Aquatic surveys: Investigating Tasmania’s waterways and their natural values

Ian — Fri, 29 Aug 2025 06:26:55 +0000

Aquatic surveys are a vital part of any natural values assessment. Tasmania’s rivers, wetlands and estuaries support a rich variety of life, from threatened fish and frogs, to migratory birds that travel thousands of kilometres each year. Understanding these environments is not only about identifying which plants and animals are present, but also about examining hydrology and water quality. By carefully assessing these systems, we can detect potential risks, protect threatened flora and fauna, and ensure that developments and landuse decisions are compatible with the persistence of the aquatic values.

At North Barker, our team uses a wide range of methods tailored to different species and habitats, including:

Dip netting and electro-fishing,
On water surveys,
Riparian and wetland vegetation mapping,
Water quality surveys (testing and monitoring),
Bioacoustic recorders for frogs and birds,
Aquatic invertebrate surveys (AusRivAS), and
Weed surveys for problem species such as willows.

Our rigorous approach means our clients can be confident that their surveys meet best practice and capture the information needed for sound decision-making. The outcomes of our surveys provide clear, practical advice, whether it’s ensuring compliance with legislative requirements, identifying areas of high conservation value, or informing environmental approvals. We able to provide our clients with the following outputs that are designed to give certainty and confidence:

Natural values assessments and significant impact assessments of aquatic values,
Threatened species avoidance, mitigation and management protocols (e.g. frogs, fish, crayfish),
Erosion and sediment control plans,
Project specific hygiene and working near waterways control plans, and,
Platypus management plans, including for dam decommissioning and riparian works.

We also undertake ecological monitoring of wetlands to track changes over time, helping build a clear picture of ecosystem health and guide management practices.

The post Aquatic surveys: Investigating Tasmania’s waterways and their natural values appeared first on North Barker Ecosystem Services.

Stopping the spread: Phytophthora cinnamomi management in Tasmania

Ian — Fri, 29 Aug 2025 06:01:20 +0000

Phytophthora cinnamomi (PC), commonly known as root-rot or cinnamon fungus, is one of Australia’s most serious plant pathogens. This soil-borne water mould (now known not to be a fungus) infects the roots of plants, inhibiting their ability to uptake water and nutrients. This frequently leads to the death of the roots, hence the common name, root rot. In the lead up to death, symptoms include leaf yellowing, leaf and limb loss, or necrosis, often referred to as dieback. Plants ultimately succumb, especially when environmental conditions are harsh (such as limited water during summer), as the plant’s ability to uptake from the soil is too compromised to go on.

Thousands of Australian native plants are susceptible to PC, with many at risk of extinction due to its impacts. As such, it has been recognised as a ‘Key threatening process’ , with a threat abatement plan developed by the federal department of the environment.

At North Barker, we take a proactive approach to identifying and managing this hidden threat. Our teams conduct broad-scale surveys for the symptoms of PC (i.e. dieback) and to identify PC susceptible species/vegetation. After these initial assessments, we undertake targeted soil sampling at identified ecological monitoring points. We are then able to complete lab-based soil analyses to confirm if PC is present/absent. Based on these results, we work with clients, stakeholders and regulators on the best course of action to ensure the areas with existing infestations are not worsened, and pathogens aren’t introduced to unaffected areas through strict hygienc protocols and management.

For many projects, we have developed tailored hygiene protocols and comprehensive management plans that address project needs while following best practices and meeting legislative requirements. Our industry-leading approach translates into practical and cost-effective solutions for clients, allowing them to move forward with confidence, knowing their projects are designed to minimise impacts and avoid costly setbacks, as well as preventable damage to nature.

While professional management is essential, everyone has a role to play in stopping the spread of PC. Simple steps such as cleaning soil from boots, vehicles and equipment (such as walking poles and tent pegs) before moving between sites, sticking to established tracks, and following local signage and hygiene controls all make a big difference. Together, these actions support broader PC management efforts, helping protect Tasmania’s unique ecosystems for generations to come.

The post Stopping the spread: Phytophthora cinnamomi management in Tasmania appeared first on North Barker Ecosystem Services.

Pathogen and Disease Surveys and Management Archives - North Barker Ecosystem Services

Aquatic surveys: Investigating Tasmania’s waterways and their natural values

Stopping the spread: Phytophthora cinnamomi management in Tasmania