Red Gum Native Forest Reserves - ForestrySA

1. Purpose, Legal Designation, Planning and Protection
1.1 The Red Gum Native Forest Reserves
1.1.1 Statement of Purpose
The Red Gum Native Forest Reserves will be managed and protected to maintain
and enhance their bio-diversity as an enduring and dynamic ecosystem.
1.1.2 Significant Values
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The Biodiversity Plan for the South East of South Australia acknowledges that
ForestrySA manages the largest inland area of remnant native vegetation in the
Lower South East containing populations of plant and animal species, and plant
communities of high conservation significance at both the State and Regional level.
The Red Gum Native Forest Reserves contain two of these remnants contributing to
the bio-diversity of the Region.
The following attributes have been used to determine the conservation and cultural
values of The Red Gum Native Forest Reserves:
Conservation Values
These Reserves contain 180.4 hectares of native vegetation that has been
relatively free from disturbance for 50 years or more. Both occur within 2
kilometres of the large Nangwarry NFR (2216 ha), they are surrounded on three
sides by pine plantations but each adjoins in part grazing land studded with
mature Red Gum trees. Their size, location and species composition make an
important contribution to bio-diversity in this district.
The Reserves occur on a shallow sand plain subject to seasonal water-logging.
The vegetation is dominated by Eucalyptus camaldulensis, E. ovata, E. viminalis
ssp. cygnetensis, Acacia mearnsii and A. melanoxylon. Both Reserves conserve
important areas of the regionally Vulnerable River Red gum Woodland vegetation
association. (Croft, T. et al 1999.) .
A total of 126 native plant species have been recorded in these Reserves. Of
these 28 have a conservation status rating equal to or greater than Uncommon for
the South East Region of South Australia.
Sugar Gliders (Petaurus breviceps), Eastern Grey Kangaroos (Macropus
giganteus) and Red-necked Wallabies (Macropus rufogriseus) all rated as Rare in
South Australia occur in these Reserves.
Final Plan – February 2001