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Victorian Gorse Control Strategy
2014-19
VICTORIAN GORSE CONTROL STRATEGY 2014-192
Victorian Gorse Control Strategy 2014-2019Strategy Authors: Victorian Gorse Taskforce (VGT) with assistance from Mal Brown, Scarlet Consulting
Acknowledgements: The VGT wishes to acknowledge the support received from the State Government of Victoria through the Department of Environment and Primary Industries that has assisted in producing this document.
Published and Authorised by: The Victorian Gorse Taskforce, July 2014
Designed by: Small Dog Design, 101-107 Albert Street, Ballarat Vic 3350 Tel 03 5333 7777
Printed by: FRP Printing, 9 Traminer Court, Wendouree Vic 3355 Tel 03 5339 3737
Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this Strategy is accurate. The Victorian Gorse Taskforce does not guarantee that the publication is without flaw of any kind and therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss or other consequence that may arise from relying on any information in the Strategy.
Enquiries: VGT Executive Officer, Department of Environment and Primary Industries, 402-406 Mair Street, Ballarat Vic 3350
www.vicgorsetaskforce.com.au
VICTORIAN GORSE CONTROL STRATEGY 2014-19 3
Contents Foreword 5
Key Principles 6
Goals and Key Directions 7
Background 8
Introduction 8
Context 9
Major Challenges 10
Vision 10
Gorse Control in Victoria 12
Focus Areas 12
Principles of Invasive Plant Management 14
Legislative Controls 15
Biological Control of Gorse 15
Roadside Weeds and Pests Management Program 16
Goals, Strategies, Priorities and Responsibilities 18
Goals and Key Directions 18
Goals, Strategies, Priorities and Responsibilities 20
Monitoring, Evaluation, Reporting and Improvement Framework 23
Glossary and Further Information 26
Abbreviations 26
Key Terms 26
Further Information 27
VICTORIAN GORSE CONTROL STRATEGY 2014-194
VICTORIAN GORSE CONTROL STRATEGY 2014-19 5
ForewordGorse (Ulex europaeus) is an introduced plant from Europe that is now endemic in southern Australia. In 2000 Gorse was identified as an Australian Weed of National Significance (WoNS) due to its invasiveness, impacts, potential for spread and effects on socioeconomic and environmental values.
The Gorse problem originated in the early 1800s when Gorse was planted for hedges and used as an ornamental plant. Today, Gorse is spread across 23 million hectares of Australia and infests up to one million hectares. Its potential range is 87 million hectares.
From an agricultural perspective Gorse reduces carrying capacity, restricts stock and human access, harbours feral animals and reduces land value. In forestry, Gorse interferes with access, seedling establishment and harvesting. In native vegetation, Gorse forms dense monocultural stands. It poses a fire hazard and detracts from landscape values across all land types. Gorse threatens the integrity of riparian zones, impacts on biodiversity in native vegetation and on threatened species.
The Victorian Gorse Taskforce (VGT) was formed in 1999 and its membership is now drawn from concerned community members; Landcare group members; local government, university, and State Government Department representatives.
Considerable investment and inroads have been made into controlling Gorse in Victoria. Much of this investment and subsequent control measures have been made possible because of community-led action and strong partnership arrangements that have been forged by the VGT.
To further the progress made and to maintain momentum the VGT has developed this strategy to help secure the longer-term direction for Gorse control in Victoria. This document recognises that vigilance is required in areas where Gorse is not yet widely established, and a long-term, planned program involving all land managers is best for those areas where the plant exists in higher numbers.
This strategy replaces the VGT’s 2008-13 Victorian Gorse Control Strategy and sets focus areas, goals and strategies with the overall vision for the next five years:
“The community accepts responsibility for Gorse control and contributes to on-going protection of social, environmental and economic assets, with no further increase in Gorse distribution in Victoria.”
To reach this guiding vision it will be essential to maintain and seek to increase resources as well as strengthen existing and develop new partnerships, as well as build effective management of statewide Gorse control projects.
Only by working together in a community-led environment can the Gorse menace be defeated. I encourage you to get involved in control activities and initiatives in your local area and help reduce the spread and impacts of this noxious invasive plant.
Peter Everist Chair – Victorian Gorse Taskforce
VICTORIAN GORSE CONTROL STRATEGY 2014-196
The Victorian Gorse Control Strategy is underpinned by the following key principles:
1 Coordination of Strategy at a state level
The VGT coordinates and implements the Victorian Gorse Control Strategy (VGCS) across Victoria, in partnership with the Department of Environment and Primary Industries (DEPI), local governments, and other natural resource management (NRM) agencies.
2 Community-led approach to invasive plant control
The VGT is one of three Victorian Community Pest Management Groups working in partnership with DEPI to deliver community-led invasive plant control programs. The community-led approach is a cooperative model of governance between community, government and other key stakeholders (including private landholders) to deal with the threat posed by invasive plants such as Gorse.
