NATURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
Kangaroo Island
State and Condition reporting South Australia 2014
Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources
May, 2015
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/.
© Crown in right of the State of South Australia, through the Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources 2014
Photo on front cover
Glossy black cockatoo, credit: DEWNR
Contacts
Team Leader; Evaluation and Reporting, Glen Scholz, e: [email protected] Principal Advisor, Evaluation and Reporting, Brad Page, e: [email protected]
Contents
Contents 1
Summary 3
1 Ensure people are better informed and improve capacity in NRM decision making 4 1.1 How are we engaging people to improve awareness of natural resource management issues and priorities? 5
1.2 How many stakeholders are contributing to NRM projects? 6
2 Involve more people in the sustainable management of natural resources 7
2.1 How many volunteers are involved in natural resource management? 8
2.2 How many Aboriginal people are involved in NRM? 9
2.3 How many people are involved in NRM training activities? 10
4 Improve capacity of individuals and community to respond to climate change 11 4.1 How many South Australians understand the causes and consequences of climate change? (statewide report) 12
4.2 How many climate change adaptation plans have been completed? 13
4.3 How good is the scientific understanding of the causes and consequences of climate change? 14 5 All NRM planning and investment decisions take into account ecological, social and production considerations 15 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? (statewide report) 20 6.2 Are surface water resources being used within their allocated limits? (statewide report) 21
6.3 Is irrigation efficiency improving in agricultural areas? 22
6.5 Are the water levels and salinity of our prescribed groundwater resources improving? (statewide report) 23 6.6 Is the quality of the water from the River Murray improving for recreation, irrigation and treatment prior to
drinking? (statewide report) 24
6.7 Is the productivity of our primary industries improving? (statewide report) 25 6.8 Are our recreational and commercial marine fish stocks being used sustainably? (statewide report) 26 6.9 Are practices that lead to improved management of natural resources being adopted? (statewide report) 27
6.10 How many people visit regional South Australia? 28
6.11 How many people visit parks? 29
6.12 How much carbon is stored in our trees? 30
6.13 How much carbon is stored in our soils? 31
7 Improve soil and land condition 32
7.1 How much of our agricultural land is protection from erosion? (statewide report) 33
7.2 Is soil acidity decreasing in our agricultural areas? 34
7.3 Is water-use efficiency improving in our agricultural areas? 35
7.4 Is soil fertility improving in our agricultural areas? (statewide report) 36
8 Increase extent & improve condition of native vegetation 37
8.1 Is the condition of our native vegetation improving? (statewide report) 38
8.2 Are the extent and patchiness of our native vegetation improving? 39
8.3 How much of our native vegetation is protected? 40
9 Improve the condition of terrestrial aquatic ecosystems 41
9.1 What is the ecological condition of our rivers, streams and drains? 42
10 Improve condition of coastal and marine ecosystems 43
10.1 Are the extent and condition of our seagrass improving? 44
10.2 Is the condition of our subtidal reefs improving? (statewide report) 45
10.4 Are the extent and condition of our saltmarsh improving? 46
10.5 Are the extent and condition of our coastal dunes improving? 47
10.6 Is the condition of our estuaries improving? 48
10.7 Are South Australia’s marine parks effective in protecting marine habitats and species? (statewide report) 49 11 Increase understanding of the condition of landscapes (geologically and culturally important features) 50
11.1 Is the condition of our geological features improving? 51
11.2 Are landscapes that are culturally important to Aboriginal communities being managed appropriately? 52 12 Improve the conservation status of species and ecological communities 53
12.1 How many of our species are extinct or threatened with extinction? 54
12.2 How many of our ecological communities are extinct or threatened with extinction? 55 12.3 Are activities being undertaken to conserve our threatened plants and animals? 56 12.4 Are activities being undertaken to conserve our threatened ecological communities? 57 13 Limits the establishment of pests and diseases and reduce the impacts of existing pests 58
13.1 What are the distribution and abundance of weeds? 59
13.2 What are the distribution and abundance of pest animals? 60
13.3 What are the distribution and abundance of aquatic pests? (statewide report) 61
13.4 How are diseases affecting our aquatic species? (statewide report) 62
13.5 How are diseases and invertebrate pests affecting our crops? (statewide report) 63
13.6 How are diseases affecting our livestock? (statewide report) 64
13.7 How are diseases affecting our native plants and animals? (statewide report) 65 13.8 Are control programs focused on high priority weeds and pest animals? 66
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, which 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 ove r the last 5 years. The current condition of the resource or the management issue is categ orised as “good”, “fair” or “poor”
based on the most recent information collected. The score for the reliability of the information is based on the applicabilit y 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.
