Publications
Yvonne Ingeme and Gary Backhouse
Department of Natural Resources and Environment, Victoria, February 1999
Our thanks to the following people who provided information used in the preparation of this Recovery Plan: Jeff Jeanes (National Herbarium), Geoff Carr (Ecology Australia),Geoff Beilby, Brett Beecham (formerly Parks Victoria), Fiona Coates and Dale Tonkinson DNRE.
Current Species Status
The Basalt Greenhood Pterostylis basaltica is one of the most threatened orchids in Australia. It is included in the ANZECC List of Threatened Australian Flora as Endangered, is listed as a threatened taxon under the Victorian Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988, and is considered Endangered by Jones (1994), Backhouse and Jeanes (1995) and Briggs and Leigh (1995). Under current IUCN Red Book threat categories and criteria (1994), the Basalt Greenhood is Critically Endangered.
The Basalt Greenhood is restricted to the native grasslands of the basalt plains of south-western Victoria, where virtually all of its habitat has been lost to agricultural development. Only two populations consisting of about 1 000 plants in total are currently known, both in highly perilous situations, and the species is clearly at risk of extinction. An intensive management program including site protection, cultivation and reintroduction is required if the Basalt Greenhood is to be recovered from its perilous state.
Habitat Requirements and Limiting Factors
The Basalt Greenhood occurs in native grasslands on heavy basalt soils, usually growing amongst emergent basalt rocks. Its decline has been attributed to extensive habitat loss to agriculture. Major current threats include ongoing habitat loss, fragmentation and degradation, predation by introduced herbivores, weed invasions, disturbance and illegal collection.
Recovery Goals
Short-term Goal: to decrease the risk of extinction by stabilising and maintaining current plant numbers at site A, increasing plant numbers at site B, establishing the species in cultivation, and commencing reintroductions to establish new populations at secure sites.
Recovery Criteria
Long-term Goal: to achieve an IUCN conservation status rating of Vulnerable (or lower).
Recovery Criteria
Recovery Objectives and Actions
Estimated Cost of Recovery ($: TC = Total Cost; ESP = Endangered Species Program)
| Objective | 2000 | 2001 | 2002 | 2003 | 2004 | Total | |
| 1 | TC | 22,600 | 28,300 | 22,200 | 11,200 | 11,200 | 95,500 |
| ESP | 9,600 | 7,700 | 7,100 | 1,000 | 1,000 | 26,400 | |
| NRE | 7,700 | 12,000 | 8,850 | 7,650 | 7,650 | 43,850 | |
| 2 | TC | 3,200 | 2,600 | 2,600 | 2,600 | 2,600 | 13,600 |
| ESP | 1,000 | 1,000 | 1,000 | 1,000 | 1,000 | 5,000 | |
| NRE | 500 | 500 | 500 | 500 | 500 | 2,500 | |
| 3 | TC | 13,500 | 6,500 | 6,500 | 0 | 0 | 26,500 |
| ESP | 8,000 | 5,000 | 5,000 | 0 | 0 | 18,000 | |
| NRE | 5,500 | 1,500 | 1,500 | 0 | 0 | 8,500 | |
| 4 | TC | 4,500 | 6,500 | 12,500 | 8,000 | 8,000 | 39,500 |
| ESP | 3,000 | 3,000 | 6,000 | 3,000 | 3,000 | 18,000 | |
| NRE | 1,500 | 3,000 | 3,000 | 1,500 | 1,500 | 10,500 | |
| 5 | TC | 0 | 5,500 | 1,000 | 8,000 | 17,500 | 32,000 |
| ESP | 0 | 3,500 | 0 | 5,000 | 15,000 | 23,500 | |
| NRE | 0 | 2,000 | 1,000 | 2,000 | 2,500 | 7,500 | |
| 6 | TC | 0 | 9,500 | 15,500 | 22,000 | 16,000 | 63,000 |
| ESP | 0 | 8,000 | 13,000 | 18,000 | 13,000 | 52,000 | |
| NRE | 0 | 1,500 | 2,500 | 4,000 | 3,000 | 11,000 | |
| 7 | TC | 6,000 | 4,000 | 4,000 | 4,000 | 8,000 | 26,000 |
| ESP | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | |
| NRE | 4,000 | 2,000 | 2,000 | 2,000 | 2,000 | 12,000 | |
| Total | TC | 49,800 | 62,900 | 64,300 | 54,800 | 63,300 | 295,100 |
| ESP | 21,600 | 28,200 | 32,100 | 28,000 | 33,000 | 142,900 | |
| NRE | 19,200 | 22,500 | 19,350 | 17,650 | 17,150 | 95,850 | |
Biodiversity Benefits
The Basalt Greenhood occurs within the Western Basalt Plains Grassland - Community B3.1 - the Old Stony Rises (McDougall et al 1995). In commenting on the road reserve in question, McDougall et a. state 'the best representative of vegetation from stony rises of the central western basalt plains, and possibly the only site for two species thought to be endemic to stony rise vegetation, these roadsides are of exceptional biological importance.' This roadside has been listed on the National Estate under Natural Places (Australian Heritage Commission 1995). Kirkpatrick et al. (1995), state that 'this road reserve is the most diverse remnant of this particular grassland community.'
The western Basalt Plains Grasslands once covered one tenth of Victoria. In 1986, it was estimated that only 3000 hectares remained (CNR 1994). The community has been listed as threatened under schedule 2 of the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 (Action Statement No.53). The conservation of the Basalt Greenhood requires the retention of remnant Western Basalt Plains Grasslands, in particular the rocky rise outcrop areas.
Native grasslands contain a large proportion of Victoria's rare and threatened plant and animal species. Other significant species which also occur along this stretch of road include Glycine aff. clandestina believed to be endemic to the site, Glycine latrobeana, Ajuga australis, Craspedia 'Derrinallum', Pterostylis ap. aff. bicolor, Hydrocotyle foveolata, Ophiohlossum lustianicum and Poa labilliardieri (glabrous form) (McDougall et al 1995). In general, protection of this road reserve for the Basalt Greenhood is likely to benefit other indigenous grassland species, although management requirements may vary for some species.
Abbreviations
CFACountry Fire AuthorityESPEndangered Species Program (Environment Australia)
RFBRural Fire BrigadeDNRE Department of Natural Resources and Environment, Victoria
NOGNNative Orchid Growers NetworkTORTThreatened Orchid Recovery Team
The Basalt Greenhood Pterostylis basaltica D.L. Jones et M.A. Clem. is a highly threatened orchid endemic to native grasslands of the basalt plains of south-western Victoria. The species may well have once been abundant across the grassy plains, but a long history of farming activities there has resulted in extensive habitat loss and degradation. The Basalt Greenhood is now confined to two populations in small areas of remnant habitat, and is probably extinct at the site at which it was first discovered. A few plants are in cultivation. An intensive recovery program is required to ensure the survival of the Basalt Greenhood, and this Recovery Plan sets out actions designed to take the first steps towards that goal.
The Basalt Greenhood (Pterostylis basaltica D.L. Jones & M.L. Clements, Muelleria 8:75 (1993)) is a summer dormant terrestrial orchid, 9-25 cm tall, slender to moderately stout with 3-5 closely sheathing, ovate-lanceolate, acuminate stem leaves. It is encircled by a rosette of 8-15 elliptic leaves 1.5-2.8 cm long, 6-9 mm wide, usually withered by time of flowering. Flowers 1-15, to 1.4 cm long, translucent white with green and brown stripes and suffusions; dorsal sepal straight or upcurved with a filiform point 6-9mm long; lateral sepals deflexed and joined near the base, ovate and shallowly concave with slightly incurved margins having short white basal cilia; lateral sepals narrow to free, points up to 20mm long, deflexed and running nearly parallel, spreading apart at the tips; labellum narrowly ovate, generally 4.5-5.5mm long and about 3 mm wide, brownish green, fleshy and channelled with 6-8 pairs of distinctive coarse white marginal hairs to 3 mm long; basal lobe swollen, whitish, with 4 short hairs about 1.5 mm long (Jones & Clements 1993, Backhouse & Jeanes 1995, Walsh & Entwisle1994).
