Native Forests
Native Forest Management
Native forests that are used for timber production must be managed carefully in order to protect and maintain their many values. Before harvesting begins, the area of forest must be studied so that its individual characteristics can be taken into consideration. Features noted in these studies include the presence of waterways, plants and animals, and cultural heritage sites; as well as the age of the trees. Foresters outline their plans for harvesting, and these must be approved before the process can begin.
Photo: Queensland
There are common practices that are used to minimise the environmental impact of harvesting on forests. These include keeping vegetation around waterways to minimise erosion and filter run-off; excluding logging from the habitats of threatened species and cultural heritage sites; and leaving ‘habitat trees’ or islands of trees that are known to be animal homes. It is also common to try to keep intact stretches of bush, or 'wildlife corridors', for animals to travel between different areas of forest.
Most states and territories around Australia have Codes of Practice and Management Plans that apply to commercial timber production in both public and private forests. These regulatory instruments have been created to ensure that commercial timber growing and timber harvesting operations are carried out in such a way that they:
- permit a viable, internationally competitive, sustainable forest industry;
- are compatible with the conservation of the wide range of environmental and social values associated with timber production forests;
- promote the ecologically sustainable management of native forests proposed for continuous timber production;
- enhance public confidence in the management of native forests and plantations for timber production.
Case Study: Long term planning for the Southern Hills Forest District
ForestrySA manages 1,271.5 hectares of native forest at Kuitpo and Second Valley forests for the conservation of biodiversity to ensure their long-term future. These native forests are integrated with the commercial softwood plantations.
There is no harvesting of timber from ForestrySA native forests. Native forest areas contribute significantly to biodiversity conservation in South Australia, particularly in the high rainfall areas of the State.
Long term management plans are being developed in consultation with relevant organisations and agencies. It is expected that all areas will have management plans by the end of 2001.
Substantial work programs are generated from these management plans including pest plant and animal control, fire control measures, prescribed burning, revegetation and the provision of natural history information to the public. Volunteers, both individuals and organisations, assist in the management of native forests.
