managing our resources final 01.05.09€¦ · managing our resources (this volume) is the strategic...

Strategic Plan for the Management of the natural resources of Eyre Peninsula

2009

MANAGING OUR RESOURCES

MANAGING OUR RESOURCES 2


Natural Resources Management Plan

for the

Eyre Peninsula Natural Resources Management Region


The Eyre Peninsula Natural Resources Management Plan The Natural Resources Management Plan for Eyre Peninsula comprises four volumes.

Caring for our Resources A framework to encourage changes in attitudes and behaviours towards better care of the

natural resources of Eyre Peninsula and to value, protect and improve the condition of

these resources. The approach favours education, awareness raising, voluntary

compliance and incentives to raise the standard of natural resources management

supported by a range of legislative tools within the Natural Resources Management Act

2004 which are defined in Caring for our Resources.

Caring for our Resources will be reviewed every five years.

Investing in our Resources Investment and business plan for the Eyre Peninsula Natural Resources Management

Board, a key body for the management of the natural resources of the region. The

Investing in our Resources volume outlines how the Board will invest in the management

of the natural resources of the region over the next three years.

Investing in our Resources will be reviewed annually.

State of our Resources Summarises the state of natural resources of the region and identifies threats to these

resources to appropriately guide action for improved management of these resources.

State of our Resources will be reviewed every five years.

Additionally a framework for natural resources management monitoring, evaluation,

reporting and improvement in the region, although not part of the Plan, will be closely

linked to the plan and support its implementation.

Managing our Resources A strategic plan for the management of the natural resources of Eyre Peninsula

guiding the actions of all organisations and individuals to optimise natural

resources management outcomes of the region and achieve the shared

regional vision.

Managing our Resources will be reviewed every five years.


Contents

1. Introduction ............................................................................................................... 8

1.1 Natural resources .......................................................................................... 8

1.2 Purpose of the Plan....................................................................................... 8

1.3 Managing our Resources .............................................................................. 9

1.4 Natural Resources Management Act 2004 ................................................... 9

2. Managing our natural resources in a changing climate .......................................... 10

3. Eyre Peninsula........................................................................................................ 11

3.1 Natural resources of Eyre Peninsula........................................................... 11

3.2 The Eyre Peninsula community................................................................... 12

4. Future influences on regional natural resources .................................................... 14

4.1 A changing climate ...................................................................................... 14

4.2 Risk from Bushfire ....................................................................................... 14

4.3 Agricultural sector changes ......................................................................... 15

4.4 Mining, development and changing land use.............................................. 16

4.4 A changing population................................................................................. 16

4.5 Aquaculture and fishing............................................................................... 16

5. Sustaining communities for sustainable NRM ........................................................ 18

6. Key partnerships and stakeholders ........................................................................ 19

6.1 Strategic regional partnership ..................................................................... 19

6.2 Partnerships with other regions................................................................... 19

6.3 Key stakeholders ......................................................................................... 19

7. Strategic framework ................................................................................................ 23

8. Vision and guiding principles .................................................................................. 24

8.1.1 Our vision for natural resources of the region ............................................... 24

8.1.2 Guiding principles .......................................................................................... 24

8.2 Goals.............................................................................................................. 25

9. Strategic priority areas ............................................................................................ 27

9.1 Land and water systems ............................................................................ 28

9.2 Towns and cities.......................................................................................... 31

10. Achieving regional targets ...................................................................................... 35

10.1 Regional (long-term) targets........................................................................ 35

10.1 Intermediate outcomes................................................................................ 36

10.2 Relationships between targets and strategic priorities................................ 36

11. Monitoring, evaluation and reporting ...................................................................... 43

12. Links to other plans and strategies ......................................................................... 44

12.1 Caring for our Country................................................................................. 45

12.2 State Natural Resources Management Plan............................................... 46

12.3 South Australia’s Strategic Plan .................................................................. 49


13. Appendices

Appendix A: Glossary………………………………………………………………3

Appendix B: Abbreviations…………………………………………………… 3


1. Introduction

The Natural Resources Management Plan for Eyre Peninsula is a plan for all

organisations and individuals who take part in the management of the natural resources

of the region. Aspects of the Plan will be relevant to community members, industry, local,

state and Australian governments, and other stakeholders.

The Plan sets a long term vision for the natural resources of the region and a framework

of goals, strategies and targets that will drive the realisation of this vision.

The four volumes of the Plan are linked but each has a distinct role.

Managing our Resources

A strategic plan for management of the natural resources of Eyre Peninsula

Caring for our Resources

A framework to encourage changes in attitudes and behaviours towards better care of the

natural resources of Eyre Peninsula.

Investing in our Resources

An investment and business plan for the Eyre Peninsula Natural Resources Management

Board.

State of our Resources

A summary of the state of the natural resources of Eyre Peninsula.

1.1 Natural resources

The natural resources of the region that are managed under the Plan include soil, water,

native plants and animals, geological features and ecosystems.

Activities affecting other resources that may be traditionally classed as natural resources,

such as minerals, air quality and energy are not managed directly under this Plan; their

control and management are prescribed elsewhere. The use of these resources with the

natural resources of the region is considered in this Plan, particularly the impacts of

changing climatic conditions and a developing mining sector in the region.

Development of the Plan recognised that the use of the region’s natural resources and

the viability of the communities depending on the use of those resources are critical to

continuing sustainable natural resources management. The management and use of the

resources is integral to the management framework presented alongside the long-term

environmental preservation and enhancement of the region’s land, water, plants and

animals.

1.2 Purpose of the Plan

The Plan establishes a framework to guide the actions and investment of the community,

industries, local, South Australian and Australian governments, and other stakeholders


for the next decade to ensure that the natural resources of the Eyre Peninsula are

managed within the principles of ecologically sustainable development.

Natural resources management is a shared responsibility; its benefits are enjoyed equally

by primary producers, industry and the residents of Eyre Peninsula along with visitors to

the region. If we are to continue to be a major agricultural and seafood producer and

exporter, maintain the health of our environment, and conserve our native species and

ecological communities, we must ensure that natural resources management is sustained

and effective.

Specifically, the purpose of the Plan is to:

� review the state of the region’s natural resources

� identify the processes that threaten them

� examine the opportunities for more effective management of those resources

� establish a natural resources management framework for the region.

1.3 Managing our Resources

Managing our Resources (this volume) is the strategic plan describes the direction set by

the Board and the regional community for natural resource management in the region.

Managing our resources will guide the actions of all organisations and individuals to

optimise natural resources management outcomes of the region and achieve the shared

regional vision.

It has a 10-year outlook and includes the vision, goals, guiding principle, strategic

priorities, regional (long-term) target and the intermediate outcomes to achieve these

targets.

Managing our Resources will be reviewed every five years

1.4 Natural Resources Management Act 2004

The Natural Resources Management Act 2004 (the NRM Act) has guided the

development of the Natural Resources Management Plan for Eyre Peninsula, specifically

by:

� defining the region and the natural resources to be considered

� describing the procedure that must be followed in developing the Plan and issues

that the Plan must address

� prescribing processes for regulating impacts on the natural resources of the region

including soil and land, pest plants and animals, and water resources

� giving the Plan a context in the natural resources management framework for South

Australia.

The role of the Eyre Peninsula Natural Resources Management Board is defined in the

NRM Act. The Board operates in partnership with other agencies that operate under

different a range of different legislation related to natural resources management.


2. Managing our natural resources in a changing climate

The evidence of warming of the Earth’s climate demonstrated by the international

scientific community is unequivocal. Measured observations include increases in global

average air and ocean temperatures. Adaptation to and managing climate change

impacts is no longer a question of ‘if’ but rather ‘how’, ‘where’ and ‘how fast’.

Climate change, and our understanding of it, is evolving rapidly in the real world, and on

the scientific, technological and policy fronts. It is critical that policies and decisions are

decided on the basis of the best current information and in the knowledge that they will

need to be adjusted with time.

Climate change considerations must be a core feature of the future management of the

natural resources of Eyre Peninsula. This is especially important in our region which has

unique ecosystems and a natural resources-dependent economy facing predictions of a

hotter, drier climate with more extreme weather events and overall less runoff.

The priority for natural resources management in South Australia is the delivery through

the new natural resources management structure, led by the regional Natural Resources

Management Board, of a complete climate change message and clear leadership to

ensure communities adapt to and mitigate climate change impacts.

There are synergies between being well positioned for climate change adaptation and

best practice regional natural resources management. Investment in the natural

resources of the region must consider vulnerability and resilience of these resources to

the anticipated change to a warmer and drier climate across the region.


3. Eyre Peninsula

Covering an area of 80,000 square kilometres (8,000,000 hectares), the Eyre Peninsula

Natural Resources Management (NRM) Region is a significant area of South Australia

(Figure 1). The region is bounded by the Gawler Ranges in the north, the edge of the

Nullarbor Plain to the west, and includes the entire Eyre Peninsula to the south as well as

the surrounding coastal and marine environments with important offshore islands of

western Eyre Peninsula and Spencer Gulf.