Jones and Clement (1993)note that 'this species is part of the Pterostylis excelsa complex, can be distinguished from P. excelsa by its generally broader flowers (especially the lateral sepals), prominent markings and the labellum which has fewer, shorter marginal trichomes, a much larger basal lobe and the mid-lobe tapers to a drawn-out apex. It is one of very few species of the 'rufa' group to grow on soils of basaltic origin.'
The orchid was fist recorded at a location east of Mt Vite Vite in 1989 by G. W. Carr during flora surveys in the Mt Emu Creek catchment (Goss et al 1990). It was recorded as Pterostylis sp. nov. aff. biseta from a single flowering stem (Goss et al 1990). Unfortunately the species has not been found at that site since and is now believed to be extinct at that location due to severe weed infestations and rabbits (SAC 1994).
A further population of the species was discovered by T. Barlow and K. McDougall in 1990 while conducting surveys of lowland grasslands. It was recorded as Pterostylis sp. aff. excelsa. At the time further searching of the surrounding suitable habitat was undertaken but without success.
The species was described in 1993 as Pterostylis basaltica by D.Jones and M. Clements. from specimens collected by P. Barnett in 1991 (Jones & Clement 1993).
Over the last 8 years the search for further populations of the orchid has continued. Late in 1998 a very small population of only 5 plants was located on private land by Y. Ingeme and R. Stansmore, approximately three kilometres from the main population.
The Basalt Greenhood has a very localised distribution and considered to be endemic to western basalt plains grassland in south western Victoria (Jones & Clements 1993, SAC 1994). It is now only known from one locality in western Victoria, growing amongst basalt rocks, on 'stoney rises', in native grassland (Kirkpatrick et al 1995).
The general vegetation community in which it occurs has been described as 'Plains Stony Knoll Shrubland/Grassland - no. 16) ' by Frood (1998) and as 'Stony Rise Kangaroo Grassland (Community B3)' by Kirkpatrick et al (1995). The vegetation is characterised as a tussock grassland, shrubland or low open woodland with Acacia species which may include A. paradoxa, A. meanoxylon and A. mearnsii. Other species may include Allocasuarina vericillata, Bursaria spinosa, Hymenanthera dentata and rarely Banksia marginata. The ground flora is dominated by Themeda triandra, Danthonia sp, Austrostipa sp., and a diverse range of forbes (Frood 1998). In the annually burnt areas Chrysocephalum apiculatum may also dominate (Kirkpatrick et al 1995).
The Basalt Greenhood occupies a very narrow habitat range within the 'stony rise', occurring in shallow soil overlying or surrounding basalt rocks. The specific habitat occupied by the orchid is dominated by mix of bare soil and a variety of mosses and occasionally small ferns. The vegetation becomes dominated by Themeda triandra and Chrysocephalum apiculatum further from the edge of the rocks as the soils become slightly deeper.
The area occupied by the orchid is less than 1500m2 (Beilby 1996).
Three other Pterostylis species also occur at the main Basalt Greenhood site, these include Pterostylis sp. aff. bicolor, P. mutica and P. cycnocephala (Kirkpatrickl et al 1995).
Basalt Greenhood commences growth late summer/early autumn in anticipation of autumn rains. The summer dormant 'mother tuber' is replaced during the growing season by a replacement tuber and the 'mother tuber' then dies (G.W.Carr pers. comm.). The rosette of the orchid actively grows between May and September/October, then it begins to loose its colour and wither. At the same time the flowering stem begins to grow. It flowers between November and January depending on the season (Jones & Clement 1993).
'Rufa' group species are pollinated by small flies. In this case the flies are believed to be attracted to the orchid by the smell of rotting material/fungus (G. Backhouse pers. comm.) The fly lands on the labellum and their weight or movement is sufficient to trigger the claw to which the labellum is attached (Jones 1988).
The Basalt Greenhood is a highly threatened orchid, with only two populations currently known; one growing along a narrow road reserve and containing several hundred plants, and a second on private land, only three kilometres away, containing only five plants. The species is listed as Endangered on the ANZECC List of Threatened Flora in Australia and the Victorian Rare or Threatened Flora list (NRE 1999), and is listed as a threatened taxon under the Victorian Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988. It is also considered Endangered by Jones and Clements (1993), Backhouse and Jeanes (1995) and Briggs and Leigh (1995). Under current IUCN Red Book threat categories and criteria (1994), the Basalt Greenhood is Critically Endangered (criteria B1+2c).
The Basalt Greenhood was first collected in 1989, but was not described until 1993. Although the orchid has only been known to the scientific world for a relatively short period of time, searches have occurred for the species since 1990 when the second population was discovered. After eight years of searching, only one other small population of 5 plants has been found on private within 3 kilometres of the large population.
It is believed that the Basalt Greenhood would have been more wide spread than current records suggest. Apparently suitable habitat would have existed in stony rise country from Colac to Nerrin Nerrin and south west to Portfairy.
The decline of this orchid's habitat is reflected in the overall decline of the Western Basalt Plains Grasslands. The western Basalt Plains Grasslands once covered one tenth of Victoria. In 1986, it was estimated that only 3000 hectares remained (CNR 1994). The community has been listed as threatened under schedule 2 of the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 (Action Statement No.53).
Much of the original habitat that would have been occupied by the Basalt Greenhood has been lost through agricultural activities including application of fertilisers and sowing introduced pasture species and heavy grazing by stock and rabbits.
No population of Basalt Greenhood has been located within conservation reserves and there are very few reserves within the Western Basalt Plains and even fewer that would contain suitable habitat for this species. The main population of Basalt Greenhood is located in a precarious situation on a roadside.
One of the most serious threats to the survival of the Basalt Greenhood is posed by weed invasion or activities that promote weed invasion. The Basalt Greenhood occurs in a very restricted and limited ecological niche within the stony rise which is particularly vulnerable to weed invasion, especially by introduced annuals.
The location of the main population of Basalt Greenhood, being on a road reserve, places additional threats and pressures upon the survival of the species.
Road Works may pose a threat including maintenance of table drains, spraying or slashing or major works such as road widening. Such works can spell the immediate destruction of a site through soil disturbance. Incremental damage can also be done through the machinery spreading weeds which gradually become established and then totally invade the site over time.
The longterm droving of stock is still regarded as threat even though the local shire has developed Local Laws to deal with this issue. Blatant disregard for the Local Laws and illegal grazing of stock has still occurred along this road reserve. Local movement of stock is also an issue.
The road reserve also forms the strategic fire-break for the area and is burnt annually, usually in January (depending on seasonal conditions) for fire protection. Fire-break maintenance is associated with fire protection and includes spraying herbicide along the fence, especially on the stony rise areas. There is some risk of spray drift into native vegetation. There is also a risk of altering the fire regime as a result of CFA staff numbers declining and different substitutes for fire protection are considered.
Illegal orchid collection is regarded as a strong potential threat as the location of the site has already been made public. It is important that this be considered in the management of the site.
Intensive agricultural activities may also pose a threat these include fertiliser application and sowing to introduced pasture species and heavy grazing by stock, especially as aerial sowing of pasture becomes more feasible.