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?
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.
Kangaroo Island 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, farming 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 learning activities are stable. The number of training events are decreasing and educational materials produced is increasing.
Over the last 4 years, the number of learning activities (training events plus educational material) was stable in the Kangaroo Island NRM region (map above).
The number of natural resource management training events have decreased and the number of educational materials produced have increased (graph on right).
Where we are at (2013) Fair More information on awareness and participation is required In 2013, the Kangaroo Island NRM region conducted 41 training events and produced 64 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 res ources. 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
Kangaroo Island NRM Region
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 Unknown Trends in the numbers of stakeholders and group types contributing to NRM projects will be available in the future
No information is available on the trends in the numbers of stakeholders and group types contributing to NRM projects. Trends were not assessed for the Kangaroo Island NRM regions because 2013 was the first year that these data were available. 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 11 stakeholders from 5 different group types
In the Kangaroo Island NRM region in 2013, the most common stakeholders in NRM projects were government agencies, land holders and community groups (graph on right). Government agencies were typically the Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources and local councils. Community stakeholders were typically from local progress associations and friends of parks groups.
In 2013, there were 12 NRM projects in the region and these engaged a total of more than 73 stakeholders, from 8 different group types (graph on right). On average, individual projects were partnered by 11 stakeholders from 5 different group types.
Each NRM region has a different strategy to increase and report on 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
Government agencies Land holders Community groups Researchers Non-government organisations Schools Industry groups Aboriginal groups NRM groups
Type of groups and the percentage of projects they contribute to in the Kangaroo Island NRM region
Trend in the number of stakeholders contributing
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
Kangaroo Island NRM Region
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 Kangaroo Island NRM region, volunteers are involved in projects on both private and public land, 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 volunteer effort in natural resource management projects, inside and outside parks (see graphs on right).
Where we are at (2013) Fair A total of 15 volunteer groups spent over 11,000 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 Kangaroo Island NRM region in 2013, around 900 people from 15 volunteer groups spent more than 11,000 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 10 20
2012 2013
Number of volunteer groups
0 5 10
2013 Number of volunteer hours (x 1000)
Trend in volunteer involvement
This report is a work in progress. As monitoring improves, so too will our ability to describe trends.
Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Australia. © Crown in right of the State of South Australia.
Kangaroo Island NRM Region
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 20-40 Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islander people (jointly referred to as Aboriginal people in this report) live in the Kangaroo Island NRM region – about 0.8 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 addition target of at least 3 per cent.
State target
Involve more people in the sustainable management of natural resources
Trend (2008-13) Variable In this NRM region, there are no Aboriginal people employed within DEWNR. More information is needed to report trends in Aboriginal participation in NRM.
From 2008-13, DEWNR did not reach the Aboriginal employment targets of 2 per cent (public sector target) or 3 per cent (DEWNR target) within the Kangaroo Island NRM region.
In 2013, DEWNR employed 104 people in this NRM region, none were Aboriginal people.
Where we are at (2013) Poor
Aboriginal employment in DEWNR needs to increase to reach the 2 per cent target in this NRM region. More information is needed to report Aboriginal participation rates in natural resource management.
There are no Aboriginal members who currently participate in the Kangaroo Island NRM Board, or in committees or workshops.