Eyre Peninsula is a diverse region with extensive coastline, natural vegetation, unique

land and water systems in an arid–semi-arid zone. The region is characterised by low

rainfall, limited fresh surface water resources and unique fresh groundwater resources. In

many parts of the region the surface waters are saline or brackish.

Despite the region’s low rainfall and fertility, and erosion-prone soils, it has substantial

cropping and grazing areas. There is also a significant fishing and aquaculture industry.

Towns are located across the region, the largest being Whyalla, Port Lincoln and Ceduna.

The region is one of South Australia’s most productive, contributing more than two and

half billion dollars to the State’s economy each year. The region’s future economic

wellbeing is almost entirely reliant on a well-managed and sustainable suite of natural

resources. The economy is based on agriculture (traditionally grain and wool), seafood

(fishing and aquaculture), tourism, mining and mineral processing industries.

3.1 Natural resources of Eyre Peninsula

Eyre Peninsula is rich in environmental assets. Its unique mix of urban and rural

environments includes desert, mallee and redgum woodlands, grassy sheoak

communities, productive agricultural and grazing lands, and a long and relatively

undisturbed coastline with important adjacent marine habitats and productive fisheries.

Significant areas of native vegetation cover important mallee habitat, several woodland

communities and a high number of endemic species. The region features fresh and saline

wetlands, mangroves and estuaries.

Groundwater plays a vital role in the region with only limited surface water resources that

in many parts are often saline or brackish. The major groundwater basins are within the

Southern Basins Prescribed Wells Area (PWA) and the Musgrave PWA. Other localised

groundwater lenses supply limited volumes of water of varying quality.

The soils of the region generally have poor nutritional qualities due to their high degree of

weathering, or to their sandy or calcareous nature. In many parts of the region the soils

are prone to erosion if not managed appropriately.

Despite their relative infertility, the soils of Eyre Peninsula, combined with improvements

in farm management systems, provide significant economic returns through dryland

cereal cropping and grazing. Winter cropping of wheat, barley, oilseed and pulses, and

wool and livestock production, are the main farm enterprises.


The marine waters of the Eyre Peninsula are rich in species diversity and seafood

productivity. Coastal wetlands are vital nursery grounds for commercially valuable

fisheries species and near-shore waters are important grounds for productive aquaculture

ventures.

3.2 The Eyre Peninsula community

Eyre Peninsula is a region of innovation and enterprise, proud of its past and looking

forward positively to the future. Small and large communities are scattered throughout

Eyre Peninsula and, although each has its own identity, there is a commonality of spirit

and resourcefulness. Inland communities service predominantly broadacre farming, while

the main coastal towns are reliant on mineral processing, fishing, aquaculture and

tourism as economic mainstays along with the surrounding agriculture. There is also

substantial nature based tourism, primarily along the coast.

The population of the region, approximately 55,000, is widely distributed with over half

located in the two largest cities of Whyalla in the northeast and Port Lincoln in the south.

Strong community networks and community groups play a major role in delivering

regional services including the provision of natural resources management initiatives as

well as recreation, sport and other beneficial community initiatives.

Eyre Peninsula’s Aboriginal population makes up over 5% of the region’s total population.

The largest Aboriginal population is found in the District Council of Ceduna with relatively

large Aboriginal populations also prominent in Port Lincoln and Whyalla.


FIGURE 1 Eyre Peninsula Natural Resources Management Region


4. Future influences on regional natural resources

In the coming years and decades the natural resources of Eyre Peninsula will face

significant pressures from emerging issues that have not historically impacted on

the region. Future natural resources management will need to adapt to these

influences and priorities, promoting forward-looking practices rather than

preserving those that were suited to past technologies and environmental

conditions.

4.1 A changing climate

The region is highly exposed to ongoing climate changes that are predicted to lead

to a warmer drier climate in the region. Impacts of this predicted change will

include reduced local water availability through decreased rainfall and increased

evaporation. This will put pressure on native ecosystems and production systems

throughout the region that currently depend on water from local resources.

Native habitat areas are also highly exposed to a changing climate due to

fragmentation and isolation in the landscape. This fragmentation and isolation

restrict migration and potentially will increase native populations ability to adapt to

a changing climate.

With changing climatic conditions, pests and diseases may more easily colonise in

isolated and fragmented areas of native vegetation or there may be a rapid

development of populations of pests that have been dormant in or new to the

landscape as they react to more favourable conditions.

Effective natural resources management will be critical into the future to continue to

manage these risks. This includes on-farm and ecosystem management that

improves the condition of the resources by producing more resilient systems.

4.2 Risk from Bushfire

Bushfires are one of the many factors impacting on the natural environment and

are essential for survival of some native plant and animal species. Fire occurs

naturally in the Australian environment and may be used as a management tool in

maintaining vegetation health and diversity. Prior to European settlement

Aboriginal people used fire to manage the landscape and ever since European

settlement, fire has been used for land clearing, agriculture and management of

remnant native vegetation.

Fire has an impact on all terrestrial based natural resources including people who

choose to live in close proximity to the natural environment. Recent changes to the

fire regimes (in some cases too frequent fire, in others too infrequent fire),

compounded with increasing development and habitat fragmentation have

negatively impacted on natural resources.


The challenge land managers now face is to determine and implement fire

management appropriate for conserving biodiversity whilst protecting life and

property. Future risk associated with bushfire is likely to increase due to factors

such as the impact of climate change. Better development planning and control

measures can contribute to reducing the bushfire risk but can not eliminate it.

Strategic burning reduces the risk of fire particularly where significant risk is

associated with loss and injury to human life and damage to property

Future influence on resource management including native vegetation

management requires holistic approach of multi agency and land managers

coordinated effort. Government of South Australia has developed the Code of

Practice for the Management of Native Vegetation to Reduce the Impact of

Bushfire (the ‘Code’) in order to provide land managers with a with a clear and

consistent approach to the management of native vegetation to reduce the impact

of bushfire. The Code uses the concept of Fire Management Zones to distinguish

between areas where the core objective of fuel management works is the

protection of built assets, from those areas where fire management is directed

towards biodiversity conservation.

Three Zones are identified in the Code - Asset Protection Zone, Bushfire Buffer

Zone and Conservation-Land Management Zone.

The Fire Management Zones have the following objectives:

• ensure that appropriate management actions are implemented to meet the requirements for asset protection and native vegetation management,

• clarify, for landholders, the areas where different fuel management activities should be undertaken,

• ensure a standard approach to the application of fuel management activities in native vegetation in South Australia to prevent/minimize impacts on native vegetation including listed threatened flora and ecological communities under the Environment Protection Biodiversity Conservation Act 1991.

• assist in the development of bushfire prevention plans and programs.

In addition to the development of the Code, Legislative and Regulatory reforms are

underway to bring greater inter-agency expertise to the fire planning process and

to devolve authority for the necessary approvals to the regional level.

4.3 Agricultural sector changes

Development in farm management practices and increased farm sizes following

the aggregation of landholdings are producing observable changes to the

agricultural sector. These changes are driven in part by markets, seasonal

conditions and increased production efficiency.

The impacts of these changes will vary widely in different situations with a potential

loss of local expertise and experience as well as greater remote decision making.


Natural resources management programs will need to be flexible to work with a

changing agriculture sector.

Short and medium term responses to climate change projections are crucial for the

long term viability of farming businesses. The introduction of an emissions trading

scheme will have impact on industries, including agriculture.

4.4 Mining, development and changing land use

Integrity of the regions natural resources terrestrial, coastal and marine environment are under increasing pressure from development due to change in land use. Continuing pressure for the development of mining, sea transportation, tourism, including developments of housing along the coast is having a cumulative impact on coastal systems. Strategic planning for development and integrated management is needed for the long-term conservation, development and productivity of these environments. Major developments are managed through the state planning authority and should be consistent with the State and regional Natural Resources Management Plan and object of the NRM Act.

4.4 A changing population

The region’s population has been relatively stable in the recent past. Population

The regions population distribution is characterised by the majority of the

population living in the two major cities of Whyalla and Port Lincoln with the

remainder living in medium and small sized towns and in rural environments that

support agriculture, aquaculture, fishing, mining and tourism.

Changes to the population distribution of the region are being driven by the

establishment of larger and fewer agricultural properties, the migration from other

parts of South Australia and Australia seeking the lifestyle that the region can offer,

and changing industry demands.

The State Strategic plan aims to increase the total population of South Australia

however the impact for Eyre Peninsula is unknown.