The orchid also suffers from rabbit predation and insect predators removing flower and possibly seed capsules.
Other ecological processes are probably also impacting on the orchid's conservation. The orchid exists in such a restricted habitat range that natural pollination is probably an extremely rare event, or its pollinator may not be present in sufficient numbers to ensure adequate pollination rates. Very little seed production has been evident over the last few years of monitoring.
Natural catastrophes could also spell disaster to the species as the majority of the population is growing in the one small location.
The species was discovered at this site while conducting lowland grassland floristic community surveys in 1990 for the World Wide Fund for Nature (Kirkpatrick et al 1995). Searches for other populations in the area were also undertaken at that time but without success ( K. McDougall pers comm; Beilby 1996).
The Shire of Mortlake commissioned a Roadside Management Plan for significant roadsides including this site ( McDougall et al 1993) but it was never approved by council and is not being fully enforced.
The road reserve, including the Basalt Greenhood population has been listed on the National Estate for its Natural Heritage Values (AHC 1995). The road reserve was signposted with VicRoads 'Significant Native Vegetation' signs. Over the last couple of years the site has been inspected by NRE prior to the CFA burn to ensure that flowering and seeding of the Basalt Greenhood occurred.
The road reserve has been burnt annually during late Jan/Feb, apart from a few years due to adverse seasonal conditions (Dundonnell RFB pers comm). Further discussions relating to spraying of the fire-break and weed control and the best time to burn the reserve took place in January 1996.
Inspection of the site following the burn indicated that the Acacia paradoxa and the site itself had been severely burnt and were just starting to recover in October 1996 due to the dry conditions. (So far the Basalt Greenhood has only be found growing in association with woody vegetation and it is unknown if this is significant.)
The population has been inspected on a yearly basis and detailed population monitoring of the site was set up in November of 1996. Approximately 1,000 individuals consisting of rosettes and flowering plants were recorded. The site was examined twice in January 1997, with seeding success of Pterostylis basaltica being very poor. It is not known whether the very dry conditions or possibly the severe burn of the previous season, negatively impacted upon invertebrate populations, adversely affecting pollination. By the end of the 1996/97 summer, which was very dry, the site was looking extremely poor. The Department recommended that the CFA avoid burning in 1997, to allow time for the site to recover, this occurred.
Monitoring of the main population occurred in 1997 and 1998. In 1998 plants were inspected for seeding success with approximately a third of the entire population examined, only five seed pods were observed, with only one of the seed pods being located on a plant within the monitoring grid.
A search and survey for the Basalt Greenhood was conducted on both public and private land, late in 1998, funded by the Endangered Species Program (the survey had been delayed due to the very dry season of 97/98). A very small population of only five plants of the Basalt Greenhood was located on private land during that survey. These plants were caged to protect them from stock grazing, two of the five plants flowered but no seed was set.
During 1997, the Dundonnell Rural Fire Brigade was awarded a 'Certificate of Distinction' as part the Landcare Awards for their assistance in managing both the population of Basalt Greenhood and the significant grassland remnant on the roadside.
The Basalt Greenhood is a critically endangered species that is perilously close to extinction. Although several hundred plants are known, it is at high risk of damage and further degradation to its habitat. A range of recovery actions is required if the risk of extinction is to be substantially reduced.
The key tasks for recovery of the Basalt Greenhood are to increase numbers of plants in the wild and to establish the species in cultivation as soon as possible, to reduce the threat of imminent extinction. Therefore, broad directions for recovery for the duration of this Recovery Plan will be based on protecting and increasing numbers of plants at existing sites, managing threats, propagating the species and establishing it in cultivation, and commencing the establishment of new populations at suitable reintroduction sites. These actions will be supported by survey and research into biology and ecology of the species to aid recovery management.
Two recovery goals have been set: a Short-term Goal, stating the desired outcome of implementation of the Recovery Plan over its five year life, and a Long-term Goal reflecting the desired outcome for ultimate recovery in the wild. Achieving the short-term goal of the Recovery Plan will stabilise the species within the Critically Endangered category or even result in down-grading to Endangered. Attaining the Recovery Plan's long-term goal should result in reducing the threat category to Vulnerable or Lower Risk (near threatened).
Recovery actions for the Basalt Greenhood will initially proceed in an environment of high uncertainty and risk, with few plants currently known, and the lack of basic biological information such as its reliance on mycorrhizal associations, precise habitat requirements, reproductive strategy and conditions required for successful recruitment.
Short-term Goal
The goal of the Recovery Plan during 2000 - 2004 is to decrease the risk of extinction by stabilising and maintaining current plant numbers at site A, increasing plant numbers at site B, establishing the species in cultivation, and commencing reintroductions to establish new populations at secure sites.
Recovery Criteria
The criteria for assessing the achievement of this Goal are:
Long-term Goal
The long-term goal of the recovery program for Basalt Greenhood is to achieve an IUCN conservation status rating of Vulnerable (or lower).
Recovery Criteria
The criteria for assessing the achievement of this Goal are:
Objective 1. Maintain numbers of plants at Site A
Basalt Greenhood currently exists at only two locations in the wild. Site A contains the largest population, but this population is located precariously on a road reserve. Protective works have been undertaken at site A, but the species is still subject to a range of threats including weed invasion, predation, stock movement, road works and installation of utilities. There is a critical need to ensure ongoing protection of this site, to preserve and enhance what could currently be considered the only viable population of Basalt Greenhood. This will be achieved through preparation and implementation of planning processes where appropriate, as well as direct protective measures.
Action 1.1 Ensure site is protected for conservation of orchid
As the main population of the orchid is located in a precarious position on a shire managed road reserve, continued liaison with Shire of Moyne is critical to the survival of the species. A Public Authority Management Agreement (PAMA) will be prepared and implemented for the site to ensure the orchid's persistence including preventing undue disturbance, restricting access, installation of utilities, weed control along the road reserve and fire management issues. The Department will continue to assist the Shire with the development of their Roadside Conservation Management Plan, planning scheme overlays and with extension and education of Shire staff to ensure protection of the site. The action will be coordinated and funded by DNRE.
Responsibility: DNRE
|
Source |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
Total |
|
DNRE |
2000 |
300 |
300 |
300 |
300 |
3200 |
|
Moyne Shire |
1400 |
400 |
400 |
400 |
400 |
3000 |
|
ESP |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Total cost |
3400 |
700 |
700 |
700 |
700 |
6200 |
Action 1.2 Monitor plants/population
Monitoring plots have already been established at the site. Quadrant based monitoring will be increased to three times per year to collect information on total number of plants, number of flowering plants and pollination success/seed pod development. Photo points will also be established at the site which will provide more useful information on recruitment success and orchid development. A monitoring protocol, specifically dealing with this site, the Basalt Greenhood and the other pterostylis populations will also be prepared to ensure protection of the populations whilst undertaking the monitoring. This action will be coordinated and funded by DNRE.
Responsibility: DNRE
|
Source |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
Total |
|
DNRE |
1500 |
1500 |
1500 |
1500 |
1500 |
7500 |
|
community |
400 |
400 |
400 |
400 |
400 |
2000 |
|
ESP |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
|
Total cost |
1900 |
1900 |
1900 |
1900 |
1900 |
9500 |
Action 1.3 Signposting and management of stock movement/droving
In relation to the 'droving of stock', although negotiations have been undertaken with the Shire in relation to the development of Local Laws to deal with this issue, there is still evidence of drovers blatantly disregarding the requirements of the Local Laws and droving their stock down this road reserve without a droving permit. In wet conditions these actions could spell the immediate and total destruction of the site. The issue of Droving will also be dealt with in the Shire's Roadside Conservation Management Plan to ensure protection of the site. To provide added protection for the site, 'No Droving' signs will be erected at the main entry points into the road. Movement of local stock along the road reserve is also and issue and further liaison and extension will be provided to the local landholders and new leasees in the area by DNRE. This action will be coordinated and funded by DNRE with assistance from Shire of Moyne.
