Science, Technology and Engineering

School of Life Sciences

Department of Environmental Management & Ecology

La Trobe Albury-Wodonga students contribute to unique biodiversity research project

Media release August 2007

Second year students of the Bachelor of Science in Environmental Management and Ecology course at the Albury-Wodonga campus of La Trobe University have participated in an innovative field trip/research study.

They ventured into the Strathbogie Ranges on 23 & 24 August for an overnight field trip during which they surveyed the biodiversity of unique “perched” or “hanging” bogs. These sphagnum bogs are unusual in that they do not occur in valleys, but on slopes in the hills – and are therefore described as “perched” or “hanging” bogs.

This project, involving bogs on at least three different farmer's properties, was initiated by Trust for Nature and Landcare, who seek to highlight the uniqueness of these bogs.

Dr Doug Robinson, Trust for Nature's regional manager in the Goulburn-Broken River Catchment, expressed delight at La Trobe University's involvement in the perched bog project. "These bogs are unique ecosystems which are beginning to reveal new species for Australia, as well as a host of specialised animals and plants that depend on these particular boggy wetlands."

"More than 70% of our bogs have been destroyed and every remaining bog is extremely important as a refuge for these specialised species of bog wildlife. La Trobe University's commitment to identifying some of these specialised species has created much interest among landholders and Landcare in the Strathbogie Ranges and we believe that it will enthuse locals to help protect these unique bogs," added Dr Robinson.

The La Trobe students collected animals and plants from three different bogs, staying overnight in shearing quarters provided by one of the farmers. The students will preserve, identify and present their collections as part of their course assessment. At the end of semester, the students will produce a field guide for the Landcare group which will be presented at one of their regular meetings.

“This project highlights the applied nature of the Environmental Management and Ecology degree and the links it has to our regional communities. We hope that this initiative will lead to further collaboration between farmers, scientists and conservationists, so that unique ecosystems such as the perched bogs can be appropriately researched and valued by all concerned,” stated Dr Phil Suter, Head of the Department of Environmental Management and Ecology at the Albury-Wodonga campus.

For further information on this and other field excursions coordinated by the Department please click here.

Further media releases.