BDBSA Project Metadata Detail

Survey/Project Number: 28          Total No. of Sites: 191
Survey/Project Name: Kanowana Block
Abstract: This project aims to conduct a flora and vertebrate survey of the Kanowana Block, north-east South Australia, between 1990 and 1992. In 1990, a co-operative project was established between the Australian and South Australian National Parks and Wildlife Services to undertake a vegetation survey and inventory of the Kanowana wetlands. During three survey periods in March to May 1991 and April, May and August 1992, a total of 173 sites were botanically surveyed, and records were made of waterbird species and numbers on 19 wetland sites. The Kanowana Block contains a vast network of channels, lakes, waterholes irrigated by floodwaters from the south-west branch of the Cooper Creek and the northern-overflow from Coongie Lakes. The survey was based on the current survey methodology which were adapted to suit the wetland system. OBJECTIVES: 1. Adopt a site-based survey to assess, classify and map vegetation of the area; 2. Create baseline data for future monitoring; 3. Contribute to an understanding of the wetland system. The project was also a pilot study to test approaches and techniques for vegetation survey and mapping in other desert-wetland systems of the Lake Eyre Basin. ANZSES conducted surveys to Kanowana in Sept-Oct 1991 (fauna) and Sept-Oct 1992 (Physical/veg). Mammal and reptile observations, including vouchered records, have been entered in this project as visit 2 to sites with prefix KA. REFERENCE: Gillen JS & GN Drewien A Vegetation Survey of the Kanowana Wetlands, Cooper Creek South Australia. Department of Environment and Land Management, May 1993. NOTE: Site coordinates were reviewed in 2017. Site was projected against Google Earth imagery and compared with physical and vegetation site data. Original site survey sheets including mud maps were consulted where available. In 2019 locations were either verified or moved the minimum distance required to improve data consistency. All changes were documented within the site audit data.
 
Start Date: 28/03/1991      End Date: 04/08/1992
Survey Type: Vegetation and Fauna
   
Study Area Description: The Kanowana Block contains a vast network of channels, lakes, waterholes irrigated by floodwaters from the south west branch of the Cooper Creek and the northern overflow from Coongie Lakes. Floodplain system consists of intermittent floodwaters and productive clay floodplains with subtle variations in local relief. Average rainfall is 100-150mm. Landforms consist of swamps, lakes, land subject to inundation, rivers and creek channels. Survey sites are located on 1:100,000 mapsheets : 6842, 6843 and 6943 (western section). Mapsheet 6942 - Gidgealpa added to include Patch Id 10400 in November 2000.
Objectives
         Vegetation: To adopt a site-based survey to assess, classify and map vegetation of the area, to create a baseline data for future monitoring and contributing to an understanding of the wetland system. Also the project was a pilot study to test approaches and techniques for vegetation survey and mapping in other desert wetland systems of the Lake Eyre basin. In 1990, a co-operative project was established between the Australian and South Australian National Parks and Wildlife Services to undertake a vegetation survey and inventory of the Kanowana wetlands. During three survey periods in April, May and August 1992, a total of 173 sites were botanically surveyed, and records were made of waterbird species and numbers on 19 wetland sites.
         Fauna: *** No fauna survey objectives recorded
Methodology
         Vegetation: Physical features and soil texture were recorded and voucher specimens of all plant species encountered in 100 x 100m quadrat were collected and lodged with the SA State Herbarium for positive identification. Plant occurrence was recorded with details of lifeform, relative abundance and life cycle stages. The relative abundance was estimated by Braun/Blanquet cover abundance scores. For overall cover a step point approach was used for herb, grassland or forblands, and a belt transect for woodland and shrubland
         Fauna: Bird observations were opportunistic sightings, with numbers of each species recorded.

Data Distribution Rules: Public Dataset
Project Basis: Vegetation : Biological Survey of South Australia - Standard Survey methodology used.
Fauna : Biological Survey of South Australia - Standard Survey methodology used.
Information Authority: Department for Environment and Heritage (BDBSA:S&C Div) - Biological Survey and Monitoring