Responsibility: DNRE
|
Source |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
Total |
|
DNRE |
1000 |
300 |
300 |
300 |
300 |
2200 |
|
Moyne shire |
700 |
300 |
300 |
300 |
300 |
1900 |
|
community |
300 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
300 |
|
ESP |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Total cost |
2000 |
600 |
600 |
600 |
600 |
4400 |
Action 1.4 Investigate fencing of site (risk vs benefits)
The population is located on a road reserve which means that it is a thorough fare and open to constant pubic access including humans, stock and vehicles. While a fence may protect the remnant from some threats it may also introduce it to new threats. An assessment of the risks verses the benefits will be undertake by DNRE with relevant stakeholders including the CFA, adjoining landholders, local community and the Moyne Shire Council. This action will be coordinated and funded by DNRE. ESP funding may be required to assist in the construction of a fence.
Responsibility: DNRE
|
Source |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
Total |
|
DNRE |
500 |
700 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1200 |
|
community |
400 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
400 |
|
Moyne shire |
500 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
500 |
|
ESP |
0 |
600 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
600 |
|
Total cost |
1400 |
1300 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2700 |
Action1.5 Undertake extension with neighbours for site protection
DNRE will continue to undertake extension and liaison with adjoining landholders and neighbours as to the conservation significance of the remnant population and what the landholders can do to help protect the site. This action will be coordinated and funded by DNRE.
Responsibility: DNRE
|
Source |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
Total |
|
DNRE |
600 |
600 |
600 |
600 |
600 |
3000 |
|
community |
600 |
600 |
600 |
600 |
600 |
3000 |
|
ESP |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Total Cost |
1200 |
1200 |
1200 |
1200 |
1200 |
6000 |
Action 1.6 Prepare and implement comprehensive weed control plan
One of the most serious threats to the survival of Basalt Greenhood is weed invasion, particularly of introduced annuals such as vulpia spp.. These invasive introduced annuals can effectively out compete Basalt Greenhood within its very narrow habitat range and could destroy the population within a few years. A weed control plan will be developed for the site. It will involve a full evaluation of the weed flora on site as well as an evaluation of all weed management options, taking into consideration the species involved, population sizes, locations, proximity to the orchids, etc.. Some of the weeds are actively growing at critical growth times of the Basalt Greenhood and therefore timing of the weed control will be carefully considered so that minimal impact and damage is done to the orchid. The plan will also identify what weed control can be undertaken by community members and what will have to be undertaken by specialised contractors. It will also recommend follow up revegetation works to ensure that desirable native species replace the introduced species removed. The project will be coordinated by DNRE and undertaken by an experienced orchid botanist, under contract to DNRE. DNRE will also provide funds to the local Landcare group through a Botanic Guardians Grant to assist them with weed control. ESP funding is sought to cover the costs of engaging a suitable contractor to prepare the plan and for specialist weed control in sensitive areas.
Responsibility: DNRE
|
Source |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
Total |
|
DNRE |
300 |
4400 |
3600 |
2400 |
2400 |
13100 |
|
community |
0 |
6050 |
3700 |
0 |
0 |
9750 |
|
ESP |
5200 |
6100 |
6100 |
0 |
0 |
17400 |
|
Total cost |
5500 |
16550 |
13400 |
2400 |
2400 |
40250 |
Action 1.7 Establish weed monitoring plots for both site A and B .
Weed invasion is a serious issue to the continued survival of Basalt Greenhood. Weed monitoring plots will be established to collect information on the level of weed invasion that can be tolerated by P.basaltica before it begins to decline. The study will determine the density and species of weed that the orchid can tolerate. This action will be coordinated by DNRE. ESP funding is sought to cover the costs of engaging a suitable contractor to establish and undertake the monitoring of the weed monitoring plots.
Responsibility: DNRE
|
Source |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
Total |
|
DNRE |
0 |
1250 |
1250 |
1250 |
1250 |
5000 |
|
ESP |
4500 |
1000 |
1000 |
1000 |
1000 |
8500 |
|
Total cost |
4500 |
2250 |
2250 |
2250 |
2250 |
13500 |
Action 1.8 Identify and control animal pests
Pest and predator control work will be undertaken at the site, depending upon the individual needs and level of threat. Baiting for rabbits will be undertaken together with addition fencing (eg netting) as appropriate to prevent or deter browsing by native or introduced animals. The work will be coordinated and funded by DNRE.
Responsibility: DNRE
|
Source |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
Total |
|
DNRE |
600 |
1850 |
200 |
200 |
200 |
3050 |
|
ESP |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Total cost |
600 |
1850 |
200 |
200 |
200 |
3050 |
Action1.9 Liaise with CFA over fire management issues
The main population of Basalt Greenhood exists on a road reserve that is a strategic fire break for the area. This may be advantageous to the continued survival of the species. At present the road reserve is burnt every year or so at the end of Jan/Feb depending on seasonal conditions. In preparation for the burn, fire-breaks are sprayed with herbicide. DNRE will continue to liaise with the local rural fire brigade and regional CFA staff to ensure that spraying of fire-breaks does not adversely affect the population of Basalt Greenhood or the grassland remnant and to ensure that the current burning regime of the road reserve does not change unless addition ecological information comes to light. Fire history gathered for the site so far has consisted of varying comments from people, DNRE will undertake collection of documented historical information relating to the burning history of the road reserve to accurately assess the possible ecological/environmental requirements of the species. This action will be coordinated and funded by DNRE.
Responsibility: DNRE
|
Source |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
Total |
|
DNRE |
1250 |
1100 |
1100 |
1100 |
1100 |
5650 |
|
CFA |
850 |
850 |
850 |
850 |
850 |
4250 |
|
ESP |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Total cost |
2100 |
1950 |
1950 |
1950 |
1950 |
9900 |
Objective 2. Increase numbers of plants at Site B
Extensive searching of suitable habitat within a ten Kilometre radius of the main population of the Basalt Greenhood occurred during 1998. A small population of only 5 plants was located in a grazed paddock on private property, three kilometres from Site A. Out of the 5 plants found, only 3 put up a stem, of which 2 produced flowers, unfortunately none of which produced seed. As this is now the only other population of the Basalt Greenhood known to occur in the wild, there is an a urgent need to increase the number of plants in this population as quickly as possible to reduce the threat of extinction, especially as it is likely that some processes such as natural pollination do not appear to be occurring. Active intervention will be required at this site to achieve any increase in numbers, by controlling direct threats to plants and enhancing pollination and seedling establishment and recruitment on site. Hand pollination of all plants will need to be routine for at least several years to come to maximise reproductive success.
Action 2.1 Fence site (50 sq metres)
Further searching at the site will be undertaken during May/June 1999 when the rosettes are clearly visible to locate further plants of Pterostylis sp. (at this stage it is difficult to determine species). The site will be physically protected by fencing, with a gate, to control/manage the grazing of introduced herbivores, additional netting cages may also be erected to protect individual plants from rabbits. This will allow plants to flower and seed pods to mature. The action will be coordinated by DNRE. The cost of the fencing materials and labour to erect the fence will be provided and undertaken by the landholder.