4.5 Aquaculture and fishing

Fisheries has an impact on the natural coastal and marine resources by removing

a certain portion of stock and physical alteration to habitats and pollution derive

from aquaculture industries along the coast if not managed appropriately, exert

pressures on marine health, particularly in regional locations. Many of the

pressures that affect the regional coastal and marine environments are focused in

shallow coastal waters where subtidal and sand mudflat habitats exist. These

areas are very diverse and valued for their biodiversity, as well as being important

habitats for recreationally and commercially valued species. They are extremely

susceptible to environmental change.


These industries are highly regulated industries under the state legislation. Some

of the industries has involved in many initiatives to improve environmental

performance of their operation to protect habitat and water quality.

The protection of the marine environment particularly from land based impacts will

remain critical to sustaining these industries. It will be important to work with these

industries to manage the impacts of their activities on other ecosystems.


5. Sustaining communities for sustainable NRM

The long term sustainability of Eyre Peninsula communities and the viability of the

rural economy is a concern to everyone in the region. There is concern for the

longevity of small rural communities as a result of ongoing drought conditions,

future climate change predictions of warming and drying trends, increased input

costs on rural enterprises, and the uncertainty of returns from primary production

commodities reliant on the vagaries of the global economy.

While the impacts of these pressures are not shared evenly among communities,

economic hardship, local labour shortages and other business pressures will

impact on agriculture, fishing, aquaculture and associated processing as well as

the mineral sector.

In rural areas formal natural resources management structures have a key role to

encourage the sustainable management of the landscape by skilled and

experienced land managers. The loss of small to medium farms and the associated

infrastructure supporting these farming communities may lead to the loss of

capacity and capability to effectively manage large tracks of land for both

environmental outcomes and production.


6. Key partnerships and stakeholders

Eyre Peninsula is a large natural resources based area with a small population.

The effective management of the natural resources of Eyre Peninsula requires the

coordinated effort from all of the stakeholders who use and value the regions

natural resources.

Only a culture of collaboration that supports a commitment from key players will

make a difference to the natural resources management of the region.

6.1 Strategic regional partnership

A partnership has developed in the region in recent years linking the Eyre

Peninsula Natural Resources Management Board, the Eyre Regional Development

Board and the Eyre Peninsula Local Government Association on key issues that

affect the region.

This partnership is able to enlist other local and regional stakeholders and

government agencies to cooperate on the management of significant issues

requiring a regional response. Key issues considered by this alliance to date

include the drought taskforce, the bushfire response and water security planning.

6.2 Partnerships with other regions

Regional boundaries do not constrain natural resources management. Therefore

inter-regional natural resources management initiatives will play an important role

in the future. These will include improved natural resources management delivery

and research initiatives. Such collaborative programs will enable more efficient and

effective natural resources management with shared investment and broader

delivery.

6.3 Key stakeholders

There are many stakeholder groupings in the region, formal and informal, that are

actively involved in protecting, enhancing and managing the natural resources of

the region. These include;

6.3.1 Eyre Peninsula community

Individuals and groups of land managers have the greatest role to play in the

continuing management of the natural resources of the region.

It will be the ongoing decisions and actions of these land managers that will be

most critical in advancing natural resources management in the region. Natural

resources management organisations can support these communities with


guidance and technical support to encourage appropriate natural resources

management.

The communities of the towns and cities on the Eyre peninsula are also crucial in

engaging in natural resource management. Effective communication with these

communities, and the encouragement, support and promotion of their activities will

continue to be critical for all natural resources management organisations.

6.3.2 Aboriginal community

The development of cooperative arrangements with Aboriginal people as natural

resources managers will promote a wider understanding of the relationship

between natural resources management and Aboriginal culture, and the integration

of Aboriginal values and cultural heritage in natural resources management

programs. It will contribute in the long term to the protection of Aboriginal cultural

values and heritage.

6.3.3 Local and regional organisations and groups

Land and resource managers in the region are supported by many organisations

including industry groups, community groups (e.g. farm production groups,

community environment groups, catchment groups and Friends of Parks) and

regional development boards. The involvement of these organisations is critical to

the effective ongoing management of the natural resources of the region.

6.3.4 Industries

The resources of the region are valuable to the agricultural, grazing, fishing,

aquaculture, tourism and mining industries among others. Facilitating changes in

industrial practice to minimise impacts on natural resources will support resources

management improvements across the region.

Industry organisations are an important conduit to practitioners who use the

region’s natural resources.

6.3.5 Local government

Local governments have many roles in the natural resources management

framework of the region. They have a key role in the delivery and decision making

that will underpin the natural resources management of the region. Local

government is an important land manager in its own right, having responsibility for

areas such as road reserves and community land. It has a role in supporting local

communities in natural resources management and many local councils have been

proactive in biodiversity conservation, wise water use and salinity management.

Local governments are best positioned to deliver natural resources management

programs and messages to their communities as they have existing structures and

a local presence.

Local government is responsible for good governance and the care and protection

of local communities within a framework of sustainable development. Local

government has responsibility across a range of NRM activities and issues. There

is an onus upon local government to support the ecological sustainability of natural

resources through its planning decisions under the Development Act 1993..


The NRM Act recognises the importance of the role of local government by

including it in the principles for achieving ecologically sustainable development for

NRM purposes. Local government knowledge or administration skills are also

required in the mix for membership of NRM Boards and the NRM Council. The Act

also contains several provisions promoting collaboration and consultation with local

government in implementing NRM programs.

6.3.6 Non-government organisations

Many non-government organisations including the non-government sector and

private consultants undertake components of natural resources management on a

regional, state or national basis. Depending on the focus and expertise, these

groups may deliver programs, provide specialist conservation or productivity advice,

or undertake research programs in collaboration with local management bodies,

individuals and industry groups. Some of the key non governmental organisations

active in the region include Conservation Council of South Australia, Greening

Australia, and Wilderness Society.

6.3.7 Other NRM organisation

Successful regional natural resources management is dependent on the quality

and effectiveness of the partnership of other research organisation such as

universities, and State and Australian Government research bodies. It brings

together science, and new technologies to the region. Research and development

organisations provide opportunities to leverage funding to address industry /

natural resource management issues. Implementing strong science based projects

in partnership provides confidence and shared commitment towards achieving

long-term regional NRM outcomes.

6.3.8 South Australian Governments

The management of the natural resources of South Australia is directly supported

by a number of agencies in the implementation of the State Natural Resources

Management Plan, and less directly through the guidance of relevant strategies of

the South Australia’s Strategic Plan.

South Australian Government agencies provide policy and planning advice to the

region to assist in the consistent management of the natural resources across the

State.

The Department of Water Land and Biodiversity Conservation (DWLBC) has

responsibility for advising the Minister in relation to natural resources management

issues and acts as a conduit between the Minister and the boards. In addition

DWLBC undertakes a range of statutory functions, such as licensing of water

resources.

The Department of Environment and Heritage (DEH) is responsible for

environment policy, biodiversity conservation, heritage conservation, environmental

sustainability and animal welfare, and is a custodian of information and knowledge

about the State's environment. The Department also manages the State's public

land - land held in the conservation reserve system and as Crown lands.


Primary Industries Resources South Australia (PIRSA) plays a key role in contributing to the sustainable planning and development of South Australia’s natural, industrial and community assets. PIRSA works with industry to manage resources sustainably and enhance their value chains.

6.3.9 The Australian Government

The Australian Government provides of policy, technical and financial support for

effective management of natural resource management on Eyre Peninsula. These

services are provided with a number of departments through the Australian

Government.

The Australian Government Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and

the Arts (DEWHA) develops and implements national policy, programs and

legislation to protect and conserve Australia's environment and heritage and to

promote Australian arts and culture. The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) is located

within DEWHA and offers weather, climate and hydrological services.

The National Water Commission leads the development and implementation of

national policies and programs to achieve the more sustainable management of

Australia’s water resources.

The Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry

support customer services to the agricultural, food, fisheries and forest industries,

and addressing the challenges of natural resource management.

The Department of Climate Change is the delivery agency of the Australian

Government’s climate change framework.

6.3.10 Eyre Peninsula Natural Resources Management Board

The NRM Board is the peak body for management of natural resources on Eyre Peninsula and makes decisions relevant to natural resource management that consider the environmental, social and economic conditions and attitudes of the Eyre Peninsula community.

The function of the NRM Board are to;

• Provide advice • Promote public awareness of the importance of natural resources • Take an active role in managing natural resources within its region • Prepare, manage and implement a regional NRM plan for its region

Further details of the role of the Board are described in Investing in our Resources.


7. Strategic framework

This strategic plan for the management of the natural resources guides the action

of all organisation and individuals to optimise natural resources management

outcomes of the region. A strategic framework takes an integrated approach for all

involved to the natural resources management for the region. It contains the

following aspect.

Vision The vision is a long-term aspiration for the management of the natural resources of the region.

Guiding principles

The guiding principles clarify the thinking and intent of NRM on Eyre Peninsula.

Goals The four integrated regional goals will assist natural resources managers of the region to progress towards the vision in different theme areas and localities on the peninsula, avoiding unnecessary duplication and waste of scarce resources.

