South Australian Arid Lands State and Condition reporting South Australia 2014

(1)

NATURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

South Australian Arid Lands State and Condition reporting South Australia 2014

Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources

May, 2015

(2)

Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources GPO Box 1047, Adelaide SA 5001

Telephone National (08) 8463 6946 International +61 8 8463 6946 Fax National (08) 8463 6999 International +61 8 8463 6999

Website www.environment.sa.gov.au

Disclaimer

The Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources and its employees do not warrant or make any representation regarding the use, or results of the use, of the information contained herein as regards to its correctness, accuracy, reliability, currency or otherwise. The

Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources and its employees expressly disclaims all liability or responsibility to any person using the information or advice. Information contained in this document is correct at the time of writing.

This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

To view a copy of this license, visit http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/.

Contacts

Team Leader; Evaluation and Reporting, Glen Scholz, e: [email protected] Principal Advisor, Evaluation and Reporting, Brad Page, e: [email protected]

(3)

5.1 How many NRM boards have conservation goals in their regional NRM plans? (statewide report) 16 5.2 How many of our Structure Plans include native vegetation maps? (statewide report) 17 5.3 Are the Planning Strategy for South Australia and regional NRM Board priorities well aligned? (statewide) 18

6 Maintain the productive capacity of our resources 19

6.1 Are our groundwater resources being sustainably used? 20

6.2 Are surface water resources being used within their allocated limits? (statewide report) 21 6.5 Are the water levels and salinity of our prescribed groundwater resources improving? 22 6.6 Is the quality of the water from the River Murray improving for recreation, irrigation and treatment prior to

drinking? (statewide report) 23

6.7 Is the productivity of our primary industries improving? 24

6.8 Are our recreational and commercial marine fish stocks being used sustainably? (statewide report) 25 6.9 Are practices that lead to improved management of natural resources being adopted? (statewide report) 26

6.10 How many people visit regional South Australia? 27

6.11 How many people visit parks? 28

6.12 How much carbon is stored in our trees? (statewide report) 29

6.13 How much carbon is stored in our soils? (statewide report) 30

8 Increase extent & improve condition of native vegetation 31

8.1 Is the condition of our native vegetation improving? (statewide report) 32

8.2 Are the extent and patchiness of our native vegetation improving? 33

8.3 How much of our native vegetation is protected? 34

9 Improve the condition of terrestrial aquatic ecosystems 35

9.1 What is the ecological condition of our rivers, streams and drains? 36

10 Improve condition of coastal and marine ecosystems 37

10.4 Are the extent and condition of our saltmarsh improving? 38

10.6 Is the condition of our estuaries improving? (statewide report) 39

10.7 Are South Australia’s marine parks effective in protecting marine habitats and species? (statewide) 40

(4)

11 Increase understanding of the condition of landscapes (geologically and culturally important features) 41

11.1 Is the condition of our geological features improving? 42

11.2 Are landscapes that are culturally important to Aboriginal communities being managed appropriately? 43 12 Improve the conservation status of species and ecological communities 44 12.1 How many of our species are extinct or threatened with extinction? 45 12.2 How many of our ecological communities are extinct or threatened with extinction? 46 12.3 Are activities being undertaken to conserve our threatened plants and animals? 47 12.4 Are activities being undertaken to conserve our threatened ecological communities? 48 13 Limits the establishment of pests and diseases and reduce the impacts of existing pests 49

13.1 What are the distribution and abundance of weeds? 50

13.2 What are the distribution and abundance of pest animals? 51

13.3 What are the distribution and abundance of aquatic pests? (statewide report) 52 13.4 How are diseases affecting our aquatic species? (statewide report) 53 13.5 How are diseases and invertebrate pests affecting our crops? (statewide report) 54

13.6 How are diseases affecting our livestock? (statewide report) 55

13.7 How are diseases affecting our native plants and animals? (statewide report) 56 13.8 Are control programs focused on high priority weeds and pest animals? 57

(5)

Summary

In South Australia, natural resources are central to our way of life, and to the success and productivity of our tourism and primary industries.

Land managers, with support from government agencies, NRM boards, industry bodies and conservation groups, are always looking to adopt more sustainable resource management practices.

To help guide future management, the report cards in this document summarise the trends in condition of our natural resources following the methods outlined in the NRM Reporting Framework. Each report card focusses on a single

“representative measure” from the State NRM Plan and is generated using the best available information.

Report cards are presented at statewide and NRM regional scales. The report cards use a consistent format, whi ch includes an introduction, a section on trends, a description of the current condition of the resource or management issue, and a score of information reliability.

The trend is typically categorised as either “getting better”, “getting worse” or “stable” based on information collected over the last 5 years. The current condition of the resource or the management issue is categorised as “good”, “fair” or “poor”

based on the most recent information collected. The score for the reliability of the information is based on the applicability of the information presented, the duration since it was collected, and the spatial coverage of the information.

For more details on the sources of information, indicators and information processing methods, please read the additional information linked at the bottom of each report card.

3

(6)

1 Ensure people are better informed and improve capacity in NRM decision making

We all have a stake in the health and sustainability of our natural environment.

Each NRM Board has a role to plan, provide leadership and involve the community in sustainable management of natural resources; to engage the community and help to provide the knowledge and skills for everyone to take part in managing our natural and cultural assets.

The following 2 snapshots address Guiding Target 1 from the State NRM Plan: Ensure people are better informed and improve capacity in NRM decision making. Snapshots are based on regional information.

1.1 How are we engaging people to improve awareness of natural resource management issues and priorities?

1.2 How many stakeholders are contributing to NRM projects?

(7)

This report is a work in progress. As resource monitoring improves, so too will our ability to describe trends in condition.

Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Australia. © Crown in right of the State of South Australia.

SA Arid Lands NRM Region

2014 Regional Snapshot

How are we engaging people to improve awareness of natural resource management issues and priorities?

We all have a stake in maintaining the health and sustainability of our natural resources – our plants, animals, soil and water.

Participation in learning activities improves the practices, skills and knowledge of landholders, volunteers and community members, and leads to improved land management and

environmental awareness.

