thus this section
provides general management procedures and recommendations that will assist in retaining and
enhancing roadside conservation values, where possible.
The Executive Officer of the Roadside Conservation Committee is available to provide assistance with
roadside conservation matters, and can be contacted on (08) 9334 0423. The following RCC publications
provide guidelines and management recommendations that will assist Local Government Authorities:
Guidelines for Managing Special Environmental Areas in Transport Corridors
Handbook of Environmental Practice for Road Construction and Maintenance Works
Biodiversity Conservation and Fire in Road and Rail Reserves: Management Guidelines
Relevant Verge Notes – Roadside Weeds List, Flora Roads, harvesting flowers, seeds and timber.
They are available for download from the RCC website (www.dpaw.wa.gov.au/rcc), or as hardcopy from
the RCC on request.
1.1 Protect high conservation value roadsides by maintaining the native plant communities.
This can be achieved by:
retaining remnant vegetation;
minimising disturbance to existing roadside vegetation;
minimising disturbance to soil; and
preventing or controlling the introduction of weeds.
1.2. Promote and raise awareness of the conservation value associated with roadside vegetation
by:
establishing a register of Shire roads important for conservation;
declaring suitable roadsides as Flora Roads; and
incorporating Flora Roads into tourist, wildflower and/or scenic drives.
1.3 Improve sections of medium to low conservation value roadside by:
minimising disturbance caused by machinery, adjoining land practices and fire;
retaining remnant trees and shrubs;
encouraging regeneration or revegetation projects
by adjacent landholders;
carrying out a targeted weed control program,
ideally followed by measures to increase native
plant cover to suppress future weeds;
where good native cover exists, allow natural
regeneration;
where natives are a bit sparse, spread local native
seed to encourage regeneration; and
where natives are very patchy to non-existent,
more intensive planting would be needed to
provide suppressive native cover.
Revegetation area – Keats Road, Gooseberry Hill
Photo: K. Payne, RCC.
60 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
2.0 Minimising disturbance
Some methods of minimising disturbance include:
adopting a road design that occupies the minimum space;
diverting the line of a table drain to avoid disturbing valuable flora;
removing minimum material necessary for sightlines to be maintained, such as lowering height of
shrubby vegetation by slashing rather than removing altogether;
pruning branches rather than removing the whole tree or shrub;
not dumping cleared vegetation or pushing spoil into areas of native flora;
applying the Fire and Roadside Assessment before burning roadside vegetation and using
methods other than fuel reduction burns to reduce fire threat. Refer to the Management Strategies
recommended in ‘Biodiversity Conservation and Fire in Road and Rail Reserves: Management
Guidelines’;
following good hygiene practices like machinery clean-down to prevent spread of Phytophthora
dieback and weeds;
encouraging adjacent landholders to set back fences to allow roadside vegetation to proliferate;
encouraging adjacent landholders to plant windbreaks or farm tree lots adjacent to roadside
vegetation to create a denser windbreak or shelterbelt; and
encouraging revegetation projects by adjacent landholders.
Widen a road to one side only so that a wider section of roadside vegetation is retained on the other side of the
road reserve.
Creative solutions: A high value Flora Road in the Shire of Plantagenet. Passing bays were established at various locations along the road to eliminate the need for widening the whole road.
Photo: C. Macneall, RCC.
61 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
3.0 Planning for roadsides
The RCC is able to provide examples of Roadside Management Plans and encourages all shires to adopt
this practice of planning for roadside conservation.
The following actions greatly enhance the likelihood of a plan which changes behaviour and results in on-
ground actions:
Community support - encourage ongoing community involvement and commitment by establishing a
local Roadside Advisory Committee or working group within the Shire Environmental Committee;
Contract specifications - maintain roadside values by developing environmental specifications for
inclusion in all tender documents or work practices (WALGA has templates that can assist with this);
Community education - use of innovative and relevant material can increase community understanding
of roadside values; and
Training - promote local roadside planning initiatives and gain acceptance and understanding by
involving shire staff, contractors, utility provider staff and the community in workshops, seminars or
training days. The Roadside Conservation Committee can provide this training.
Training develops recognition and understanding of roadside values and highlights best work practices.
Workshops are developed to ensure that local issues and environments are dealt with and they include site
visits to high conservation value sites and/or current projects and works. For training enquiries please
contact the RCC Executive Officer on (08) 9334 0423.