3 Alignment with regional, state and national directions for controlling invasive plants
The VGCS is closely aligned to catchment management authorities’ regional invasive pest plant and animal management strategies; local government roadside weeds and pests management plans; Victoria’s Biosecurity Strategy, and the Victorian Invasive Plants and Animals Policy Framework (IPAPF).
4 Application of a high level of governance
Prioritising investment in weed management is underpinned by a risk management framework, including clear, transparent and consultative processes for decision making and investment.
5 Best practice
The VGT endorses control techniques consistent with those outlined in the National Gorse Taskforce’s Best Practice Manual (2009).
6 An integrated approach
Weed management is an essential and integral part of the sustainable management of natural resources for the benefit of the economy, the environment, and society. Weed management requires a ‘whole of landscape approach’ with coordination among all levels of government in partnership with industry, land and water managers and the community, regardless of tenure.
7 Controlling invasive weeds is a shared responsibility
Controlling invasive weeds is a shared responsibility that requires all parties to have a clear understanding of their roles and responsibilities.
8 Capacity building is vital
Building capacity across government, industry, land and water managers and the community is fundamental to effective weed control.
9 Compliance with statutory obligations to control Gorse
Gorse is an invasive plant that landholders are legally obliged to manage. In community-led Gorse control programs enforcement, where necessary, is an important tool that complements volunteer landholder action.
10 Monitoring and evaluation
An outcomes-based approach is adopted using monitoring, reporting and evaluation to inform continuous improvement.
Key Principles
VICTORIAN GORSE CONTROL STRATEGY 2014-19 7
1 Provide leadership in community-led invasive plant control
The VGT coordinates and implements the Victorian Gorse Control Strategy (VGCS) across Victoria. In doing so the VGT makes a valuable contribution to preventing the spread of Gorse and developing the community-led invasive plant control model.
2 Achieve an accurate knowledge of the extent and threat of Gorse in Victoria
Knowledge of the extent of Gorse distribution, including ‘clean’ areas, provides the basis for effective planning and delivery of control programs. Accurate mapping of the extent of Gorse distribution is an important management and education tool. The DEPI Biosecurity and GIS teams provide important support in this area.
3 Promote Best Practice Management for Gorse control in Victoria
Gorse control and site rehabilitation is effective and efficient, using Best Practice Management methods.
4 Prevent the spread of Gorse into new areas of the state
The VGT places an emphasis on programs in the areas of the state that are at risk from invasion by Gorse, where the focus will be on prevention of spread activities, partnership development, community capacity building and, where necessary, enforcement.
5 Achieve a reduction in the core infestations of Gorse across Victoria
Ongoing programs are aimed at protecting key community assets where these are prioritised through regional catchment strategies and regional invasive plant and animal management strategies, and within core infestations.
6 Reduce infestations and the spread of Gorse in and along corridors
The VGT and facilitators will work with the community and linear reserve managers in focus areas to reduce the spread of Gorse in and along corridors.
7 Increase the community’s capacity to be actively engaged in long-term Gorse control
Communities are empowered to act and are committed to the long-term control of Gorse, and are supported to do so.
8 Ensure communities are aware of their statutory obligations to control Gorse
Communities are aware of their statutory responsibilities and the VGT will work with partners to advocate that, where necessary, enforcement complements community-led action.
9 Ensure effective monitoring and reporting of the Victorian Gorse Control Strategy
The implementation of the VGCS is monitored, and stakeholders and the community are informed of its progress.
Goals and Key Directions
VICTORIAN GORSE CONTROL STRATEGY 2014-198
Background
IntroductionThis strategy has been prepared by the Victorian Gorse Taskforce (VGT) and applies to the whole of Victoria.
The VGT is one of three Victorian Community Pest Management Groups working in partnership with the Department of Environment and Primary Industries (DEPI) to deliver community-led invasive plant control programs. The VGT was formed in 1999 in response to community action for Gorse control, primarily by municipalities in the Central Highlands region and local Landcare groups.
The primary role of the VGT is to oversee the coordination and implementation of the Victorian Gorse Control Strategy (VGCS). The VGT is committed to ensuring there is a strong emphasis on community participation in Gorse control through innovation, community capacity building and the provision of invasive plant control incentives.
The VGT works in partnership with those who directly manage the natural resource base including rural landholders, public land managers and local government and includes representatives from local government, catchment management authorities, Landcare and community groups, universities, and DEPI.
VICTORIAN GORSE CONTROL STRATEGY 2014-19 9
This five-year Victorian Gorse Control Strategy replaces the VGT’s 2008-13 Victorian Gorse Control Strategy. It is based on a review of the 2008-13 Strategy, changes to coordination at the national level, potential legislative reform at the state level, and consultation with key stakeholders.
