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planting for a sustainable future

A c t i o n P l a n f o r P r i v a t e F o r e s t r y i n t h e C e n t r a l V i c t o r i a n F a r m P l a n t a t i o n s R e g i o n2 0 0 6 - 2 0 1 1

2 Central Victorian Farm Plantations

This document has been prepared by Sinclair Knight Merz for the Central Victorian Farm Plantations Committee with the support of theCorangamite Catchment Management Authority through financial assistance from the National Action Plan for Salinity and Water Quality.

Central Victorian Farm Plantationswww.cvfp.org.au

COPYRIGHT: Central Victorian Farm Plantations Committee, 2006.

DISCLAIMER: This publication may be of assistance to you but the CVFP does not guarantee that the publication is without flaw of any kind or is wholly appropriate for your particularpurpose and therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss or other consequences which may arise from you relying on any information within the publication.

planting for a sustainable future 3

FOREWORDAustralia’s forests provide many social, environmental and economic benefits. They protect oursoils and water catchments, are essential for maintaining biodiversity, act as carbon sinks, andprovide many thousands of jobs in rural and regional areas.

Private forestry will have an important role in tackling the land and water degradation that isaffecting our agriculture, environment and biodiversity. However, it needs to be recognised as asustainable, profitable and legitimate land use to achieve its full potential.

Planting for a Sustainable Future; an Action Plan for Private Forestry in the Central VictorianFarm Plantations Region will assist the orderly planning, managing and establishment of privateforests in Central Victoria. It will help maximise the benefits from private forestry to the regionand integrate private forestry into the region’s land management options.

The Australian Government supports sustainable development of forest resources throughPlantations for Australia: the 2020 Vision – its partnership with State governments and industry.I am encouraged that this regional action plan recognises and incorporates the 2020 Vision.

I am pleased to endorse Planting for a Sustainable Future, and I believe Central Victorian FarmPlantations has the skill, knowledge, and regional support necessary to implement this plan.

Planting for a Sustainable Future addresses the main issues of integrating forestry and otherrural land use at a regional level and provides an excellent blueprint for growing the privateforestry estate in Central Victoria.

I congratulate Central Victorian Farm Plantations and the Corangamite Catchment ManagementAuthority for recognising and acting on the great potential of private forests.

Senator the Hon. Eric AbetzAustralian Minister for Fisheries, Forestry and Conservation


Contents

1. Background and Context 7

1.1 Introduction 7

1.2 What is private forestry? 8

1.3 The benefits of private forestry 10

1.4 The CVFP region 12

1.5 Private forestry in the CVFP region 13

1.6 Promotion of private forestry 16

1.7 Natural resource management opportunities 18

2. Vision and Objectives 19

2.1 Strategic directions for private forestry 19

2.2 Vision 20

2.3 Objectives 20

3. Strategies and Actions 21

3.1 Ensuring cooperative strategic planning 22

3.2 Enhancing the regulatory framework 23

3.3 Sustaining investment growth 24

3.4 Community engagement and environmental services markets 26

3.5 Coordination, Monitoring and Review 28

4. Implementation Plan 29

5. References 34

6. Acronyms 34

7. Acknowledgements 35


Executive SummaryIf well planned and managed, private forestrycan help achieve a range of environmentalgoals identified in Catchment Strategies withinthe CVFP region, such as biodiversity andwaterway enhancement, salinity control andcarbon sequestration.

Central Victoria is an attractive location forprivate forestry, due to its favourable soils andclimate, proximity to markets or ports and to itswell established infrastructure. As aconsequence, the region has a diverse andgrowing private forestry sector that includesboth softwood and hardwood plantations. Theindustry operates across scales from largeindustrial plantations to small scale plantationsthat are integrated with farming enterprises.Significant structural change is occuring in theregion’s forest industry in response to industryand national trends, such as:

• establishment of large areas of blue gumplantations over past 10 years;

• replacement of native forest hardwoods withsoftwood timber in structural uses;

• increased value adding for hardwood timberin flooring and feature panels; and

• replacement of traditional public native forestsources with private forests.

With such trends in mind, strategic action isrequired to ensure the regional private forestrysector, both at smaller and larger scales,remains innovative, competitive and adaptive tonew opportunities.

The CVFP region is home to a vibrant andinnovative rural community that has been at theforefront of private forestry, Landcare andnatural resource management. For over twodecades, the region has explored ways tointegrate private forestry with rural landmanagement to create more sustainablelandscapes. In recognition of this link, thisAction Plan was identified as a priority action ofthe Corangamite Regional Catchment Strategy,developed by the Corangamite CatchmentManagement Authority (CCMA, 2003).

This document, Planting for a SustainableFuture, captures the essence of the vision forthe region’s private forestry industry, namely forit to:

• Be a viable, competitive and diverse industrythat is adaptive to market needs;

• Contribute to and be supported by thecommunity; and

• Make a significant contribution to the healthof the region’s landscapes.

Alignment of this Action Plan with both Stateand national private forestry strategies shouldencourage continued support for itsimplementation by key stakeholder bodies.Planting for a Sustainable Future reflects thefive Strategic Elements of the national strategyPlantations for Australia: the 2020 Vision.

Each strategic element comprises one or moreFocus Areas for regional activity and a range ofActions have been recommended bystakeholders. The actions are designed to beachievable within a five year timeframe andtake into account the existing activity, resourcesand opportunities available to the region. Thisrelationship between strategic elements andfocus areas, together with the highest priorityrecommended actions is outlined in Table 1.

The focus areas for regional activity reflect theexcellent work that already takes place withinthe region and the fact that farmers managemuch of the land where private forestry will be established.

Incorporating private forestry into mainstreamfarming enterprises is a key challenge for theregion, as is the development of trials and pilotprojects to better link private forestry activitywith positive environmental change. At thesame time, coordinated planning at the regionalscale is necessary to ensure a solid policy andplanning framework for sustained investment in the industry.

The implementation of the Action Plan willinvolve a range of stakeholders and becoordinated through the CVFP.


Table 1 - Summary of high priority actions

Strategic Element Focus Area High Priority Actions

1. Ensuring cooperative strategic planning1.1 Cooperative strategic planning for private forestry

Develop a wood flow plan for the region (including wood sourced externally)

Undertake cooperative regional planning to identify opportunities for integratingeconomic, social and environmental benefits from private forestry

2. Enhancing the regulatory framework2.1 Appropriate investment structures

2.2 Guidelines and codes of practice

Develop a Good Neighbour Charter

Develop a practical guide for enhancing biodiversity in private forestry operations

3. Sustaining investment growth3.1 Information to investors

3.2 Access to markets

3.3 Information to growers

3.4 Research and development

Research and development inventory and plan

Models for successful hardwood sawlog plantation development

Research the scale and nature of timber harvesting in private native forests

3.5 Capacity building for growers through effective support

Coordinate regional resourcing for extension and advisory services

Develop a program for promoting safe working practices in farm forestry

Enhance coordination and communication between support networks

Develop an activity plan for all existing demonstration sites

Review existing support services in light of known behavioural change researchrelated to land manager willingness to adopting farm forestry

4. Community engagement and environmental services markets4.1 Stakeholder engagement and community awareness

Conduct market and social research to identify attitudes to private forestry

Develop a communication plan to enhance support for private forestry

Support effective communications between growers and local communities

4.2 Environmental services markets

Gather evidence of the environmental benefits of private forestry systems

Develop a pilot carbon brokering project for the region

5. Coordination, monitoring and review5.1 Accountability, monitoring and evaluation

Coordinate implementation of this Action Plan

Establish a monitoring, evaluation, reporting and feedback process

Collect and maintain regional databases


1. Background and Context1.1 Introduction

Private forestry is an important component of the primary productionactivity that occurs within the Central Victorian Farm Plantations(CVFP) Committee region. The region is ideally placed to continue asa leader in establishing a truly sustainable private forestry industrythat delivers economic, social and environmental benefits to growersand the broader community.

