A framework for the management of feral goats in semi-arid South Australia
A framework for the management of feral goats in semi-arid South Australia Conference Paper
16th Australian Rangeland Society Biennial Conference
- Author(s): Agnew, D.C., Patrick, G.P.J., Arnold, B.K.
- Published: 2010
- Publisher: Australian Rangeland Society
Abstract: An environment modified for rangelands sheep farming has created conditions where feral goat (Capra hircus) populations can escalate if unchecked. The impacts of feral goats on native vegetation, fauna and land condition result from their unmanaged contribution to total grazing pressure. In South Australia there is a legislative requirement for control of feral goats, however this is contradicted by significant motivators to retain feral goat herds as an optional resource. The SA Arid Lands Natural Resources Management Board sought to address the complex problem by developing a framework for management. To support the framework, funding for feral goat removal assistance was obtained. The removal program successfully reduced the feral goat population in the South Australian rangelands, however at only half the predicted natural annual rate of increase. Importantly, the project demonstrated that integrated control, using a combination of methods, could be cost neutral to a landholder. To implement the framework completely, high priority removal areas will need to be defined where intensive feral goat removal activity can occur. To support the project and provide information, monitoring of feral goat populations and vegetation condition in these areas should be commenced. To ensure actions are cross-regional in scale a taskforce is proposed.