The approaches identified in this strategy are consistent with the aims and outcomes of the Victorian Government’s Biosecurity Strategy and the Victorian Invasive Plants and Animals Policy Framework (IPAPF).
At the national level, in 2000, the Executive Committee of the National Weeds Strategy designated Gorse as one of the top twenty Weeds of National Significance (WoNS). Under the National Weeds Strategy, a National Gorse Management Strategy was established to provide for the co-coordinated management of Gorse. The National Gorse Taskforce then prepared a Gorse National Priority Action Framework to assist with the implementation of the strategy in all states and territories.
In 2009 the Australian Weeds Council (AWC) reviewed the extent to which all 20 national strategies had been implemented and looked broadly at the capacity for national coordination of additional WoNS species in the future.
In 2009 the then Natural Resource Management Ministerial Council endorsed a three phased approach to national management of the WoNS species. The aim was to make the most cost-effective use of limited ‘national coordination’ resources available from public funds.
Key to this phased approach was the intention to phase out species now being effectively managed and to call for further species nominations and subsequent endorsement of additional WoNS species. The AWC is now implementing these reforms which included no longer funding the National Gorse Taskforce or the National Gorse Coordinator position. Whilst no species have yet been removed from the WoNS list, the national coordination of Gorse control has already transitioned to phase 3 (AWC oversight) and Victoria now coordinates and monitors its own response to the spread of Gorse at the state level (AWC, 2014).
New invasive species legislation is likely to be introduced into the Victorian Parliament in the second half of 2014. The current review of existing legislation includes consideration of the case for government investment in invasive plant control and whether government should provide landholders with funds to do what the CaLP Act 1994 requires of them by law (DEPI, 2014). Any legislative reform would subsequently come into effect during the life of this strategy.
Context
VICTORIAN GORSE CONTROL STRATEGY 2014-1910
The biology and ecology of Gorse (Ulex europaeus) are well described in a number of invasive plant science publications and internet websites (see Further Information). Originally from northern Europe, Gorse is widespread in southern Australia. It is a significant invasive plant of roadsides, waterways and agricultural land and remains a high risk to conservation values.
Considerable work has been done to improve control techniques for Gorse over the past twenty years, as well as raise community awareness as to the seriousness of the invasive plant.
One of the broad challenges facing land managers is to improve the control of Gorse in its existing distribution and prevent its spread to new areas. To this end ‘Focus Areas’ have been devised to assist in improved prioritisation of management, communication and planning.
Major Challenges
Vision“The community accepts responsibility for Gorse control and contributes to on-going protection of social, environmental and economic assets, with no further increase in Gorse distribution in Victoria.”
VICTORIAN GORSE CONTROL STRATEGY 2014-19 11
VICTORIAN GORSE CONTROL STRATEGY 2014-1912
Gorse Control in Victoria
To provide strategic direction for the control of Gorse throughout Victoria, the state is divided into two focus zones (see Figure 1) considering principles of invasive plant control (see page 14) and mapping of present and predicted Gorse occurrence (see Figures 2 and 3).
Reduction ZoneThe Reduction Zone is the part of Victoria where substantial, scattered but not yet widespread and abundant populations of Gorse occur. In this zone the Strategy aims to reduce populations (shaded orange on Gorse Control Areas map).
Eradication and Prevention ZoneThe Eradication and Prevention Zone is the part of Victoria where Gorse may already occur as isolated infestations or is predicted to occur based on potential distribution modelling (shaded green on Gorse Control Areas map).
Whilst this Strategy focuses on partnership development, capacity building and compliance, it will support eradication of isolated infestations where feasible. Prevention of Gorse incursions will be the priority.
Focus Areas
VICTORIAN GORSE CONTROL STRATEGY 2014-19 13
Figure 2: The present distribution of Gorse in Victoria (DEPI, 2014)
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Geelong
Horsham
Mildura
Wodonga
Bendigo
Hamilton
Ballarat
Portland
Traralgon
Melbourne
Swan Hill
SheppartonWangaratta
Bairnsdale
Warrnambool
³
The infestations shown on this map are derived from the Integrated Pest Management System (IPMS 2014).
They are not meant to display a complete statewide inventory for this species. There are areas where this species may be present but has not been recorded.
Present Distribution of Gorse
0 50 100 150 200
Kilometres
Ulex europaeus
IPMS - Infestation Area (Ha)! <10
! 10 - 50
! 50 - 100
! 100 - 200
! >200
DEPI Region
CMA boundary
Local Government boundary
Major road
Figure 1: Victoria’s Gorse control zones. (DEPI, 2014)
Geelong
Horsham
Mildura
Wodonga
Bendigo
Hamilton
Ballarat
Portland
Traralgon
Melbourne
Swan Hill
SheppartonWangaratta
Bairnsdale
Warrnambool
³
Gorse Control Areas
0 50 100 150 200
Kilometres
Ulex europaeus
Management boundariesDEPI Region
CMA boundary
Local Government boundary
Control areasOutside area of potential distribution
Reduction zone
Eradication and prevention zone
VICTORIAN GORSE CONTROL STRATEGY 2014-1914
Principles of Invasive Plant Management*• The first priority is the prevention and early
intervention aimed at eradication.