The Central Victorian Farm Plantations Committee, with support of the Corangamite Catchment Management Authority (CCMA), has coordinatedthe development of this Action Plan. The Plan will guide private forestry activity in the CVFP region over the next five years and takes into accountthe national, state and regional strategic directions for private forestry and natural resource management (NRM) as outlined in:

• Plantations for Australia: The 2020 Vision (Revised 2002)

• Priorities for Action: Victoria’s Private Forestry Industry (DPI 2006)

• Central Victorian Farm Plantations Committee Strategy (1999)

The Action Plan seeks to steer the development of private forestry in the CVFP region over the next five years by:

• Integrating the natural resource management requirements, as defined in the relevant Regional Catchment Strategies, with the needsof private forestry investors;

• Supporting NRM investment in private forestry targeted to achieve specific environmental services, such as biodiversity enhancementand salinity mitigation;

• Providing a regional implementation framework for State and National private forestry strategies and programs;

• Supporting community capacity building efforts, through the enhancement of private forestry knowledge and extension skills; and

• Supporting a strong regional industry to ensure effective and efficient operation of the supply chain to deliver quality products grownaccording to best practice and at a scale that is appropriate for a viable and competitive processing industry.


1.2 What is private forestry?

Private forestry is an umbrella term that refers to commercial treegrowing and harvesting activities on private land (of all types andscales). There are three main forms of tree growing activities onprivate land that occur within the CVFP region, namely:• Industrial plantations - generally larger scale forestry activities

that are operated on a commercial footing by corporate entities.

• Farm forestry - generally smaller scale commercial forestryactivities that are integrated at the farm scale within the existingfarm business enterprises (cropping and/or livestock production)and generally funded by the landholder or in joint venture or leasingarrangements;

• Landcare plantings - generally smaller scale, non or sub-commercial (in relation to wood products) plantings of nativespecies to achieve specific environmental improvements such asbiodiversity and waterway enhancement, erosion control andsalinity mitigation.

An additional form of private forestry, private native forestmanagement - commercial utilisation of privately-owned nativeforests - also takes place within the region.

This terminology is used throughout this document to differentiatebetween the different types of private forestry activities, however itneeds to be recognised that trees are often planted with botheconomic and environmental objectives in mind.

There is considerable overlap in these three types of tree plantingactivity (Figure 1) and each should be seen as part of a continuum,rather than as exclusive groupings.

Whilst Landcare type plantings are not generally utilised forcommercial purposes related to harvest, they have the potential todeliver highly valued benefits in the form of environmental services,such as generation of clean water flows, enhancement of biodiversity,salinity mitigation and carbon sequestration of carbon dioxide.

While there are currently few opportunities to attract financial rewardfor the generation of environmental services (with the possibleexception of carbon sequestration), markets for these services mayemerge in future. There is likely to be considerable integration ofLandcare plantings with commercial plantations across the region in future.

Salinity control Alley Farming Larger scale plantations

Biodiversity Timberbelts Leased site plantations

Waterways Agroforestry Landowner funded plantations

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Increasing Emphasis on Timber Production


Figure 1 - Types of tree planting activity on private land

Adapted from: Farm Forestry National Action Statement (DAFF, 2005)

Landcare Plantings Farm Forestry Industrial Forestry


1.3 The benefits of private forestry

An important feature of private forestry is its capacity to deliver awide range of benefits to both private individuals and the broadercommunity (Table 2). As a form of land use, it provides a realopportunity to enhance the environmental sustainability of rurallandscapes, while simultaneously providing long-term social andeconomic opportunities.

A report of a recent major study of the socio-economic impacts ofplantation forestry (BRS 2005) notes that plantation sector expansioncan contribute to stable economic growth in regional areas. It alsoconcludes that, expansion of plantations on agricultural land initiallyhas the same effects on rural populations as ongoing farmamalgamation processes.

As the plantation estate matures, employment in the sector risesrapidly in harvesting, transport and processing of wood products. Mostof the economic benefits of the plantation sector occur in the regionsin which employment is based (BRS 2005).

The three main forest industries within the CVFP region (softwoods,hardwoods and native forests) make a significant economiccontribution to the regional economy; generating $233 million anddirectly employing almost 1000 people in 2001/02 (CVFP 2003).More work is still required to quantify the broader socio-economicbenefits of private forestry.

There is a long standing recognition that commercial forestry andnatural resource management outcomes are compatible withsustainable land management. Planting trees has been thecornerstone of Landcare activity since the early 1980s. Farm forestryis an eligible activity for funding under some parts of the nationalpublic NRM investment initiatives such as the Natural Heritage Trust(NHT) and the National Action Plan for Salinity and Water Quality(NAPSWQ).

Private forestry can enhance farm productivity and profitability, whilehelping to reverse land degradation and promoting more sustainableagriculture (AFFA 2003). Private forests also act as carbon sinks andcontribute to efforts to mitigate climate change.

A key challenge for the private forestry sector and the natural resourcemanagement sector is to validate environmental benefits from privateforestry whilst maintaining the commercial viability of the activity.


Table 2 - Some benefits of private forestry

Benefits Beneficiary

Private Public

Economic

Sale of forest products ✓

Wood/timber processing industry ✓ ✓

Bio-fuels ✓ ✓

Increased farm productivity (e.g. from shade, shelter) ✓

Environmental services fees (e.g. carbon credits) ✓ ✓

Contractors – establishment, management, harvest, transport ✓ ✓

Provision of forestry related services - planning, management, legal & accounting ✓ ✓

Opportunity to diversify farm income sources - smoothing income over time ✓

Building a future asset ✓

Improved value of land ✓

Social

Increased regional development and employment ✓ ✓

Potential to alleviate rural population decline ✓

Improved landscape amenity and sense of well being ✓ ✓

Environmental

Increased biodiversity and habitat ✓ ✓

Reduced reliance on native forest harvesting ✓

Enhanced water quality in streams ✓ ✓

Salinity mitigation ✓ ✓

Carbon sequestration ✓

Reduced erosion and nutrients into streams ✓ ✓


1.4 The CVFP region

Central Victorian Farm Plantations Committee (CVFP) is the PrivateForestry Development Committee (PFDC) for Central Victoria (Figure2). It covers all of the Corangamite CMA region and parts of theNorth Central, Glenelg Hopkins, Wimmera and Port Phillip andWesternport CMA regions.

The CVFP is funded jointly by the Commonwealth and StateGovernments to foster, facilitate, and promote the development of newregional plantations and farm forestry activity. It aims to encouragethe creation of additional timber resources that could supply new orexpanded wood markets and to maintain or expand processingcapacity and ensure value adding. The CVFP supports sustainableregional development by:

• Promoting the incorporation of tree planting with multiple benefits, including contribution to the enhancement of biodiversity,within regional natural resource management plans and investment strategies

Figure 2 - CVFP Region

• Increasing industry awareness of natural resource managementpriorities in their region

• Demonstrating and promoting active management of private nativeforests for a range of commercial and non-commercial productsand services.


Private forestry also has a long history within the region, withextensive tree plantations established in the last century initially forshelter and timber and, more recently, for commercial purposes. Theregion’s industry has three main sectors, softwood plantations,hardwood plantations and native forests.

In the 1930’s, 1950’s and later on the 1960’s and 70’s extensiveareas of softwood (Pinus radiata) plantation were established withinthe region. All of these plantations are now under private ownership.

The plantations in the Aire Valley, which were established in the1930’s, were the basis for the development of the softwoodprocessing industry in Colac. These and expanded plantation areas inthe Otway Ranges, are the source of much of the structural timberand other wood products used in Victoria today. An extensive area ofblue gum (Eucalytpus globulus) has been planted in the past decadefor the export wood fibre market and potential domestic market.

The region covers just over 10% of the state in terms of area. Itaccounts for about 15% of the total state’s area of softwoodplantations and 17% of its hardwood plantations (Figure 3). It alsoaccounts for about 25% of the states 25,000 ha of farm forestry (DPI 2005).

Figure 3 - CVFP region contribution to Victorian plantations

1.5 Private forestry in the CVFP region

History

Forestry has historically been a significant industry within the CVFPregion, based on the extensive areas of public native forests in thecentral highlands and Otway ranges. Softwood plantations were firstestablished in the CVFP region in the late 19th Century – as part ofefforts to rehabilitate land degraded by mining.

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The shape of the industry

The plantations-based private forestry sector goes through threemain phases of development: an establishment phase in which theplantation base is established; a transition phase that includes someharvesting and processing and more incremental expansion of theresource; and finally a maturity of the sector (BRS 2005).In 2001 the mature softwood plantation industry was the biggestcontributor to income generated by forestry (69%). Native forestcontributed 29% of regional income, whilst the rapidly expandinghardwood plantation sector, contributed only 2% (CVFP 2003).