Responsibility: DNRE
|
Source |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
Total |
|
DNRE |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Landholder |
650 |
50 |
50 |
50 |
50 |
850 |
|
ESP |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Total cost |
650 |
50 |
50 |
50 |
50 |
850 |
Action 2.2 Establish monitoring grid and monitor plants
Plants will be monitored several times during the year to collect information on total population/recruitment success, number of flowering plants, seed production success. Photo points will also be established within the grid. Population will also be monitored prior to flowering to determine the level of protection required. The monitoring grid will be established and coordinated by DNRE, the local landholder will undertake the monitoring of the orchid throughout the year.
Responsibility: DNRE
|
Source |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
Total |
|
DNRE |
200 |
200 |
200 |
200 |
200 |
1000 |
|
Landholder |
350 |
350 |
350 |
350 |
350 |
1750 |
|
ESP |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Total cost |
550 |
550 |
550 |
550 |
550 |
2750 |
Action 2.3 Hand-pollinate plants and manage site to maximise seedling recruitment
The site will be managed to maximise seedling recruitment. Hand-weeding and litter removal in the immediate vicinity of the plants will occur to control competition and encourage seedling establishment. The site will be monitored prior to flowering to determine the level of protection required to ensure that plants flower. Flowers will be hand pollinated and hand watered as necessary to maximise seed production. This action will be coordinated by DNRE. Hand watering of plants will be undertaken by the local landholder. ESP funding is sought to cover the costs of engaging a suitable contractor to carry out hand pollination of the Basalt Greenhood plants.
Responsibility: DNRE
|
Source |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
Total |
|
DNRE |
300 |
300 |
300 |
300 |
300 |
1500 |
|
Landholder |
420 |
420 |
420 |
420 |
420 |
2100 |
|
ESP |
1000 |
1000 |
1000 |
1000 |
1000 |
5000 |
|
Total cost |
1720 |
1720 |
1720 |
1720 |
1720 |
8600 |
Action 2.4 Control weeds and pests
Pest and weed control will continue to be undertaken at the site. The local landholder will monitor the site and undertake hand weeding and pest control as necessary. The site will also be burnt or grazed as required depending on the level of weed invasion. The action will be coordinated and by NRE and works will be carried out by the local landholder.
Responsibility: DNRE
|
Source |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
Total |
|
DNRE |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Landholder |
280 |
280 |
280 |
280 |
280 |
1400 |
|
ESP |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Total cost |
280 |
280 |
280 |
280 |
280 |
1400 |
Objective 3. Search for other populations of the Basalt Greenhood
Currently only two populations of the Basalt Greenhood are known, although it is possible that other populations may still exist along roadsides or on freehold land on the volcanic plains. Habitat preferences will be determined and potential suitable habitat identified and searches organised in an effort to locate additional populations. Searches will target private land, and the assistance of landholders will be sought to aid searches.
Action 3.1 Describe the habitat of the Basalt Greenhood
The habitat at current and recent sites for the Basalt Greenhood will be described, with data collected to include plant community, soil, slope, aspect and hydrology. This will assist in defining habitat preferences and aid in identifying potential habitat for surveys and preparation of the Habitat Suitability Index (Action 6.1) for proposed reintroductions. The work will be carried out by a specialist botanist under contract to DNRE. ESP funding is sought to cover costs of appointing a contractor to undertake the action.
Responsibility: DNRE
|
Source |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
Total |
|
DNRE |
1 000 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 000 |
|
ESP |
3 000 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
3 000 |
|
Total cost |
4 000 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
4 000 |
Action 3.2 Map and survey likely suitable habitat of the Basalt Greenhood
Areas of likely habitat within the range of the Basalt Greenhood will be identified, and searches organised, concentrating on private land. The assistance of landholders, orchid enthusiasts and field naturalists will be sought to participate in the surveys, and the plight of the Basalt Greenhood will be publicised amongst land owners with potential habitat on their properties. Defining habitat and search areas will be undertaken by DNRE. Funding from ESP is sought to enable the appointment of a community facilitator to work with private landholders to coordinate the searches on private land, managed by DNRE.
Responsibility: DNRE
|
Source |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
Total |
|
DNRE |
1 500 |
1 500 |
1 500 |
0 |
0 |
4 500 |
|
ESP |
5 000 |
5 000 |
5 000 |
0 |
0 |
15 000 |
|
Total cost |
6 500 |
6 500 |
6 500 |
0 |
0 |
19 500 |
Action 3.3 Prepare an information brochure on the Basalt Greenhood
An information brochure on the Basalt Greenhood will be prepared to publicise the plight of the species and encourage community participation in searches and protection. The brochure will be prepared as part of the DNRE threatened species series, and costs for preparation and production will be met by DNRE.
Responsibility: DNRE
|
Source |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
Total |
|
DNRE |
3 000 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
3 000 |
|
ESP |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Total cost |
3 000 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
3 000 |
Objective 4. Establish the Basalt Greenhood in cultivation
The Basalt Greenhood needs to be established in cultivation as insurance against catastrophe and further loss in the wild, and to provide plants for reintroduction. Very few plants of the Basalt Greenhood are currently held in cultivation, but these have been maintained successfully for several years (G. Bielby pers. comm.). Species of rufa-group Pterostylis can be successfully grown from seed and maintained in cultivation, although this is not an easy task and requires specialist equipment and expertise. The South Australian Department of Environment, Heritage and Aboriginal Affairs has undertaken similar successful work with the Vulnerable Pterostylis arenicola at the Black Hills Flora Centre, and this work will be used as a model for Pterostylis basaltica. DNRE has recently facilitated the establishment of the Native Orchid Growers Network (NOGN) to coordinate horticultural expertise amongst the orchid growing community to assist in the cultivation of threatened orchids for recovery programs. The involvement of NOGN in the recovery effort for Basalt Greenhood will be important in achieving this objective.
Action 4.1 Prepare and implement a cultivation management and hygiene plan
A hygiene protocol for cultivation and movement of plants (see Atkins et al. 1997; Touchell et al. 1997) will be prepared and implemented for cultivation of the Basalt Greenhood. Rigorous phytosanitary procedures will be adopted to reduce the risk of infection by pathogens and possible transmission to the wild population. The horticultural expertise of botanic gardens, commercial nurseries and private growers will be sought in preparing the protocol. The action will be coordinated and funded by DNRE.
Responsibility: DNRE
|
Source |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
Total |
|
DNRE |
0 |
1 000 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 000 |
|
ESP |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Total cost |
0 |
1 000 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 000 |
Action 4.2 Produce seedlings using in vitro propagation techniques
Large numbers of Pterostylis basaltica seedlings will need to be produced to establish the species in cultivation. Seed will be collected from wild plants and will be provided to at least two laboratories that have demonstrated expertise in propagating native terrestrial orchids in vitro. Orchid tissue will also be supplied to enable the isolation of the mycorrhizal fungus for symbiotic propagation. DNRE will organise seed and tissue collection. ESP funding is sought to fund the propagation of Basalt Greenhood seed, under contract to DNRE.
Responsibility: DNRE
|
Source |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
Total |
|
DNRE |
1 500 |
1 500 |
1 500 |
0 |
0 |
4 500 |
|
ESP |
3 000 |
3 000 |
3 000 |
0 |
0 |
9 000 |
|
Total cost |
4 500 |
4 500 |
4 500 |
0 |
0 |
13 500 |
Action 4.3 Establish seedlings in cultivation
When sufficient plants of the Basalt Greenhood can be propagated, an ex situ collection will be established and maintained by providing seedlings and tubers from in vitro propagation (Action 4.2) to at least two suitable growers in NOGN and at least one suitable nursery complex. Seedlings will be on-grown to mature plants for additional seed production, genetic management and for introduction to the wild. This task will be undertaken in conjunction with skilled amateur growers through NOGN. The work will be coordinated by NOGN. ESP funding is sought to cover costs of materials to assist NOGN growers and for cultivation costs in a suitable nursery complex.
