Often we think of the preservation of our land, particularly of our National Parks, as being just about keeping pieces of land for our native animals. Often, we do not see the battles that our Park Officers face in keeping not just animal pests out but also plant pests.
When I think of plant pests I think of the home mu mother bought 15 years ago. The huge block was overrun with ivy and she, over the course of 7 years, removed it from the block. Sadly though, not without the sacrifice of 5 beautiful gum trees for which it was too late as the ivy had all but killed them. I am so glad she has planted more natives in their place.
Our native plants not only rely on the natural circle of consumption by native animals, the competition of other native plants and the natural environmental threats of flood and fire. No, they are also dependent on us not introducing non-native plants that threaten their existence.
We seem to understand the threat of non-native animals just by seeing footage of thousands of rabbits that are damaging our environment, in addition to wild pigs, cane toads and cats. However, the threat of a plant is less obvious because it's spread is only seen by a watchful eye over time.
This is exactly why we are passionate about keeping soap nut seeds out of Australia. We want to do whatever we can to protect our environment from any further threats to the detriment of our native forests and it's inhabitants. We love our bushland which is why we are based in the Adelaide Hills - we want to do all that we can to see it cared for and to see our soils are not destroyed by nasty chemicals in the process also.
Today, our passion for our land and for home education collided in an amazing way. My two eldest children have been participating in (and have already qualified for a medal in) the Premier's Reading Challenge (SA). One of their selections landed on my lap tonight before bed and is a book I recommend to you if you too are interested in sharing your passion for protecting our land from pesty plants with your children. The book is titled 'The Story of Rosy Dock' by Jeannie Baker.
The book explains the gradual impact that the Rosy Dock plant has had on our land in Central Australia and expands the concept further on the last pages. It is a great book to share with your child from the age of five and up and I strongly recommend you grab a copy for your family today.
If you do ever come across a seed in your soap nuts, be they from our stock or someone else's then please send them to us. We will not only arrange for their safe destruction but will also make a contribution to Conservation Volunteers Australia on your behalf as well. Be passionate about caring for Australia's environment - we only get one chance to do the best we can for future generations.
No comments:
Post a Comment