We engage land holders and the community through activities such as field days and workshops, and by distributing educational materials, such as factsheets and guides. Topics covered include pest plant and animal control, threatened species and habitat protection, bushfire prevention, re- vegetation, grazing improvement practices, and other water and land management practices.

For more information on regional programs to improve awareness of natural resource management issues and priorities, please refer to the NRM Board website.

State target

Ensure people are better informed and improve capacity in NRM decision making

Trends (2010-13) Stable The number of training events declined, but educational materials produced is increasing

Over the last 4 years, the number of learning activities (training events plus educational material) was stable in the SA Arid Lands NRM region (map above).

The number of natural resource management training events have decreased and the number of education material increased (graph on right).

Where we are at (2013) Fair More information on awareness and participation is required

In 2013, the SA Arid Lands NRM region conducted 24 training events and produced 41 different educational products. More information on awareness and participation is required.

Primary producers manage 60 per cent of the land in South Australia, so they play a critical role in managing our natural resources. The Australian Bureau of Agriculture and Resource Economics and Sciences found that South Australian land holders improved their land management practices when they participated in learning activities, but awareness of these activities varied widely. Landholders were most familiar with the National Landcare Program (91 per cent awareness), but only 13 per cent were aware of Caring for our Country.

The Government of South Australia is collaborating with Primary Producers SA, NRM boards, and NRM agencies to raise awareness of, and tailor natural resources management services and activities to the needs of farming communities.

Reliability of information Information is not standardised, nor collected across all NRM regions Further information: Technical information for this report, Agriculture and NRM Action plan

Trends in the number of NRM learning activities

0 20 40 60 80

2010 2011 2012 2013

Number of learning activities Training events

Educational material

(8)

2014 Regional Snapshot

How many stakeholders are contributing to NRM projects?

Many organisations and individuals work and invest in managing our natural resources. To coordinate these efforts, all partners work towards a shared vision, which is outlined in each regional NRM plan. NRM boards develop these plans for the use and protection of natural resources in partnership with land holders, community groups, industries, government agencies, non-government organisations, researchers and Aboriginal people.

These partnerships bring together people, networks and resources to deliver projects and maximise the pools of knowledge, skills, and technical and financial capacity.

Most of these projects are funded by the Australian Government, but diverse stakeholder contributions and participation are integral to the project delivery. This report summarises the number of stakeholders, and the number and type of groups involved in NRM projects.

State target

Ensure people are better informed and improve capacity in NRM decision making

Trend (2010-13) Stable The number of stakeholders and group types contributing to NRM projects are stable

Between 2010 and 2013, the number of stakeholders and group types were stable. Between 18 and 24 stakeholders from 9 different group types have contributed to NRM projects each year. A small number of stakeholders can achieve good resource management outcomes, but better outcomes are typically achieved if more stakeholders work together.

Where we are at (2013) Good On average, individual projects included 5 stakeholders from 4 different group types

In the SA Arid Lands NRM region in 2013, the most common stakeholders in NRM projects were private land holders, NRM groups, government agencies, and Aboriginal groups (graph on right). Government agencies were typically the Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources and the Department of Primary Industries and Regions SA.

In 2013, there were 9 NRM projects in the region and these engaged a total of more than 22 stakeholders, from 9 different group types (graph on right). On average, individual projects were partnered by 5 stakeholders from 4 different group types.

Each NRM region has a different strategy to increase and report about its stakeholder base. Not all stakeholders nor their contribution to the delivery of projects are captured in the available data. Future report cards will provide more accurate information on stakeholder’s contributions.

Reliability of information Excellent

Further information: Technical information for this report, Partnerships in regional NRM, Stakeholder identification and segmentation

0 20 40 60 80 100

Land holders NRM groups Government agencies Aboriginal groups Non-government organisations Community groups Industry groups Researchers Schools

Type of groups and the percentage of projects they contribute to in the SA Arid Lands NRM region

Trend in the number of stakeholders contributing

(9)

2 Involve more people in the sustainable management of natural resources

We all have a stake in the health and sustainability of our natural environment.

Each NRM Board has a role to plan, provide leadership and involve the community in sustainable management of natural resources. In particular, NRM boards emgage with local Ab original communities, who are the traditional managers of our natural resources. Training events and volunteer opportunities engage the community and help to provide the knowledge and skills for everyone to take part in managing our natural and cultural as sets.

The following 3 snapshots address Guiding Target 2 from the State NRM Plan: Improve more people in the sustainable management of natural resources. Snapshots are based on regional information.

2.1 How many volunteers are involved in natural resource management?

2.2 How many Aboriginal people are involved in NRM?

2.3 How many people are involved in NRM training activities?

7

(10)

2014 Regional Snapshot

How many volunteers are involved in natural resource management?

We all have a stake in maintaining the health and sustainability of our natural resources – our plants, animals, soil and water.

One way of engaging and educating people about our natural resources is to provide

opportunities to volunteer on natural resource management projects. Volunteer projects improve the sustainability of our natural resources and provide opportunities for people to network, learn new skills and improve their physical, mental and social wellbeing.

In the SA Arid Lands NRM region, volunteers are involved in projects on both private and public land, including national parks, conservation parks and reserves. Volunteers assist with re- vegetation, soil and land management, native animal and plant surveys, fire management, trail maintenance, weed and pest animal control, heritage site restoration, public education, fundraising and project administration.

State target

Involve more people in the sustainable management of natural resources

Trend Unknown Trends in volunteer conservation activities will be available in the future

Future reporting will track trends in the number of volunteer groups and volunteer hours in natural resource management projects, inside and outside parks (see graphs on right).

Where we are at (2013) Fair A total of 8 volunteer groups spent nearly 7,000 hours volunteering on natural resource management projects

A survey undertaken by Australian Bureau of Statistics found that more than 60,000 South Australians (about 2.2 per cent) volunteered on natural resource management projects in 2012. These projects included those coordinated or underta ken by private landholders, non-government organisations, and government agencies.