4.0 Setting objectives
The objective of all roadside management should be to:
Protect
- road users
- native vegetation
- rare or threatened flora or fauna
- cultural and heritage values
- community assets from fire
Maintain
- safe function of the road
- native vegetation communities
- fauna habitats and corridors
- visual amenity and landscape qualities
- water quality
Minimise
- land degradation
- spread of weeds and vermin
- spread of soil borne pathogens
- risk and impact of fire
- disturbance during installation and
maintenance of service assets
Enhance
- native vegetation communities
- fauna habitats and corridors
- visual amenity
62 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
5.0 Specific recommendations for Shire of Kalamunda roadsides
5.1 Weed management
Target the six chosen weeds, African
lovegrass (Eragrostis curvula), eastern states
wattles (Acacia sp.), fleabane (Conyza sp.),
plantain (Plantago lanceolata), tagasaste
(Chamaecytisus palmensis), and Victorian
teatree (Leptospermum laevigatum) as the
highest priority for control. Work first on
roadsides which have high conservation value
followed by roadsides of medium-high
conservation value. Refer to RCC’s Roadside
Environmental Weeds List Verge Note and Roadside Environmental Weeds webpage for practical
suggestions for weed management, or additional sources of information.
Be clear about the goal of any weed control program – grassy weeds like veldt grass and African lovegrass
are too abundant to eradicate from the shire, but can be reduced near high value assets, and spread
contained by controlling outlier populations. Dense grassy weeds are also a fire hazard so could be
slashed prior to setting seed to reduce dry biomass. Note that slashing after seed set will spread the seed
to new areas, increasing the scale of the problem.
Montpellier and flaxleaf broom are Weeds of National Significance known to be aggressive and is
much easier to control while plants are small. While it was found on a number of roads, the infestations
were generally small enough to control. Some of the other weeds which cover less than 5km could be
eradicated from the shire if a targeted program is undertaken while infestation levels are still manageable.
A watch should be maintained for new incursions, as some weeds are spread by birds over some distance.
Identify five to ten significant weeds to target for control in high value areas such as potential Flora
Roads and high conservation value roads. For example:
Lavender and broom on Mottram Road, Carmel
Broom and many other invasive garden plants on Ozone Terrace, Kalamunda. Broom is spreading
rapidly into the adjoining Mundy Regional Park on the southern and western side of the road.
False bamboo and eastern states wattles on Reeds Road, Carmel.
Bridal creeper and tagasaste along
Tanner East Road, Carmel.
Victorian teatree in thickets on eastern
part of Welshpool Road East, Carmel.
Tambookie grass along Kalamunda Road
southern side from Davies Crescent to
Gray Road and Sadler Drive, Maida Vale
near Ridgehill Road.
Fountain grass on Girrawheen Drive,
Gooseberry Hill
Most of these roads have high
conservation value sections.
Bridal creeper and tagasate along Tanner East Road
Photos: K. Payne, RCC
Lavender and broom on Mottram Road, Carmel
Photos: K. Payne, RCC
63 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
Identify five to ten significant weeds with small
infestations on one or a small number of roadsides to
target for eradication. (See Figures 12C & 12D ‘Extent
of weeds covering less than 1-5km of roadside and
less than 1km’). For example:
Black flag on Norwood Rd
Dolichos pea on Carinyah Road, Pickering Brook,
Kalamunda Road, Sadler Drive, Maida Vale and
Welshpool Road East, Lesmurdie.
Morning glory and false bamboo on Hartfield Road.
Golden crownbeard (Verbesina encelioides) on
Hale Road south west of Tonkin Highway
There are many other weeds and roads that deserve attention. For information to guide choices, refer to
the:
(i) weed pdfs provided on the CD and with the Roadside Conservation Value Map;
(ii) maps and graphs Figures 11 and 12 in Part C and tables in Appendix 7 of this Report;
(iii) RCC Roadside Environmental Weed List verge note in
Appendix 8; and
(iv) the comprehensive data available on the CD.
Refer to the RCC website for information and links to
resources on weed identification and management
http://www.dpaw.wa.gov.au/management/off-reserve-
conservation/roadside-conservation/338-roadside-
environmental-weeds?showall=&start=1
and to the Parks and Wildlife website for information on control
methods and resources www.dpaw.wa.gov.au/plants-and-
animals/plants/weeds/155-how-to-control-weeds
5.2 Revegetation
Identify five to ten areas on high value roads suitable for
revegetation. For example:
Ozone Terrace, Kalamunda once weedy garden plants
and flammable weedy grasses are removed.