The private forestry sector currently generates a range of forestproducts (Figure 4) and includes all facets of the production cycle(planning, establishment, management, harvesting, processing andreplanting). Forest products are also imported into the region forprocessing.

However, this economic mix is likely to change substantially over thenext five years, with the considerable area of hardwood plantationsbeginning to reach production stage from about 2007. Timberharvesting in public native forest is declining. There is limitedknowledge of the scale and nature of forestry activity in private nativeforests within the region.

The CVFP region continues to attract interest and investment in bothsmall scale and large scale private forestry due to a combination offeatures including:

• Accessible land;

• Favourable climate;

• An existing timber industry in and around Ballarat, Colac andGeelong;

• Proximity to main domestic markets and the ports of Geelong andPortland; and

• Excellent transport infrastructure (DNRE 2002).

The regional climate dictates the location of different styles of privateforestry enterprise:

• High rainfall areas (>700mm/year) around the Central Highlandsand the Otway ranges that can support rapid tree growth and largescale plantations (softwood and hardwood); and

• Lower rainfall areas (<700mm/year) that generally support muchlower rates of tree growth and are typically characterised bysmaller scale plantations, predominantly for species that can deliverhigher value timber.

Figure 4 - Locally supplied logs utilised by centralVictorian processorsNote: this figure does not reflect the amount of native hardwood removed from public andprivate native forest for commercial and domestic firewood.

Source CVFP 2003

S o f t w o o dp u l p w o o d 2 2 %

S o f t w o o d s a w l o g s& p r e s e r v a t i o n 3 2 %

S o f t w o o d l o ge x p o r t 1 4 %

S o f t w o o dr e s i d u e

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7 %


Industry changes

There have been several major trends across Victoria that havealtered the structure and makeup of the timber industry within theCVFP region

• Establishment of large areas of blue gum plantations over past 10 years;

• A 30 year trend in replacing native forest hardwoods with softwoodtimber in structural uses;

• A 20 year trend in drying and using hardwood timber in flooring,feature panels; and

• A major move away from harvesting of public native forests, whichformerly contributed up to 60% of the logs milled within the region.

These trends have resulted in a major structural adjustment for theindustry in the past decade. Commercial scale private forestry activityhas grown across the region over the past decade, with large areas offast growing eucalypt plantation being established, mainly throughManaged Investment Schemes funded from the retail investmentmarket. The timber product is most likely to be chipped within theregion and exported in raw form, but may have some regional valueadding in the future.

Pinus radiata (softwood) sawlogs have replaced hardwood as themainstay of the structural timber market and are processed locallyand sold mostly onto the domestic market. Rates of softwoodplantation establishment have been declining since the 1980s, suchthat the regional softwood harvest may begin to decline after 2010(CVFP 2003).

The net pine plantation area in the region is declining due toconversion of pine to blue gum. However, local processing capacityhas more than doubled in that time, creating the opportunity forrenewed expansion of the softwood resources in the region.

Small scale, farm forestry has also grown over the same period(Figure 5) with rapid expansion in the past decade driven by theestablishment of hardwood plantations, predominantly Blue Gums forpulpwood as well as through government cost share programs suchas the West RFA Sawlog Project and the Plantations for Greenhouseproject (CVFP 2005).

However, private forestry still represents a major shift in thinking forsome farmers engaged in traditional agricultural enterprises. In thiscontext, the significant areas of sugar gum planted early last centuryon the windswept and (formerly) treeless Victorian Volcanic Plains areof particular importance, not only to supply a growing market for highgrade farm grown hardwood timber, but to demonstrate thecommercial viability of such forms of farm forestry.

According to the Vic Farm Tree database there were 3,998 hectaresof farm forestry plantation registered within the CVFP region in August2005, of which 46% were hardwood species, 44% softwood speciesand the balanced mixed or unknown species (CVFP 2005).This estimate includes only data volunteered by growers and thus underestimates the total extent of the farm forestry resource in the region.

Figure 5 - Farm (non industrial) plantation area in the CVFP region

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1.6 Promotion of private forestry

Private forestry has been and is still seen by some as a significantchange in behaviour for land managers. Considerable activity hasoccurred over the past few decades to enhance the uptake of bothsmall and large scale private forestry. A wide range of privateforestry models have evolved to meet the diverse needs of differentland managers across the region.

Similarly, a comprehensive network of private forestry extension andadvisory services has been established to support growers, providinga range of activities to promote behavioural change (Table 3). Theseactivities include awareness raising, education, skills training,incentives, peer support, demonstration sites and recognition.

There are essentially two types of services that have emerged, thoseprimarily targeted towards large scale industrial plantation growersand those targeted towards smaller scale farm forestry growers. Theformer are usually funded by the companies that own the plantationswhile the latter are generally publicly funded.

The region hosts the University of Melbourne’s School of Forest andEcosystem Science at Creswick. This institution has been a leader inforestry research and education for many years and is a partner in theCooperative Research Centres for Wood Innovations and Bushfire. Theindustry owned Timber Industry Training Centre is also located inCreswick. The region has pioneered the use of practical training forgrowers, notably the Master Tree Growers Program, of which fourcourses have been conducted to date.

The existing social networks for private forestry, particularly thosefocused on small scale integrated farm forestry, are closely connectedto the regional natural resource management networks. They havebeen successful in generating considerable enthusiasm for the role ofprivate forestry as both a viable commercial enterprise and forenvironmental rehabilitation across the region. This vibrant and highlyskilled network of people working at all scales of private forestry is amajor asset in its own right for the private forestry sector.

Opportunities for private forestry are continuing to adapt to meetchanging circumstances within the region. For example, models forthe establishment of hardwood plantations for pulp range from largescale whole property plantations to smaller scale leasehold andmanaged investment scheme plantations that are integrated intoexisting farming enterprises.

This diversity helps to meet the need for economies of scale as wellas the specific needs of individual property managers. Anotherexample of this adaptability has been the recent emergence of a highgrade hardwood timber industry based on the mature resource ofsugar gums across the Volcanic Plains in the centre of the region. Thedevelopment of innovative technologies, such as sawing smalldiameter logs from hardwood species offers another niche opportunityfor encouraging new participants in private forestry.


Table 3 - Existing capacity for supporting private forestry within the CVFP region

Program/Activity Target audience Private forestry Intervention model promoted Activities

Ballarat Region Farmers in Ballarat region Farm forestry Awareness, advice, trial Treegrowers marketing; certification

scheme

Corangamite Farm Farmers in Corangamite region Farm forestry Awareness, advice,Forestry Project (DPI) incentives, training

CMA region excluding the Otways

DPI Private Forestry Project Land managers, community and Full range Advice, training,industry stakeholders throughout incentives,the region communication

between government,industry and community

Grow West Land managers in upper Werribee Farm forestry Advice; incentivesRiver catchment area

Otway Agroforestry Network Farmers in Otway ranges region Farm forestry Training, advice, skills,information

NAPSWQ Salinity Action Plan Land managers and investors Private forestry on recharge Incentives and advice Recharge Plantations in two defined salinity target areas sites for salinity control based on recharge

plantings in defined salinity target areas

SMARTimbers Cooperative Farmers in Volcanic Plains area Farm forestry Advice, marketing of farmgrown timber, group certification, value adding to timber products


1.7 Natural resource management opportunities

Key natural resource challenges in the CVFP region

Agriculture is the main land use within the CVFP region, rangingfrom dairying in the well-watered southern areas, to broadacrecropping in the northern areas and mixed cropping and grazingthroughout the extensive volcanic plains that dissect the region.Agriculture is intensifying for all sectors, adding to the demand forland and water resources (CCMA 2003).Much of the region has been cleared - only 25% of native vegetationremains within the Corangamite CMA portion of the CVFP region(CCMA 2003). Large areas of remnant vegetation exist in the steeper,elevated parts of the region including the Central Uplands aroundBallarat and in the south on the Otway Ranges.

The Victorian Volcanic Plains bioregion has been altered dramatically.It was formerly covered by large tracts of native grassland andwetlands, and now supports some of the state’s most vulnerablevegetation communities, with less than 5% of native grasslandsremaining (CCMA 2005). Many species of native fauna, particularlygrassland dependant small marsupials have become extinct or are indecline. Foxes and rabbits are also key threats to some speciessurvival.