Strategic priority areas

Strategic priorities guide the integrated and targeted delivery of natural resources management. Our priorities are: Land and Water Systems, Towns and Cities, and Coast and Marine.

Operational programs

The outcomes will be through the activities of different regional organisations and will be detailed in their operational and investment plans.

Natural resources management delivery in the region is based around the strategic

priorities. Each operational program will deliver one or more outcome, and

therefore one or more integrated regional goals.

Figure 7.1 attributes how operational program contribute to integrated goals and

regional vision.

FIGURE 7.1 Eyre Peninsula natural resources management framework

Goal 2

Natural resources managed to support ecological sustainability,

vibrant communities and thriving enterprise in a changing climate

Goal 4

Goal 3

Goal 1

Strategic Priority Areas Land systems - Towns and cities - Coast and marine

Operational programs


8. Vision and guiding principles

8.1.1 Our vision for natural resources of the region

Natural resources managed to support ecological sustainability, vibrant communities and thriving enterprise in a changing climate

This long term vision recognises the importance of the resource base, the value of

responsible use of the resources and the importance of recognising the

involvement of people in natural resources management. It recognises that the

health and wellbeing of Eyre Peninsula is underpinned by the region’s natural

resources, and that the use and development of the resources must be considered

in all management decisions alongside conservation and preservation of the

resources and ecosystems.

8.1.2 Guiding principles

The guiding principles of the Eyre Peninsula Natural Resources Management Plan

clarify the intent of natural resources management on Eyre Peninsula within the

context of changing climate and whole of landscape approach to manage our

natural resources. The Guiding principles should be read in conjunction with the

State NRM Plan,

People are the key Community ownership and participation in NRM, acknowledging individual and collective responsibility

Long term decision making

Consideration of future generations, favouring proactive and holistic management ahead of reactive responses

Consistent, adaptive management

Long-term commitment to programs, partnerships and resourcing of NRM initiatives based on experience and knowledge with regular adaptation following monitoring of effectiveness

Living within limits Valuing and protecting natural assets to ensure developments and resource use are within the capacity of ecosystems that provide the foundation for the region’s society and economy

Innovation Anticipating, adapting and applying innovative processes, practices and technologies

Working together Transparent and inclusive processes ensure collaborative and well informed decision making and coordinated action

Acknowledging diversity

Acknowledgement of the diversity that exists in regional land and sea scapes, communities, cultures, economic drivers and industries


8.2 Goals

The four integrated regional goals will assist managers of natural resources of the

region progress towards the vision.

Goal 1 Healthy and productive natural resources and natural systems

The resource base of the Eyre Peninsula is critical to the social and economic

condition of the region. Goal 1 contributes to the management of the resource base

for ecological and productive needs.

� Retaining , protecting and managing key natural resources of the region to

improve biodiversity outcomes

� Ensuring the ecosystems and economies of the region can adapt to climate

change

� Identifying and clearly documenting knowledge of natural resources and their

use in the region

� Enforce compliance with regulations and controlling to protect natural

resources in relation to NRM Act.

Goal 2 Using and managing natural resources within environmental constraints

The use of the resources of Eyre Peninsula must look to optimise the value of the

resources while acknowledging the limits of the resource base.

The adaptation of management approaches and the support of communities and

industries with changes that are required to meet changing resource conditions will

be important for meeting this goals. Goal 2 will ensure that the management and

use of resources acknowledges resource limits and potential threats to the

resources by;

� Understanding the capacity of landscape and seascapes to support and

maintain productive activities and ecosystem function

� Optimising the productive value of landscapes and seascapes within

sustainable limits while maintaining the natural resource base and build

productive systems based on sound economic, social and environmental

outcomes

� Integrating natural resources management in regional planning decisions

� Identifying , encouraging and promoting innovative use of natural resources

and appropriate enterprises and production systems

� Assisting industries and communities to adapt to climate change and reduce

the likelihood and magnitude of climate related hazards and their resultant

impact


Goal 3 Progressive and vibrant communities and industries valuing our natural resources and actively participating in the management of these

An informed and active community that considers the impact of their actions on the

resources of the region in their home and work life is at the heart of NRM. Goal 3

aim to provide the knowledge and inspiration for community action and industry

participation by

Goal 4

Effective partnerships based on sound knowledge driving natural resources management

With a small population and relatively large area the most effective management of

the natural resources of Eyre Peninsula will require integrated, well-informed

decision making and the clear communication of these decisions to the community.

Goal 4 will create effective networks to link partners for shared program

development, integrated investment and research prioritisation and cooperative

program funding and delivery by

� Collaborative decision making and integrating program development and

delivery including the Eyre Peninsula collaborative decision-making model

which links the NRM Board, regional development boards, local governments

and key regional organisations (industry, community and government

agencies)

� Attracting investment in the management of natural resources of the region

� Monitoring, evaluating and reporting on the condition of natural resources and

review the effectiveness of resources management

� Identifying research priorities and establishing partnerships to deliver

innovative programs and communicate research results and best practice

NRM developments

� Incorporating cultural heritage in programs and project development and

implementation

� Ensuring regional knowledge and research is captured and maintained to

ensure future planning based on best science and knowledge

� Improving awareness and understanding of effective management of natural

resources

� Facilitating practices and creating processes to involve communities and

industries in NRM planning and implementation of best practice

� Ensuring effective partnerships for the integration of Aboriginal values and

cultural heritage in NRM programs

� Recognising best practice natural resources management by industry and

community

� Protecting Aboriginal cultural values and cultural heritage


9. Strategic priority areas

Efficient and targeted delivery of natural resources management in differing parts

of the region will be coordinated in three strategic priority areas.

Land and Water

Integrated management of soils, water resources and native vegetation.

The interactions of these resources are often governed by climate, geology and landform, which interact over time to influence the distribution and condition of soils, vegetation and water resources.

The Land and Water Systems strategic priority areas is an integrated whole of landscape approach to managing the resources for agriculture, grazing and other land uses and the benefit of native species and the maintenance of ecological processes.

Towns and Cities

Management of resources in the population centres as well as areas of small landholdings where higher population density with associated intensive resource use and higher concentration of pollution risks requires specific attention.

Towns and Cities also provide opportunities to engage more efficiently with the population base of the region. Programs to increase the understanding of the value of the resources of the region can begin, or be based in, these areas.

Coast and Marine

The significant coastline of the region and its resources are sensitive to marine activities, coastal hazards and impacts of land management and human impacts in areas that discharge to the coast.

The protection of these Coast and Marine areas must be considered in land use planning and implementation of activities throughout the region.

Collaborative initiatives are required to deliver these priorities and the key

stakeholders are listed for each priority. The relationship between strategic priority

areas and the regional (long-term) targets and intermediate outcomes for the

region are presented in Section 10.


9.1 Land and water

The land and water systems of the region support a diverse range of uses that

underpin the ecological processes, economic productivity and social wellbeing of

the region.

The region is characterised by low rainfall, limited surface water resources, soils of

low inherent fertility, erosion prone soils, and areas of remnant native vegetation,

groundwater resources and agricultural production.

Eyre Peninsula is the western limit of a range of eastern Australian species and the

eastern limit to many western Australian species. At least 40 plant species are

endemic to the Eyre Peninsula and 26 plant and animal species are of national

conservation significance listed under the Commonwealth EPBC Act 1999.

Eyre Peninsula has one of the highest levels of remaining natural vegetation cover

for agricultural areas in the State, with on average 43% still intact. Across the

region, native vegetation clearance for agriculture and pasture development has

been most intense in the south; in the northwest of the region substantial remnant

areas remain among the grazing enterprises of the area. Major threats to plant

communities on the Eyre Peninsula are continued fragmentation, grazing, salinity,

inappropriate fire regimes and weed infestation

The Eyre Peninsula NRM region contains over 100 different parks and reserves,

ranging from national parks, such as Coffin Bay, Lincoln National Parks, through to

small conservation parks and reserves, including those on offshore islands.

Much of the land that has been cleared for agriculture has over time experienced

some form of degradation. Typically the soils of Eyre Peninsula are relatively

infertile and prone to erosion. Management of these areas is critical: 370,000 ha

has high or extreme potential for wind erosion; 288,000 ha has moderate to

extreme potential for water erosion ; over 24,000 ha is affected by dryland salinity;

and over 180,000 ha of land is prone to or affected by soil acidity.

The soils of Eyre Peninsula, with improvements in farm management and practices,

provide significant economic returns through dryland cropping and grazing. This is

mainly winter cropping of cereal, pulses and oilseed as well as wool and livestock

production.

The water resources across the region support significant wetlands and other

aquatic systems, as well as supplying potable water for drinking and other human

needs. Significant water supplies are sourced from major groundwater basins in

the Southern Basins and to a lesser degree the Musgrave Prescribed Wells Area

(PWA).

