DIEBACK OF STRINGYBARK FORESTS IN THE MOUNT LOFTY RANGES – PHASE 1 (presentation)

Canopy dieback and tree mortality have been noted in iconic forests of the Mount Lofty Ranges (MLR), South Australia, dominated by three stringybark eucalypt species: Eucalyptus baxteri (Brown Stringybark), E. macrorhyncha (Red Stringybark) and E. obliqua (Messmate Stringybark). This presentation gives an overview of Phase 1 of a project initiated by Trees For Life and the University of Adelaide, which aims to determine the extent and causes of stringybark forest decline and to develop evidence-based management strategies. Phase 1 focused on literature review, collation and desktop analysis of relevant biological, spatial and environmental data and development of design principles for subsequent stages involving more widespread sampling of stringybark forests. Phase 1 also incorporated field assessments, development of research collaborations and a series of student projects leveraged through partner support from the project.