Waterway health in the region ranges from excellent in most forestedareas to poor in many of the agricultural areas. Demand for water byrural and urban users has seriously impacted on flow regimes, mostnoticeably in the Moorabool River system, which is one of the mostflow stressed rivers in the state (CCMA 2003).

Alterations to flooding regimes have reduced the connectivity ofadjoining floodplains and wetlands. Riparian vegetation is often underconsiderable pressure from adjoining land uses, including weedinvasion, stock grazing and associated bed and bank destruction.

Dryland salinity is a significant threat to land productivity in much ofthe region, especially in the lower slopes of the central Victorianuplands and across the Victorian Volcanic Plain. In several areas, mostnotably the upper Moorabool catchment, surface water quality hasbeen declining as a result of increasing salinity. Long term projectionsindicate that large areas of the region could be affected by salinity inthe future (VCMC 2002).

Soil structure is declining in northern parts of the region. Pest plantsare an increasing concern in all land uses. The region has particularproblems with Serrated Tussock on the eastern end of the VictorianVolcanic Plains, as well as with Gorse in the north and Ragwort andBlackberry in the south. Phalaris and other introduced pasture speciesare also a major threat to remnant native grasslands.

The region contains the major urban centres of Geelong and Ballaratand borders Melbourne. There is considerable expansion of urban andperi-urban areas, leading to fragmentation of the rural land base anda general increase in land prices (CCMA 2003).

The CVFP region encompasses 14 municipalities, several of whichhave demonstrated support in their Municipal Strategic Statements forcontinued economic activity derived from well planned and managedprivate forestry. However local government is also concerned aboutthe social implications of land use change from agriculture toindustrial-scale private forestry and associated operational issuessuch as roading and fire control.

Climate change has the potential for major impact on the region’snatural ecosystems. Average temperatures in southern Victoria arepredicted to rise between 0.7ºC and 4.3ºC by 2070, particularlyduring summer, whilst average rainfall in most regions is predicted todecline (DSE 2004). Such changes could have significant impacts onthe nature of the private plantation sector within the region, andquestions of location, species selection, silvicultural techniques andmanagement approaches need to be considered now, given the timetaken for plantations to reach maturity.

Opportunities for environmental services fromprivate forestrySome key opportunities for delivering environmental services fromprivate forestry in the region include;

• As buffer zones for protection of remnant native vegetation andwaterways across the region;

• Protection of remnant native vegetation habitat (from areas of highfirewood harvesting activity) through establishment of plantationsfor firewood around major centres like Ballarat and Colac;

• Reduction in groundwater recharge in salinity priority areas;

• Erosion control in key areas such as around Bacchus Marsh andthe upper Barwon catchments;

• Enhanced biodiversity through conversion of pasture to plantedforest and habitat linkages.


2. Vision Objectives2.1 Strategic directions for private forestry

No one can predict exactly how private forestry will develop in theCVFP region over the next 20-30 years. Global and domestic marketforces, competition from alternative products such as steel,uncertainty in prices and changing political and community attitudeswill be major factors in shaping the future of the sector.

Underlying changes in the makeup of rural Australia, including farm amalgamation, declining rural population and an influx of lifestyle landmanagers (BRS 2005) will continue to have flow on effects for private forestry. The structural changes in the forestry industry within the regionover the past two decades have highlighted the importance of diversity of options to be able to adapt to such change and remain viable.

As several stakeholders have noted during discussions for this plan, there is no ‘silver bullet’ that will ensure the industry remains sustainable inthe long term. Rather, it is the diversity of approaches undertaken in the region, driven by the innovation, commitment and cooperation ofstakeholders, that is the key to a prosperous private forestry industry.

The future of private forestry within the CVFP region will be a function of what exists now and the choices made by industry, government and thecommunity over the short to medium term. These choices will be strongly influenced by the strategic directions established at a National andState level though the Plantations for Australia: 2020 Vision, the Victorian Private Forestry Strategy (DNRE 2002) and the Victorian PlantationIncentive Strategy (DPI 2006). The existing Strategic Plan for the CVFP (CVFP 1999) reflects these directions, which include:

• Growth through increased investor confidence;

• Competitiveness of the industry through innovation in product development, value adding and market development;

• Management performance of the industry through adoption of best practices;

• Contribution made by private forestry to regional and community development;

• Contribution made by private forestry to improving environmental health;

• Access to advisory and support services to build and maintain confidence of participants; and

• Monitoring, review and research activities that contribute to adaptive management.


2.2 Vision

‘Planting for a Sustainable Future’ captures the essence of thevision for the region’s private forestry industry, which will:

• Be a viable, competitive and diverse industry that is adaptive to market needs;

• Contribute to and be supported by the community; and

• Make a significant contribution to the health of the region’s landscapes

2.3 Objectives

The Action Plan will provide the framework and direction for privateforestry development across the CVFP region over the next 10-20years. Stakeholders have identified a range of economic, social andenvironmental objectives or goals for the private forestry sectorwithin the region over a 10 year timeframe (Table 4).

Table 4 - Objectives for private forestry in the CVFP region

Economic Social EnvironmentalBy 2016, the region will have an increased By 2016, the local and regional community will By 2016, biodiversity values within plantation resource to supply processing support private forestry as a mainstream primary plantations, private native forests and industries and new markets for a diversity of production enterprise across the landscape will be enhanced forest products

By 2011, a growing, diverse and informed Growth in employment in the private forestry By 2016, private forestry will be grower community aware of market sector over the next 10 years contributing to amelioration of land opportunities degradation and salinity and improved

stream water quality

Sustained private investment in private forestry By 2011 all private forestry operations will be By 2011, private forestry will be over the next 10 years including effective undertaken in a sustainable manner according making a significant contribution to product transport infrastructure to best practice for environment, health and safety carbon sequestration

By 2011, enhanced value adding to forest By 2011, private forestry will be effectively By 2011, there will be enhanced products within the region integrated into the regional community public investment in the environmental

development agenda services provided through private forestry


3. Strategies and ActionsTo achieve the social, economic and environmental objectives forprivate forestry in the region, the Action Plan has five keyinterrelated strategic elements (or strategies) with focus areas forregional action recommended under each.

The strategic elements of the Action Plan reflect those outlined inPlantations for Australia: The 2020 Vision whilst the regional focus areasalso align with the national actions recommended in the 2020 Vision.

This section explains the strategic elements and provides a rationalefor the recommended actions within each focus area.The recommended actions have been developed by stakeholdersand are designed to be achievable within a five year timeframe.They take into account the existing activity, resources andopportunities available to the region.


3.1 Ensuring cooperative strategic planning

Effective strategic planning and development of a stable policyframework is essential to maintain the growth of the sector withinthe region, particularly to sustain investor confidence and ensurethat key infrastructure is in place for the future. The region needsaccurate information on expected wood flows to plan for requiredinfrastructure (transport, processing, export facilities).

Focus Area 1.1 - Cooperative strategic planning for private forestry (2020 Actions 1 & 2)

1.1.1 - Develop a wood flow plan for the region (includingwood sourced externally to the region)A sound understanding of the region’s wood flow is necessary forplanning key infrastructure (rail and road transport, processingcapability) investments. A wood flow plan, developed in consultationwith existing timber providers, local government, infrastructure utilitiesand users will help identify critical infrastructure planning andmaintenance requirements. Five yearly reviews of CVFP wood flowplan and associated infrastructure requirements should be conducted.

1.1.2 - Undertake a review of existing physical infrastructure(roads, rails, ports and processing facilities) and buildindustry development scenarios for identifying industry needs.Existing infrastructure for private forestry has undergone considerablechange over recent years. Increasing traffic volumes may impact ontransport options. Current and future infrastructure needs of theindustry need to be identified in order to establish appropriateplanning processes to meet projected demands.

1.1.3 - Undertake cooperative regional planning to identifyopportunities for integrating economic, social andenvironmental benefits from private forestryThe region has undertaken extensive natural resource managementand community development planning that can be integrated witheconomic planning for private forestry. Both private and publicinvestors in private forestry need solid information related to thepotential economic, environmental and social outcomes fromplantation establishment.

