By Olivia Condous
Moorabool residents are invited to take part in an important wildlife survey to gather more data on the local koala population.
The Moorabool Catchment Landcare Group (MCLG) is leading the Moorabool Koala Count in partnership with CSIRO scientists, Wadawurrung Traditional Owners and the local community, with a counting event on July 14.
The project is being conducted as part of the federal government’s National Koala Management Plan to learn more about koalas across the country.
After the success of a pilot program in February, the counting event will combine the latest technology with thermal drone imaging surveys conducted by the CSIRO, as well as insights and training from Wadawurrung Traditional Owners.
Local, eager citizen scientists are being encouraged to attend the two workshops on offer, where they can learn about CSIRO mapping technology with an opportunity to provide feedback, as well as receive training on how to look for evidence of koalas.
MCLG landcare coordinator Jackson Cass said the CSIRO were bringing along some “pretty incredible” mapping technology, but were also looking forward to gaining knowledge from locals.
“All the volunteers and citizen scientists will be able to provide feedback to the CSIRO,” Mr Cass said.
“To have that local knowledge on where koalas may be or definitely won’t be is great.”
Mr Cass said Moorabool residents had reported a decline in the local koala population, but the evidence was only anecdotal so far.
“We’re trying to address a knowledge gap in koala populations, so we can make better management decisions,” he said.
Details: www.eventbrite.com.au/e/moorabool-koala-count-co-design-workshop-tickets-360247900167
