Nambucca Landcare run an Indian Myna Program in the Nambucca Valley in conjunction with the Nambucca Shire Council. Please contact the Nambucca Valley Landcare office at Bowraville for more information on available traps to lend. Or if you would like to make your own trap please see below for Cage Plans.
Whether you are thinking of taking up rural life on the mid north coast of NSW, or have already done so, it is often hard to know where to turn for information. There is an enormous amount of material available but unfortunately it is scattered across many organisations and in many formats.
The Rural Landholders Resource Kit pulls together basic information relevant to living on the land that is normally scattered across organisations in to an easy to use guide for landholders in the Nambucca, Macleay and Hastings valleys.
The kit briefly describes the natural resources (soils, water, native vegetation, pastures) and major factors that impact on them (climate, drought, fire, weeds) specific to our area, and also provides a guide to more detailed information to help you better understand your land and your responsibilities.
The Nambucca Valley Planting and Vegetation Guide is a free educational resource for urban, peri-urban and rural landholders for the selection and planting natives in all types of plantings areas and goals - for example riparian zones, screening and wind breaks, or native bird attraction . The guide also covers legislation, rare, threatened and protected species, weed identification and suitable native replacements.
The guide was funded through the Australian Government. Copies are available at the Nambucca Valley Landcare office.
Nambucca Valley Landcare shared a wonderful morning with local schools to celebrate NAIDOC week. We had all things koalas - information to share, colouring in, headbands and a tree give away for all students.
We also managed to plant 50 lomandras along South Creek to support the plantings we did there last year with the students.
A Hidden Foe: Your Guide to Identifying and Removing African Olive (Olea europaea subsp. cuspidata)
Introduction
The African Olive may sound like a plant of cultural or culinary interest, but in reality, it's a significant invasive species that poses a threat to the ecosystems of the Nambucca Valley. Native to Africa, this species is particularly hardy and can thrive in various conditions, outcompeting local flora.
Identification Guide
Key Features
Oval, leathery leaves that are dark green on top and silvery underneath
Small, creamy-white flowers
Fruits resemble small olives, changing from green to black as they mature
Look-alikes
Can be confused with native olives; however, the leathery texture of the leaves is a distinguishing feature.
Habitat
African Olive prefers woodland and scrub areas but can also thrive in open fields and disturbed lands.
Impact on Local Ecosystem
- Flora: Competes with and displaces native plants.
- Fauna: Affects native animal habitats by creating dense thickets.
- Economic: Landholders may find the plant costly and challenging to manage effectively.
Removal Methods
- Mechanical: Young plants can be removed by hand, while older trees may require chainsaws.
- Chemical: Herbicides such as glyphosate can be effective when applied correctly.
Safety Precautions
Always wear appropriate protective gear, including gloves and eye protection.
Keep children and pets away from areas where chemicals are being applied.
Disposal
Securely bag all removed plant matter and dispose of it in a designated invasive species disposal facility.
Prevention
Regular property inspections and early removal are key.
Consider using native plants that can compete effectively against African Olive.
Collaborative Efforts
Community-led initiatives and government programs are often available to help manage invasive species like the African Olive. Participation can offer added resources and expertise.
Conclusion
The African Olive may seem innocuous but is a significant threat to native ecosystems in the Nambucca Valley. Proper identification and immediate action are crucial to mitigating its impact.
The Subtle Saboteur: Identifying and Eradicating Camphor Laurel (Cinnamomum Camphora)
Introduction
Camphor Laurel, or Cinnamomum camphora, is a tree native to Asia that has found its way into various parts of Australia, including the Nambucca Valley. What may seem like a benign or even attractive tree is, in fact, a serious invasive species with the power to displace native flora and disrupt local ecosystems.
Identification Guide
Key Features
Glossy, waxy leaves that are elliptical or oval in shape
Strong camphor smell when leaves are crushed
Small white flowers and berry-like fruit
Look-alikes
Can be confused with some native laurels; the camphor smell when leaves are crushed is a clear identifier.
Habitat
This invasive tree can adapt to a variety of environments but is most commonly found along waterways, open fields, and disturbed lands.
Impact on Local Ecosystem
- Flora: Displaces native trees and vegetation by outcompeting them for resources.
- Fauna: Its leaves and berries can be toxic to some native animals.
- Economic: Control and removal can be both time-consuming and costly for local landholders.
Removal Methods
- Mechanical: Small trees can be hand-pulled, but larger specimens require machinery.
- Chemical: Herbicides like triclopyr can be effective, although they must be applied with care.
Safety Precautions
Wear gloves and safety goggles, especially when using chemical treatments.
