Abundant literature links provision of artificial water points in pastoral areas to negative environmental effects, including increased grazing pressure, prevention of regeneration and promotion of exotic plants and animals. Recent reports identify a knowledge gap in the relationship between water points and biodiversity. Despite incentives pastoralists are resistant to strategic water point closure and, where this has occurred, there is little data on biodiversity outcomes. A research project on Nanya Station in western NSW is monitoring the effects of total-closure, partial-closure and exclusion fencing of ground tanks on native and exotic plants and animals, including opportunists utilizing the resource.
Renmark, South Australia
ISSN 1323 660
Full-text publications from the Australian Rangelands Society (ARS) Biennial Conference Proceedings (1997-), Rangeland Journal (ARS/CSIRO; 1976-), plus videos and other resources about the rangelands of Australia.