We have seen the results of earlier land management practices that have led to the reduction of native species most suited to this climate and these soils. We can see the resulting erosion from over clearing of trees and the presence of introduced species be they rabbits or sheep.
On this property, and within a distance of two kilometers exists the remains of five house sites, now only raised mounds of earth and rubble. Unfortunately economic cycles are far shorter than the varying seasonal cycles that we have more recently experienced. Times and seasons have changed and will change again.
During the onset more recently of many years of drought we were forced to de-stock much of the land, and tap into the existing native plants that are so well adapted to these conditions. We still had to attempt to reach a sustainable economic outcome.
Many environmental projects have been undertaken including erosion repair using water diversion and terraced structures, tree re-establishment and native pasture restoration via extensive subdivision fencing and water infrastructure.
Landcare initiatives have enabled us to invest and complete many of these projects. Southern Rivers Catchment Management Authority has supported us through their Purple Patch program for the long term re-establishment of medium to high value native pasture. A detailed project report for the Purple Patch project has been compiled and can be viewed and downloaded from the Land Management page.
The Tree page describes the use of trees on this property. It offers examples of projects used to re-establish trees by different methods. Project reports can be viewed from there.
On the Erosion page you can find a brief description of the problems and solutions relating to soil erosion. Project reports are also available there.
Another important part of the rehabilitation process is the ongoing control of noxious weeds. We prioritise African Lovegrass as a relative newcomer followed by Serrated tussock. Other than these we have Saffron, Scotch, Variegated and Black thistles in order of priority. Horehound, Sweet Briar, Aarons Rod follows up the rear on the list. There has been a rare presence of St Johns Wort & Bathurst Burr in the past but seasonal conditions will suddenly favour a forgotten weed and the vigilant weeds program goes on. Informative material on management of weeds can be found on the Weeds page.