Biodiversity
Biodiversity is a sign of a healthy environment. UNE has sought to minimise its impact on local flora and fauna by constantly improving the way in which nature is able to interact with the built environment. The preservation and propagation of native habitat, the establishment of designated wildlife corridors, and a reduction of the campus ‘footprint’ are all contributing to a healthier more vibrant nature-campus interface.
HiCUB
High Country Urban Biodiversity Project (HiCUB) is part of an initiative established by the New South Wales Government through its Environmental Trust. Armidale, Walcha and Guyra Councils and Southern New England Landcare are responsible for the actions and development of the project. HiCUB seeks to
“Improve the condition of urban riparian & bushland areas; improve collaboration between council & community groups; & build the engagement of the urban community with their local biodiversity”
UNE is liaising with HiCUB to establish and repair wildlife corridors between high value remnant vegetation on campus and along Dumaresq creek. This is part of a greater vision to increase biodiversity and habitat connectivity throughout the New England region. Below is an illustration of the corridor and how it links the hinterland. Processes such as the removal of introduced flora and repair of riparian zones are undertaken through volunteer working bees and with the help of the University’s resources.
UNE Landcare
Staff and students at the University of New England are proactive about the campus they work, live and study on. The UNE Landcare group was established in mid – 2006, and the primary aims of the group are:
- Restore ecological integrity on the UNE property (providing insurance for native species)
- Increase public awareness and environmental education about moving towards ecologically sustainable development
- Improve the ecological health of riparian and bush lands on UNE property by protecting Endangered Ecological Communities; increasing the area, quality and connectivity of native vegetation; and reducing weeds.
- Work with UNE’s Facilities Management Services and the UNE staff and student community to become environmentally sustainable and increase volunteerism.
- Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of UNE Landcare activities on the UNE campus.
FMS proudly supports the effort and collaborates with volunteer groups through the provision of in-kind support. Preparation work and labour from FMS staff are essential for the working bees that are frequently undertaken across the campus. Below are photos of one such working bee which is part of the effort to establish and strengthen native fauna and flora along the Dumaresq creek corridor.