• An asset-based risk management approach is required for widespread invasive plants.
• Transparent, scientific, evidence-based decision-tools are required for setting priorities.
• A whole-of-landscape approach must be taken to ensure coordinated action across land tenures.
• Effective long-term solutions involve addressing the cause of invasive plant invasion, not just the symptom.
• Invasive plant management programs will be integrated with the broader management of land and water resources.
• An outcomes-based approach to monitoring, evaluation and reporting must be considered.
• A cost-benefit analysis is required to inform the selection of management responses.
*Adapted from DSE 2007
Figure 3: The potential distribution of Gorse in Victoria (DEPI, 2014)
Geelong
Horsham
Mildura
Wodonga
Bendigo
Hamilton
Ballarat
Portland
Traralgon
Melbourne
Swan Hill
Shepparton Wangaratta
Bairnsdale
Warrnambool
³
Potential Distribution of Gorse
0 50 100 150 200
Kilometres
Ulex europaeus
Climactic PotentialMedium
High
Very High
DEPI Region
CMA boundary
Local Government boundary
Major road
VICTORIAN GORSE CONTROL STRATEGY 2014-19 15
Legislative Controls
Biological Control of Gorse
• Gorse is a declared Noxious Weed in Victoria under the Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994. Gorse is a Regionally Controlled Weed in all catchment management authority (CMA) regions in Victoria, except in East Gippsland CMA region, where it is a Regionally Prohibited Weed, and the Mallee CMA region where it is a Restricted Weed.
• In CMA regions where Gorse is listed as a Regionally Controlled Weed, land managers have the responsibility to take all reasonable steps to control and prevent its spread and growth on their land.
• In CMA regions where Gorse is listed as a Regionally Prohibited Weed, land managers must eradicate these invasive plants on their lands.
• Restricted Weeds are plants that pose an unacceptable risk of spreading in this State or to other parts of Australia if they were to be sold or traded in Victoria, and are a serious threat to another State or Territory of Australia. Trade in these invasive plants and their propagules, either as plants, seeds or contaminants in other materials is prohibited.
According to DEPI senior researcher Greg Lefoe, all the approved Gorse biological control agents have already been released into the field in Victoria. These include Gorse Spider Mite (Tetranychus lintearius), Gorse Thrips (Sericothrips staphylinus), Gorse Soft Shoot Moth (Agonopterix umbellana) and Gorse Seed Weevil (Exapion ulicis). The Gorse Pod Moth (Cydia succedana) was also tested in quarantine but has not been approved for release. The Gorse Soft Shoot Moth shows the most promise as a control agent, but only a small number of releases have been conducted to date. The VGT supports the research effort to source vigorous populations of the Gorse Soft Shoot Moth (from trial sites in both Tasmania and Victoria) and to strategically relocate these to targeted sites in Victoria where their damage to the host plants can be monitored.
VICTORIAN GORSE CONTROL STRATEGY 2014-1916
The Roadside Weeds and Pests Management Program (RWPP) During the life of this five-year strategy the Victorian Government’s Roadside Weeds and Pests Management Program (RWPP) will conclude and be subject to a review. This $7.8 million initiative assists rural and regional councils to plan and manage ‘regionally prohibited’ and ‘regionally controlled’ weeds and pest animals on rural roadsides in line with state and regional priorities.
The program is assisting the 56 councils across Victoria with responsibility for managing lengths of rural roadsides. These councils are receiving funding up to $50,000 per year for the three years to the end of June 2015, to manage invasive plants and pests along rural roadsides. Under current legislation, participation in the RWPP is voluntary.
Any contracts entered into with appropriately licensed/accredited contractors to undertake eligible control activities must specify that all control activities are to be conducted in line with recognised good practice standards regarding the timing of control for the particular species, the method of control and vehicle hygiene.
The VGT is supportive of this initiative and the impact it has had on weeds on some rural roadsides. The VGT would like to see the initiative continue.
In 2015 rural councils may be required under legislation to prepare pest plant and animal control plans for their municipality. The draft plans will go on public display for a period of 30 days prior to being considered by the responsible Minister for approval.
Case Study The VGT is supportive of integrated complementary invasive plant control projects as demonstrated recently by the cooperative approach taken by three Landcare Groups in the Barkers Creek catchment. Funded by the VGT and the Victorian Blackberry Taskforce the groups, led by Connecting Country Inc., jointly tackled Gorse and Blackberry infestations along the Barkers Creek, signing up 45 local landholders to voluntary three-year management agreements and securing and additional $86,108 from the Victorian Government’s 2013 Communities for Nature Program, capitalising on the local community enthusiasm for invasive plant control.
