In the mid-1930s Albert Morris of the Barrier Field Naturalist Club and others started establishing both planting and natural regeneration areas around Broken Hill in an effort to curb sand drift.  In 1939 two Sydney University botany staff Ilma Pidgeon and Eric Ashby surveyed the planting/natural regeneration areas and compared them with areas not treated.  Link: Details – Studies in applied ecology. I. A statistical analysis of regeneration following protection from grazing – Biodiversity Heritage Library (biodiversitylibrary.org)

Aim is to replicate the survey for the purposes of making a comparison across time.  It is hoped in the next month to set up the plot(s) and then do a resurvey. If you are interested in assisting contact AABR member and Mudgee resident David Allworth on mobile 0408 726 038 or djallworth@gmail.com.

The project is thirsty for any other floristic data that has been collected either in the Broken Hill regeneration blocks that surround the town, or in areas nearby.  Also looking for a couple of people who have a strong familiarity with Western Division of NSW flora and vegetation types.