Worksite 2: Burdetts Scrub
Commenced 2014
Burdetts Scrub is a 25 ha government owned conservation park which is bisected by Merchants Road and a 250 metre section of Sixth Creek. Although there had been some attempts at weed control in the past by the Friends of Kenneth Stirling Group, particularly along the watercourse, the park was virtually inaccessible until a bush-fire in May 2013 significantly reduced the weed mass and opened up access.
Project funding and progress
A detailed report was prepared by University of Adelaide consultants on behalf of the Natural Resources Adelaide and Mt Lofty Ranges in August 2014. This report identified the many native species represented in the park, but also significant infestation with under-storey weeds such as broom and blackberry which had germinated after the fire. The fire provided a unique opportunity for weed management. However, funds were not available for the recommended follow-up weed control until generous private donations were made to the Sixth Creek Group for this purpose.
This ‘seed funding’ of $5,000 was matched in following years by grants from the State Government. In 2015-16 further practical assistance was provided by the federally funded Green Army and the Adelaide Hills Council.
Ongoing private donations totaling $5,000 a year have continued to support the project.
These funds have allowed work beyond the resources of volunteers, in particular extensive weed spraying in steep and difficult terrain. Blackberry, Broom, Arundo and Vinca major infestations have been removed by contractors in the areas shown on the attached map including in the section of Park on the western side and eastern sides of Merchants Road, the riparian zone of Sixth Creek, the riparian zone of Pound Creek and along the entire southern boundary. Each year we prioritise follow up spraying in previously treated areas before extending our spray program into new areas as funds permit.
The significant improvement achieved as a result, which is clearly evident, has inspired ongoing participation by the local community and friends of Kenneth Stirling members at working bees. Activities to date have included clearing blockages in the watercourse and hand weeding to encourage Microlaena stipoides weeping grass regeneration.
Burdetts Scrub now demonstrates the significant environmental improvement opportunity that a fire offers provided subsequent mass germination of the weed seed bank is addressed. The Sixth Creek watercourse is now a much improved free flowing stream which was resilient to the effects of major floods in September 2016.
Burdetts Scrub signage and educational materials
The Group has developed and erected signs which explain the project objectives, site history, map the project, provide interesting information about local geology and flora and acknowledge sponsors.
They are mounted on the road verge overlooking the stepped entrance to the project site at the end of Merchants Road. They can be downloaded here 1.4mb file
We have also produced a poster to illustrate the successful restoration of the Park following fire for display at community events.
Burdetts Scrub Worksite Reports
Reports on the progress occurring at the project site are compiled regularly to acknowledge the regular and ongoing private donations to support weed eradication work, the input of volunteers and as part of the acquittal process for the grants received by Sixth Creek Catchment Group.
September 2016 report and photos
September 2017 report and photos
2017- 2018 report and photos
2018- 2019 report and photos
2019 -2022 report