The collection of information on Aboriginal participation in NRM is not standardised in this NRM region, so it is not reported.
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
National agreement to close the gap in Aboriginal disadvantage
The benefits of Aboriginal engagement in the natural resource management sector
Trend in involvement of Aboriginal people in natural
resource management
Kangaroo Island NRM Region
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, farming 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
Involve more people in the sustainable management of natural resources
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 406 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.
Further information:
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 Kangaroo Island NRM region indicates that in 2012 at least 406 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 35 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
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 h elp 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
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).
Reliability of information Excellent
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)
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.
Kangaroo Island NRM Region
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 Kangaroo Island 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 in the region. Many industry groups and land managers, such as our tourism industry, are already taking steps to improve energy and water efficiency.
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
Improve capacity of individuals and community to respond to climate change
Trend (2012-14) Getting better Progress has been 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 Adelaide Hills, Fleurieu Peninsula and Kangaroo Island Climate Change Adaptation Plan covers the Kangaroo Island NRM region. The development of the 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 Kangaroo Island region has commenced the integrated vulnerability assessment (figure on right).
The Adaptation Plan is on track for completion by 2016.
Reliability of information Excellent
Further information :
Technical information for this report Adapting to climate change in South Australia
Trend in development of climate change
adaptation plans
Kangaroo Island NRM Region
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 Kangaroo Island NRM region, average temperatures are projected to increase by 1.6–3.5 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 decrease in the region by 0–30 per cent by 2070 (map on right). Without careful planning this will affect our drinking water supplies and our primary industries.
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.
Sea levels around Kangaroo Island have been rising by almost 5 millimetres each year. By 2100, sea levels could be 1.1 metres higher than in 1990. Increases in the frequency of storm surge events in coming decades are likely, with impacts including erosion of costal habitats and inundation in low lying communities.
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
Improve capacity of individuals and community to respond to climate change
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.
Reliability of information Excellent
Further information: Technical information for this report, Bureau of Meteorology data and information on Climate Change
Projected changes in temperatures and rainfall
+1.8oC -8%
-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:
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 polici es.
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 improve 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
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.
Reliability of information Excellent
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
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.
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
All NRM planning and investment decisions take into account ecological, social and production considerations
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
Reliability of information Excellent
Further information:
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
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
All NRM planning and investment decisions take into account ecological, social and production considerations
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.
Reliability of information Excellent
Further information:
Technical information for this report card, Planning Strategy for South Australia
Regional trends in the alignment of the Planning Strategy and
regional NRM plans
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 manag ement, 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 productivity 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? (statewide report)
6.2 Are surface water resources being used within their allocated limits? (statewide report) 6.3 Is irrigation efficiency improving in agricultural areas?
6.5 Are the water levels and salinity of our prescribed groundwater resources improving? (statewide report)
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? (statewide report)
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?
6.13 How much carbon is stored in our soils?
19
2014 State Report Card
Are our groundwater resources being sustainably used?
As the largest freshwater resource in South Australia, groundwater is vital for our agricultural, mining and manufacturing industries. Groundwater provides us with town water supplies and 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 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 are 19 prescribed groundwater management areas (map below), which are made up of 35 separate groundwater resources (aquifers) that have sustainable limits for water use.
This report card assesses if groundwater resources are used within their sustainable limits, based on groundwater status reports and water allocation plans. The water levels and salinity of groundwater are reported here.
State target
Maintain the productive capacity of our natural resources
Trend (2009-13) Stable Groundwater resources have been used within sustainable limits since 2006
Since 2006, all of our prescribed groundwater resources have been used within sustainable limits (graph on right).
The Far North and the Eastern and Western Mount Lofty Ranges prescribed areas have sustainable limits, but do not yet have accurate water use information. Estimates of water use and monitoring indicate that they are being used within their limits. The Clare Valley and Barossa prescribed areas do not have sustainable limits, but water use is considered to be sustainable.
