Economically viable land regeneration in Central Queensland and improved water quality outcomes for the Great Barrier Reef
M. Star A B C , P. Donaghy A and J. Rolfe B
+ Author Affiliations
- Author Affiliations
A Queensland Department of Employment, Economic Development & Innovation, Rockhampton, Qld 4701, Australia.
B CQ University, Rockhampton, Qld 4701, Australia.
C Corresponding author. Email: megan.star@deedi.qld.gov.au
The Rangeland Journal 33(3) 267-276 https://doi.org/10.1071/RJ10005
Submitted: 16 February 2010 Accepted: 21 July 2011 Published: 9 September 2011
Abstract
The impact of excessive sediment loads entering into the Great Barrier Reef lagoon has led to increased awareness of land condition in grazing lands. Improved ground cover and land condition have been identified as two important factors in reducing sediment loads. This paper reports the economics of land regeneration using case studies for two different land types in the Fitzroy Basin. The results suggest that for sediment reduction to be achieved from land regeneration of more fertile land types (brigalow blackbutt) the most efficient method of allocating funds would be through extension and education. However for less productive country (narrow leaved ironbark woodlands) incentives will be required. The analysis also highlights the need for further scientific data to undertake similar financial assessments of land regeneration for other locations in Queensland.
Additional keywords: benefit-cost analysis, rangelands, sediment.
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