Improving environmental outcomes on conserved and managed lands (video)

19 June 2025

This master’s research project was conducted in collaboration with the Tasmanian Land for Wildlife program, a voluntary private land conservation program managed by the Tasmanian Land Conservancy. The program has strong landholder interest, with ~900 properties enrolled and a long wait list to join. One of the key member incentives is a natural values assessment report containing personalised land management advice.

Successful private land conservation programs rely on three types of behavioural engagement from landowners: willingness to enrol, continued participation, and capacity to enact management actions resulting in positive environmental outcomes. This research sought to understand how Land for Wildlife currently provides advice to members, and whether this advice meets their needs and encourages action.

We found that Land for Wildlife members tend to have strong conservation knowledge and clear management objectives for their properties. However, the advice given is not always perceived as actionable or targeted enough to exert influence over their management actions.

Findings of the research were refined in collaboration with the program team, identifying improvements and opportunities within the constraints of a small, not-for-profit organisation. This practical component resulted in the revision of key program resources such as conservation tips, standardised advice and the property report template.