Cooperation between regional planning bodies including governmentdepartments, CMAs, Local Government, utility managers and theprivate forestry sector will enhance the regions capacity to establishplantations to deliver multiple benefits.

1.1.4 - Establish understanding on a private forestry strategyat the local government levelEnhanced cooperation between policy makers at state, regional andlocal levels is necessary to ensure a solid policy and consistentsupport for the expansion of the plantation resource and to derivebraoder environmental and social benefits for the region. CatchmentManagement Authorities and Local government have important rolesto play in the planning and policy framework for private forestry andneed to be actively engaged by the sector. Lack of understanding ofprivate forestry by planning agencies can be a major barrier toinvestment, particularly for large scale industrial plantings.Understanding of private forestry strategy at this level will aid inconsistent approaches to local planning.


3.2 Enhancing the regulatory framework

Innovative structures are needed to promote investment in nichemarkets within the sector, particularly smaller scale private forestryoperations. Market forces and changing community attitudes aredriving continual improvement in the management of private forests.It is also becoming increasingly important in the global marketplacefor timber producers to demonstrate that their products have beengrown and managed in a sustainable manner.The industry recognises that it needs to maintain and enhance its performance to ensure that environmental and social aspects of its operationsare as important as the need for economic returns. The growing emphasis on sustainable land management offers new opportunities forembedding private forestry as a core component of this concept and the CVFP region has an ideal opportunity to enhance its credentials as asource of sustainable forest products.

Focus Area 2.1 - Appropriate investment structures(2020 Action 4)

2.1.1 - Develop a multi-level accreditation based system foraccess to public investment grants for private forestry basedon environmental servicesVarious organisations distribute funding in the form of incentives forland managers within region, predominantly for natural resourcemanagement outcomes. There is considerable opportunity to link suchincentives with accredited management of private forests.

2.1.2 - Explore the development of management andmarketing agreements with existing industry stakeholdersSome existing industry stakeholders are seeking to establish greatercertainty in relation to product marketability, pricing mechanisms,supply of critical mass of desired product. Regional agreements toestablish such arrangements will help enhance investor confidence inthe sector.

2.1.3 - Develop a government supported investment vehicleand regional coordinating body to facilitate investment insmall scale private forestryConsiderable untapped investment potential for small scale privateforestry may exist within urban populations. Private forestry rights,government co-sponsorship and establishment of agreed businessplans can help add to investor confidence. By establishing a vehiclefor this investment to flow to the region and a coordinating body, theindustry will diversify its source of funds and raise awareness of thesector as an investment opportunity.

2.1.4 - Identify investment structure for new softwoodplantation development in the regionThe region has a well established softwood plantation sector, but therate of new plantings has slowed. Financing structures linkingplantation investment opportunities with softwood processors wouldhelp rectify this.

Focus Area 2.2 - Guidelines and codes of practice(2020 Action 5)

2.2.1 - Develop a Good Neighbour CharterA Good Neighbour Charter for private forest growers would help toenhance support from adjoining land managers and resolve localconflicts, as well as enhancing broader community perceptions ofprivate forestry.

2.2.2 - Develop a project plan to link property based forestmanagement plans with whole farm plans and participation involuntary best management schemesSustainable private forestry management is becoming more importantto sustained investment and for community support. Somecertification schemes are difficult to achieve, particularly for smallscale growers. Entry level, voluntary schemes such as theEnvironmental Best Management Practices Project already operatingwithin the region and supported by networks such as the OAN,provide an ideal opportunity to increase private and public investorconfidence in growers. It is important for the region to build on whatalready exists and at the same time reflect broader statewideagendas.

2.2.3 - Establish a system of group accreditation for smallscale plantation grown timber that guarantees the timber hasbeen sustainably managed in an environmentally acceptablemannerCertification of forest management practices through existingschemes is now standard business practice for large scale growers.However, these schemes are difficult to enter for smaller scalegrowers. Group certification is one way of facilitating certification ofsmall growers.

2.2.4 - Develop a practical guide for enhancing biodiversity inprivate forestry operationsA range of biodiversity enhancements can be derived through wellplanned and managed private forestry. A practical guide is required toassist private forest managers, landowners and rural authorities in theCVFP region who are or plan to undertake private forestry operationsin the rural landscape.


3.3 Sustaining investment growth

Private sector investment underpins the growth and development ofthe private forestry sector within the CVFP region. The challenge forthe CVFP region is not necessarily attracting more investment acrossall aspects of the industry, but managing the existing investmentpotential to ensure it is maintained and continues. New investmentis certainly needed in niche markets and the region needs tounderstand the market and industry dynamics and actively informboth investors and growers of the opportunities present in theregion. Research and development for all aspects of the supplychain are important to maintaining a competitive sector whilsteffective extension and advisory support services are critical to aninformed and aware grower base.Focus Area 3.1 - Information to investors (2020 Action 8)

3.1.1 - Develop information that clearly describes the variousopportunities for private forestry within the regionThere is wide range of private forestry operations across the CVFPregion. Potential investors need information in order to understand thedifferent investment opportunities and their associated supply chains,including growers, processors, and markets.

3.1.2 - Encourage private forestry operators to raise the profileof the CVFP region in the marketplace as a source ofaccredited sustainable timber productsThe increasing competitiveness of the timber industry means that allaspects of the sector within the region need to be proactive inmaintaining existing markets and securing new markets. A growingsegment of the global marketplace is demanding timber products thatare derived from sustainable forestry practices. With its diverseproduct base, growth rates, proximity to markets and well establishednetworks of leading edge advisory support for growers, stakeholdersare ideally placed to promote the region as a source of sustainable,high quality forest products.

Focus Area 3.2 - Access to markets (2020 Action 9)

3.2.1 - Support and encourage treegrower associations to increase small growers market strength and effective use of resourcesSmaller scale growers do not have the same access to markets andeconomies of scale as larger growers. Associations of smallergrowers already exist in the region and if supported, will help toimprove these aspects and encourage more such smaller scalegrowers to enter the industry.

Focus Area 3.3 - Information to growers (2020 Action 10)

3.3.1 - Regularly gather and distribute timely information thatinforms existing and potential growers of the economic (andother) benefits of integrated farm forestryPotential smaller scale growers such as farmers require soundinformation of the economic benefits of private forestry relative totheir existing agricultural enterprises.


Focus Area 3.4 - Research and development (2020 Action 11)

3.4.1 - Develop a research and development inventory andplan for the private forestry sector within the regionConsiderable research and development continues to occur within theregion and this new knowledge needs to be made accessible togrowers, investors and stakeholders. A strategic approach to newresearch and development will help ensure appropriate focus onpriority areas.

3.4.2 - Invest in models for successful hardwood sawlogplantation developmentPrograms such as the West RFA Sawlog Farming Project, and thework of the SMARTimbers Cooperative and the Corangamite FarmForestry Project have demonstrated the potential for high valuehardwood species grown at a relatively small scale. Continueddevelopment of these models, coupled with new processingtechnologies for small logs, will improve the adoptability of small scalehardwood plantations by farmers. Demonstrating the financialfeasibility of such models is vital.

3.4.3 - Collate and relate relevant research that improvesregional understanding of the interactions between privateforestry and the environment, focusing on water, biodiversity,salinity and carbon sequestrationA better understanding of the relationship between private forestryand environmental services will enhance the region’s ability to deliversuch services and open the potential for payments for public goodoutcomes. Existing biodiversity research projects such as bird andother faunal studies being undertaken by DSE in plantations offerconsiderable potential to generate new information to make a strongercase for incorporating biodiversity conservation principles in privateforestry. Other priority environmental research areas include water(quality and quantity impacts from private forestry), salinity and carbonsequestration.

3.4.4 - Research the scale and nature of timber harvesting inprivate native forests within the region, the condition ofprivate native forests and their potential for utilisationPrivately owned native forest is a substantial resource in the region.There is little knowledge of current condition and management,whether production and biodiversity values are improving, stable ordeteriorating. A better understanding of these matters is urgentlyneeded.

3.4.5 - Undertake an assessment of the potential impacts ofclimate change on the private forestry sectorClimate change and more specifically rainfall and temperaturevariability could have major implications for the types of privateforestry that will be sustainable in the region over the comingdecades. Risk and opportunity assessments need to be undertakennow given the long time horizons for forestry and the importance ofinformed decisions by growers.