In the South Australian Arid Lands NRM regions in 2013, around 100 people from 8 volunteer groups spent nearly 7,000 hours

volunteering on natural resource management projects coordinated or funded by the Government of South Australia and NRM Boards.

Most of this volunteer effort was spent on activities outside of parks.

Reliability of information Good

Further information:

Technical information for this report, SA Volunteer Strategy 0 5 10

2012 2013

Number of volunteer groups

0 2 4 6 8

2013 Number of volunteer hours (x 1000)

Trend in volunteer involvement

(11)

This report is a work in progress. As monitoring improves, so too will our ability to describe trends.

SA public sector target 0

5 10 15

2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Aboriginal employees as a percentage of all employees

2014 Regional Snapshot

How many Aboriginal people are involved in NRM?

The protection and management of natural resources have been traditional responsibilities of Aboriginal people for tens of thousands of years. Despite widespread changes to Australia over the last 200 years, healthy natural resources remain critical to the spiritual, social, cultural and economic wellbeing of Aboriginal people.

This report tracks Aboriginal involvement in natural resource management through participation in projects, boards, committees, workshops and employment with the Department of

Environment, Water and Natural Resources (DEWNR).

The 2011 Australian Bureau of Statistics census indicates that over 1,000 Aboriginal people live in the SA Arid Lands NRM region – about 6.4 per cent of the population.

In South Australia, the unemployment rate of Aboriginal people was about three times higher than for non-Aboriginal people between 2005-11. The Government of South Australia aims to increase Aboriginal employment in all public sector agencies to at least 2 per cent across all levels.

DEWNR has an additional target of at least 3 per cent.

State target

Trend (2008-13) Variable In this NRM region, Aboriginal employment is increasing within DEWNR. More information is needed to report trends in Aboriginal participation in NRM.

From 2008-13, DEWNR exceeded the Aboriginal employment targets of 2 per cent (public sector target, graph on right) and 3 per cent (DEWNR target) with the South Australian Arid Lands NRM region.

In 2013, 8 Aboriginal people were employed by DEWNR (11 per cent of staff) in partnership with the SA Arid Lands NRM Board.

Where we are at (2013) On track Aboriginal employment within DEWNR is 11 per cent in this NRM region.

More information is needed to report Aboriginal participation rates in NRM.

The knowledge of Aboriginal people guides natural resource management through their participation in boards, committees and workshops. The SA Arid Lands NRM Board has 1 member who is Aboriginal. Co-management boards and committees that manage natural resources are attended by 28 core members and 28 deputy members, all of whom are Aboriginal, and there is an Aboriginal member on all 6 district groups in the NRM region.

The collection of information on participation in NRM is not standardised and people’s heritage is not always recorded, so the following summaries underestimate actual participation rates. In 2013, 44 Aboriginal people volunteered in field activities, supported by the NRM Board, DEWNR and the Australian Government. 14 Aboriginal people participated in resource management workshops and field days. In 2013, projects supported improvements to 4 properties managed by Aboriginal people in the NRM region.

The Australian Government’s 2009 Invest Action Plan highlights that increasing Aboriginal employment and broader participation in the natural resource management sector requires long-term funding and support, particularly for career-path opportunities.

Reliability of information Excellent for Aboriginal employment. Participation data are not standardised.

Further information: Technical information for this report, The National agreement to close the gap in Aboriginal disadvantage, and a report on the benefits of Aboriginal engagement in the natural resource management sector

Trend in involvement of Aboriginal people in natural

resource management

DEWNR:

SA Arid Lands NRM region

(12)

2014 Regional Snapshot

How many people are involved in NRM training activities?

An involved and informed community is essential to care for our natural and cultural resources.

Training in natural resource management aims to improve the knowledge and skills of landholders, volunteers and community members to improve environmental awareness and resource

management.

Volunteers and staff from government and non-government organisations run a range of training courses, workshops and field days to help landholders, volunteers and community members improve their knowledge of sustainable management practices, and to promote awareness of environmental issues.

Training typically focuses on the needs of landholders and the community, with courses often covering pest plant and animal control, threatened species and habitat protection, re-vegetation, bushfire prevention, grazing improvement practices, and other water and land management practices. Other training events focus on improving environmental awareness of the broader community, students and teachers.

State target

Trend Unknown Trends in participation in NRM training will be available in the future Trends in participation in NRM training are not known. Information on the level of participation in events such as seminars, field days and workshops in NRM will be available in the future.

Where we are at (2012) Fair

At least 2,441 people participated in natural resource management training events such as seminars, field days and workshops. More information about participation in training is required.

Reliability of information Good. Training information is not standardised across NRM regions.

Technical information for this report ,South Australia’s Strategic Plan, South Australia’s Strategic Plan survey 2012

The Government of South Australia and NRM Board members regularly consult with the community to assess their needs and provide natural resource management information, research and practices.

Each region has different strategies to address natural resource management training needs, and the collection of information on training participation is not standardised across the state.

Information from the South Australian Arid Lands NRM region indicates that in 2012 at least 2,441 people participated in training events such as seminars, field days and workshops. A survey undertaken in 2012 to assess progress against South Australia’s Strategic Plan showed that training events in nature conservation were attended by about 17 per cent of people in the NRM region.

It is clear that the available information underestimates training participation rates across the region.

Trend in involvement in NRM training activities

(13)

4 Improve capacity of individuals and community to respond to climate change

Over the last century in South Australia average temperatures have increased by nearly one degree Celsius, autumn rainfall has declined, and globally the sea level has risen by 17 centimetres. These trends are expected to continue and to increasingly impact the infrastructure, industries and natural resources that support our economy, health and wellbeing.

Research is focused on improving our understanding of the consequences of climate change, to help plan for potential impacts and help us adapt.

The next 3 snapshots address Guiding Target 4 from our State NRM Plan: Improve capacity of individuals and community to respond to climate change. Snapshots are based on statewide and regional information.

4.1 How many South Australians understand the causes and consequences of climate change? (statewide report)

4.2 How many climate change adaptation plans have been completed?

4.3 How good is the scientific understanding of the causes and consequences of climate change?

11

(14)

2013 State Report Card

How many South Australians understand the causes and consequences of climate change?