Responsibility: DNRE
|
Source |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
Total |
|
DNRE |
0 |
0 |
1 000 |
1 000 |
1 000 |
3 000 |
|
NOGN |
0 |
0 |
3 000 |
3 000 |
3 000 |
9 000 |
|
ESP |
0 |
0 |
3 000 |
3 000 |
3 000 |
9 000 |
|
Total cost |
0 |
0 |
7 000 |
7 000 |
7 000 |
21 000 |
Action 4.4 Maintain a database on cultivated plants
A central database will be developed and established to maintain all records of cultivated plants, including seed source, locations, numbers and movements of plants, growing conditions and other information to keep track of plants amongst growers participating in the recovery program. Individual growers will maintain their own records to contribute to the central database. The information will be available to other organisations or agencies contributing to other objectives and actions in this Recovery Plan and the conservation of threatened orchids. NOGN will be responsible for designing and maintaining the database, with assistance from DNRE.
Responsibility: DNRE
|
Source |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
Total |
|
DNRE |
0 |
500 |
500 |
500 |
500 |
2 000 |
|
NOGN |
0 |
500 |
500 |
500 |
500 |
2 000 |
|
ESP |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
|
Total cost |
0 |
1 000 |
1 000 |
1 000 |
1 000 |
4 000 |
Objective 5. Establish new populations of the Basalt Greenhood
To reduce the extinction risk and ensure the conservation of the Basalt Greenhood, at least three new populations will need to be established in suitable habitat in secure, unpublicised locations on public or private land. This objective will involve development of a Habitat Suitability Index to rank and select suitable reintroduction sites, preparation and implementation of a reintroduction plan, and monitoring of outcomes. The work will initially be undertaken by a skilled botanist, but could ultimately be managed by DNRE and local community enthusiasts, once reintroduction techniques are perfected. Reintroduction is dependent upon seed collection for direct seeding trials and successful propagation of sufficient numbers of seedlings and tubers for reintroduction trails. If sufficient numbers of seedlings become available, it may be possible to incorporate experimental design to test variables likely to affect plant establishment in a new environment.
Action 5.1 Develop a Habitat Suitability Index
A Habitat Suitability Index (HSI) (USFWS 1981; Houston et al 1986) will be developed to enable systematic and objective assessment and selection of suitable reintroduction sites for the Basalt Greenhood. The HSI will include assessment of variables such as site size, habitat structure, threats, management, land tenure and security. The HSI will be developed using information from habitat mapping and survey (Objective 3), by a specialist contractor under contract to DNRE. ESP funding is sought to cover the costs of a specialist contractor.
Responsibility: DNRE
|
Source |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
Total |
|
DNRE |
0 |
2 000 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2 000 |
|
ESP |
0 |
3 500 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
3 500 |
|
Total cost |
0 |
5 500 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
5 500 |
Action 5.2 Select reintroduction sites
Once the Habitat Suitability Index is developed (Action .1), the HSI will be applied to select at least one suitable reintroduction site, using information from the habitat survey (Action 3.2) and other databases such as the DNRE 'Land for Wildlife' property database. The selection will be undertaken by the Recovery Team (see Action 7.1).
Responsibility: DNRE
|
Source |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
Total |
|
Rec Team |
0 |
0 |
1 000 |
0 |
0 |
1 000 |
|
ESP |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Total cost |
0 |
0 |
1 000 |
0 |
0 |
1 000 |
Action 5.3 Prepare a reintroduction plan
A reintroduction plan will be prepared, detailing any preparation of cultivated plants prior to reintroduction, methods of reintroduction (including using seed, tubers, seedlings or mature plants), timing, numbers of plants, experimental design, permanent marking grids and photo points, monitoring techniques and frequency and other information as required. The action requires the successful integration of horticultural and ecological experience, and will be undertaken by a specialist contractor, under contract to DNRE. ESP funding is sought to cover the costs of appointing a contractor to undertake the action.
Responsibility: DNRE
|
Source |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
Total |
|
DNRE |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2 000 |
0 |
2 000 |
|
ESP |
0 |
0 |
0 |
5 000 |
0 |
5 000 |
|
Total cost |
0 |
0 |
0 |
7 000 |
0 |
7 000 |
Action 5.4 Establish plants at reintroduction sites
Plants will be established at new sites, according to the reintroduction plan (Action .3) and there is also the opportunity to establish plants at existing sites to bolster remaining populations and for genetic management if required. The work will be initially undertaken by a competent botanist, under contract to DNRE. Once techniques are developed and implemented successfully, there is the opportunity for community participation in establishment and monitoring work. ESP funding is sought to cover the costs of a contractor for the work, and for any site protection works required such as weed control or fencing.
Responsibility: DNRE
|
Source |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
Total |
|
DNRE |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2 000 |
2 000 |
|
ESP |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
10 000 |
10 000 |
|
Total cost |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
12 000 |
12 000 |
Action 5.5 Monitor the outcome of reintroduction efforts
Once plants have been established at new or existing sites and monitoring grids and protocols are in place, plants will be closely monitored during the growing and flowering season, and phenological data collected. Monitoring will initially be carried out by a skilled botanist, under contract to DNRE. Once the population is established, monitoring will be transferred to trusted local naturalists groups via the Botanic Guardians Scheme. Community representatives will be trained in monitoring and recording procedures. ESP funding is sought to appoint a contractor for the initial monitoring and training program.
Responsibility: DNRE
|
Source |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
Total |
|
DNRE |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
500 |
500 |
|
ESP |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
5 000 |
5 000 |
|
Total cost |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
5 500 |
5 500 |
Objective 6. Investigate factors affecting plant recruitment and population viability
There is virtually no information on the biology and ecology of the Basalt Greenhood, especially on specific ecological conditions required for natural regeneration, mycorrhizal fungi association, genetic health and viability of the remnant populations, ecological tolerances, and identity and requirements of the pollinator. The work will be important in gaining information for enhanced recovery management. The population of the Basalt Greenhood in cultivation will also be an important adjunct for ecological work. The actions 5.1 - 5.3 together may constitute a useful post-graduate project (possibly in association with work on other threatened terrestrial orchids), or individual actions may be undertaken by contractors with specialist skills.
Action 6.1 Investigate pollination rates, seed germination and seedling establishment
Rates of natural pollination, seed germination under the range of conditions likely to be found in nature and factors effecting seedling establishment will be investigated. The work will be important in actions designed to optimise recruitment to existing populations and establishing new populations of the Basalt Greenhood. The work will be managed under contract to DNRE. ESP funding is sought to enable the appointment of a specialist contractor for the project.
Responsibility: DNRE
|
Source |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
Total |
|
DNRE |
0 |
1 500 |
1 500 |
1 500 |
1 500 |
6 000 |
|
ESP |
0 |
8 000 |
8 000 |
8 000 |
8 000 |
32 000 |
|
Total cost |
0 |
9 500 |
9 500 |
9 500 |
9 500 |
38 000 |
Action 6.2 Determine the ecological tolerances of the Basalt Greenhood
When sufficient numbers of plants become available either through cultivation or an increase in field populations, experimental work to determine ecological tolerances, particularly soil type, soil structure and habitat preferences will be undertaken. The project will assist in ongoing field management of populations, particularly in identifying and managing reintroduced populations. The project is experimental and could form a suitable project for post-graduate research through a tertiary institution. The work will be managed under contract to NRE. ESP funding is sought to enable the appointment of a specialist contractor for the project.