Where we are at (2013) Good Prescribed groundwater resources were all used within sustainable limits
All of our groundwater resources were used within their sustainable limit in 2013 (map on right). Licensed use of water in these areas ranged from zero in the unconfined aquifer of the Peake-Roby-Sherlock Prescribed Wells Area (SA Murray-Darling Basin NRM region), to nearly 100 per cent of the limit in the Wanilla aquifer in the Southern Basins Prescribed Wells Area (Eyre Peninsula NRM region).
Groundwater use in the Central Adelaide, Clare Valley, Barossa, Baroota and Far North prescribed areas is within sustainable limits, although there are some information gaps in these areas - either sustainable limits have not been established or water use data are not available for all users.
In the Eastern and Western Mount Lofty Ranges prescribed areas, groundwater use is sustainable, but some localised areas are at risk of overuse.
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
Further information:
Technical information for this report card and reports on the status of South Australian water resources
Regional trends in the use of prescribed groundwater resources
0 25 50 75 100
2002 2007 2012
Percentage of groundwater resources used within limits
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.
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
Maintain the productive capacity of our natural resources
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
Kangaroo Island NRM Region
2014 Regional Snapshot
Is irrigation efficiency improving in agricultural areas?
South Australia’s irrigated crops and livestock products, worth about $1.4 billion in 2012, use about 60 per cent of the water we use in the state. Less than 7 per cent of the farmers in the Kangaroo Island NRM region rely on irrigation to grow vegetables, grape, fruit and pastures for livestock. Efficient irrigation reduces fertiliser and sediment runoff, soil salinity impacts, production costs and provides more flexibility to rotate crops.
The amount of water applied to crops is influenced by soil type, irrigation method, and the timing of irrigation. By matching these to the needs of each crop, farmers maximise production and apply less water. For example, upgrading from sprinkler to drip irrigation can save about 2.5 million litres per hectare of grapevines or citrus trees.
This report tracks the amount of water applied per hectare, and trends in methods of irrigation.
State target
Maintain the productive capacity of our natural resources
Trend (2011-13) Stable Water applied per hectare has remained stable
Different crop types have different water needs and these vary depending on the soil type and rainfall (see graph on right).
In 2013, about 890 hectares were irrigated in the Kangaroo Island NRM region. The average irrigation rate was about 1.5 million litres per hectare (see graph on right, red line). The amount of water applied per hectare remained relatively stable between 2011-13. Long term trends in water application rates are not available for the Kangaroo Island NRM region.
Where we are at (2013) Good Irrigation efficiency improved in 2013
Energy, labour, crop type and set up costs influence the irrigation decisions of farmers, but irrigation efficiency continues to improve.
Trends in irrigation methods show how our farmers are improving water application rates. Statewide information shows that drip irrigation, which is typically the most water efficient, is the most common method and its use has been increasing. A breakdown of irrigation methods is not available for the Kangaroo Island NRM region, but most irrigation is for potato crops using centre pivot sprinklers.
Governments and NRM boards work with farmers to improve irrigation efficiency by demonstrating land management benefits and providing financial incentives to make it increasingly attractive.
Reliability of information Very Good
Further information:
Technical information for this report Water use in the Kangaroo Island NRM region Water Connect
0 2 4
2011 2012 2013
Water applied (million litres per hectare)
Fruit & nuts Livestock pasture & feed
Vegetables Grapevines
Average
Trends in water application rates in irrigation areas
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.
2014 State Report Card
Are the water levels and salinity of our prescribed groundwater resources improving?
As the largest freshwater resource in South Australia, groundwater is vital for our agriculture, mining and manufacturing industries. It also provides us with town water supplies and sustains a range of ecosystems.
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 of groundwater can cause levels to fall 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 card summarises whether changes in groundwater levels and salinity of prescribed groundwater resources are within acceptable limits based on the needs of the primary user and the natural variation of each resource. This report card should be read alongside report cards on the sustainable use of ground water and surface water resources.