The heat wave that occurred in South Australia in 2013 was a record breaker. At times,

temperatures in parts of the state were close to 50 degrees Celsius. Extreme events like this are predicted to occur more often.

Understanding the impacts of climate change will help the community be better prepared for more frequent and severe weather events, which are consequences of climate change.

The Government of South Australia, local Councils and industries are already developing policies and investing significantly to address the impacts of climate change. People’s perceptions about climate change can influence their support for climate change policies. Improved understanding of the causes and consequences of climate change could lead to better acceptance of clima te change adaptation plans.

State target

Improve capacity of individuals and community to respond to climate change

Trend (2010-12) Getting worse Ongoing effort is needed to improve people’s understanding of climate change, its causes and its consequences

CSIRO surveys indicate that 89 per cent of South Australians think that the climate is changing. Although almost all experts believe humans are causing the current climate change, the perceptions of the broader community are split between human and natural causes.

Just under half of the people in South Australia think climate change is mainly caused by human activities; a slight decrease since 2010 (graph to right).

Where we are at (2012) Fair 89 per cent of South Australians think the climate is changing, only 49 per cent believe it is mostly due to human activities

CSIRO surveys show that about 60 per cent of South Australians think the severity and frequency of record breaking weather events have increased.

The survey allows comparison of the opinions of people in Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges NRM region with people in regional South Australia. Relatively more people from regional South Australia think extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and severe. Regional South Australians are also more likely to think that these extreme weather events are a consequence of human activities, rather than natural fluctuations (graph on right).

Further information :

Technical information for this report card, Australian attitudes to Climate Change

Trends in community understanding of

climate change

Not happening Unsure Human activities

Natural fluctuations

0 20 40 60

2010 2011 2012

South Australians' opinion of the cause of climate change (percentage of population)

(15)

2014 Regional Snapshot

Has the climate change adaptation plan been completed?

Scientists project that climate change will cause more heatwaves and droughts, more intense bush fires, floods and storms, and a rise in sea levels.

These changes will affect infrastructure, industries and natural resources that are key to SA Arid Lands NRM region’s economy, as well as community health and wellbeing.

Careful planning to minimise negative impacts and identify emerging opportunities will improve the resilience of the environment and economy. Many industry groups and land managers are already taking steps to improve energy and water efficiency to help adapt.

The Climate Change Adaptation Framework was established by the Government of South Australia in 2012 to provide guidance on the development of adaptation plans. The framework emphasises the importance of leadership and strategic direction, evidence-based policies, sustainable landscapes and healthy, prosperous communities.

State target

Trend (2012-14) Getting better There has been progress made in the Climate Change Adaptation Plan Since the Climate Change Adaptation Framework was established in 2012, there has been progress in developing the Climate Chan ge Adaptation Plan associated with this NRM region (map above).

The Far North and Aboriginal Lands Climate Change Adaptation Project covers the SA Arid Lands NRM and Alinytjara Wilurara NRM regions. The development of each Adaptation Plan requires going through four steps, which are outlined in the Climate Change

Adaptation Framework. First is to engage stakeholders, then to undertake a risk assessment of climate impacts on natural resources and assets, known as an integrated vulnerability assessment. This assessment forms the foundation of the Adaptation Plan.

Where we are at (2014) Good The Adaptation Plan is on track for completion by 2016

As of December 2014, the Far North and Aboriginal Lands Climate Change Adaptation Project has commenced stakeholder engagement (figure on right). The next step will be to undertake the integrated vulnerability assessment.

The Adaptation Plan is on track for completion by 2016.

Further information :

Technical information for this report Adapting to climate change in South Australia

Trend in development of climate change

adaptation plans

(16)

2014 Regional Snapshot

How good is the scientific understanding of the causes and consequences of climate change?

In 2012–13, Australia experienced its hottest summer, hottest month, hottest day and longest heatwave. In the same year, atmospheric carbon approached 400 parts per million – 40 per cent higher than 100 years ago and a level not seen for millions of years.

In the SA Arid Lands NRM region, average temperatures are projected to increase by

1.8–3.5 degrees Celsius by 2070 (map on right). We can also expect longer and hotter heatwaves, which will result in increased heat-related illness, hospital admittance and mortality rates.

Rainfall is projected to change in the region and could decrease by 30 per cent or increase by 15 per cent by 2070 (map on right). Changes in rainfall could reduce the frequency of groundwater recharge events, which may impact the level of localised aquifers. The Great Artesian Basin is unlikely to be impacted by changes to recharge frequency in South Australia because most of the water flows from across state boarders.

Increasing temperatures and decreasing rainfall are likely to degrade the habitats of some native plants and animals and improve conditions for some pest animals and weeds.

This report summarises research by the Australian Bureau of Meteorology, the Government of South Australia, the Australian Government and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.

The views of the South Australian public are addressed in a separate report.

State target

Trend (1990–2013) Getting better Scientific understanding of the causes and the projected impacts of climate change is improving

Scientific understanding of climate change is improving, and increased data is resulting in increased certainty in projections of changes and impacts.

Observations of rising atmospheric carbon and temperatures

contribute to improving the understanding climate change (graphs on right).

Where we are at (2013) Good Research is focused on understanding the consequences of climate change to help us plan and adapt

The warming of the climate is unequivocal and human influence on the climate system is clear. Research is currently focused o n improving our understanding of the consequences of climate change to help plan for potential impacts and help us adapt.

Policies, such as those under the Climate Change Adaptation Framework, are being developed to help South Australians prepare for the projected changes to our climate.

Technical information for this report, Bureau of Meteorology data and information on Climate Change

Projected changes in temperatures and rainfall

+2.4^oC -9%

-1.5 -1 -0.5 0 0.5 1

1910 1930 1950 1970 1990 2010 Australian average temperature change (degrees Celsius)

300 320 340 360 380 400

1958 1970 1980 1990 2000 2013 Atmospheric carbon dioxide level (parts per million)

Best estimate:

(17)

5 All NRM planning and investment decisions take into account ecological, social and production

considerations

South Australia’s economic prosperity and community well-being are underpinned by policies that support environmental sustainability and resilience to climate change. An effective and integrated natural resources management and land use planning system is required to respond to current and future challenges.