Keep pets and children away from the area during removal.
Disposal
Removed trees should be securely bagged and taken to a designated disposal facility to prevent regrowth from cuttings or seeds.
Prevention
Regularly check your property, especially near waterways or disturbed areas.
Consider planting native species that can compete with Camphor Laurel.
Collaborative Efforts
Local conservation organisations and government bodies often run removal programs focused on invasive species, including Camphor Laurel. These programs can provide valuable experience and resources.
Conclusion
Camphor Laurel is more than just a fragrant tree; it's an environmental issue that needs our attention. Proper identification and prompt action are essential steps in controlling this invasive species in the Nambucca Valley.
The Coastal Invader: How to Identify and Remove Bitou Bush (Chrysanthemoides Monilifera)
Introduction
Bitou Bush, scientifically known as Chrysanthemoides monilifera, is an invasive shrub that has become a significant problem along the coast of the Nambucca Valley. Originating from South Africa, this plant is notably hardy and fast-spreading, posing a substantial threat to native plant species and coastal ecosystems.
Identification Guide
Key Features
- Glossy green leaves that are spoon-shaped
- Yellow daisy-like flowers
- Seeds in small, fleshy fruits
Look-alikes:
Bitou Bush can be mistaken for some native daisies; the glossy, spoon-shaped leaves are unique identifiers.
Habitat
Bitou Bush predominantly invades coastal areas, sand dunes, and cliff tops but has also been found to spread inland into disturbed sites.
Impact on Local Ecosystem
- Flora: Dominates and replaces native vegetation, particularly in coastal ecosystems.
- Fauna: Alters the habitats of native fauna, affecting food and shelter sources.
- Economic: Control and eradication are often costly and labour-intensive for local landholders.
Removal Methods
- Mechanical: Physical removal by hand or machine, best done when the plant is young.
- Chemical: Herbicides like glyphosate can be applied, but care should be taken to protect surrounding native plants.
Safety Precautions
Always wear gloves and long sleeves to protect your skin.
When using chemical methods, use proper safety gear including eye protection.
Disposal
The removed plants should be bagged securely and disposed of in a designated area to prevent reseeding.
Prevention
Early detection and rapid action are key to preventing a Bitou Bush invasion.
Use native plants in your landscaping to resist Bitou Bush encroachment.
Collaborative Efforts
Several local community groups and environmental agencies often run Bitou Bush removal programs. Your participation can be invaluable in these efforts.
Conclusion
Bitou Bush is a robust invader that poses a severe threat to the coastal ecosystems of the Nambucca Valley. Identifying and removing this invasive species is crucial for the health and sustainability of our local environment.
Nambucca Valley Landcare recently hosted two riparian habitat workshops on behalf of North Coast Local Land Services https://www.facebook.com/northcoastlocallandservices
We had almost 50 local landholders come along and share a wonderful learning experience. We inspected fillets and bed controls and learnt about best practice river restoration and the benefits that come with having a healthy, fenced off riparian zone.
If you came to the workshops and didn't get to fill in a feedback form, you will find one here amongst the photos. Please support LLS by filling it in. Click here or scan the QR code in the photos. https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/5829394/feedback
A big thank you to the presenters for sharing their time and expertise and the venues for hosting our workshops.
Tackling the Thorny Issue: A Comprehensive Guide to Identifying and Removing Lantana (Lantana Camara)
Lantana Camara, commonly known simply as Lantana, is a flowering shrub that originated from Central and South America. It has made its way into the Nambucca Valley, wreaking havoc on native ecosystems. This hardy and adaptive plant has become a significant problem, affecting both biodiversity and local agriculture.
Identification Guide
Key Features:
- Vibrant coloured flowers, usually pink, yellow, or orange
- Opposite leaves that are rough to the touch
- A strong, pungent smell when leaves are crushed
Look-alikes:
- May be confused with some native shrubs; however, the strong smell when leaves are crushed is a good distinguishing feature.
Habitat
Lantana prefers open woodlands, pastures, and even disturbed sites such as roadsides. It's adaptable and can thrive in a range of soil types.
Impact on Local Ecosystem
- Flora: Displaces native plants by forming dense thickets
- Fauna: Toxic to livestock when consumed
- Economic: High cost for landholders in control and removal efforts
Removal Methods
- Mechanical: Hand-pulling for small infestations, but be cautious of its thorny stems.
- Chemical: Herbicides such as glyphosate are effective but may also harm non-target plants.
Safety Precautions
- Wear heavy-duty gloves to avoid thorns.
- If using chemical methods, follow all safety guidelines and wear appropriate protective gear.