Mottram and Tanner East Road, Carmel once weeds
are removed.
Sections along Lewis Rd and Hartfield Rd in
Forrestfield
small sections on other roads suggested as potential
Flora Roads on pages 54 and 55 of this report.
Reeds Road, Carmel - False bamboo and eastern states wattles and general weedy section opposite and adjacent to Marko Travich Reserve which could be targeted for weed control and then revegetation.
Photo: K.Payne, RCC
Roadside revegation along Morrison Road, Forrestfield (above)
Revegetation sign - Whimbrel Green, High Wycombe
Photo: K. Payne, RCC
64 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
Refer to the RCV Map and look for small low conservation value sections in otherwise high to medium-high
conservation value roads. In most of these sections, the revegetation would need to be preceded by weed
control (see Section 5.1). Contact RCC (9334 0423) or Parks and Wildlife for advice.
5.3 Education campaign
Some ideas to consider:
Produce a pamphlet for residents who live alongside or opposite native bushland highlighting
environmental weeds to watch which should not be planted due to their invasive potential into the
native bushland eg. Eastern states wattles, Victorian tea tree, tagasaste and broom.
Have a monthly weed profile in shire newsletter or local paper. A large number of the roadside
weeds are escaped garden plants, so a regular campaign highlighting some of the worst weeds
would be beneficial, as would promotion ofthe shires weed booklet.
Organise a ‘wallop a weed’ action weekend to control specific weeds in specific areas. Promote as
a street (eg. Ozone Terrace) or suburb event; similar to a litter clean-up day.
5.4 Habitat and protection for threatened fauna
Retain all large eucalypt trees, unless they are a public
safety hazard.
Plant banksia, grevillea and hakea species as a food
source for threatened cockatoos.
Work with the recovery teams to install cockatoo
signage on roads where cockatoo deaths have occurred
due to being hit by vehicles.
Install wildlife signage for any roads where fauna deaths
and sightings eg. Bandicoots are known
Roadside Carnaby’s cockatoo signage
Photo: K.Payne, RCC
Bandicoot
Photo: Kimberley Page
Female Carnaby’s cockatoo at entrance to hollow. Recently hatched chick in roadside tree hollow north of Perth
Photos: R. Dawson, DPaW
65 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
6.0 Conclusion
The Shire of Kalamunda has a number of high
conservation roadsides with intact native vegetation,
a high diversity of species and habitat for native
fauna. Selective weed management near these
areas is a priority to ensure they remain intact;
otherwise they will gradually decline in condition.
Many of the low and medium-low conservation
roadsides have been cleared in the past and are
being taken over by weeds. These are causing a
greater fire hazard and smothering the native plants
which may also be found on these roadsides. The
scarcity of native vegetation on these roadsides may
also be contributing to other problems including
flooding and aesthetics of the road. Overgrown
weeds look unsightly and if bare ground isn’t
replaced with something, weeds will inevitably take
over. Some of these roadsides could be targeted
for revegetation.
A number of roadsides contain large trees, some with hollows for sheltering breeding birds. Other
roadsides have logs and native debris which provide habitat for ground-dwelling reptiles and small
mammals like bandicoots.
The environmental, landcare, aesthetic, tourism and cultural values of roadside vegetation are many.
Degradation of road verges by weeds spreading from gardens can also exacerbate the introduction of
weeds into adjacent bushland areas. Once roadside vegetation is removed or degraded, it requires
considerable effort, time and expense to reinstate.
Prickly Moses (Acacia pulchella) roadscape
Skink on burnt tree trunk – Lewis Rd, Forrestfield
Spotted pardalote on Mabel Road, Lesmurdie
Photo: K. Payne, RCC
66 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
References
Australian National Herbarium (2012). Australian Flora Statistics. Australian National Botanic Gardens and Centre for Australian National Biodiversity Research, Canberra. http://www.anbg.gov.au/aust-veg/australian-flora-statistics.html Accessed February 2014 Brown, K and Brooks, K. (2002). Bushland Weeds: A practical guide to their management. Environmental Weeds Action Network WA (Inc). http://www.environmentalweedsactionnetwork.org.au/images/pdf/bushlandweedsbook.pdf Burns, Cliff & Sharron. (2011). Darlington and surrounds Local Flora and Bushlands. Department of Agriculture and Food WA. (2011, unpub.). Geographic Information Services. Current Extent of Native Vegetation statistics.
