We put conservation covenants on all our reserves to legally safeguard them forever. These are the strongest legal instruments available to us.
What do conservation covenants do?
Rainforest at Nameless Sylvan Reserve (NSW). Photo Paul Foreman.
They prohibit some activities, such as:
- subdivision,
- building (except in very limited locations),
- removal of native vegetation,
- interference with native animals and their habitats,
- disposal of non-degradable waste or
- interference with natural watercourses and wetlands.
Covenants also ensure some activities must take place, such as protection of the ecological integrity and diversity of ecosystems, control of feral animals, control of weeds, appropriate fire management, erosion management, ongoing monitoring and use of local seed stock for any revegetation.
How long do conservation covenants last?
Spinifex country at Hamelin Reserve, WA. Photo Marie Lochman.
For properties we own outright covenants apply in perpetuity so they're protected forever, no matter who owns them.
Where we hold a long-term Crown lease, the covenant holds for the life of the lease. Given their very long-term nature, and the fact they can be easily renewed, this still offers substantial protection.
Where the Federal Government's National Reserve System Program has provided funds towards a lease, there's additional protection. The lease can't be on-sold except to an organisation that's primary goal is conservation.