Focus Area 3.5 - Capacity building for growersthrough effective support (2020 Action 12)3.5.1 - Coordinate regional resourcing opportunities for smallscale private forestry extension and advisory servicesSmall scale, farm based private forestry is still a relatively newconcept for many farmers, often representing a major shift in attitude.Land managers need access to good information, advisory andtraining services to be confident that their private forestry activitieswill deliver long term benefits that exceed the short term costs.

The CVFP region is fortunate to have an extensive network of publicand privately funded support services with well established links andcredentials within the rural community. Uncertainty in resourcing canbe a major barrier to ensuring continuity. It is important for allstakeholders to work cooperatively to ensure resources are secured tosupport the existing networks.

Focus Area 3.5 - Capacity building for growersthrough effective support (2020 Action 12) - cont

3.5.2 - Develop a program for promoting safe workingpractices in farm forestryManagement and harvesting of woodlot timber is a new skill for ‘do ityourself’ farmers in the agricultural environment and a targetedprogram is needed to address these safety risks.

3.5.3 - Enhance the skills of existing private forestry support agentsTraining, skills, education and information exchange are vitallyimportant to ensure the continual improvement of the private forestrysupport network, both public and privately funded agents.

3.5.4 - Enhance coordination and communication betweenexisting private forestry support networksWith a range of service providers for private forestry operating in theregion, coordination and communication is essential to maximise theeffectiveness of existing activity. Greater collaboration between privateand publicly funded service providers is required. Regional forumsneed to continue and the development of a calendar of activity willhelp to enhance the effectiveness of the regional effort.

3.5.5 - Develop an activity plan for all existing demonstration sitesA range of private forestry demonstration sites already existthroughout the region. These constitute a valuable learning resource,but they need to be utilised effectively by all service providers in orderto maximise their potential value. An asset register of alldemonstration sites, together with a plan for their effective operationwill enhance the regions ability to demonstrate the benefits of privateforestry in a range of situations.

3.5.6 - Develop a project to incorporate private forestrysupport within LandcarePrivate forestry support agents work with, but are generally separateto the Landcare facilitator network, yet their client group and servicesprovided have much in common. There is an opportunity to expandthe total pool of private forestry support agents by incorporating farmforestry within Landcare. A pilot project, similar to that between theOAN and the Upper Barwon Landcare network, involving provision ofprivate forestry projects through willing Landcare networks and staffwith appropriate support and specialist advice from private forestryspecialists would help improve the acceptance of private forestry.

3.5.7 - Review existing support services in light of knownbehavioural change research related to land managerwillingness to adopting farm forestryIn relation to smaller scale private forestry, many of the participantsare innovators and early adopters, but farm forestry is yet to becomea mainstream activity on farms across the region. New land managersand limited uptake by existing land managers of small scale privateforestry warrants the need for a review of the understanding of thebehavioural change processes related to private forestry. Thisunderstanding should form the basis of a review of the effectivenessof current support programs and services.

3.5.8 - Develop a plan to enhance uptake of private forestryin peri-urban areasThe CVFP region has a rapidly expanding group who operate lifestylefarming properties that are generally small scale and generate limitedincome. Many of these new land managers in the periurban areasaround major population centres may be predisposed to privateforestry as a low maintenance, yet productive use of land. They areideally placed to integrate private forestry in their activities andrecognised by existing networks as a target for greater activity. A planis needed to ensure such activities are well targeted and delivered tothis relatively new audience.


3.4 Community engagement and environmental services markets

Growth in the region’s private forestry industry is closely linked tothe level of community support. It needs to become accepted as alegitimate form of primary production. Community concerns of thepotential impacts of private forestry have been experienced acrossthe region. Stakeholders need to communicate effectively with thecommunity at all scales, building awareness, understanding andultimately, support.Private forestry offers considerable potential for social and environmental benefit and its sustainability platform - "plant- grow - harvest - replant"– needs to be emphasised as a key message to all target audiences.

The fundamental role of trees in the landscape makes private forestry an ideal tool for achieving improvements in environmental condition of theCVFP region. Well planned and managed private forestry offers considerable opportunity to deliver landscape scale public benefits in the form ofclean air and water, enhanced connectivity of habitat, salinity mitigation, carbon sequestration and improved visual amenity.

Co-investment of public funds in commercial forestry for environmental benefits requires a clear business case. The region needs to developclear pathways for purchasing environmental services from private forestry. At the same time, a credible, robust, transparent and accessiblemarket for environmental services is lacking. Existing incentives and grants for environmental services are short term and limited in application.The scale of change required for securing broader public good outcomes means that larger corporate investors are likely to be key players.

Focus Area 4.1 - Stakeholder engagement andcommunity awareness (2020 Action 13, 15)

4.1.1 - Conduct market and social research at the regionallevel to identify attitudes to private forestryIt is important for the industry as a whole to communicate effectivelywith the regional community. Many community attitudes are framedby historical perceptions that relate to forestry in general and it isimportant for the sector to clearly identify its various components,together with the impacts and long term benefits. The private forestrysector needs to understand regional community cultural norms, valuesand attitudes to private forestry in order to plan an effectivecommunications plan.

4.1.2 - Based on research, develop a communication plan thatidentifies what the private forestry sector needs to enhancesupport for private forestry within the broader regionalcommunityThe large and diverse nature of the CVFP region necessitates a welldeveloped communications plan to determine who will be the targetaudiences, what are the key messages and how they will bedelivered. The natural resource management benefits of commerciallyplanted trees are a relatively new concept to the regional community.

A key message of communications activities will be to effectivelypromote this message to the broader community. Potential investorsneed to be made aware of the steps being taken in integrating privateforestry and environmental services within the CVFP region. Combinedwith the other economic and social benefits, this offers a compellingcase for socially and environmental responsible investment.

Focus Area 4.1 - Stakeholder engagement andcommunity awareness (2020 Action 13, 15) - cont

4.1.3 - Develop an education plan to utilise existing networksto promote private forestry within rural communitiesAt the local level, private forestry can result in significant changes inland use, potentially affecting smaller rural communities and landmanagers. The extensive network of information and advisory supportpeople is well equipped to continue to educate the rural community ofthe benefits of private forestry, through activities such asdemonstrations and field days, development of case study farms andapplying the ‘Web of Trees’ (OAN 2005) approach developed in theYan Yan Gurt catchment in other areas such as Lismore.

4.1.4 - Continue to support effective communications betweengrowers and local communities to develop locally acceptablesolutions to matters of concernLocally, private forestry practices can have impacts on adjoining landmanagers and communities. It is particularly important that largescale growers communicate proactively with affected land managersand communities and seek to resolve specific problems. The CVFPwith regional industry players have played a facilitation role inbrokering effective local solutions and should continue to act in this capacity.


Focus Area 4.2 Environmental services market(2020 Action 14)

4.2.1 - Involve growers, private forestry investors and naturalresource managers in the development and implementation ofthe Corangamite Commercial Environmental Forestry ProjectDespite considerable discussion of the concept of environmentalservices, this business case is not yet well established. Similarly, thereis a lack of knowledge of potential private and public investmentsources for this end.

Achieving long term environmental benefits at the landscape scale willbe largely dependant on the ability of regional and local organisationsto work cooperatively in NRM planning at this scale. Bio-geographicalspatial information systems can be an important tool for targetingpriority areas within a region where private forestry may providemultiple benefits. By integrating such information with that developedthrough consultation with the industry and stakeholders, a rewardsystem for providing NRM benefits may be developed.

The Corangamite Commercial Environmental Forestry Project is a pilotproject in the design stages that utilises such an approach to helpbuild a clear business case for private and public investment inprivate forestry in priority areas for environmental outcomes.

4.2.2 - Undertake projects which provide evidence of theenvironmental benefits of private forestry systemsSpecific projects that demonstrate the linkages between privateforestry and various indicators of environmental change are critical inbuilding the case for investment in public good outcomes andcommunity support. Projects such as the study of biodiversity inplantations currently being undertaken by DSE add quantitative datato a largely qualitative argument. An important aspect of all suchprojects is to ensure any new insights and knowledge gained of thebenefits of farm forestry to the environment is communicated to keystakeholders.

