3.1  Biodiversity

CICL has continued to monitor vegetation condition at the 37 sites that were selected for the 1998/1999 Biodiversity Benchmarking Survey.  For each survey a brief visual examination of the site is carried out and a photo is taken from a standard point.  This type of survey takes place during April and October, providing a basic record of vegetation health.  Plate 3.1 through to Plate 3.4 show the visual changes that took place at photo point five during the period spring 1998 to spring 2000.

Plate 3.1  Biodiversity photo point 5, spring 1998

Plate 3.2  Biodiversity photo point 5, autumn 1999

Plate 3.3  Biodiversity photo point 5, autumn 2000

Plate 3.4  Biodiversity photo point 5, spring 2000

Southern Bell Frog research

CICL has provided funding for a research program currently being undertaken by Australian Museum Business Services Consulting (AMBS) to determine the distribution and habitat of the Southern Bell Frog (Litoria raniformis) across the CIA. This species was once widespread, but due to destruction of habitat it is now listed as an endangered species in NSW.

Initial observations by AMBS have indicated that the Southern Bell Frog is surviving in rice fields, drainage channels and in roadside drains where water is ponding.  The estimated numbers of Southern Bell Frogs at some of these locations has been encouraging.

Data collected during two field trips in the 2000/2001 irrigation season is presently being analysed by AMBS.

Plate 3.5  New road sign to increase community awareness.