PROJECTS

Pandanus Preservation Project

Protecting Noosa’s iconic Pandanus palm and coastal biodiversity from widespread cases of dieback.

The project aims to halt the widespread cases of Pandanus dieback caused by leaf hopperJamella australiae, using proven biological control and mitigation methods.

This will involve translocation of the natural predator of the leafhopper, parasitoid wasps, plus leaf stripping and targeted chemical control. Stakeholder and community education is a fundamental part of the project.

This effectiveness of this work headed by Joel Fostin is well documented and will significantly protect and improve the health and survival rates of pandanus palms in Noosa, an iconic natural asset.

Education and collaboration with community groups and strategic partners including Noosa Council, QPWS, The University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland Museum, CSIRO, Noosa bush care, indigenous and conservation groups, NPA, Department of Agriculture and Fisheries are pivotal to the project.

Outcomes

The outcomes of this project were:

Dieback intervention (leaf strip work): Over 100 Pandanus in Noosa Shire tenure received hands-on dieback mitigation, and similar numbers in Noosa National Park, in collaboration with QPWS staff.
Dieback prevention: Multiple wasp releases to prevent leafhopper populations increases and the onset of dieback.
Regeneration/ revegetation: 32 pandanus were planted during the project and over 1500 plants direct seeded. QPWS staff also directed seeded over 1000 seeds across Noosa National Park with ongoing direct seeding planned.
Education/ Training: Stakeholders and community members attended workshops offering insights into the dieback process and management strategies.
Research: Ecological observations have been documented.
Baseline drone imagery and data collection was collected, which will contribute to future management.

Timeline

Completed in June 2018.

Reports

Noosa Pandanus Project Final Report

Proponent

Peregian Beach Community Association (PBCA)

Project Partners

Noosa Shire Council, QPWS, University of the Sunshine Coast, The Queensland Museum, Queensland Biosecurity, CSIRO, DAF Mycologists (Growhelp), Noosa Parks Association, various Bushcare and Indigenous conservation groups