There are many other localised groundwater lenses throughout the region with

varying water quality and yield. Significant surface water resources exist in the

south and east of the region including the Tod River system, Big Swamp and Little

Swamp. Many other surface water resources in the region are brackish or saline.

The combination of low rainfall, high evaporation rates and catchment

characteristics in the north and western areas of the peninsula result in low runoff

rates and very few defined surface water resources.


9.1.1 Land and Water strategic priorities

Maintenance of healthy functioning ecosystems coupled with the protection of a

strong and sustainable primary production sector are fundamental to the social and

economic wellbeing of the region. Management of the interaction between private

public land, primary production and ecosystems of the region is a critical focus. It

seeks to optimise the productivity of the region, while protecting and enhancing the

key habitats of the region.

Land and Water program areas aim to:

� protect and enhance the key terrestrial resources of the region including inland

waters, land and terrestrial biodiversity

� protect the environments and ecosystems that depend on these resources

� optimise sustainable primary production.

Coordinated management of the land and water systems of the region requires a

fully integrated approach across different natural assets and geographical areas.

Additionally, the impacts of these resources on the coastal receiving waters must

be mitigated through management practices employed on the land and water

systems.


Land and Water Strategies Key stakeholders

LW1 Enhance links between productive land uses and natural habitats to minimise risks to natural systems

PIRSA, EPNRMB, RDB, NGOs, DEH, DTEI, DTED, CFS, DWLBC community groups, Fire prevention committees

LW2 Protect, restore and expand ecosystems and the natural processes that buffer and improve connectivity of these systems

EPNRMB, , NGOs, DEH, DWLBC,CFS , community, community NRM groups, Fire prevention committees

LW3 Conserve ecological communities and native species DEH, EPNRMB, DWLBC, community NRM groups, NGOs, PIRSA

LW4 Facilitate changing landuse regimes on a landscape scale in response to climate change

Local govt, EPNRMB, DWLBC, RDB,DTEI,DTED, DEH, CFS, PIRSA, PlanningSA, Community. Fire prevention committees

LW5 Protect high value primary production land and natural habitats from pest invasion and degradation

EPNRMB, NGOs, PIRSA, DEH, DWLBC land managers, businesses, community groups,

LW6 Encourage farm sustainability through improved management of economic, environmental and production risks

PIRSA, EPNRMB, RDB, DTED, DWLBC, NGOs,

LW7 Ensure the water resources of the region are sustainably managed, taking into account environmental, social and economic considerations

EPNRMB, DWLBC, SA Water business, , land managers

LW8 Protect and improve water quality EPA, EPNRMB, DWLBC, land managers

LW9 Promote public awareness and understanding of natural resources and their management, and undertake or support educational initiatives for resources management

EPNRMB, local govt, NGOs, , PIRSA, DEH,CFS,DWLBC, Industry , community groups

LW10 Undertake and support educational initiatives for resources management

Schools, EPNRMB, DWLBC local govt, NGOs, community groups,

LW11 Support resilient farming systems and practices that can adapt to climate change

PIRSA, EPNRMB, RDB, DTEI , DTED, DWLBC, NGOs

LW12 Link to management of land and biodiversity in neighbouring regions

NYNRMB, AWNRMB, PIRSA, DEH. NGOs


9.2 Towns and cities

Population centres on Eyre Peninsula are largely located around the coast with

inland settlements supporting local agricultural, aquaculture, fishing and mineral

processing activities. The region includes the cities of Port Lincoln and Whyalla,

moderately sized towns and isolated, smaller centres. The urban centres present

the hub of community life in the region, centred around schools, service and

sporting groups.

Additionally the region has numerous concentrations of small lifestyle landholdings

that cannot be characterised as fully urbanised or completely rural. They are often

located on the edge or within close proximity (commuting distance) of townships.

Many of these landholdings have associated lifestyle and recreation factors such

as horse keeping and other hobby farming.

The urban areas of Eyre Peninsula are adjusting to the population dynamics of the

region related to industrial changes and migration to the region. Industrial changes

include ongoing changes in agricultural practice, growing aquaculture and fishing

ventures, and a growth in the mining and mineral sector. Migrating to the region

are employees for these industries and residents seeking the lifestyle offered by

the region. Towns throughout the region are experiencing development to cater for

these changes.

Towns and cities also provide opportunities to engage more efficiently with the

whole population base of the region. Programs to increase the understanding of

the value of the resources of the region can begin, or be based, in these areas.

9.2.1 Towns and Cities strategic priorities

Natural resources management in urban centres predominately relates to

minimising pressure on natural resources management of water, native vegetation

and aquatic areas that can be enhanced and need to be protected from further

degradation. Maximising the use of stormwater and reuse of wastewater through

water sensitive urban design are other innovative approaches to resource

management.

The most significant resource available in the towns and cities is the people of

these regions. The higher population density of these areas allows people to be

engaged in coordinated efforts or in the neighbouring rural areas. Linking these

populations to more remote areas can have high returns for regional natural

resources management.


Towns and Cities strategies Key stakeholders

TC1 Reinstate urban biodiversity on public and private land, where possible linking to native habitats bordering the urban areas

EPNRMB, DEH ,local govt, community groups, NGOs, community members, Fire prevention committees

TC2 Improve and enhance existing habitats of towns and cities EPNRMB, DEH,CFS, local govt, community groups, NGOs, community members, Fire prevention committees

TC3 Minimise impact of runoff from towns and cities to coast, estuarine and marine environments

EPA, business, local govt, EPNRMB, community groups, NGOs, community members, RDB

TC4 Maximise the use of stormwater and treated waste water (property, subregional and regional scales)

EPNRMB, local govt, NGOs, community members, RDB

TC5 Maximise the uptake of water efficiency and water sensitive urban design in existing and new developments

Local govt, EPNRMB, NGOs, community members, RDB, PIRSA

TC6 Engage and support town and city communities, service groups, lifestyle landholders and individuals to enhance NRM outcomes

EPNRMB, local govt, CFS, NGOs, community groups, RDB, Fire prevention committees

TC7 Support town and city sustainability strategy Local govt, NGOs, community groups, EPNRMB,CFS, Fire prevention committees

TC8 Minimise encroachment of urban and commercial development on land, water, coast and estuarine regions.

Local govt, PIRSA, DEH, PlanningSA, DTEI, EPNRMB

TC9 Promote awareness of values of natural resources and benefits of improved natural resource management within urban and peri urban areas.

EPNRMB, DEH,RDB, Local Govt

9.3 Coast and marine

The Eyre Peninsula region includes over 1800 km of coastline, which represents

approximately 33% of the coastline of South Australia. A quarter of this coastline

lies in the protected waters of Spencer Gulf, with the remainder exposed to high-

energy southern ocean swells and westerly winds. Much of the coastline is

dominated by rocky limestone cliffs with sheltered bays in other areas. The region

also extends to include state waters along the coastline.

The marine and coastal biota of the region is diverse and varied, with many unique

species only found in southern Australian waters. Marine and coastal habitats of

the region include seagrass, mangrove and saltmarsh communities, reefs and

estuaries.

The Eyre Peninsula region includes a number of protected areas from high energy

systems, which incorporate large areas of coastal and marine waters and a

number of important estuaries.

Today the coast has great significance for the local community and other South

Australians who recreate, work or live in the coastal areas.


Coastal areas have been significant to Aboriginal populations on the Eyre

Peninsula.The rich history of Aboriginal cultural heritage along the coastline is

demonstrated by evidence of day-to-day life through camp sites, middens and fish

traps.

Many places of significance are related to early european industries including

sealing and whaling which relied on the coast and marine environment. Other

maritime places that represent the growth of early industries in the region of

significance include lighthouses, coastal jetties and shipwrecks.

Great economic value is associated with the coast, both in natural resource

industries and through activities that prosper in a coastal environment. Fishing and

aquaculture are two of the most significant industries of the Eyre Peninsula.

Significant fisheries of the region include Rock Lobster, Abalone, Western King

Prawn and scalefish. Aquaculture provides significant benefits economically to the

region both directly and indirectly and is one of the fastest growing industries on

the Eyre Peninsula. Tourism in the region relies heavily on the coastal and marine

environment including the seafood frontier initiative Tunaram and Oyster fest.

Coast and Marine strategic priorities

The natural resources management priorities for coast and marine in the region are

the protection of coast, estuarine and marine environments from degrading

activities. Coast and marine strategic priorities aim to protect and enhance the

condition of the resources by minimising the impact of marine and coastal hazards

as well as land based impacts.

