Stratification- No published reference benchmark data were available for regional ecosystems 11.12.2C and 11.4.7. The Department of Environment and Science have kindly provided ‘moderate reliability’ draft benchmark data for the purpose of this account. These reference benchmark data are therefore likely to change as DES assess a larger number of reference sites to achieve a ‘high reliability ranking’ before publication on their website. Once published, reference benchmark data for these regional ecosystems will need to be updated accordingly.

Climatic conditions- Rainfall of 884mm (State of Queensland Forage report: rainfall and pasture by land type, 2023) was recorded during 2022 when baseline measurements were obtained. This is 301mm more than the long-term average (since 1975) of 583mm. Native vegetation condition scores are therefore likely to be higher than they would be if the data was collected in a below average rainfall year.

Sampling- Sampling occurred on two separate field trips in May (Autumn) and September (Spring) due to the availability of DAF and DES scientists to verify regional ecosystems and select and sample sites. While the time-controlled grazing system and above average rainfall in 2022 minimised the impact of climatic variability and grazing on field assessments, it is highly recommended that future sampling occur when grasses and forbs are mostly in reproductive phase to enable species identification.