State target
Maintain the productive capacity of our natural resources
Trend (2010–13) Stable Salinity and groundwater levels are within acceptable limits in most of our prescribed groundwater resources
Groundwater levels and salinity are largely driven by rainfall and water use and are therefore naturally variable. Rainfall in 2013 was less than long term averages (maps on right). Water use in 2013 was therefore expected to be higher.
Since 2010, trends in the salinity and water levels of our prescribed groundwater resources have been used to asses the status of groundwater resources.
Salinity and groundwater levels have varied, but they are within acceptable limits in most of our prescribed groundwater resources (map above).
Rainfall anomaly maps:
Where we are at (2013) Good Most of our groundwater resources are within acceptable limits
There are 35 prescribed groundwater resources (aquifers) within 19 prescribed areas in our state. Based on changes in salinity and water levels between 2012 and 2013, the status of 34 of our groundwater resources is good. Most of these resources have stable or improving water levels and salinity. Some of the resources have experienced gradual declines in water levels or increases in salinity , but these changes are still within acceptable limits based on the needs of the primary users and the natural variation of each resource. If these trends were to continue for more than 15 years, it is possible that these resources will not be suitable for their current purposes (e.g. drinking water and/or irrigation). Currency Creek, Polda, and Tatiara resources are being monitored closely because they have elevated salinity or declining groundwater levels.
The 2013 status of the Kangaroo Flat groundwater resource in Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges NRM region is considered fair and it is being monitored closely because it has elevated salinity. If this trend continues, the groundwater may not be suitable for its current purpose within 10 years.
Managing our groundwater resources relies on consistent and timely measurements of groundwater levels, salinity and water use.
Reliability of information Very Good
Further information: Technical information for this report card and reports on the status of South Australian water resources
Regional 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
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
Maintain the productive capacity of our natural resources
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
This report is a work in progress. As monitoring improves, so too will our ability to describe trends.
Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Australia. © Crown in right of the State of South Australia.
0 1 2 3
1961 1970 1980 1990 2000 2014
Wheat production (tonnes per hectare)
0 100 200 300
1978 (baseline)
1990 2000 2010
Index of total factor productivity
TFP for SA TFP nationally SA trend to 1994 SA trend since 1994
2014 State Report Card
Is the productivity of our primary industries improving?
The success and productivity of our agriculture, fisheries and forestry 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 ($2.9 billion Gross Value of Production in 2011) and livestock ($2.0 billion GVP) industries in South Australia. TFP measures the values of the total goods that industries produce relative to inputs they use (e.g. labour, land and capital).
Total factor productivity information is not currently available for Alinytjara Wilurara, Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges, or Kangaroo Island NRM regions nor for some of our large industries:
horticulture (worth $1.3 billion GVP in 2011), fisheries ($0.4 billion GVP in 2010) or forestry ($0.2 billion GVP in 2010). The management of our fish stocks is summarised in a separate report card.
State target :
Maintain the productive capacity of our natural resources
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 agricultural
research and development drives long term trends. TFP increases (1978–2010) resulted from advances in technology in plant and animal breeding, improved crop rotations, advances in machinery, the introduction of no till techniques and improved irrigation.
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 1.7 per cent each year, exceeding the national average of 1.2 per cent (graph on right).
Consistent with national trends, the rate of TFP growth in South Australia was almost stable between 1994 and 2010 (graph on right).
Long term (1978–2010) TFP growth rates differ between NRM regions: 2.0 per cent each year in SA Murray-Darling Basin, 1.6 per cent in Eyre Peninsula, 1.3 per cent in both Northern and Yorke and South East and 0.8 per cent in SA Arid Lands.
Where we are at (2014) Good The value of cropping and livestock production is at or near record highs To aid the interpretation of TFP, the graph on the right shows the output per hectare of
the South Australian wheat industry – our most valuable agricultural industry. Our wheat industry has increased its productivity since the 1970s, reaching record levels in recent years.
Climate change is increasing 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, maintain soil fertility, manage fisheries and the supply of irrigation water. 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?
Regional trends in total factor productivity