Coast and Marine strategies Key stakeholders

CM1 Reduce land based impacts on coastal, estuarine and marine environments

Local govt, EPNRMB, DEH, PIRSA,EPA, NGOs, community groups, industry, community members

CM2 Protect, and restore coast, estuary and marine ecosystems

DEH, EPNRMB, NGOs, community groups, community members, local govt, industries

CM3 Manage the interface between terrestrial, freshwater and marine system

DEH, EPNRMB, NGOs, SA Water, community groups, community members

CM4 Reduce disturbances to the coastal processes DEH, local govt, PIRSA, business

CM5 Link to management of marine waters and coasts in neighbouring regions

DEH, EPNRMB, PIRSA, NGOs, NY & AW NRM Boards

CM6 Consider coastal, estuarine and marine systems in land-based planning

Local govt, business, DEH, EPNRMB, PlanningSA

CM7 Manage coastal development to minimise impact on coast, estuarine and marine areas

Local govt, PlanningSA, business

CM8 Support and encourage sustainable marine industries

RDB, PIRSA, local govt, business


Coast and Marine strategies Key stakeholders

CM9 Protect Aboriginal cultural values in coastal areas Aboriginal communities, DEH,DPC, local govt, EPNRMB, community groups, community members

CM10 Encourage increased existing sense of respect for the coastal areas and promote understanding of the value of coastal, estuarine and marine environments

EPNRMB, schools, community groups, local govt, DEH

CM11 Protect coastal land and coastal natural habitats from pest invasion and degradation

PIRSA, DEH,EPNRM, Land managers, industry, community groups


10. Achieving regional targets

Targets have been set to ensure that the region can monitor and evaluate its

performance towards achieving the regional Vision and Goals of this plan.

While the key strategic priority areas and strategic priorities guide the programs

implemented in the region, the targets set levels to be achieved in both resource

condition and natural resources management performance. Two levels of regional

targets have been established:

� regional (long-term) targets with a 20 year timeframe

� intermediate outcomes with a 1–5 year timeframe.

The regional targets are 20-year visionary targets whereas the intermediate

outcomes break down the targets into more specific outcome statements in order

to guide organizations in setting their own internal operational milestones or tasks.

These are not management action targets as historically set for many NRM regions.

Management action targets towards these intermediate outcomes should be set by

individual organizations to provide more detailed measurable milestones towards

these outcomes and targets. The EPNRM board will have specific projects and

milestones that will link to these outcomes and targets.

The targets have been developed in consideration of the targets for South

Australia’s Strategic Plan and the State NRM Plan and have been influenced by

Australian Government NRM reporting directives.

Major environmental reporting themes adopted are:

� Land (native vegetation, native fauna, soil condition)

� Water (quality and quantity)

� Coast and Marine

� Towns and Cities.

This structure of the targets follows the suggested reporting themes from the

Wentworth Group of Concerned Scientist report, Accounting for Nature – A model

for building the national environmental accounts of Australia, of 2008.

Production targets, social targets and knowledge targets, all which are important to

the region's priorities and needs for the future, complete the framework.

10.1 Regional (long-term) targets

Regional (long-term) targets describe the desired condition of natural resources in

20 years. Each regional (long-term) target sets a standard for the condition of a

specific resource. The term regional (long-term) target has been adopted for

simplicity and ease of understanding. These 20-year targets are equivalent to

resource condition and socio-economic targets. They articulate a desired state or

condition to be achieved in this timeframe, as well as improvements in community

capacity.


The 20-year timeframe for the regional (long-term) targets is consistent with State

and federal government target setting guidelines. This plan, Managing Our

Resources, is a 10-year plan to meet the requirements of the NRM Act, so the

regional (long-term) targets will stretch beyond the timeframe of this Plan. The

targets and progress against them will be reviewed as Managing Our Resources is

reviewed.

These targets have been established in accordance with national and State NRM

policy, and serve to measure the progress of regional programs and actions on the

major natural resources management issues.

10.1 Intermediate outcomes

In order to monitor the progress towards the regional (long-term) targets, a series

of intermediate outcomes have been identified for each target at a 1-5 year

timeframe.

Intermediate outcomes set a standard for either the resource condition or the

management action that is required to ensure that the regional (long-term) targets

will be achieved. Intermediate outcomes identify progress that will be observable in

shorter timeframes. They are short-term to medium-term targets that may be

measured more directly against the implementation of the Plan to gauge progress

towards the regional (long-term) target.

10.2 Relationships between targets and strategic priorities

The targets are described below. Intermediate outcomes and the relationship to the

strategic priorities are listed for each regional (long-term) target.

Regional (Long-term) Target A

Land condition is maintained and improved, and risks to land degradation are reduced from 2009 levels

Soil is one of our most important assets for community, industry and ecosystem. Many factors affect land condition including water and wind erosion, lack of soil cover, acidification, salinisation, unsustainable water use and inappropriate development including spread of pest weed and animals. Many best practice techniques exist to ameliorate degraded soils that are improved through NRM channels. This target will ensure sustainable land management practices and monitor condition of our soils for the effectiveness of our efforts to convey best practice messages.

Intermediate outcomes

A.1 Water and wind erosion protection indices are increased to 326 days by 2014

A.2 Soil cover on non-arable land is maintained and/or increased from 2009 levels

A.3 Water use efficiency of agricultural crops and pastures is improved by at least 10% by 2014

A.4 Pests and diseases are decreased from current (2009) distribution, abundance and impact and new incursions are detected early and eradicated


Links to strategic priority areas

Land and Water

Targeted soil management in Land and Water Systems (including watercourses) is achieved through improved farm management from planning to on-farm practices.

Towns and Cities

The environment of Towns and Cities is susceptible to windblown eroded soil.

Coast and Marine

Improved soil health and associated vegetation and water management will protect the Coast and Marine areas from land-based pollutants and erosion

Key strategic priorities LW1, LW6, LW9, LW11,LW12

Regional (Long-term) Target B

Terrestrial and marine ecosystems (including threatened plants and animals) are maintained and/or increased in distribution, condition and connectivity from 2009 levels

Native terrestrial and marine plant and animal communities, and their ecosystems, impacted over the years and face more pressures within a changing climate. A whole of landscape and seascape approach needs to be considered to ensure that terrestrial ecosystems (including watercourses and other water resources) and marine ecosystems are managed collectively and not exclusive of each other. Remnant ecosystems should be maintained to increase the extent and improve the condition or health of the ecosystems. Improvement in the health of ecosystems should consider all aspects of the ecosystems including interactions between marine, coast and terrestrial water and vegetation communities. Importantly, the connectivity of priority remnant ecosystems becomes imperative for ecosystem resilience in a changing climate.

Measuring threatened plants and animals will highlight issues that affect threatened native species habitats. Priority threatened species will include those that are feasibly able to make recovery in the current changing climate.


B.1 20,000 ha of native ecosystems are managed in priority linkage areas by 2014

B.2 1250 ha of native ecosystems are re-established in priority ecosystem linkage areas by 2014

B.3 Remnant native vegetation, significant watercourses and marine and coastal ecosystem attributes are improved in condition from 2009 levels

B.4 Impacts of known major pest and diseases on native terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems are decreased from 2009 distributions

B.5 10 threatened plant and animal species are managed according to recovery and action plans by 2014


Land and Water

Continued targeted management of native terrestrial ecosystems will be critical to ensure that these natural systems are resilient and able to adjust to future pressures.

Towns and Cities

Native habitats have been replaced by population centres, low density residential areas and small landholdings. There is an opportunity to restore some of the habitat values to these areas.


Regional (Long-term) Target B

Terrestrial and marine ecosystems (including threatened plants and animals) are maintained and/or increased in distribution, condition and connectivity from 2009 levels

Coast and Marine

Minimising impacts on existing habitats and minimising threats from land based impacts and coast and marine activities

Key strategic priorities LW2, LW3, LW5, LW12,TC1, TC2, TC8, CM1, CM2, CM6,CM11

Regional (Long-term) Target C

Water regimes are maintained at levels that sustain significant water dependent ecosystems while allowing for use by community and industry within sustainable limits

Water, in scattered wetlands, groundwater and surface water, is a precious resource on the Eyre Peninsula. It requires sustainable management so that the demands of the natural environment are considered alongside community and industry requirements.


C.1 Priority aquifers in Southern Basins and Musgrave prescribed resources are managed to improve the integrity of the resource and the priority ecosystems that depend on them.

C.2 Flow regimes within significant catchments are managed to meet the requirements of water dependent ecosystems and sustainable use

C.3 Innovative water use practices and technologies are continually adopted


Land and Water

The state and condition of water resources vary across the region. Key resources will be managed through water allocation planning, behavioural change management and best management practices to ensure sustainability.

Towns and Cities

There should be increased sustainable water resources development and uptake of water use efficiency and conservation measures that maximise the recycling and use of alternative water resources. Development plans should maximise the application of up-to-date and innovative water sensitive urban design. Stormwater management plans need to be developed that consider maximising the opportunities of capture, treatment and reuse of stormwater.

