Biodiversity

Program History & Achievements

In many ways, the primary achievement of the HCCREMS program in relation to biodiversity conservation has been its consistent focus over 15 years on collecting, collating and analysing the best and most currently available data and mapping, and utlising it to inform a range of planning processes and systems, develop management and decision-support tools, and contribute to the identification and protection of endangered species and communities.

1996

The Lower Hunter & Central Coast Regional Environmental Management Strategy began implementation by the seven member councils
Biodiversity conservation considered a key issue given project growth and development pressures on region

1997 – 2003

HCCREMS gained Commonwealth funding and partnered with NPWS - extensive data collation and vegetation surveys undertaken across the region; Fauna surveys and habitat modelling undertaken
The first 1:2500 comprehensive regional vegetation map produced in 2001, updated in 2003
Regional conservation analysis undertaken and biodiversity conservation strategy produced
Data and information utilised for the development of a range of planning and management tools and processes by councils, state agencies and the broader community

2004 -2010

HCCREMS program extended to include the Upper and Lower North Coast Councils (14 members in total)
Research, surveys and data collation commenced with the view of producing an up to date vegetation community map for the entire Hunter, central and lower North Coast region
Partnered with CMA and Commonwealth to explore potential of newly available Spot 5 satellite imagery for regional mapping coverage
Designed and developed a new vegetation community classification system for the region
Completed a Regional Roadside Environment Strategy, roadside surveys and mapping, and technical guidelines for Councils to manage significant roadside vegetation and other NRM issues
Undertaken both terrestrial and aquatic weed mapping and analysis across the region and a range of management and rehabilitation projects
Currently partnering CMA and DECCW in completion of region-wide vegetation map