Elements and Performance Criteria
- Undertake an audit to determine the health and range of biodiversity on the property
- Map the existing features and soil types on the property for protection
- Obtain a list of local native flora and fauna species specific to habitat types and assess the health and diversity of native vegetation areas and isolated trees in comparison to the local or regional list
- Analyse soil samples for chemical and biological content and assess the health and diversity of the grasslands and pasture
- Analyse water samples and assess the health and diversity of the riparian zone
- Develop and implement a management plan to improve water quality and biodiversity on the farm
- Plan and implement grazing management strategies to achieve the target ground cover for soil protection for natural areas and pasture
- Protect retained vegetation and provide access for pest plant and animal control and continue to monitor biodiversity of these areas
- Develop a plan to restore and revegetate areas to improve number and range of species of flora and fauna
- Monitor water quality and quantity and develop and implement strategies to prevent contamination and reduce run off
- Review all chemicals and fertilisers used on the farm to identify their potential impact with the view to minimising the effects on the biodiversity through reduced use where possible
- Monitor soil fertility and soil biology in pasture by soil testing and develop strategies to improve soil biota
- Develop and implement a plan to control weeds and pests by using methods that reduce the impact on biodiversity
- Apply for funding to assist with biodiversity project work on the farm and in the local community
- Evaluate benefits of improved biodiversity othe farm
- Estimate the benefits that will include increased financial value from the farm enterprise and the improved sale, resale or capital value of the farm as a result of the improvement in biodiversity
- Identify personal benefits that biodiversity may contribute to the individual, the farm and the wider community
- Identity the benefits to the environment of improved biodiversity
- Survey the number and diversity of flora and fauna species annually on the farm
- Monitor water quality and quantity leaving the property in comparison to initial values and local benchmarks
- Work with Landcare groups and other community groups to develop plans to extend corridors and improve water quality beyond the farm