The Planning Strategy for South Australia sets out long-term visions for land use and development across the state.

The Strategy links broad, statewide planning to the needs of local councils. It also describes planning initiatives that align with, or strengthen other natural resource management legislation and policies.

Through partnership with communities, industries, government agencies, non-government organisations and Aboriginal people, NRM boards develop a vision for the use and protection of natural resources. This vision is outlined in regional NRM plans. Most NRM boards are adopting a broad, ‘ecosystems approach’ to natural resource management. By evaluating and reporting on the effectiveness of their natural resources management programs and policies, NRM boards are able to refine their goals and focus their investments to impr ove conservation outcomes.

Review of the Planning Strategy for South Australia will improve alignment of NRM priorities and long -term challenges of climate change.

The following 3 snapshots address Guiding Target 5 from our State NRM Plan: All NRM planning and investment decisions take into account ecological, social and production considerations. Snapshots are based on statewide information.

5.1 How many NRM boards have conservation goals in their regional NRM plans? (statewide report) 5.2 How many of our Structure Plans include native vegetation maps? (statewide report)

5.3 Are the Planning Strategy for South Australia and regional NRM Board priorities well aligned?

(statewide report)

15

(18)

2014 State Report Card

How many NRM boards have conservation goals in their regional NRM plans?

Many organisations and individuals work and invest in the management of our natural resources.

To coordinate these efforts, Natural Resource Management (NRM) boards develop a vision for the use and protection of natural resources. These are outlined in regional NRM plans, which NRM boards develop in partnership with communities, industries, government agencies, non- government organisations, and Aboriginal communities.

Each NRM Board regularly evaluates how their plan was implemented and whether it achieved its goals. By evaluating and reporting on the effectiveness of their natural resources management programs and policies, NRM boards are able to refine their goals and focus their investments to improve conservation outcomes.

This report card summarises the improvements that have been made to the conservation goals in regional NRM plans.

State target

All NRM planning and investment decisions take into account ecological, social and production considerations

Trend (2004-14) Getting better

Since 2004, NRM boards have developed regional NRM plans that contain goals for improving the condition of natural resources. These plans are now being evaluated and updated to refine the goals.

Regional NRM plans were first developed by NRM boards in 2004 (figure on right). Each plan includes goals for the conservation of natural resources. The progress toward these goals is evaluated and reported on a regular basis.

Most NRM boards are adopting a broad, ‘ecosystems approach’ to natural resource management. Conservation goals are set by considering the NRM region as a landscape of linked ecosystems, rather than by evaluating the condition of individual natural resources.

Where we are at (2014) Good Two regional NRM boards have updated their plans and six NRM boards are revising their plans

In 2014, the Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges and SA Murray-Darling Basin NRM boards revised their regional NRM plans. The revised plans include information on the trends in the condition of natural resources. They also highlight issues that require management, and set specific

conservation goals at both regional and more local scales.

The six other NRM regions are in the early stages of revising their NRM plans (map on right). All NRM regions will have updated their plans by 2020.

The next round of reviews commences in 2023/24.

Further information: Technical information for this report card, Managing South Australia’s natural resources

Regional trends in the number of NRM boards with conservation goals in their regional plans

(19)

0 25 50 75 100

2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Percentage of Structure Plans with native vegetation maps

2014 State Report Card

How many of our Structure Plans include native vegetation maps?

South Australia's native vegetation - from small ground covers and native grasses to large trees and water plants - is fundamental to the health of our environment and the prosperity of our primary industries. Native vegetation protects our land and water from erosion and dry-land salinity, while improving our agricultural productivity and storing carbon. Native vegetation provides habitat for our native animals, places for recreation, gives our landscape its identity and is culturally important for Aboriginal communities.

In areas where populations are expected to grow, the Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure develops Structure Plans in partnership with government agencies, local councils and communities. Structure Plans guide the planning of services and infrastructure needed by the community and identify what land is available for industrial, commercial and residential

development.

Structure planning improves our ability to identify important areas of native vegetation early in the planning process and ensures that our growth has a minimal impact on our natural resources.

State target

Trend (2010-14) Getting better Native vegetation maps have been included in Structure Plans since 2010

The percentage of Structure Plans that include vegetation maps is increasing (graph on right).

Since the Planning Strategy for South Australia was developed in 2010, 70 per cent of Structure Plans have included native vegetation maps.

Native vegetation maps include areas of high value environmental significance, such as national parks and conservation reserves, vegetation heritage agreements and land containing high value native vegetation.

Where we are at (2014) Good There are native vegetation maps are in 9 of our 13 Structure Plans

Technical information for this report card, Structure planning information Native vegetation maps have been included in 9 of the 13 Structure Plans that have been developed since 2010 (map on right).

Most of the areas that are designated for future population and economic growth are located in the Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges NRM region.

Regional trends in the inclusion of vegetation maps in Structure Plans

2 of 3 1 of 2 2 of 2

2 of 2

1 of 2 1 of 1

0 of 1 N/A

Number of Structure Plans with native vegetation maps

(20)

2014 State Report Card

Are the Planning Strategy for South Australia and regional NRM Board priorities well aligned?

South Australia’s economic prosperity and community well-being are underpinned by policies that support environmental sustainability and resilience to climate change. An effective and integrated natural resources management and land use planning system is required to respond to current and future challenges.

The Planning Strategy for South Australia sets out long-term visions for land use and development across the state. The Planning Strategy provides the broad, statewide planning aims for

interpretation by Councils into local planning policy documents.

The Planning Strategy is made up of 8 volumes defined by geographical regions; a volume for metropolitan Adelaide and 7 volumes for regional South Australia. The Planning Strategy has been progressively developed since 2007 in consultation with regional NRM boards. It addresses environmental assets and systems, hazards and climate change through planning initiatives aimed to align with, or strengthen other natural resource management legislation and policies.