VICTORIAN GORSE CONTROL STRATEGY 2014-19 17
VICTORIAN GORSE CONTROL STRATEGY 2014-1918
1 Provide leadership in community-led invasive plant control
The VGT coordinates and implements the Victorian Gorse Control Strategy (VGCS) across Victoria in partnership with DEPI, local governments, and other natural resource management (NRM) agencies. In doing so the VGT makes a valuable contribution to preventing the spread of Gorse and developing the community-led invasive plant control model. In implementing the Strategy the VGT supports coordinated and integrated community-led gorse control, particularly where strong partnerships can be demonstrated. The VGT also encourages community led-action that aligns with catchment management authorities’ invasive plant and animal management strategies, DEPI’s Biosecurity Strategy for Victoria, and local government roadside weeds and pests management plans.
2 Achieve an accurate knowledge of the extent and threat of Gorse in Victoria
Knowledge of the extent of Gorse distribution, including ‘clean’ areas, provides the basis for effective planning and delivery of control programs. Accurate mapping of the extent of Gorse distribution is an important management and education tool. The DEPI GIS team provides important support in this area.
3 Promote Best Practice Management for Gorse control in Victoria
Gorse control and site rehabilitation is effective and efficient, using Best Practice Management methods.
4 Prevent the spread of Gorse into new areas of the state
The VGT places an emphasis on programs in the areas of the state that are at risk from invasion by Gorse, where the focus will be on prevention of spread activities, partnership development, community capacity building and, where necessary, enforcement.
5 Achieve a reduction in the core infestations of Gorse across Victoria
Ongoing programs are aimed at protecting key community assets where these are prioritised through regional catchment strategies and regional invasive plant and animal management strategies, and within core infestations.
6 Reduce infestations and the spread of Gorse in and along corridors
The VGT and facilitators will work with the community and linear reserve managers in focus areas to reduce the spread of Gorse in and along corridors.
7 Increase the community’s capacity to be actively engaged in long-term Gorse control
Communities are empowered to act and are committed to the long-term control of Gorse, and are supported to do so.
8 Ensure communities are aware of their statutory obligations to control Gorse
Communities are aware of their statutory responsibilities and the VGT will work with partners to advocate that, where necessary, enforcement complements community-led action.
9 Ensure effective monitoring and reporting of the Victorian Gorse Control Strategy
The implementation of the VGCS is monitored, and stakeholders and the community are informed of its progress.
Goals and Key Directions
Goals, Strategies, Priorities and Responsibilities
VICTORIAN GORSE CONTROL STRATEGY 2014-19 19
Figure 4: Small-scale projects funded by the VGT during 2013-14
!
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$
$
$
$
$
$
STANLEY
KILMORESMEATON
WILLAURA
GRANTVILLE
SMITHS BEACH
Geelong
Wodonga
Bendigo
Ballarat
Traralgon
Melbourne
Shepparton Wangaratta
Warrnambool
³
Small Grants Program
0 10 20 30 40
Kilometres
Amount
$ < $2500
$ $2500 - $4500
$ $4500 - $5000
DEPI Region
CMA boundary
Figure 5: Large-scale facilitated projects funded by the VGT during 2013-14
MORIAC
MILLBROOK
NAPOLEONS
INVERLEIGH
MINERS REST
WOOLSTHORPE
SNAKE VALLEY
STAFFORDSHIRE REEF
Colac
Ararat
Ballarat
Camperdown
Warrnambool ³
Large Facilitated Projects
0 10 20 30
Kilometres
Amount
< $25000
$25000 - $30000
$30000 - $35000
DEPI Region
CMA boundary
Local Government boundary
VICTORIAN GORSE CONTROL STRATEGY 2014-1920
The following table identifies strategies that address these goals and where appropriate indicates responsibility for implementation. (Abbreviations are explained on page 26).
Goal Strategies Responsibility Partners
The Victorian Gorse Control Strategy is coordinated at a State level
The VGT will lead the statewide implementation of the 2014-19 Victorian Gorse Control Strategy across all public and private land in the state.
VGT DEPI, CMAs
Membership of the VGT will be promoted for major stakeholders in Gorse control and management in Victoria, particularly in the Reduction Zone and the Eradication Zone focus areas.
VGT DEPI, CMAs
Stakeholders, including private and public land managers, will be identified and engaged in Gorse control in Victoria, and the VGT and VGCS will be promoted to them.
VGT DEPI
Broker knowledge for Gorse related information to land managers and stakeholders in Victoria.
DEPI VGT
Appoint an Executive Officer to support the VGT. DEPI VGT
Build partnerships with key stakeholders, including landholders, public land management agencies, CMAs, local government, Landcare networks and groups, and community and industry groups and work with these partners to implement the VGCS.
