The Budj Bim landscape is located on Gunditjmara Country in southwest Victoria, Australia. This area is an extremely culturally significant landscape and is home to a range of native and threatened species. eDNA surveys were used to survey the extensive landscape area in a quick and cost-effective way whilst gaining critical biodiversity data to assist in future management and planning decisions.
 

This was a collaborative approach between EnviroDNA, Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owner Aboriginal Corporation (GMTOAC), Glenelg Hopkins CMA and Deakin University. EnviroDNA facilitated knowledge sharing through learnings about the survey tool and time on Country to learn about Gunditjmara culture and the Budj Bim cultural landscape. Smith Root Citizen Science samplers were used to survey approx. 30 sites across the landscape during both Autumn and Spring 2023 and 2024, then were analysed using a vertebrate assay to characterise broad biodiversity, with a strong interest in fish communities.

This project successfully provided critical baseline biodiversity data for the Budj Bim cultural landscape. eDNA provided information on culturally important species and nationally listed threatened species. The work has also led to GMTOAC undertaking EnviroDNA’s Traditional Owner Training Program, which has helped GMTOAC build on their knowledge of eDNA, enabling them to lead monitoring on Country into the future and provide new economic opportunities for the organisation.
 

• Fill critical knowledge gaps of world heritage site
  Results have helped to address key management questions in the UNSECO World Heritage listed Budj Bim cultural landscape.
• Identified distribution of culturally significant species
  The data has provided valuable information to help protect and restore critical habitats for sustaining populations of culturally significant and threatened species.
• Meaningful framework for collaboration
  This project under the Traditional Owner eDNA Training & Certification program demonstrates a framework for meaningful Traditional Owner, industry and research engagement.

Want to learn more?

Our Traditional Owner Training Program equips First Nation environmental rangers with the skills to design and conduct eDNA water sampling on Country and interpret data.
 

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