State target

Trend (2012-14) Getting better Since 2012, there has been an increased focus on integrating NRM priorities into the land use planning system

Since the State NRM Plan for South Australia was adopted in 2012, the review and implementation of the Planning Strategy has focussed on the management of water quality and supply, and the adoption of climate change adaptation and mitigation policies , including disaster resilience measures to improve bushfire and flood management.

The Planning Strategy also implemented land use policies that strengthen the protection of biodiversity and coastal assets.

Where we are at (2014) Good In 2015, the review of the Planning Strategy for South Australia will improve alignment with regional natural resource management priorities

The volumes of the Planning Strategy for South Australia will be reviewed in 2015. The review will be undertaken in consultation with NRM boards, and the Planning Strategy will be updated to reflect regional priorities. The review will improve alignment with natural resource management priorities, including more detailed consideration of long-term challenges such as climate change.

The revised Planning Strategy will improve public participation in the planning process and provide opportunities for members of the community to give informed and considered input.

Technical information for this report card, Planning Strategy for South Australia

Regional trends in the alignment of the Planning Strategy and

regional NRM plans

(21)

6 Maintain the productive capacity of our resources

The State NRM plan highlights the need for us to protect and manage natural resources while at the same time supporting industries and a healthy environment.

Helping to build sustainable communities is the cornerstone of effective natural resources manage ment, which relies on the involvement of the entire community.

The success of our agriculture, fisheries and forest industries depend upon the land, water and sea resources. Our natural resource management programs are a major underpinning of the product ivity of those industries

The following 12 snapshots address Guiding Target 6 from our State NRM Plan : Maintain the productive capacity of our resources. Snapshots are based on statewide and regional information.

6.1 Are our groundwater resources being sustainably used?

6.2 Are surface water resources being used within their allocated limits? (statewide report) 6.5 Are the water levels and salinity of our prescribed groundwater resources improving?

6.6 Is the quality of the water from the River Murray that we drink, swim in and irrigate with improving? (statewide report)

6.7 Is the productivity of our primary industries improving?

6.8 Are our recreational and commercial marine fish stocks being used sustainably? (statewide report) 6.9 Are practices that lead to improved management of natural resources being adopted? (statewide

report)

6.10 How many people visit regional South Australia?

6.11 How many people visit parks?

6.12 How much carbon is stored in our trees? (statewide report) 6.13 How much carbon is stored in our soils? (statewide report)

19

(22)

2014 Regional Snapshot

Are our groundwater resources being sustainably used?

The South Australian Arid Lands NRM region relies on groundwater for its town water supplies and agriculture industry. Groundwater also sustains a range of ecosystems.

Excessive use of groundwater can cause water levels to drop and salinity to increase, which can impact industries and degrade water-dependent ecosystems, particularly if climate change impacts on rainfall patterns and reduces the rainfall needed to refresh localised groundwater aquifers in the future.

The groundwater resources we rely on the most and those that were at the greatest risk of degradation are now prescribed with sustainable use limits defined in water allocation plans.

These plans ensure water resources will be able to provide for us in the future. There is one prescribed groundwater management area in the SA Arid Lands NRM region, the Far North Prescribed Wells Area (map below), which is made up of several groundwater resources. However the main aquifer, the Great Artesian Basin aquifer, is the only resource for which a sustainable limit for water use has been determined.

This report card assesses if the Far North groundwater resource is used within its sustainable limit, based on groundwater status reports and water allocation plans. The water levels and salinity of our groundwater resources are reported here.

State target

Maintain the productive capacity of our natural resources

Trend (2009-13) Stable The groundwater resource has been used within sustainable limits since 2009

Water use data are not available for all users of the Great Artesian Basin aquifer, however estimates of water use are within the sustainable limit established in the Water Allocation Plan for the Far North Prescribed Wells Area.

Where we are at (2013) Good The prescribed groundwater resource was estimated to have been used within sustainable limits

In 2013, in the South Australian Arid lands NRM region the Great Artesian Basin aquifer is estimated to have been used within its sustainable limit (map on right).

Managing our prescribed groundwater resources within their sustainable limits relies on consistent and timely measurements of rainfall, water levels, salinity and water use.

Reliability of information Very Good

Technical information for this reportand reports on the status of South Australian water resources

Trend in the use of prescribed groundwater resources

(23)

2014 State Report Card

Are surface water resources being used within their allocated limits?

Water is fundamental for our industries, our health and way of life, and our environment. Pressure on surface water resources is likely to increase due to projections of reduced rainfall and increased temperature associated with climate change, increased irrigation needs and population growth.

The surface water resources we rely on the most and those at the greatest risk of over use and ecosystem degradation have been prescribed with water allocation limits, which are defined in water allocation plans. There are 8 prescribed surface water resources in South Australia (shown on the map at the bottom).

This report card is based on surface water status reports and assesses whether the use of prescribed surface water resources is within the limits defined in water allocation plans.

This report does not assess the water requirements of aquatic ecosystems. Separate reports summarise the ecological condition of rivers, streams and drains, flows along and out the mouth of the River Murray, and the ecological condition and water quality of the Murray.

State target

Trend (2005–13) Variable Water use varies each year depending on the climate, but has been within limits for the 4 resources with available data

Where we are at (2013) Good Four of our prescribed surface water resources have been used within allocated limits. Water use data are not available for the other 4 resources.

The 4 prescribed surface water resources, which have estimated or metered water use information, were used within allocated limits in 2012-13 (map on right). Surface water use was 69 per cent of the water allocation limit from the River Murray resource, 89 per cent from the Clare Valley resource, 68 per cent from the Barossa resource and 64 per cent from the Marne Saunders resource.

No surface water use information (estimated or metered) is available for the Baroota, Morambro Creek, or the Eastern or Western Mount Lofty Ranges prescribed resources.

Reliability of information Good. Surface water use data are not available for 4 prescribed resources.

Further information: Technical information for this report card, the status of South Australian water resources Managing water use at sustainable levels

is important to maintain the productive capacity of surface water resources.