Responsibility: DNRE
|
Source |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
Total |
|
DNRE |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 500 |
1 500 |
3 000 |
|
ESP |
0 |
0 |
0 |
5 000 |
5 000 |
10 000 |
|
Total cost |
0 |
0 |
0 |
6 500 |
6 500 |
13 000 |
Action 6.3 Assess the mycorrhizal association of the Basalt Greenhood
The mycorrhizal fungus will be isolated and the dependence of the Basalt Greenhood on the fungus determined. The project will provide information to assist with management of field populations, reintroductions and enhance propagation and cultivation outcomes. The work will require specialist expertise in mycology, particularly the identification and culture of fungi in the laboratory, and will be managed under contract to DNRE. ESP funding is sought to enable the appointment of a specialist contractor for the project.
Responsibility: DNRE
|
Source |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
Total |
|
DNRE |
0 |
0 |
1 000 |
1 000 |
0 |
2 000 |
|
ESP |
0 |
0 |
5 000 |
5 000 |
0 |
10 000 |
|
Total cost |
0 |
0 |
6 000 |
6 000 |
0 |
12 000 |
Objective 7. Manage the recovery program for the Basalt Greenhood
Recovery of the Basalt Greenhood will be a complex, difficult operation involving a high degree of complexity and uncertainty, and many different disciplines will be required for effective implementation of the Recovery Plan. Recovery program planning and management needs to be addressed to ensure effective and efficient implementation of the recovery program, through communication and coordination amongst all participants. DNRE has recently facilitated the establishment of a Threatened Orchid Recovery Team (TORT), representing community groups, organisations with a role in plant conservation, university researchers and specialist orchid botanists, to assist in setting standards and strategic directions in preparing and implementing recovery plans, maintaining an overview of recovery directions and actions and evaluating implementation of recovery programs. DNRE will manage the local Recovery Team, with assistance from TORT.
Action 7.1 Establish the local Recovery Team
A local Recovery Team for the Basalt Greenhood will be established to coordinate and maintain day to day operational implementation of the Recovery Plan, and develop targets and performance measures for actions under the Plan. The team will be facilitated by DNRE, with representatives of local community groups, land managers, specialist botanists and contractors on specific tasks for implementing recovery program. The local Recovery Team will be operating under the umbrella of TORT. Member organisations and agencies will be responsible for covering their own costs of participation in the recovery team.
Responsibility: DNRE
|
Source |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
Total |
|
DNRE |
2 000 |
2 000 |
2 000 |
2 000 |
2 000 |
10 000 |
|
Members |
2 000 |
2 000 |
2 000 |
2 000 |
2 000 |
10 000 |
|
ESP |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Total cost |
4 000 |
4 000 |
4 000 |
4 000 |
4 000 |
20 000 |
Action 7.2 Undertake recovery program review and evaluation
Regular review and evaluation are essential components of effective program management, particularly where dealing with issues of considerable complexity and uncertainty, and will be held every year as part of the recovery team operations. A major review and evaluation, involving all participants and independent specialists, will be held at the end of the project. Costs will be met by member agencies and organisations.
Responsibility: DNRE
|
Source |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
Total |
|
DNRE |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2 000 |
2 000 |
|
Rec Team |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2 000 |
2 000 |
|
ESP |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Total cost |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
4 000 |
4 000 |
Action 7.3 Prepare the FFG Action Statement for the Basalt Greenhood
An Action Statement for the Basalt Greenhood under the Victorian Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 will be prepared. The Action Statement will be an abbreviated version of the Recovery Plan and will fill a need for public information on the species and recovery actions. The costs of preparing and publishing the Action Statement will be met by DNRE.
Responsibility: DNRE
|
Source |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
Total |
|
DNRE |
2 000 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2 000 |
|
ESP |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Total cost |
2 000 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2 000 |
Community participation has contributed to conservation actions to date for the Basalt Greenhood. Community volunteers have been involved in searches and monitoring and Country Fire Authority volunteers have assisted with burning or avoiding burning of the site when requested.
Ongoing participation will be instrumental in achieving the recovery objectives and actions outlined in this Recovery Plan. The main areas of community participation will be in monitoring, surveys for new populations, protection of the population on private land along with weed and predator control. The assistance of groups such as the Woorndoo Land Protection Group and the Native Orchid Growers Network will be sought in implementing recovery actions. However, this participation needs to be tempered with the requirement to keep locations of the Basalt Greenhood generally confidential, to avoid unwanted attention and possibly illegal collection of plants. community members.
Once existing wild populations are increased and secured, new populations established, and management and monitoring programs are in place, local community groups will be further encouraged to adopt and develop a custodianship of populations in their area, to be facilitated through the Botanic Guardians scheme managed by DNRE.
Atkins, K., Benson, J., Dixon, K., Gilfedder, L., Jusaitis, M., Matthes, M. and Rossetto, M. 1997. Guidelines for the Translocation of Threatened Plants in Australia. Australian Network for Plant Conservation, Canberra.
Backhouse, G.N.. and Jeanes, J.A. 1995. The Orchids of Victoria. The Miegunyah Press, Melbourne
Briggs, J.D and Leigh, J.H. 1995 Rare or Threatened Australian Plants. 1995 Revised edition. CSIRO Publications, Melbourne.
Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988,
Frood D. (1998) Proposed Native Vegetation Units for the Victorian Volcanic Bioregion (Unpublished)
Houston,B.R., Clark,T.W. and Minta, S.C. 1986. Habitat suitability index model for the blackfooted ferret: a method to locate transplant sites. Great Basin Naturalist Memoirs 8:99-114
IUCN (1994)., IUCN Red List Categories. IUNC, Gland, Switzerland.
Jones, D.L.(1988). Native Orchids of Australia. Reed, Australia.
Jones, D.L. (1994)
Jones, D.L. and Clements, M.A. (1993). New Species of Pterostylis R. Br. (Orchidaceae) from Victoria and New South Wales. Muelleria 8(1):73-83
Kirkpatrick, J., McDougall, K., Hyde, M., (1995) Australia's Most Threatened Ecosystem- the southern lowland native grasslands. Surrey Beatty & Sons in Association with The World Wide Fund for Nature Australia.
NRE 1999. Victorian rare or threatened flora species 1999. Department of Natural Resources and Environment, Melbourne.
Touchell, D.H., Richardson, M., and Dixon, K.W. (eds) 1997 Germplasm Conservation Guidelines for Australia. Australian Network for Plant Conservation, Canberra.
USFWS 1981. Standards for the development of habitat suitability index models. United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Division of Ecological Services Manual 103.
