Tuart Response Group to investigate Tuart forest decline

16/11/01
A response group will be established to devise a conservation strategy for Tuart forests in the South-West region, Environment and Heritage Minister Dr Judy Edwards announced today.
The Tuart Response Group will draw on community and Government agency expertise to examine the decline of Tuarts in the region.
Dr Edwards said the Government was determined to define the primary factors causing stress to Tuart trees, enabling the devastating impacts of borers.
"There are a number of contributing and inter-related factors at play - it is our task to assess and define their impact if we are to find sustainable solutions to the problem," she said.
"Potential influences include ongoing low rainfall, local geological and hydrological features, changes in land use, altered fire regimes and competition with other species.
"This working group will be asked to utilise its combined resources and knowledge to uncover the key causes behind this growing problem, and possible future plans of action."
The group will also work to better define research needs and compile education material for individual landholders and the community to combat the decline of Tuarts.
Dr Edwards said representatives invited to join the group included:

• Tuart Forest Coalition;
• Department of Environment, Water and Catchment Protection;
• Department of Conservation and Land Management;
• Department for Planning and Infrastructure;
• South-West Development Commission; and
• Lake Clifton Landcare Group.

Dr Edwards said community representatives would play an important role on the committee.
"This group has the potential to establish a serious partnership with the local community and conservation groups, by including them in the investigation and planning process," she said.
Media contact: John Carey 9220 5050