NEW PROJECTS

Pormpuraaw Parkinsonia

Parkinsonia on Cape York Peninsula is currently confined to the west coast. The infestations are relatively small and contained, but the potential exists for Parkinsonia to spread throughout the entire marine plains area on the west coast of Cape York.

Historically, work has been undertaken on the Pormpuraaw floodplains treating mature seed bearing trees. Follow-up treatment on seedlings was also undertaken in 2004. To ensure that these areas are not allowed to develop mature trees, treatment is again being undertaken to remove new seedlings.

This project consisted of re-surveying areas of Parkinsonia, and surveying areas where Parkinsonia had been reportedly seen by Traditional Owners and rangers. The survey was undertaken using both aerial and ground survey methods and mapping was carried out using moving map technology through PDA’s.

Once surveyed and mapped, control work was then undertaken with the aid of the Pormpuraaw Land and Sea Rangers. The rangers received training in the use of GPS, chemical handling, and control work.

A community education and awareness program on the detrimental impacts of Parkinsonia to the Aboriginal homelands was also commenced which included posters, fact sheets, public talks and media releases on the impacts of Parkinsonia and the work that had been undertaken in there region.