Coast and Marine

Stormwater management plans can also be developed to specifically minimise effects on coast and marine ecosystems

Key strategic priorities LW4, LW7, LW12,TC4, TC5, CM3, CM6


Regional (Long-term) Target D

Water quality in surface water, groundwater and marine water resources is maintained and improved to meet the Environment Protection (Water Quality) Policy 2003 standards.

Water quality is influenced by both natural climatic variability and our actions. Surface water systems, including our wetlands, groundwater, aquatic and marine water resources, need to be healthy for the animals and plants that depend on them. Threats to Eyre Peninsula water resources include diffuse and point sources associated with current and historical land management and development. This target has been set to ensure that all activities that may have effects on water quality strive to reach the standards set by the Environment Protection (Water Quality) Policy 2003


D.1 Land based impacts on water quality are reduced from 2009 levels

D.2 Surface water and groundwater salinity levels are maintained within natural variability and are not adversely affected by localised water extraction

D.3 Diffuse and point source pollution discharges into all waters are reduced from 2009 levels


Land and Water

Activities that could potentially affect water resources should be managed across the landscape (catchment to coast). Land and Water Systems should adopt management practices that lead to improved water quality in surface water, groundwater and marine waters addressing use of fertilisers and chemicals, stock and grazing practices, erosion and sediment control, dryland salinity and management of acid sulphate soils.

Towns and Cities

Towns and Cities can plan for managing urban stormwater to protect the quality of water resources and to control point source pollutants that would otherwise threaten the aquatic, estuarine and marine waters.

Coast and Marine

Urban stormwater can be managed to protect the quality of the surface runoff that flows to aquatic, estuarine and marine waters. Effluent discharges to the marine environment need to be minimised through the adoption of best practice treatment and reuse. Coast and marine based industries should employ best practice guidelines to meet all water quality standards.

Key strategic priorities LW4, LW6, LW7, LW8, LW9, LW12, TC3, TC4, TC5, TC8, CM1, CM3


Regional (Long-term) Target E

Productive capacity of natural resource-dependent industries is managed and developed within ecosystem capability and constraints of a changing climate

Grain and livestock production covers approximately 55% of Eyre Peninsula land systems. Ongoing viability of these systems is crucial to the sustainability of our communities as are the growing industries of aquaculture, fisheries and mining. All industries required to be managed in a sustainable manner to minimise impacts on natural resources. Eyre peninsula’s natural environment is essential to the tourism industry and activities need to be developed to reflect this dependence. This target has been set to reflect the importance of balancing productive capacity of our industries and the health of our ecosystems.


E.1 Regional barriers and risks to sustainable production from changing environmental conditions are better understood and communicated by 2014

E.2 Adaptive, innovative and productive farming systems are implemented in a responsive climate

E.3 Aquaculture production is managed to minimise impacts on coast and marine ecosystems

E.4 Mining activities are managed for minimal environmental impacts on terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems

E.5 Tourism ventures are developed to be eco-friendly and to enhance knowledge of natural resources


Land and Water

Adaptive farming systems are essential in a changing climate and variable economic conditions. Productive systems need to be matched to the land capability to ensure the soil resource is protected and farm businesses are economically viable. Impacts of mining on land and water system are need to be understood and managed to minimise environment impact.

Towns and Cities

Economically viable businesses need to efficiently and effectively use resources and reduce pollution to Town and City centres.

Coast and Marine

Coast and marine systems and dependent industries are managed to minimise the impact on ecosystem.

Key strategic priorities LW1, LW4, LW5, LW6, LWS, LW10, LW11, LW12, TC5, CM8, CM10


Regional (Long-term) Target F

The Eyre Peninsula community has increased awareness and understanding of NRM, is engaged in managing natural resources and supports other natural resource users from 2009 levels

The Eyre Peninsula community, including landholders, industry, government, Aboriginal communities and town and city populations, needs greater natural resource management knowledge and efforts need to be sustained to inform these stakeholders. Only when we all work together on managing our resources will we get positive outcomes. This target has been set to ensure that the proper channels are put in place to allow this to happen.


F.1 Community has increased knowledge and skills to manage natural resources sustainably by 2014

F.2 Community involvement in NRM activities is increased by 2014

F.3 Community based groups and/or volunteers and landowners are supported, promoted and acknowledged for their actions on NRM activities

F.4 The relationship between NRM and Aboriginal culture and heritage is widely understood, acknowledged and communicated to natural resource managers

F.5 Eyre Peninsula Aboriginal communities are included as natural resources managers and are supported and engaged in NRM activities


Land and Water

An understanding of the links between the natural resource use, natural systems and cultural values can lead to programs that have beneficial outcomes for Land and Water Systems.

Towns and Cities

Population centres contain large captive audiences that can learn about our natural resources and the effects we have on a broader scale across landscapes and seascapes. Towns and Cities are important locations for engaging volunteers and community groups in NRM activities.

Coast and Marine

Raising awareness of Coast and Marine NRM issues will ensure that users to these resources are respected, care, and management of these ecosystems. These are key areas for tourism and industry expansion and the increase in knowledge of these ecosystems and their cultural value will ensure they are used appropriately.

Key strategic priorities LW9, LW10, LW12,TC6, CM9, CM10,


Regional (Long-term) Target G

NRM knowledge is obtained, shared and coordinated for all NRM stakeholders

With growing NRM knowledge and understanding, this target has been set to ensure that information can be easily available and accessed by all stakeholders. A coordinated approach by all NRM stakeholders will ensure better NRM outcomes. NRM related research, innovation and monitoring that may occur in the region should be better coordinated to inform wise NRM decision making. Working together will also help foster leverage for NRM funding in the region.


G.1 Cooperative cross-institutional arrangements are maintained and increased from 2009 levels

G.2 Knowledge of our natural resource condition is monitored, evaluated, reported and promoted in a coordinated, regional manner

G.3 Research is conducted and shared to address NRM knowledge gaps and inform decision making

G.4 Aboriginal knowledge of NRM is acquired and incorporated into NRM decision making


Land and Water

Partnerships and information sharing between sectors and across regions can lead to improved NRM practices.

Towns and Cities

Population centres in Towns and Cities provide opportunity for network development and information sharing.

Coast and Marine

Partnerships and information sharing between sectors and across regions can lead to improved understanding of the value of coast, estuarine and marine ecosystems.

Key strategic priorities LW9, LW10, LW12,TC6, TC7, CM10


11. Monitoring, evaluation and reporting

Accounting for the elements of the natural systems of the region will increase the

appreciation of their value and the understanding of the services provided by these

systems. The condition of the natural resources of the region and the process

towards improvements needs to be clearly demonstrated to local and external

stakeholders. This system of monitoring, evaluation, reporting and improvement

(MERI) of the state of our natural resources is an important part of any regional

natural resources management program and/or project.

By setting regional targets and intermediate outcomes (Section 10) we have taken

the first steps in prioritising our monitoring programs to best understand the state of

our natural resources and potential changes. No individual organisation can

achieve these targets alone and we therefore need a coordinated approach across

the region.

For this reason, the MERI Framework has been developed for the Eyre Peninsula.

This framework identifies indicators, or measurements, that are needed to monitor

success towards reaching the regional targets. The framework also outlines the

data that the region currently collects towards these targets, indicating gaps or

overlaps in regional monitoring programs. Based on this information, regional

programs can be continually improved through effective evaluation and reporting to

local and external stakeholders.

The framework is a complementary document to the Plan and has been developed

in conjunction with the Plan.


12. Links to other plans and strategies

The Managing our Resources management framework for the natural resources of

the region is consistent with a range of national, state, regional and local plans,

policies and programs.

National

Caring for our Country

Australian Government natural resources management initiative targeting national priorities

National Water Initiative

Australia's enduring blueprint for water reform

National Strategy for the Conservation of Australia's Biological Diversity

Provides the framework for protecting Australia's biodiversity

Australian Government Climate Change Policies

National Climate Change Adaptation Programme

Australian Climate Change Science Programme 2004–2008

National Climate Change Adaptation Framework

Grains Research and Development Corporation

A responsible lead: An environmental plan for the Australian Grain Industry

South Australia

South Australia’s Strategic Plan – 2007

Outlines a medium to long-term course for South Australia

State Natural Resources Management Plan – 2006

Establishes a long-term view and charts direction for natural resources management over five years

Tackling Climate Change

South Australia’s Greenhouse Strategy 2007–2020

Nature Links: Implementing the WildCountry Philosophy in SA

Conserving South Australia's species and habitats in partnership with the community by establishing ecological links across the land and sea.

No Species Loss

A nature conservation strategy for South Australia 2007–2017

Living Coast Strategy

Outlines South Australia’s environmental policy direction for sustainable development of the State’s coastal, estuarine and marine environment.


South Australian Marine Park Program

State Government commitment to protect, conserve biological diversity of marine habitats and development of marine parks under the Marine Parks Act 2007.

Wetland Strategy for SA 2003

Sets out actions and objectives to ensure that wetlands management and conservation is integrated into NRM.