VGT DEPI
Ensure that the VGCS is coordinated with and considered in the development of plans by CMAs and other appropriate strategies and plans such as roadside management plans and local government invasive plant plans.
DEPI VGT, CMAs, MCs
Promote the integration of Gorse control programs across jurisdictional boundaries with stakeholders.
VGT DEPI
Seek funding for the implementation of the VGCS. VGT DEPI, CMAs
Develop an annual implementation process for the VGCS. VGT DEPI, CMAs
Liaise with appropriate authorities to ensure coordination of Gorse control across state boundaries (if required).
VGT DEPI
Goals, Strategies, Priorities and Responsibilities
VICTORIAN GORSE CONTROL STRATEGY 2014-19 21
Goal Strategies Responsibility Partners
Achieve an accurate knowledge of the extent and threat of Gorse in Victoria
Support projects that provide new distribution information for Gorse in Victoria. Promote availability to all stakeholders.
VGT DEPI, CMAs
Promote invasive plant identification programs. VGT DEPI, CMAs
Review predictive modelling of the potential spread of Gorse and identify actions to improve.
DEPI VGT
Support mapping, surveillance and recording programs that provide accurate knowledge of the extent of Gorse control works and ensure ongoing monitoring of control sites.
DEPI VGT, CMAs, MCs, All land managers
Promote Best Practice Management for Gorse control in Victoria
Continue to promote and distribute best management practice information for Gorse control.
DEPI VGT
Monitor and review as appropriate the latest information on Gorse control.
DEPI VGT
Promote research into Gorse control, including biological control, seed bank treatment and land use practices.
VGT DEPI, Herbicide companies, Machinery manufacturers
Engage with linear reserve managers to build Gorse management capacity such as improved information systems, management plans and protocols, staff training and contractor accreditation.
DEPI VGT, Linear Reserve Managers
Promote a landscape approach to Gorse management and the integration of Gorse control programs with other natural resource management activities, particularly other pest plant and animal control and fire prevention programs.
DEPI VGT, CMAs, CFA, Landcare, Public land managers
Prevent the spread of Gorse into new areas of the state
Support prevention of spread programs and eradication of isolated infestations where feasible.
VGT DEPI, PV, MCs, All land managers
Reduce infestations and the spread of Gorse in and along corridors
Achieve a reduction in Gorse infestations in areas that provide for the introduction and spread of Gorse. Target waterways, roadsides and railways.
DEPI VGT, Linear Reserve Managers
Promote best practice linear reserve management to prevent spread along linear reserves (e.g. road construction materials, machinery hygiene).
DEPI Linear Reserve Managers, MAV
VICTORIAN GORSE CONTROL STRATEGY 2014-1922
Goal Strategies Responsibility Partners
Increase the community’s capacity to be actively engaged in long-term Gorse control
Support information, education and facilitation programs to broaden support for increased Gorse control.
VGT DEPI
Ensure that communities are aware of the economic, social and environmental impacts of Gorse.
VGT, MCs DEPI, CMAs
Develop and implement innovative extension and community education programs to ensure that communities possess the knowledge and capability to control, and where possible eradicate Gorse on their land.
DEPI VGT
Develop and implement innovative extension and community education programs to ensure that communities possess the knowledge and capability not to spread Gorse by their actions.
DEPI VGT
Review incentives that are available for Gorse control and support partners in offering a range of incentives.
VGT CMAs, DEPI, NGOs (e.g. Trust for Nature), MCs
Ensure that community action groups are motivated and supported to drive on-ground works. Work with existing community networks and continue to support Gorse facilitators to work with the community.
VGT DEPI, Landcare networks
Ensure compliance with statutory obligations to control Gorse
Ensure landholders are aware of their statutory responsibilities in relation to Gorse control.
VGT DEPI, MCs, MAV
Promote concepts that encourage voluntary compliance such as “Duty of Care” and “Stewardship for the Land”.
VGT DEPI, CMAs
Advocate for the use of enforcement, where necessary, to complement community-led invasive plant control.
VGT DEPI
Support local government mechanisms, such as Local laws that support the VGCS and the CaLP Act.
VGT DEPI, MCs, MAV
Ensure effective monitoring and reporting of the VGCS
Report annually to stakeholders and the community on the implementation of the VGCS and promote achievements to the community.
VGT DEPI
Monitor implementation of the VGCS with appropriate milestones and performance indicators for each Goal.
VGT DEPI
Ensure that the performance and effectiveness of the strategic goals identified in the VGCS 2014-19 are reviewed in 2017.
