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Site 25 Gunbower State Forest (Fence Track)

Description
Located east of Kerang, this Woodland mainly consists of Black Box with Red Gums on lower lying areas.


Vegetation Description and Composition
This State Forest is Open Woodland dominated by Eucalyptus largiflorens (Black Box) on the higher areas and Eucalyptus camaldulensis (Red Gum) in the depressions and drainage lines. Continued inundation in low areas has killed some Red Gums. In the Eucalyptus largiflorens (Black Box) Open Woodland, the understorey consists predominantly of members of the Chenopodiaceae Family such as Einadia nutans (Nodding Saltbush), Atriplex semibaccata (Berry Saltbush) and Enchylaena tomentosa (Ruby Saltbush) with some native grasses and introduced grasses present. The Eucalyptus camaldulensis (Red Gum) dominated Open Woodland has an understorey consisting predominantly of members of the Cyperaceae and Juncaceae Families, including Eleocharis acuta (Common Spike-sedge), Juncus aridicola (Tussock Rush), Carex inversa (Common Sedge), Carex appressa (Tall Sedge) and Carex tereticaulis (Rush Sedge). Approximately 20% of species present are introduced species and their level of abundance has reduced over the past six years but total species present had increased until this year. There are four salt indicator species present, whereas seven species were recorded two years previously. The level of abundance of the salt indicator species such as Enchylaena tomentosa (Ruby Saltbush) has increased, which is likely due to reduced grazing pressure. Tree health is in decline and the general appearance of the trees is one of being under stress. Tree regeneration has been moderate. There has been a significant change in vegetation survey results with a continued reduction in species present. However, if seasonally dry conditions are considered when comparing with previous vegetation data then this change is understandable.


Photo: Gunbower Fence Track
Gunbower Fence Track


Threats to the site continue to be:
  • rising groundwater, and salinity levels.
  • grazing by cattle and horses.

Monitoring Survey Dates
January 1998, October 1998, December 1999, February 2001, December 2001, December 2002.
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