Adaptive Management: Land Development

Adaptive management is the process through which uncertainties surrounding major sustainable development issues are subject to analysis, prioritisation, testing, and monitoring leading ultimately to the dissemination and incorporation of improved management practices.

The land development plan covers the use of farm development plans to guide approval of land-clearing and water allocations. These plans would cover intended use, suitability of soils, environmental impacts of proposed development and an environmental management plan to mitigate possible impacts.

Before clearing, all land would be surveyed to define slopes and contours. Clearing methods would be specified and guidelines developed for dealing with debris, soil preparation and conservation, and sowing of improved pastures.

The plan also covers research into the suitability of land cleared for agriculture, defining ‘regrowth’ in cleared areas, and research into sedimentation of the Daly River, nutrient run-off into rivers, erosion and soil conservation structures.