Fire Management for Profit

Summary

Rubber vine plant numbers were significantly reduced at all sampling sites, with three sites completely eradicating rubber vine, and six sites eradicating all towers. All sites showed a continuing reduction in stems less than two metres after both fires, while towers above two metres showed a dramatic initial reduction but maintained populations from after the first fire to after the second. This may have been due to the fuel load not being in the same area of the towers, and not being able to ignite the remaining towers. Exotic Grasses Sabi grass (Urochloa mosambicensis) and Gatton Panic (Panicum maximum) were broadcast following the first fire. Populations of both species increased, with Sabi grass found in significant proportions at all sites, and Gatton Panic found at 50 percent of sites. Populations of both these exotic species are now permanently established and it is anticipated that these species will self seed and increase the productivity of the surrounding area.