Assessment Process
Land Assessment Process
1. Ascertain conservation significance of proposed acquisition
- Collect and assess ecological data for the site, with regard to: the presence of rare, threatened and endangered taxa, communities and landscapes; the richness and diversity of taxa and communities; and the functioning of natural, evolutionary and biogeographical processes
- Consult the literature, conservation agencies, relevant experts and others on the value of site characteristics
- Examine the local and regional context of the site and the extent to which this enhances or compromises site values
- Determine the extent to which the values of the site are otherwise protected in reserves or by reliable conservation processes
- Determine whether the site is the best example of the relevant values on the market
2. Identify threats to conservation values
- Determine current levels of disturbance
- Determine habitat quality and viability of populations and communities
- Determine threats to conservation values if the site is not purchased by Bush Heritage
3. Determine likelihood of off-reserve impacts
- Determine implications of existing planning schemes
- Within the local area, assess land tenure and management, and proposals for change in existing situation
4. Ascertain management requirements and costs
- Determine statutory obligations for land management
- Undertake preliminary assessment of initial land management costs
- Undertake preliminary assessment of recurrent land management costs and income
- Identify likely availability of external funding for land management
- Determine the feasibility of local assistance with management
- Identify any encumbrances on the title
- Determine government charges (land tax, stamp duty etc).