VGT DEPI
VICTORIAN GORSE CONTROL STRATEGY 2014-19 23
Monitoring, Evaluation, Reporting and Improvement FrameworkThis strategic plan will be reviewed at its mid-point in 2017. This will enable ongoing assessment of progress towards intermediate and long-term outcomes, and, ultimately, help to determine the effectiveness of individual actions. A mid-term review will also help to identify program improvements, and provide evidence to stakeholders and funding bodies that they are getting value from their investment.
The monitoring, evaluation, reporting and improvement (MERI) framework lists the basic reporting information that should be collected for the life of the strategy. This will ensure that sufficient data are collected to identify successes and failures, and provide the opportunity for improvement where outcomes are not being achieved. Annual MERI plans will be encouraged to follow activities in more detail.
MERI enables government to be accountable to the community for the value of its investment and provides information necessary for programs to demonstrate effective and efficient progress towards the achievement of their stated outcomes.
A properly constructed MERI program will provide objective measurement through clearly understood and accepted methodologies, of progress being made towards stated program goals. This may include answering some fundamental questions:
• To what extent is the program making progress on the outcomes it stated it would achieve?
• Are the program interventions that are being used appropriate to achieve these desired outcomes?
• Does any aspect of the program need to be modified as a result of evidence of progress to date?
• What other evidence is required for demonstrating program effectiveness that is not currently being collected?
• What changes in the environment, community values or expectations have occurred that we need to respond to?
• How should we direct future investment to maximise public benefit?
Incorporating consistent and effective MERI into all aspects of the Gorse control program is a priority for implementation of this strategy.
VICTORIAN GORSE CONTROL STRATEGY 2014-1924
Table: Draft monitoring and evaluation questions to measure progress of the 2014-19 Victorian Gorse Management Strategy
Goal Key evaluation questions
Data or evidence required
Consider
Prevent new infestations from establishing
To what extent have new infestations been prevented from establishing?
Has the Victorian distribution map been updated?
Have stakeholders been advised of any changes?
Where is this data or information stored?
Number of new infestations recorded.
Percentage of known infestations actively controlled.
Are any new infestations occurring in areas identified as a high priority in the strategy?
Have high-risk corridors been adequately identified?
Have threats been minimised?
Eradication and containment projects.
Percentage of eradication and/or containment projects being maintained.
Is there a plan in place for ongoing management?
How is progress being monitored and reported to stakeholders?
Legislation or policy changes for Gorse.
Legislative change has been identified by stakeholders.
What legislative changes have been made?
Are minimum requirements being maintained (e.g. ban on sale, trade, movement?
Is control required throughout or in part of the jurisdiction?
Is compliance actively enforced?
Strategically manage existing infestations
To what extent is integrated Gorse management effectively managing core infestations?
Effectiveness of integrated Gorse management programs.
Are existing methods providing adequate control of Gorse?
Have new advances or technologies been developed and are they incorporated into best-practice management information?
Are there barriers to adoption of best-practice management?
Are research programs addressing any observed gaps (e.g. biological control)?
To what extent are assets being protected through strategic management?
Number of priority assets identified as ‘at risk’ from Gorse.
Percentage of priority assets being protected (e.g. assessed against relevant threat abatement plans).
Methods by which assets are being protected (e.g. targeted annual spray programs, high-risk pathway surveillance, strategic plans)
Are long-term monitoring programs in place to detect change?
To what extent is management leading to an improvement in asset condition?
VICTORIAN GORSE CONTROL STRATEGY 2014-19 25
Goal Key evaluation questions
Data or evidence required
Consider
Increase capability and commitment to manage Gorse
To what extent has the capability and commitment to manage Gorse increased?
Community engagement and awareness:
What is the status of best-practice information?
Are partnerships being maintained to ensure collaboration on Gorse?
Is best-practice information up-to-date and readily available?
Is this information and/or advice being targeted to priority areas?
Are networks and groups being supported (e.g. through dissemination of research outcomes, funding opportunities, control options etc.)?
Has awareness and engagement in Gorse management been raised effectively?
Resourcing:
From what sources are projects being funded?
Number of projects funded by Victorian Government, local government, industry, etc.
Policy and planning:
Are the objectives of the strategy being integrated into state/local government and regional plans?
How are priorities reflected in planning and policy approaches (e.g. Gorse risk assessments, asset-protection plans, local government pest plant and animal plans, weed spread prevention activities, incentive programs)?
How are VGT priorities being maintained (eradication targets, awareness raising)?
VICTORIAN GORSE CONTROL STRATEGY 2014-1926
Abbreviations
Key Terms
AWC Australian Weeds Committee
CaLP Act Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994
CFA Country Fire Authority
CRC Cooperative Research Centre
CMA Catchment Management Authority
DEPI Department of Environment and Primary Industries
IPAPF Victorian Invasive Plants and Animals Policy Framework
VGCS Victorian Gorse Control Strategy
VGT Victorian Gorse Taskforce
MAV Municipal Association of Victoria
MC Municipal Council
PV Parks Victoria
NGO Non Government Organisation
NRM Natural Resource Management
WoNS Weed of National Significance
Community Capacity Building Increasing the community’s ability to act in response to an issue through the improvement of knowledge, financial resources or technical skills.
