June 2023

This month (18/06/2023) work continued in the western ecological restoration area (#1), upper Lawson catchment. Management of Privet seedlings and mature specimens (seed limitation) along the boundaries were the main activities. Three x Hakea salicifolia and three x Leptospermum polygalifolium were planted.

Probable Long-nosed bandicoot diggings were observed.

Conical excavation likely made by a Long-nosed bandicoot June 2023 Photo: P Ardill
Conical excavation likely made by a Long-nosed bandicoot June 2023 Photo: P Ardill

As usual, members of the Bushcare Group collected litter during the walk from parked vehicles to the work site.

Discussion of future Parklands riparian zone management was held during the work session. The Bushcare Group agreed that a survey of natural regeneration within the riparian area would be a good idea. The survey will be conducted in forthcoming months.

Discussion about future Parklands works was conducted during the bushcare session: proposed construction of access toilets on Parklands site and upgrade of Ferris Lane carpark.

A. The new toilets are welcome. Full management of construction sediments and runoffs is necessary to avoid contamination of down slope Lawson Swamp (State and Federal listed threatened vegetation community).

B. Any upgrade of Ferris Lane car park should be mindful of the environmental qualities and values of the adjacent ecological community, Lawson Swamp (State and Federal listed threatened vegetation community). No construction encroachment into swamp; existing grass buffer zone to be maintained for nutrient absorption; full management of construction sediments and runoffs; provision of adequate management and treatment of stormwater flows in upgraded drain located between existing car park and oval; no drainage of stormwater flows into bordering bushland; careful management of listed C.gummifera E.sieberi Open Forest Woodland and Blue Mountains Swamps along Ferris Lane during construction period, particularly management of vehicles and machinery.

Streamwatch convenor reports that water quality in upper Lawson Creek tributary was good.

……….