BioRisk (FP 24)

The Bio Risk project is developing models and tools that combine plant ecophysiological knowledge with catchment hydrological models to improve management decisions for biodiversity assets threatened by altered hydrology such as salinity and waterlogging.

It aims to optimise, within a feasibility and risk management framework, the choice of perennial vegetation technologies and engineering works to achieve conservation objectives. Decision processes will be developed within a framework that ensures a strong focus on goals and the related underlying values.

Objectives:

• Develop and test low data intensity numerical and conceptual models in a minimum of one Western Australian and one eastern states catchment setting
• Develop biophysical indicators, at site and ecosystem levels, for decision tools that incorporate uncertainty and risk management. This will be achieved through a better understanding of riparian vegetation tolerance to salinity and waterlogging
• Develop a decision support process and toolkit that allows catchment managers to follow a values-based, asset-specific process, including documentation of management feasibility and associated risks.

Activities

The development of decision support numerical hydrological models is proceeding with a full time PhD student (Janaine Coletti) beginning development of a Toolibin Lake catchment scale model with the Lake Bryde pilot model near finalisation.

Components of the decision support process have been tested in both a Western Australian and a Victorian catchment, with encouraging results. Work on an ecosystem benefits approach to assessing impacts of CRC’s perennial systems is proceeding.

For more information email project leader, Ryan Vogwill.