Reserve Management

Bush Heritage management of Yourka will centre around scientifically rigorous pest plant and pest animal management and the adoption of appropriate fire regimes.  The Management Plan and Fire Management Plan will set out the goals to be achieved and the actions needed to meet those goals.

Reducing grazing pressure

The main threat to the property has been significantly reduced with the removal of domestic stock. Controlling the access of feral animals to the rivers and creeks will be the next major step forward in restoring these precious lowland habitats, the wildlife and the geographically restricted plants. 

Using fire

Appropriate fire management regimes will help to ensure the protection of fire sensitive vegetation communities. The wet eucalypt forest on the fringes of the rainforest needs more active burning to limit the invasion of rainforest species which is currently threatening this vegetation community and its fauna.

Weeds

Invasive weeds such as praxelis and lantana will be controlled.

Feral animals

Feral pigs will be the main focus of the feral animal control program in the first years of management. The goals to be achieved and the actions needed to meet these goals will be set out in a management plan.

Building a partnership with the community

During the first five years of ownership, Bush Heritage will identify and develop relationships with the Traditional Owners of the land. The long-term goal is to involve them in maintaining and developing their cultural heritage.

Bush Heritage will work collaboratively with a range of other groups, stakeholders, agencies and neighbours including local graziers and Traditional Owners on developing the conservation targets and strategies for Yourka Reserve.