Research Reports

The Potential Impact of Freeways on Native Grassland

Nicholas S.G. Williams, Emma J. Leary, Kirsten M. Parris and Mark J. McDonnell

Abstract
Transportation planning typically considers only the direct impacts of road construction, such as loss of vegetation and wildlife habitat. However, the ecological impacts of major roads and freeways are not confined to the area immediately adjacent to the road. Recent international research has demonstrated the existence of a ‘road effect zone’ around major roads and freeways. In Melbourne many current and proposed freeways traverse areas of native grassland. This paper presents a review of the major ecological impacts of roads and how they may affect native grasslands using the proposed Hume Freeway F2 Link as a case study. The road effect zone of the Hume Freeway F2 Link route options are quantified and the impacts on the native grasslands of the Merri Creek Valley assessed.
(The Victorian Naturalist, 118 (1), 2001, 4-15.)
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Buxton Silver Gum Reserve: Using Geographic Information Systems
to Investigate Historic Change in Site Integrity

Dianne Simmons, Robyn Adams and Chris Lewis

Abstract
Eucalyptus crenulata is a rare species known from only two populations. The Buxton Silver Gum Reserve was set aside in 1978 for the conservation of the species, but this objective may be compromised by changes in the integrity of the landscape immediately surrounding the Reserve. A time sequence of aerial photos and Geographic Information Systems technology has been used to identify patterns of landscape change, and aid in determining appropriate management strategies to minimize negative impacts caused by landscape fragmentation and habitat exposure.
(The Victorian Naturalist, 118 (1), 2001, 16-20.)
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Contribution

Yarrow Achillea millefolium L.: a Weed Threat to the Flora of the Australian Alps

Frances Johnston and Catherine M. Pickering

Abstract
Yarrow (Milfoil) Achillea millefolium L. is a potential threat to the native subalpine and alpine plant communities of the Australian Alps. Although Yarrow has been found in Kosciuszko National Park for the last 50 years, it has extensively colonised subalpine disturbed habitats, including roadways, during the last decade. Currently, isolated plants can be found in adjacent native vegetation, and a few plants have been found and removed from areas as high as 2000 m along the summit of the main range. Research is currently being conducted on the biology and control of this ‘most hardy weed … well named for the invulnerable Achilles’ (Georgia 1942).
(The Victorian Naturalist, 118 (1), 2001, 21-24.)
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