| Task | Description | Priority | Feasibility | Resp Party | Cost estimates | |||||
| 2000 | 2001 | 2002 | 2003 | 2004 | Total | |||||
| 1 | Maintain plant numbers at Site A | |||||||||
| 1.1 | Ensure site protection | 1 | 100 | DNRE |
3.4 |
0.7 |
0.7 |
0.7 |
0.7 |
6.2 |
| 1.2 | Monitor plants | 1 | 100 | DNRE |
1.9 |
1.9 |
1.9 |
1.9 |
1.9 |
9.5 |
| 1.3 | Signpost & manage stock movement | 1 | 90 | DNRE |
2.0 |
0.6 |
0.6 |
0.6 |
0.6 |
4.4 |
| 1.4 | Investigate fencing of site | 1 | 100 | DNRE |
1.4 |
1.3 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2.7 |
| 1.5 | Extension | 1 | 100 | DNRE |
1.2 |
1.2 |
1.2 |
1.2 |
1.2 |
6.0 |
| 1.6 | Prepare & implement weed control plan | 1 | 90 | DNRE |
5.5 |
16.55 |
13.4 |
2.4 |
2.4 |
40.25 |
| 1.7 | Establish weed monitoring plots | 3 | 100 | DNRE |
4.5 |
2.25 |
2.25 |
2.25 |
2.25 |
13.5 |
| 1.8 | Identify & control animal pests | 1 | 90 | DNRE |
0.6 |
1.85 |
0.2 |
0.2 |
0.2 |
3.05 |
| 1.9 | Liaise with CFA | 1 | 100 | DNRE |
2.1 |
1.95 |
1.95 |
1.95 |
1.95 |
9.9 |
| 2 | Increase number of plants at Site B | |||||||||
| 2.1 | Fence site | 1 | 100 | DNRE |
0.65 |
0.05 |
0.05 |
0.05 |
0.05 |
0.85 |
| 2.2 | Monitor plants | 1 | 100 | DNRE |
0.55 |
0.55 |
0.55 |
0.55 |
0.55 |
2.75 |
| 2.3 | Hand pollinate | 1 | 95 | DNRE |
1.72 |
1.72 |
1.72 |
1.72 |
1.72 |
8.6 |
| 2.4 | Control weeds & pests | 1 | 95 | DNRE |
0.28 |
0.28 |
0.28 |
0.28 |
0.28 |
1.4 |
| 3 | Determine Habitat, distribution & abundance | |||||||||
| 3.1 | Detail habitat | 1 | 90 | DNRE |
4. 0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
4. 0 |
| 3.2 | Map and survey | 1 | 90 | DNRE |
6. 5 |
6. 5 |
6. 5 |
0 |
0 |
19. 5 |
| 3.3 | Prepare info. brochure | 3 | 100 | DNRE |
3. 0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
3. 0 |
| 4 | Establish in cultivation | |||||||||
| 4.1 | Prepare & implement clutivation & hygiene Plan | 1 | 100 | DNRE |
0 |
1. 0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1. 0 |
| 4.2 | Produce seedlings using in vitro propagation | 1 | 70 | DNRE |
4. 5 |
4. 5 |
4. 5 |
0 |
0 |
13. 5 |
| 4.3 | Establish seedlings in cultivation | 1 | 70 | DNRE |
0 |
0 |
7. 0 |
7. 0 |
7. 0 |
21. 0 |
| 4.4 | Maintain database on cultivated plants | 2 | 100 | DNRE |
0 |
1. 0 |
1. 0 |
1. 0 |
1. 0 |
4. 0 |
| 5 | Establish new populations | |||||||||
| 5.1 | Develop Habitat suitability index | 1 | 90 | DNRE |
0 |
5. 5 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
5. 5 |
| 5.2 | Select reintroduction sites | 1 | 70 | DNRE |
0 |
0 |
1. 0 |
0 |
0 |
1. 0 |
| 5.3 | Prepare reintroduction plan | 1 | 80 | DNRE |
0 |
0 |
0 |
7. 0 |
0 |
7. 0 |
| 5.4 | Establish plants at reintroduction sites | 1 | 70 | DNRE |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
12. 0 |
12. 0 |
| 5.5 | Monitor reintroduction | 1 | 100 | DNRE |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
5. 5 |
5. 5 |
| 6 | Investigate factors affecting plant recruitment | |||||||||
| 6.1 | Investigate seed production | 3 | 300 | DNRE |
0 |
9. 5 |
9. 5 |
9. 5 |
9. 5 |
38. 0 |
| 6.2 | Determine ecological tolerances | 3 | 80 | DNRE |
0 |
0 |
0 |
6. 5 |
6. 5 |
13. 0 |
| 6.3 | Assess mycorrhizal associations | 3 | 80 | DNRE |
0 |
0 |
6. 0 |
6. 0 |
0 |
12. 0 |
| 7 | Manage Recovery Program | |||||||||
| 7.1 | Establish Recovery team | 2 | 100 | DNRE |
4. 0 |
4. 0 |
4. 0 |
4. 0 |
4. 0 |
20. 0 |
| 7.2 | Undertake recovery and review | 2 | 100 | DNRE |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
4. 0 |
4. 0 |
| 7.3 | Prepare FFG Action Statement | 3 | 100 | DNRE |
2. 0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2. 0 |
| TOTAL |
49.8 |
62.9 |
64.3 |
54.8 |
63.3 |
295.1 |
| Goal (Short-term) | Criteria | Objectives | Actions | |||
| To decrease the risk of extinction by stabilising increasing numbers at existing populations, establishing in cultivation and undertaking reintroductions | ® | A. Maintaining population at site A with a minimum of 500 flowering plants | ® | 1. Maintain numbers of plants at Site A | ® | 1.1 Ensure site is protected for conservation of orchid 1.2 Monitor plants 1.3 Signposting and management of stock droving 1.4 Investigate fencing of site 1.5 Undertake extension with neighbours 1.6 Prepare weed control plan 1.7 Establish weed monitoring plots 1.8 Identify and control animal pests 1.9 Liaise with CFA over fire management issues |
| ® | B. Increase population at site B to at least 50 plants | ® | 2. Increase numbers of plants at Site B | ® | 2.1 Fence site 2.2 Set up monitoring grid and monitor plants 2.3 Hand-pollinate plants and maximise seedling recruitment 2.4 Control weeds and pests | |
| ® | C. Commencing comprehensive surveys to search for new populations and identify reintroduction sites | ® | 3. Determine the habitat, distribution and abundance of the Basalt Greenhood | ® | 3.1 Detail the habitat of the Basalt Greenhood 3.2 Map and survey likely suitable habitat 3.3 Prepare an information brochure | |
| ® | D. Develop successful propagation techniques, establishing ex situ collection of 200 mature plants in cultivation, providing 50 plants for reintroductions | ® | 4. Establish Basalt Greenhood in cultivation | ® | 4.1 Prepare and implement a cultivation & hygiene plan 4.2 Produce seedlings using in vitro propagation techniques 4.3 Establish seedlings in cultivation 4.4 Maintain a database on cultivated plants | |
| ® | E. Commencing reintroduction of plants to supplement population at site B and establish at least one new population at a secure site | ® | 5. Establish new population of Basalt Greenhood | ® | 5.1 Develop a Habitat Suitability Index 5.2 Select reintroduction sites 5.3 Prepare a reintroduction plan 5.4 Establish plants at reintroduction sites 5.5 Monitor the outcome of reintroduction efforts | |
| ® | A + B + C + D + E | ® | 6. Investigate factors affecting plant recruitment and population viability | ® | 6.1 Investigate seed production, germination, establishment 6.2 Determine the ecological tolerances 6.3 Assess the mycorrhizal association | |
| ® | 7. Manage the recovery program for the Basalt Greenhood | ® | 7.1 Establish the local Recovery Team 7.2 Undertake recovery program review and evaluation 7.3 Prepare the FFG Action Statement | |||
Copyright
The Director, Environment Australia, GPO Box 636, Canberra, ACT 2601 1998
This publication is copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purposes of private study, research, criticism or review as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968, no part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, photocopying or other, without the prior permission of the Director, Environment Australia.
Disclaimer
The opinions expressed in this document are the views of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of Environment Australia or the Department of Natural Resources and Environment, Victoria.
Citation
Ingeme, Y and Backhouse, G.N. 1999. Recovery Plan for the Basalt Greenhood Pterostylis basaltica 2000 - 2004. Department of Natural Resources and Environment, Melbourne.
The preparation of this plan was funded by the Environment Australia Biodiversity Group, Threatened Species and Communities Section.
A Recovery Plan prepared under the Commonwealth Endangered Species Protection Act 1992.