The Science behind Describing Rangeland Landscapes and Land Systems

Perth Branch’s first talk for the year on 14th February 2017 will be given by Peter-Jon Waddell from the Western Australian Department of Agriculture who will give an overview of the Rangeland surveys of Pastoral leases undertaken by the Department. These surveys began in 1972 and cover a huge area from the Kimberley south to the Nullarbor. The results have been published in 15 bulletins. The surveys identify and describe the condition of soils, landforms, vegetation, habitat, ecosystems and weeds and feral animals.

Peter and his colleagues are currently concluding their sixteenth report on the southern Goldfields, which includes the Great Western Woodlands. This very well traveled individual will introduce us to a remote and often beautiful world few have traveled or seen. Peter will illustrate how the surveys are used to aid sustainable use of the rangelands and help protect them and/or document the level of degradation present.

Meetings of the Perth Branch of the Society are held on the second Tuesday of each month in the Subiaco Community Centre across the road from Crossways Shopping centre in Bagot Road. Doors open at 7.45pm and the meeting begins at 8pm. Supper is served after the talk and everyone is eligible for the night’s door prize. You do not need to be a member of the Society to attend Perth Branch meetings, entry requiring a $2 door donation.