Department of Environment & Conservation (2008). Declared Rare Flora and Road Maintenance. http://www.dpaw.wa.gov.au/images/documents/conservation-management/off-road-conservation/rcc/marking_roadside_declared_rare_flora.pdf
Department of Parks and Wildlife. (2015a). FloraBase florabase.dpaw.wa.gov.au Western Australian Herbarium. Accessed March 2015. Department of Parks and Wildlife. (2015b). Managing Dieback http://www.dpaw.wa.gov.au/management/pests-diseases Accessed March 2014. Department of Parks and Wildlife. (2015c). Threatened & Priority Flora Database. Reports generated June 2014 - April 2015. Department of Parks and Wildlife. (2007-2014). NatureMap: Mapping Western Australia’s Biodiversity. naturemap.dec.wa.gov.au. Reports generated June 2014. Dieback Working Group. (2014). What is Dieback? https://www.dwg.org.au/what-is-phytophthora-dieback Accessed July 2014. Dieback Working Group. (2000). Managing Phytophthora Dieback. Guidelines for Local Government
https://www.dwg.org.au/images/dieback_publications/Managing_Phytophthora_Dieback_guidelines.pdf Accessed July 2014. Government of Western Australia. (2013). 2013 Statewide Vegetation Statistics incorporating the CAR Reserve Analysis (Full Report). Current as of June 2013. WA Department of Parks and Wildlife, Perth, https://www2.landgate.wa.gov.au/web/guest/downloader Hussey, B., Keighery, G., Dodd, J., Lloyd, S. and Cousens, R. (2007). Western Weeds: A guide to the weeds of Western Australia. The Weeds Society of Western Australia. (Inc). Jackson KA. (2002). Assessing Roadsides: A Guide to Rating Conservation Value. Roadside Conservation Committee. Kensington, Western Australia. http://www.dpaw.wa.gov.au/images/documents/conservation-management/off-road-conservation/rcc/assessing_roadsides.pdf
Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC), statutory adviser to UK Government and devolved administrations, Peterborough, UK (2014) Plants http://jncc.defra.gov.uk/page-1739. Accessed February 2014. Moore, J and Wheeler, J. (2008). Southern Weeds and their Control. 2nd Edition. DAFWA Bulletin 4744 South Coast Natural Resource Management. Western Australian Agricultural Authority.
Roadside Conservation Committee (2015) Roadside Conservation Committee website. www.dpaw.wa.gov.au/management/off-reserve-conservation/roadside-conservation Roadside Conservation Committee (2014) Verge Notes: Roadside Environmental Weeds List.
http://www.dpaw.wa.gov.au/images/documents/conservation-management/off-road-conservation/rcc/Threats_posed_by_weeds_to_native_vegetation.PDF
67 Survey of Roadside Conservation Values in the Shire of Kalamunda
Roadside Conservation Committee. (2011). Biodiversity Conservation and Fire in Road and Rail Reserves: Management Guidelines. Roadside Conservation Committee. Kensington, Western Australia. http://www.dpaw.wa.gov.au/images/documents/conservation-management/off-road-conservation/rcc/rcc_fire_guidelines.pdf
Roadside Conservation Committee. (2010). Handbook of Environmental Practice for Road Construction and Maintenance Works. Roadside Conservation Committee. Kensington, Western Australia. http://www.dpaw.wa.gov.au/images/documents/conservation-management/off-road-conservation/rcc/rcc-handbook-environmental-practice_may10.pdf Roadside Conservation Committee (2006) Verge Note: Guidelines for Managing the Harvesting of Native Flowers, Seed and Timber from Roadsides. http://www.dpaw.wa.gov.au/images/documents/conservation-management/off-road-conservation/rcc/vergenote_harvesting_guidelines.pdf Roadside Conservation Committee (2004) Verge Note: Guidelines for the Nomination and Management of Flora Roads. http://www.dpaw.wa.gov.au/images/documents/conservation-management/off-road-conservation/rcc/rcc_flora_roads_vergenote_2004.pdf Roadside Conservation Committee. Lamont DA and Atkins K. (2000). Guidelines for Managing Special Environmental Areas in Transport Corridors. Roadside Conservation Committee. Kensington, Western Australia. http://www.dpaw.wa.gov.au/images/documents/conservation-management/off-road-conservation/rcc/sea_guidelines.pdf Roadside Conservation Committee. (1990). Roadside Manual. Roadside Conservation Committee, Como Western Australia. Shire of Mundaring. (2013). Plants out of Place: Managing Weeds in Perth’s eastern region.
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