Values of grassy ecosystems

The conservation significance of grassy communities is based broadly on the:

• diversity of the native plant species;
• extent of cover of introduced plants;
• presence of threatened or uncommon species; and
• retention of animal habitats.

Some native grassy ecological communities are listed as threatened under Commonwealth, state and territory legislation. Legislative definitions of these communities differ between jurisdictions and Acts. Because of this, landholders must refer to the relevant legislation to become aware of their responsibilities should their land contain endangered communities. Websites are a source of information on legislation that addresses threatened species and ecological communities.

Native grasslands and open grassy woodlands have only recently been recognised for their conservation significance. It is only in the past two decades that substantial attention has been given to surveying, protecting and managing these sites for their conservation values. Valuable  information can be obtained from studying plant and animal composition in areas that have been subject to different land uses. This can then be used to better inform land managers in how to manage areas to retain conservation values.

Economic and social advantages of retaining grassy ecosystems are becoming increasingly apparent. For example, grassy ecosystems contribute to sustainable agriculture by protecting soil stability, water quality and preventing salinity. Native grasses are used for landscaping and low-input farming. The scenic and other aesthetic values of grassy ecosystems are also being recognised. Many country roads retain diverse woodland remnants along their verges, often containing extremely old trees, and frequently with native groundlayer vegetation remaining.