22 February 2017

Feral animals have a major impact on the ecological, social and economic values of Australia. They can wreak havoc on the natural environment, displace native species, damage cultural assets and threaten agricultural and fisheries production.

A Northern Hub project in Cape York’s Archer River Basin is investigating the impact of feral animals on local aquatic ecosystems, methods to minimise damage, and how to monitor success.

Project leader Dr Justin Perry from the CSIRO explains that researchers are working with local communities, Indigenous ranger groups, and government agencies to undertake the work.

“By ensuring all key management groups are involved in the project, we can foster a shared understanding of the most effective and efficient way to manage feral animals to deliver joint social, environmental and cultural benefits,” Dr Perry said.

The NESP team is working closely with local land managers to develop a joint understanding of what works and what doesn’t in both feral animal management, and its monitoring and evaluation.

This project builds on and works alongside state and federal funding programs that have been awarded to Indigenous groups Balkanu, Aak Puul Ngangtam and Kalan Enterprises to control feral animals.

For more information see this factsheet, check this timelapse video from Kalan Enterprises and Balkanu, or contact justin.perry@csiro.au.