Compliance The meeting of a duty or duties as a land manager or member of the general public as outlined under the CaLP Act, through voluntary or enforced action.
Eradication and Prevention Zone That part of Victoria where Gorse may already occur as isolated infestations or is predicted to occur based on potential distribution modelling and where management will focus on partnership development, capacity building and compliance. Eradication of isolated infestations will be supported where feasible. Prevention of Gorse incursions will be the priority.
Linear Reserves Linear areas of reserved public land, primarily land reserved for roads and railways and land adjacent to streams.
Corridors for spread of Gorse Linear areas, that are known high risk areas for the establishment and spread of Gorse e.g. roadsides, rail reserves, streams and riparian areas.
Regionally Controlled Weed Regionally Controlled Weeds are usually widespread and are considered important in a particular region by the CMA, DEPI and the community. To prevent their spread continuing control measures are required. Land managers have the responsibility to take all reasonable steps to control and prevent the spread of these invasive plants on their land.
Regionally Prohibited Weed Regionally Prohibited Weeds are not widely distributed in a region but are capable of spreading further, and it is reasonable to expect that they can be eradicated from a region. These invasive plants must be eradicated in the region.
Restricted Weed This category includes plants that pose an unacceptable risk of spreading in this State or to other parts of Australia if they were to be sold or traded in Victoria, and are a serious threat to another State or Territory of Australia. Trade in these invasive plants and their propagules, either as plants, seeds or contaminants in other materials is prohibited.
Reduction Zone Areas with substantial, scattered but not yet widespread and abundant populations, often on the fringe of or adjacent to the Containment Area where the Strategy will be to reduce populations.
Stakeholders Organisations, groups and individuals within the community with an interest in land management including landholders, government agencies, CMAs, community groups such as Landcare and Friends groups and industry groups such as the Victorian Farmers Federation.
Weeds of National Significance A set of 32 priority invasive plants that pose significant future threats to primary industries, land management, human or animal welfare, biodiversity and conservation values. See www.weeds.org.au for further information.
Glossary and Further Information
VICTORIAN GORSE CONTROL STRATEGY 2014-19 27
If you require advice about invasive plants or animals on your property, please contact the DEPI Customer Service Centre on 136 186.
IdentificationDPI (2006). Gorse/Furze – Identification Landcare Note. LC0192.
ManagementDPIW (2006). Managing Gorse (Ulex europaeus L.) in Australia. Department of Primary Industries and Water, Tasmania.
VGT (2001). Controlling Gorse Successfully. Victorian Gorse Taskforce, Ballarat.
DPI (2006). Gorse/Furze – Management Landcare Note. LC0380.
National Gorse Task Force (2006). Gorse National Best Practice Manual.
General InformationAustralian Weeds Committee 2012, 2012-17 addendum to the Weeds of National Significance Gorse (Ulex europaeus L.) strategic plan, Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Canberra.
Agriculture & Resource Management Council of Australia & New Zealand, Australian & New Zealand Environment & Conservation Council and Forestry Ministers (2000). Weeds of National Significance Gorse (Ulex europaeus L.) Strategic Plan. National Weeds Strategy Executive Committee, Launceston.
DPIW (2003). Gorse Statutory Management Plan. Department of Primary Industries and Water, Tasmania.
DSE (2007) Guidelines for Preparing Regional Pest Plans, Department of Sustainability and Environment in conjunction with Department of Primary Industries, Biosecurity Victoria, Victoria.
Weiss, J., TA. Morfe, and D. McLaren (2002), Assessing the financial implications of alternative investment options in weed control. Proceedings of the 13th Australian Weeds Conference, eds H. Spafford Jacob, J. Dodd and J.H. Moore, pp. 505-508 (Plant Protection Society of Western Australia, Perth).
Websiteswww.vicgorsetaskforce.com.au Victorian Gorse Taskforce
www.depi.vic.gov.au/agriculture-and-food/ pests-diseases-and-weeds/weeds DEPI weeds
www.weeds.org.au Weeds Australia
Regional CMA Invasive Plants and Animals Strategies are available at:
Corangamite www.ccma.vic.gov.au
East Gippsland www.egcma.vic.gov.au
Glenelg Hopkins www.ghcma.vic.gov.au
Goulburn Broken www.gbcma.vic.gov.au
Mallee www.malleecma.vic.gov.au
North Central www.nccma.vic.gov.au
North East www.necma.vic.gov.au
Port Phillip and Westernport www.ppwcma.vic.gov.au
West Gippsland www.wgcma.vic.gov.au
Wimmera www.wcma.vic.gov.au
Further Information
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