Grasslands are preserved

A strategic plan to ensure the future of the Patho Plains grasslands has been implemented.

The Patho Plains are a unique piece of country that is home to one of the last remaining areas of Northern Plains Grasslands in Victoria.
Home to many diverse species of vegetation, birds and animals which inhabit the ephemeral and perennial grasslands and herbs of the area, the Northern Plains Grasslands provide habitat for the critically endangered Plains-wanderer (Pedionomus torguatus)
This small, cryptic and solitary bird eats a variety of seeds and invertebrates, including insects and spiders which are pecked from the bare ground.
It is seldom seen during the day and when alarmed, it either crouches motionless and blends itself into its surroundings, or runs away with its head down and extended forward. The Plains Wanderer rarely flies, but when it does it has bowed wings and slowly twists sideways.
This shy bird does not inhabit dense areas of grass growth nor does it inhabit areas planted with introduced pasture grasses.
To ensure the future of the Plains Wanderer and many of the other species that inhabit this environment, a lot of work has been carried out over the last 20 years including dedicated reserves, private lands covenanted and sympathetic land management practices implemented.
In 2007, over 40 community representatives, technical specialists and landholders combined to identify the issues and knowledge gaps central to managing this threatened area.
Conservation and Protection of Northern Plains Grasslands  A Strategic Direction describes
the Northern Plains Grasslands Community, outlines conservation history and identifies threats to sustainability. It also provides a Strategic Plan which outlines a long-term vision and provides actions to guide management decisions over the next 10 years.
A steering committee and technical advisory group who share this vision will focus on preventing the destruction of remnant grassland patches from clearing and overgrazing, managing threats such as weeds and pest animals, revegetating and restoring damaged landscapes, and increasing community awareness and involvement.
Actions in this plan are based on the understanding that protecting our grasslands involves us all working together  governments, landholders and the community.
This Plan provides a blueprint for us all to ensure the protection of our vital heritage.