A Biosecurity Strategy for SA 2005

Provides high level direction for protecting South Australia’s environment, industry and community from the impact of pest animals, plants and pathogen.

Regional and local

Biodiversity Strategy for Eyre Peninsula

Inventories documenting the biodiversity and the threats to that biodiversity in the region

Water allocation plans

Set the principles or rules under which water can be allocated from a prescribed water resource

Development plans

Local governments key strategic documents for planning and development

Eyre Peninsula Coastal Development Strategy

A strategy for future sustainable development and management of Eyre Peninsula’s coast.

Relevant industry Plans

Draft Recovery Plan for 23 threatened flora Taxa on EP

A strategic plan for management of 23 threatened plants on Eyre Peninsula

12.1 Caring for our Country

Caring for our Country is an Australian Government natural resources

management initiative that seeks to achieve an environment that is healthy, better

protected, well managed and resilient and provides essential ecosystem services

in a changing climate.

Caring for our Country integrates delivery of the Australian Government previous

natural resource management programs including the Natural Heritage Trust, the

National Landcare Program, the Environmental Stewardship Program and the

Working on Country Indigenous land and sea ranger program.

A feature of the Caring for our Country program is the annual, federal-level,

business plan to ensure the investment is targeted to deliver the best results for the

environment. It will provide an annual report card on progress under Caring for our

Country.

The program will complement the $130 million Australia’s Farming Future initiative,

which aims to ensure the primary industry sector has a sustainable future in a

changing climate.


The Caring for our Country program will invest in projects that match six national

priorities and administered through the regional NRM board framework .

• Australia’s national reserve system

• biodiversity and natural icons (including weeds, feral animals and threatened species)

• coasts and aquatic habitats

• sustainable farm practices and Landcare

• natural resources management in remote and northern Australia

• community skills, knowledge and engagement.

Correlation between the national priorities of Caring for our Country national priorities and Managing our Resources is shown below.

Caring for our Country

priority

Alignment with Managing our Resources

The national reserve system Eyre Peninsula has a substantial network of national parks

Biodiversity and natural icons

The management of the biodiversity of the region is a focus of all of the strategic priorities

Coastal environments and critical aquatic habitats

Coast and Marine has been identified as a regional priority on Eyre Peninsula given the region’s 1800 km of coastline, that is one-third the length of the coastline of SA

Sustainable farm practices Sustainable future farming systems are recognised as a substantial component of the Land and Water Systems regional priority

Community skills, knowledge and engagement

The importance of community involvement is a factor in all of the strategies presented in the plan

12.2 State Natural Resources Management Plan

The State Natural Resources Management Plan 2006 has guided the development

of this strategic plan. It contains strategic policy at the state-level for managing

South Australia’s natural resources. The State NRM Plan provides a broad

framework for both regional NRM plans and state agency activities.

There is a strong link between Eyre Peninsula’s NRM goals and the goals of State

NRM Plan and the strength of the contribution that achieving the regional goals will

make the state goals.


Alignment of State NRM Plan goals and Eyre Peninsula NRM Plan goals

Eyre Peninsula NRM Goals

Healthy and productive natural resources and natural systems

Using and managing natural resources within the environmental constraints

Progressive and vibrant communities and industries valuing our natural resources and actively participating in management of these

Effective partnerships based on sound knowledge driving natural resources management

Landscape scale management that maintains healthy natural systems and is adaptive to climate change

Strong contribution

Contribution Strong

contribution Strong

contribution

Prosperous communities and industries using and managing natural resources within ecologically sustainable limits

Contribution Strong contribution

Strong contribution

Contribution

Communities, governments and industries with the capability, commitment and connections to manage natural resources in an integrated way


Strong contribution

Strong contribution

State NRM Plan G

oals

Integrated management of biological threats to minimise risks to natural systems, communities and industry


Strong contribution

Strong contribution


To ensure further consistency and critical link between the State NRM Plan resource condition targets and the Eyre Peninsula’s long term targets the table below

shows relationship between the two plans.

EPNRM Regional (Long term) Targets

A B C D E F G

L1 By 2011, land condition will have improved compared to 2006

W1 By 2011, all ecosystems dependent on prescribed water resources have improved

ecological health compared with 2006

W2 By 2020, all aquatic ecosystems have improved ecological health compared with 2006

W3 By 2015, no further net loss of wetland or estuary, extent or condition compared to 2006

W4 By 2011, an increase in net water quality compared to 2006

B1 By 2020, 50% of species and communities in each of the 2006 risk categories have

moved to a lower risk category

B2 By 2011, no species and ecological communities have moved to a higher risk category

from 2006

B3 By 2011, no further net loss of natural habitat (terrestrial, marine and aquatic) extent

and condition below that of 2006

B4 By 2020, a net increase in ecological connectivity across all terrestrial, marine and

aquatic ecosystems compared to the 2006 values

State NRM Plan Resource Condition Targets

P1 By 2011, the capacity of people in the community, institutions and regional

organisations to sustainably manage natural resources will be greater than in 2006

Primary Alignment

Secondary Alignment


12.3 South Australia’s Strategic Plan

South Australia’s Strategic Plan 2007 (SASP) sets the strategic direction for the

State and outlines long term targets to achieve social, economic and environmental

outcomes. In doing so, it sets a framework for the future activities of South

Australian Government agencies and authorities (which includes the Board), as

well as for businesses and outlook for entire community.

SASP sets out six interrelated objectives with associated targets for the

measurement of success. The regional NRM plan makes direct contribution to

Objective 3: Attaining Sustainability, Objective 5: Building communities and

Objective 6: Expanding Opportunity.

Figure below shows how the targets of this plan contribute to those relevant of the

SASP.


EPNRM Regional (Long term) Targets

A B C D E F G

T3.1 Loose no species

T3.2 Land biodiversity

T3.3 Soil protection

T3.4 Marine biodiversity

T3.5 Greenhouse gas emissions reduction

T3.9 Sustainable water supply

T3.15 Aboriginal lands - access and management

T5.6 Volunteering

T5.7 Aboriginal leadership

State Strategic Plan Targets

T6.24 Aboriginal Employment

Primary Alignment

Secondary Alignment


13. Appendices

Appendix A – Glossary

Adaptive management: A management approach, often used in NRM, where there is little information and/or a lot of complexity and there is a need to implement some management changes sooner rather than later. The approach is to use the best available information for the first actions, investigate and document the assumptions, implement the changes, monitor the outcomes, and regularly evaluate and review the actions required. Consideration must be given to the temporal and spatial scale action so that the ecosystem being managed. Biodiversity: The variety of life forms represented by plants, animals and other organisms and microorganisms, the genes that they contain, and the ecosystems and ecosystem processes of which they form a part.

Catchments: that area of land determined by topographic features within which

rainfall will contribute to runoff at a particular point.

Ecosystem: means a dynamic complex of plant, animal and micro-organism

communities and their non-living environment interacting as a functional unit

Environment: The interaction of climate, geology, water, soil, topography and biota that provides landscapes that are comprised of bioregions, ecosystems, catchments and land systems that may be natural and/or managed by people.

Landscape: A heterogeneous area of local ecosystems and land uses that is of sufficient size to achieve long term outcomes in the maintenance and recovery of species or ecological communities, or in the protection and enhancement of ecological and evolutionary processes. For the purposes of this Plan, landscapes include terrestrial environments, inland waters and coastal and marine systems.

Natural resources management: an approach to managing our environment that

strives to achieve a balance between our collective need for resources and the

needs of our environment. Natural resources include air, water, land, soil, plants,

animals and micro-organisms, and the ecosystems they form.

Water dependent ecosystem: Those parts of the environment, the species

composition and natural ecological processes, which are determined by the

permanent or temporary presence of flowing or standing water, above or below

ground. The in-stream areas of rivers, riparian vegetation, springs, wetlands,

floodplains, estuaries and lakes are all water-dependent ecosystems.


Appendix B – Abbreviations

AWNRMB Alinytjara Wilurara NRM Board

BoM Bureau of Meteorology

CFS Country Fire Service

DEH Department for Environment and Heritage

DEWHAA Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts

DPC Department of the Premier and Cabinet

DTED Department of Trade and Economic Development

DTEI Department for Transport Energy and Infrastructure

DWLBC Department of Water Land and Biodiversity Conservation (DWLBC)

EPA Environment Protection Authority (SA)

EPNRMB Eyre Peninsula Natural Resources Management Board

MERI Monitoring, Evaluation, Reporting and Improvement

NGOs Non-Government Organisations

Planning SA Department of Planning and Local Government

PIRSA Primary Industries and Resources, South Australia

RDB Regional Development Board

SASP South Australia’s Strategic Plan 2007

SA Water South Australian Water Corporation

NYNRMB Northern and Yorke Natural Resources Management Board

managing our resources final 01.05.09€¦ · managing our resources (this volume) is the strategic...

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