Water use varies in line with climate. For example, when we received above average rainfall, such as when the drought broke in 2010-11 (see maps on right) surface water use was lower.

In contrast, surface water use was higher when rainfall was below average. In the dry year of 2012-13 about 90 per cent of the allocation limit was used from the Clare Valley resource (see map below).

Regional trends in the use of prescribed surface water resources

(24)

[Grab your reader’s attention with a great quote from the document or use this space to emphasize a key point. To place this text box anywhere on the page, just drag it.]

2014 Regional Snapshot

Are the water levels and salinity of our prescribed groundwater resources improving?

The South Australian Arid Lands NRM region relies on groundwater for town water supplies and agriculture and mining industries. Groundwater also sustains a range of ecosystems, including the nationally significant Great Artesian Basin springs.

Groundwater is mostly recharged when rainfall percolates down through the soil to the watertable. Groundwater levels naturally change in response to seasonal rainfall, droughts and climate change. Excessive use can cause its levels to drop and salinity to increase, which can impact the communities, industries and ecosystems that are dependent on groundwater,

particularly if climate change impacts rainfall patterns and reduces the rainfall needed to recharge groundwater.

This report summarises whether changes in groundwater levels and salinity of prescribed groundwater resources are within acceptable limits. This report should be read alongside the report on the sustainable use of ground water resources.

State target

Trend (2010–13) Stable Salinity and groundwater levels are within acceptable limits in the Great Artesian Basin aquifer

In the SA Arid Lands NRM region, ground water is predominately sourced from the Great Artesian Basin aquifer, which is primarily recharged by rainfall along the western slopes of the Great Dividing Range in

Queensland and New South Wales, with minor localised recharge from rainfall in South Australia and Northern Territory. Groundwater levels and salinity vary in response to rainfall, which has declined across most of the recharge area (maps on right).

Since 2010, water levels and salinity in the Great Artesian Basin have varied within acceptable limits and remained stable over a long period of time. The Far North

prescribed groundwater resource has stable or improving water levels and salinity (map above), according to groundwater level and salinity reports.

Rainfall anomaly maps:

Where we are at (2013) Good The Great Artesian Basin aquifer is within acceptable limits

Based on changes in salinity and water levels between 2012 and 2013, the 2013 status of the Great Artesian Basin aquifer is good. Managing our groundwater resources relies on consistent and timely measurements of groundwater levels, salinity and water use.

Reliability of information Very Good

Technical information for this report and reports on the status of South Australian water resources

Trends in salinity and water levels for prescribed groundwater resources

How rainfall in the last 12 months compares to the last 113 years

How rainfall in the last 12 months compares to the last 10 years

(25)

2014 State Report Card

Is the quality of the water from the River Murray improving for recreation, irrigation and treatment prior to drinking?

The River Murray provides water for human communities, agriculture and fishing, and supports cultural heritage, recreation and tourism. The river also provides habitats for native plants, including floodplain trees, and animals such as birds, fish, frogs and invertebrates. They all depend on good water quality for their survival.

In 2014, the river supplied about 360 gigalitres of water to irrigators and 42 gigalitres of drinking water to people near Adelaide. The river also supplied 35 gigalitres of drinking water to the SA Murray–Darling Basin, South East, Northern and Yorke, and Eyre Peninsula NRM regions.

Water quality targets and guidelines have been set by the Government of South Australia and the Water Act 2007-Basin Plan 2012 for drinking, recreation, irrigation and flow management. In South Australia, water quality is monitored and managed by the Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources, Murray-Darling Basin Authority, EPA and SA Water, which also control flows, water treatment and some polluting activities. Pollutants enter the river through irrigation, septic tanks, drainage, storm water, vessels and farm runoff, and salt enters the river from groundwater.

Basin Plan targets did not exist until 2012. To provide historical context, this report tracks the number of targets that were met from 2008. This report should be read alongside others on the salt flushed from the Murray, the flows to support human communities and ecosystems, and the ecological condition of the river.

State target

Trend (2010–14) Stable

Overall, the number of water quality targets met each year has been stable. The number of targets met for irrigation has increased, the number for flow management has been stable, and the number for drinking water and recreation has decreased.

Water for drinking (prior to treatment) is managed to meet targets for salinity, clarity, alkalinity and dissolved carbon. If these targets are not met, the costs of treating water increase to ensure that it is safe to drink. Since 2004, targets for dissolved carbon, clarity and salinity have been met, but in some years the alkalinity has been too low.

Water for recreation has blue-green algae (Cyanobacteria) and other targets. Since 2010, targets for water acidity (pH) and temperature were met, but oxygen levels were lower than the recreational targets in some years (e.g. blackwater events 2010 and 2012).

Water for irrigation has salinity targets. The water at Murray Bridge was too salty between 2009–11, but all targets have been met since 2012. Flow management has salinity, oxygen and blue-green algae targets. Since 2008, targets for oxygen and most salinity targets have been met. Salinity has been too high at Milang.

Where we are at (2014) Good In 2014, three quarters of the water quality targets for drinking water, two-thirds for recreation, 87 per cent for flow management and all targets for irrigation were met

In 2014, three quarters of the drinking water targets were met – alkalinity was too low in 2014. Two-thirds of recreational water targets were met – oxygen levels did not meet the target. All targets for irrigation and almost all of the targets for flow management were met.

The Government of South Australia, SA Water, South Australian Murray-Darling Basin NRM Board, Murray-Darling Basin Authority and Commonwealth Environmental Water Office are working to improve water flows and quality for all river users, particularly in droughts.

Reliability of information Good

Further information: Technical information for this report card

0 50 100

2008 2010 2012 2014

Per cent of targets that were met (averaged over preceding 5 years)

Drinking water Recreation Flow management Irrigation

Trend in the percentage of River Murray water quality targets that were met

Basin Plan targets since 2012

(26)

0 100 200

1978 1990 2000 2010

Index of total factor productivity

0 50 100 150 200 250 300

2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

Percentage change in the number of livestock (using 2008 as a baseline) head of cattle

head of sheep

2014 Regional Snapshot

Is the productivity of our primary industries improving?