Focus Area 4.2 Environmental services market(2020 Action 14) - cont

4.2.3 - Develop a pilot carbon brokering project for the regionWorldwide pressure to reduce greenhouse gas emissions means thatcarbon trading markets are now much closer to being a reality, but akey challenge any region is to coordinate or broker trading dealsbetween carbon buyers (greenhouse gas emitters) and sellers (privateforestry growers). Even within the region, there are potentially somevery large potential carbon buyers and with the extent of new privateforestry, existing carbon sinks.

Developing a pilot where public funds are used to investigate and triala regional carbon brokering service would help establish a viablemarket within the region. This will help establish practical carbontrading linkages between corporate emitters and new farm forestryand or revegetation development projects within the region.

Existing private forestry networks could be involved, building importantlinks between corporate investors and private foresters. Such a pilot would help build expertise and confidence of all parties in what is a new opportunity for gaining corporate investment inenvironmental services.


3.5 Coordination, Monitoring and Review

Cooperation and communication between stakeholders has been acornerstone of private forestry development within the CVFP region formany years. Whilst the implementation of the Action Plan will involveall stakeholders, effective coordination is essential to ensure thedesired outcomes are achieved for the benefit of the whole region.An effective evaluation program involving sound monitoring, coupled with regular reviews of progress towards achieving the actions outlined in thisplan will ensure the region has solid information at appropriate scales for its continual improvement.

Focus Area 5.1 Accountability, monitoring andevaluation (2020 Action 16)

5.1.1 - Assign responsibility for overseeing implementation ofthis Action plan to the CVFPImplementation of this plan cannot be left to chance. A core group ofcommitted stakeholders from across the region need to ensureregularly meet to review and oversee progress. The CVFP is alreadyrecognised as the peak body for private forestry interests within theregion and is the appropriate forum to take responsibility forcoordinating implementation of this Action Plan.

5.1.2 - Establish a comprehensive monitoring, evaluation,reporting and feedback (MER&F) process for theimplementation of the Action PlanA comprehensive monitoring, evaluation, reporting and feedback(MER&F) program is required in order to effectively communicateprogress towards achieving the objectives of the Action plan. Theprogram needs to establish clear targets for three different levels ofobjectives;

• outcome-based objectives that describe the changes or impactsexpected from private forestry in relation to environmental, socialand economic systems over the medium to long term

• output objectives that reflect the behavioural changes sought fromkey groups within the region and beyond, be they investors, landmanagers, the general community as they relate to specificprograms; and

• input objectives that reflect the activities or processes undertakenby the sector and key stakeholders in the form of projects andprograms to achieve the outputs.

Focus Area 5.1 Accountability, monitoring andevaluation (2020 Action 16) - cont

5.1.3 - Undertake regional surveys for private forestry assetsand maintain a comprehensive private forestry databaseThe region requires up to date, accurate information of the locationand extent of plantations and the growers involved in private forestryactivity. Existing databases such as Vic Farm Tree need to bemaintained and enhanced to ensure this information is available forappropriate purposes, including information dissemination, reportingto investor bodies and marketing.


4. Implementation PlanThis section presents a prioritised program for implementation of theactions outlined in the previous section. It is intended as a workingguide to aid the annual implementation of the Action Plan by theCentral Victorian Farm Plantations Committee. Where appropriate,lead responsibility, partners, dates for completion, and potentialfunding sources have been suggested, however this does notnecessarily imply that any commitment yet exists from any particularorganisations. It is acknowledged that these aspects will requirefurther negotiation and will be subject to change depending onresource availability and the capacity of stakeholders.

The actions have been prioritised according to the overall views of contributors. Priority takesinto account two aspects; importance of the action in achieving the region’s objectives andthe urgency in terms of timing. The prioritisation also reflects a range of actions that arealready underway.

Three priority levels are assigned:

•High - implement within the next 12 months (shaded on table);

•Medium - implement within the next 2 years; and

•Low - implement over the next five years.


Table 5 - Implementation Plan

No. Action Output Lead Partners Potential PriorityResponsibility Funding Sources

(if applicable)

Focus Area 1.1 Cooperative strategic planning for private forestry

1.1.1 Develop a wood flow plan for the region Wood flow plan CVFP Growers, CVFP, DPI, DSE High(including wood sourced externally to developed processorsthe region).

1.1.2 Undertake a review of existing physical Local Government CVFP Growers, CVFP, DPI, DSE Mediuminfrastructure (roads, rails, ports position statement Timber and processing facilities) and build on private forestry Towns,industry development scenarios processors for identifying industry needs.

1.1.3 Undertake cooperative regional planning Regional map - CCMA CVFP, DSE, NHT; NASWQ Highto identify opportunities for integrating potential DPIeconomic, social and environmental environmental from benefits private forestry benefits from

private forestry - developed

1.1.4 Establish understanding on a private Improved of CVFP Growers, Medium forestry strategy at the local understanding networksgovernment level private forestry

within local government

Focus Area 2.1 Appropriate investment structures

2.1.1 Develop a multi-level accreditation based System DPI CCMA, NHT, NAPSWQ Mediumsystem for access to public investment established and CVFP,grants for private forestry based on operating Networksenvironmental services

2.1.2 Explore the development of management Agreements in CVFP Corporate Low and marketing agreements with existing place growers,industry stakeholders processors

2.1.3 Develop a government supported Investment vehicle DPI CVFP, NHT, NAPSWQ Medium investment vehicle and regional established, pilot CMAs PIScoordinating body to facilitate investment scheme operatingin small scale private forestry

2.1.4 Identify investment structure for new Structures identified Softwood CVFP RIRDC Low softwood plantation development in and operating Sectorthe region


Table 5 - Implementation Plan (continued)


(if applicable)

Focus Area 2.2 Guidelines and codes of practice

2.2.1 Develop a Good Neighbour Charter Charter in place CVFP Corporate PFDCs, DPI Highgrowers,PFDCs

2.2.2 Develop a project plan to link property Project plan DPI CMAs NHT, NAPSWQ Medium based forest management plans with developed;whole farm plans and participation in pilot underwayvoluntary best management schemes

2.2.3 Establish a system of group accreditation Scheme Networks CVFP, ACF NHT, NAPSWQ Medium for small scale plantation grown timber established AFG, AFSthat guarantees the timber has been sustainably managed in an environmentally acceptable manner

2.2.4 Develop a practical guide for enhancing Guide developed, CVFP CCMA NHT, NAPSWQ Highbiodiversity in private forestry operations distributed

Focus Area 3.1 Information to investors

3.1.1 Develop information that clearly Information CVFP DPI CVFP, DIRRD Mediumdescribes the various opportunities for distributedprivate forestry within the region

3.1.2 Encourage private forestry operators to CVFP DPI CVFP, DIIRD Medium raise the profile of the CVFP region in the marketplace as a source ofaccredited sustainable forests products

Focus Area 3.2 Access to markets

3.2.1 Support and encourage treegrower Group marketing Networks CVFP CVFP Medium groups to increase small growers structures market strength and effective use established and of resources supported

Focus Area 3.3 Information to growers

3.3.1 Regularly gather and distribute timely Information Networks DPI NHT, NAPSWQ Mediuminformation that informs existing and distributed potential growers of the economic (and other) benefits of integrated farm forestry




(if applicable)

Focus Area 3.4 Research and development

3.4.1 Develop a research and development Plan developed CVFP DPI, CVFP, DIIRD Highinventory and plan for the private forestry Networks, CMAssector within the region

3.4.2 Invest in models for successful hardwood Feasibility of Networks CVFP DIIRD Highsawlog plantation development models confirmed

3.4.3 Collate and relate relevant research that Research projects DPI CVFP, NHT, NAPSWQ; Mediumimproves regional understanding of the undertaken Networks DSE, CMAs DSEinteractions between private forestry and the environment, focusing on water,biodiversity, salinity and carbonsequestration

3.4.4 Research the scale and nature of timber Native private CVFP DPI, NHT Mediumharvesting in private native forests within forests study CMAsthe region, the condition of private native undertaken forests and their potential for utilisation

3.4.5 Undertake an assessment of the potential Climate impact DPI DSE AGO Lowimpacts of climate change on the private assessment forestry sector undertaken

Focus Area 3.5 Capacity building for growers through effective support

3.5.1 Coordinate regional resourcing Resourcing security DPI CVFP, NHT, NAPSWQ Highopportunities for small scale private for existing service Networksforestry extension and advisory providers services

