A Growing Concern
Western Australia's native vegetation is under increasing pressure, with concerns about the lack of comprehensive monitoring and the potential for unauthorized clearing. The Wildflower Society of WA is particularly concerned about the state government's lack of data on the extent of clearing, highlighting the need for improved monitoring and management.
The Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER) acknowledges the lack of a consolidated record of native vegetation cleared in the state. While they collect statistics on authorized clearing, they admit that unauthorized clearing and clearing covered by exemption permits are not adequately monitored.
To address this knowledge gap, the government has allocated $3.3 million to trial a pilot program called WA Vegetation Extent (WAVE). This program aims to explore different vegetation monitoring and mapping techniques, including the use of artificial intelligence to automate detection and mapping of vegetation from satellite images.
The Wildflower Society of WA is taking matters into its own hands by compiling a database on land clearing since 2004 using satellite imagery. They plan to present this data to the government to highlight the extent of clearing and advocate for improved management.
The state government acknowledges the vulnerability of the environment, particularly in the South West where extensive clearing has left less than 30% of native vegetation remaining. They are placing greater scrutiny on clearing applications in this region and are working to improve the collation of decisions affecting native vegetation.
However, concerns remain about the impact of road widening projects on native vegetation. Main Roads WA cleared 280 hectares of land in 2023, citing safety reasons. While they claim this has reduced fatal and serious injuries, the Wildflower Society believes the tourism value of natural flora and fauna should be carefully considered before clearing occurs.
The Wildflower Society continues to lodge appeals against clearing permits, sometimes successfully imposing conditions that deter applicants from proceeding. While this is a significant effort for a volunteer group, they believe it is crucial to protect the state's valuable native vegetation.