The success and productivity of South Australia’s agriculture and pastoral industries depend upon the health and sustainable management of our natural resources.

This report card uses Total Factor Productivity (TFP, calculated by ABARES) as a measure of the efficiency of our cropping ($2 million Gross Value of Production in 2011) and livestock ($132 million GVP) industries in the South Australian Arid Lands NRM region. TFP measures the values of the total goods that industries produce relative to inputs they use (e.g. labour, land and capital).

State target

Trend (1994–2010) Stable Cropping and livestock productivity was almost stable between 1994 and 2010 TFP is influenced by rainfall and demand for commodities, but investment in

pastoral management research and development drives long term trends. TFP increases (1978–2010) resulted from advances in technology in plant and animal breeding, advances in machinery and cell or rotational grazing

techniques. These changes have improved the condition of our land and water resources.

From 1978 to 2010, the TFP growth of our cropping and livestock industries averaged 0.8 per cent each year in the SA Arid Lands NRM region, less than the national average of 1.2 per cent (graph on right). TFP has dropped by a rate of 1.4 per cent each year between 1994 and 2010.

The NRM region experienced an extended drought during this time, which is likely to have affected productivity rates.

Where we are at (2013) Good The value of livestock and cropping production is at or near record highs To aid the interpretation of TFP, the graph on the right shows the total head of

cattle and sheep in the SA Arid Lands NRM region. The livestock industry has increased in production in recent years.

Pastoral and agricultural productivity in the NRM region is driven by climate.

Reduced rainfall and changing climate patterns is placing increased pressure on our land managers to maintain productivity and increase moisture efficiency.

It is not clear what will provide the next boost to productivity, but management of our natural resources remains important. Government and industry invest in research and development so that we can produce more with less and manage the impacts of land use planning, balance the need for land between

conservation and production, and maintain soil fertility. For example, the New Horizon program undertaking research to increase soil productivity.

Reliability of information Very good for our cropping and livestock industries

Further information: Technical information for this report, Why has productivity slowed since 1994?, How does climate affect productivity?, What drives productivity?

Trends in total factor productivity

(27)

2014 State Report Card

Are our recreational and commercial marine fish stocks being used sustainably?

Our fisheries produce premium seafood for local and export markets and feed for our

aquaculture industries. Fishing supports employment in the commercial, charter and recreational industries and related businesses and we value fishing for the social, cultural and health benefits it provides.

Commercial and recreational fisheries depend on healthy ecosystems. To ensure that wild fish stocks are used sustainably the Government controls the number of fish that can be caught and manages the impacts of fishing on marine ecosystems. Maintaining our wild fish stocks also relies on management of developments, water quality within catchments and marine pests.

This report card summarises the sustainability of our fish stocks based on whether they have adequate abundance, recruitment (number of new young fish that enter a stock in a given year) and control of fishing pressure. It should be read alongside other reports on marine ecosystems.

State target

Trend (2012–14) Stable The status of fish stocks between 2012–14 was stable. However the number of transitional-depleting stocks has increased.

The Australian fish stocks reports, PIRSA and SARDI classify stocks as sustainable, overfished, or transitional. Fish stocks in South Australia, have remained stable since 2012, despite an increase in number of transitional-depleting stocks, for which fishing pressure is too high. Transitional- depleting stocks can still be commercially exploited, but they require management, such as reducing fishing pressure and changing recreational size and bag limits, until the stock recovers.

In 2012, commercial fishers caught 47,000 tonnes of seafood, valued at $211 million (graph on right, which excludes the charter industry). Ninety per cent of both the total catch and value was from rock lobster, greenlip and blacklip abalone, king prawn, sardine and blue swimmer crab.

Over 90 per cent of South Australians live within 50 kilometres of the coast. A recreational fishing survey conducted by PIRSA indicates that about 1 in 6 South Australians went fishing in 2007.

Collectively, they fished for about 1 million days and targeted King George whiting, garfish, snapper, Australian herring, Australian salmon, southern calamari and blue swimmer crab. For these species, the recreational catch accounted for 19-50 per cent of the total annual catch.

Update

Where we are at (2014) Fair Out of 36 fish stocks, 15 are sustainable and 14 are transitional In 2014, 15 out of the 36 stocks were

classified as sustainable and 1 as transitional–recovering (table on right).

The 13 stocks that were classified as transitional–depleting are being managed to promote their recovery. For example, buy-backs of commercial netting licences and spatial netting closures have been used since 2005 to improve garfish stocks.

Seven fish stocks were regarded as undefined because there was not enough information for their classification.

Reliability of information Excellent for most of our marine fish stocks Further information: Technical information for this report card, Status of marine fish stocks in 2006, 2012, 2014

Trends in the sustainability of marine fish stocks

Sustainable Transitional - recovering Transitional - depleting Undefined

• Australian salmon (1 stock)

• Australian sardine (1 stock)

• Blacklip abalone (southern zone)

• Greenlip abalone (western zone)

• Blue swimmer crab (Spencer Gulf)

• Pipi (1 stock)

• King George whiting (west coast)

• Mulloway (Lakes and Coorong)

• King prawn (Spencer Gulf, west coast)

• Southern rock lobster (1 stock)

• Snapper (northern Gulf St Vincent)

• Southern calamari (1 stock)

• Yelloweye mullet (2 stocks)

• Blue swimmer crab (Gulf St Vincent)

• Blacklip abalone(western &

central zone)

• Greenlip abalone (central zone)

• Southern garfish (northern Spencer Gulf, northern Gulf St Vincent)

• Giant crab (1 stock)

• King George whiting (Gulf St Vincent, Spencer Gulf)

• King prawn (Gulf St Vincent)

• Snapper (southern & northern Spencer Gulf, south east, southern Gulf St Vincent)

• Blue swimmer crab (west coast)

• Mulloway (Marine Scalefish Fishery)

• Snapper (west coast)

• Southern garfish (west coast, southern Spencer Gulf, southern Gulf St Vincent, south-east)

South Australian Arid Lands State and Condition reporting South Australia 2014

NATURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT