Following a 20-year hiatus, Port Stephens Council will update its vegetation and koala habitat map to better identify their key locations in the region.
The organisation is set to start targeted surveys at more than 250 strategically-selected locales across the LGA during mid-to-late 2025.
That includes private land, too.
It’s understood the current habitat map was prepared at least two decades ago as part of council’s Comprehensive Koala Plan of Management.
“The mapping update is essential for providing a tool to make informed decisions regarding the protection of Port Stephens’ much-loved marsupials,” environmental strategy team leader and project manager Kimberly Baker said.
“With advancements in technology and survey methods, alongside on-ground changes in habitat and koala population extents, it’s time we reviewed this map to ensure we’ve got the most up-to-date information.
“The outcome will also help inform future land management actions, guide policy changes and assist in streamlining development assessment requirements.”
Council has partnered with the NSW Koala Strategy, with funding provided by the state and federal governments, to prepare the detailed vegetation mapping alongside the updated habitat chart.
“This [detailed vegetation] map is the first of its kind for the Port Stephens region,” Ms Baker said.
“It provides crucial information that will guide effective land management actions and help identify important vegetation and habitats for various species that inhabit our area.”
Participation in the important work is voluntary, however council encourages identified landholders to allow access to their properties.
“By permitting an ecologist and botanist to conduct a koala survey on a small part of your property, you’re contributing to the protection of its vital population – and you might also meet our talented scat dog teams,” Ms Baker said.
For more information and to stay up to date with the project, visit pscouncil.info/koala-habitat-mapping
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