3.5.2 Develop a program for promoting Program developed DPI Networks, FarmBis, Worksafe Highsafe working practices in farm forestry anddelivered CVFP

3.5.3 Enhance the skills of existing private Enhanced skills DPI Networks NHT, NAPSWQ Mediumforestry support agents and capacity of

providers

3.5.4 Enhance coordination and communication Increased DPI CVFP, DPI High between existing private forestry support coordination Networksnetworks

3.5.5 Develop an activity plan for all existing Increased DPI CVFP, Highdemonstration sites attendance at networks

field days

3.5.6 Develop a project to Incorporate private Landcare facilitators DPI Networks, NHT, NAPSWQ Medium forestry support within Landcare providing private CMAs

forestry supportservices

3.5.7 Review existing support services in light Review undertaken DPI CVFP, NHT, NAPSWQ, DPI Mediumof known behavioural change research Networks related to land manager willingness toadopting farm forestry

3.5.8 Develop a plan to enhance uptake of Plan developed DPI CVFP, Medium private forestry in peri-urban areas Networks




(if applicable)

Focus Area 4.1 Stakeholder engagement and community awareness

4.1.1 Conduct market and social research at Research DPI CMAs, DPI Highthe regional level to identify attitudes to conducted CVFPprivate forestry

4.1.2 Based on research, develop a Communication DPI CVFP, NHT, NAPSWQ, High communication plan that identifies what plan adopted Networks RIRDC the private forestry sector needs to enhance support for private forestrywithin the broader regional community

4.1.3 Develop an education plan to utilise Education Networks DPI DPI Medium existing networks to promote private plan adopted forestry within rural communities by networks

4.1.4 Continue to support effective Local input to Local growers CVFP High communications between growers and resolve issues local communities to develop locallyacceptable solutions to mattersof concern

Focus Area 4.2 Environmental services markets

4.2.1 Involve growers, private forestry investors Pilot project CVFP DPI, NHT, NAPSWQ; Mediumand natural resource managers in the established CMAs, RIRDC development and implementation of the DSE Corangamite Commercial Environmental Forestry Project

4.2.2 Undertake projects which provide evidence Projects underway DSE DPI, CVFP, DSE, NHT, Highof the environmental benefits of private networks, NAPSWQ, RIRDCforestry systems CMAs

4.2.3 Develop a pilot carbon brokering project Pilot project DPI CMAs, CVFP AGO High forthe region established

Focus Area 5.1 Accountability, monitoring and evaluation

5.1.1 Assign responsibility for overseeing CVFP recognised CVFP CVFP Highimplementation of this Action plan and plan launchedto the CVFP

5.1.2 Establish a comprehensive monitoring, MERF process CVFP DPI CVFP, DPI Highevaluation, reporting and feedback established (MER&F) process for the implementationof the Action Plan

5.1.3 Undertake regional surveys for private Database up to CVFP DPI CVFP High forestry assets and maintain a date and utilised comprehensive private forestry database


AFFA (2003) NHT and NAPSWQ: Farm Forestry’s role, Department ofAgriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Canberra

BRS (2005) Socio-economic impacts of plantation forestry. Bureau ofRural Sciences for the Forests and Wood Products Research and Development Corporation, Canberra.

CCMA (2003) Corangamite Regional Catchment Strategy.Corangamite Catchment Management Authority, Colac

CCMA (2005) Corangamite Regional Vegetation Plan. CorangamiteCatchment Management Authority, Colac

CVFP (1999) Central Victorian Farm Plantation Development Strategy1999. Central Victorian Farm Plantations Committee

CVFP (2003) Socio economic study of the forest industry of CentralVictoria. Report by URS for the Central Victorian Farm PlantationsCommittee

CVFP (2005) VicFarmTree: Central Victoria’s Farm Forestry Estate:Summary August 2005. Central Victorian Farm Plantations Committee

DAFF (2005) Farm Forestry National Action Statement, August 2005.Annexe A.

DNRE (2002) Victorian Private Forestry Strategy 2002 -2005,Department of Natural Resources and Environment and VictorianPrivate Forestry Council

DSE (2004) Adapting to Climate Change - Enhancing Victoria'sCapacity: consultation paper, Greenhouse Policy Unit,Department of Sustainability and Environment, Melbourne

DPI (2006) Priorities for Action: Victoria’s Private Forestry Industry(Draft 2005). Department of Primary Industries, Melbourne

OAN (2005) A web of trees - reconnecting the landscape and thecommunity. Otway Agroforestry Network.

Plantations 2020 (2002) Plantations for Australia: The 2020 vision. Anindustry/government initiative for plantation forestry in Australia.http://www.plantations2020.com.au/vision/index.html

State of Victoria (2002) Our forests our future: Victorian governmentstatement on forests.Department of Natural Resources and Environment.

VCMC (2002) Health of our Catchments: a Victorian Report Card,2002. Victorian Catchment Management Council, Melbourne.

Acronym Description

BRTG Ballarat Region Treegrowers

CMA Catchment Management Authority

CCMA Corangamite Catchment Management Authority

CFFP Corangamite Farm Forestry Project (DPI)

CVFP Central Victorian Farm Plantations (Committee)

DAFF Commonwealth Department of Agriculture Forestry and Fisheries

DPI Department of Primary Industries

DSE Department of Sustainability and Environment

JVAP Joint Venture Agroforestry Project

LG Local Government

MIS Managed Investment Scheme

NRM Natural Resource Management

OAN Otway Agroforestry Network

PFDC Private Forestry Development Committee

PIS Victorian Plantations Incentives Strategy

RIRDC Rural Industry Research and Development Corporation

SMARTimbers Sustainably M anaged Australian Regional Timbers

5. References

6. Acronyms


7. AcknowledgementsThis project was supported by funding from the Commonwealth and State Governments under the national action Plan for Salinity and WaterQuality, administered by the Corangamite catchment Management Authority. The Central Victorian Farm Plantations Committee and the CCMAwould like to acknowledge the valuable contributions provided by the following people:

Name Organisation Name Organisation

Graeme Anderson DPI Allan May Shire of Moorabool

Robert Beams Swan Bay Terry McAliece Hancock Victorian Plantations

Ralph Berrill Central Highlands Water David McFarlane Central Victorian Silvicultural Services

Cr Jenny Blake Golden Plains Shire Neil McInnes Upper Barwon Landcare Network

Gillian Blair Sandy Macmillan Lismore Land Protection Group

Peter Bowditch Otway Agroforestry Network Chris Meade CM Timber Processors

Francine Briody Cr Phil Millar Hepburn Shire

Noel Bushnell Hannagan & Bushnell Pty Ltd Bob Orr CVFP

Kendra Dean DPI Lee Murnane Murnane’s Sawmill

Leigh Dennis CCMA Fiona Nelson Otway Environment Council

Prue Borschmann DPI Steve Page DPI

Mike Edwards Otway Agroforestry Network Quinton Pakan Grow West

Brendan Egan SMARTimbers Ian Penna CVFP/BRT

David Fisken CVFP Chris Pitfield Corangamite CMA

Michelle Grainger Corangamite Shire Jo Roberts Vision 2020

Stephen Guy Lismore Land Protection Group Darren Shelden Timbercorp Limited

Fiona McDonnell Great Southern Plantations Warwick Ragg Australian Forest Growers

Liz Hamilton DPI Stuart Robinson CVFP

Sue Harris DPI John Rees Greening Australia Victoria

Neil Harris AKD Softwoods Andrew Stewart Otway Agroforestry Network

Nick Jaschenko DSE Malcolm Tonkin Hancock Victorian Plantations

Trish Kevin DPI Paul Turnbull DPI

Alice Knight CVFP Mick Underdown Great Southern Plantations

Cr Kevin Knight CVFP Trevor Waring SMARTimbers

Jim Knott Midway Ltd Valerie Warner Gellibrand River Clean Water

Tarnya Kruger DPI Gib Wettenhall Ballarat Region Treegrowers

Andrew Lang SMARTimbers Cooperative Sophie Segafredo Corangamite Shire

Annette Lenstra DPI Craig Whiteford DSE

Rob Lukin GPFL/EPFL

C O R A N G A M I T E C M AHEALTHY CATCHMENTS

HEALTHY WATERWAYS

Funding support for this project has been provided throughthe National Action Plan for Salinity and Water Quality.

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