Research activities at the Riversleigh section of Australian Fossil Mammal Sites
You are viewing an archived copy of the 2017 report.
Key finding
Permitted excavation and removal of fossil material for analysis is undertaken sustainably and poses a low threat to the Riversleigh’s fossil site.
Riversleigh section of Australian Fossil Mammal Sites (information applies statewide, map locations are for reference only)
Excavation, removal and the analysis of the fossil record is fundamental to understanding the site’s Outstanding Universal Value (OUV).
Both the Naracoorte Management Plan and the draft Riversleigh Management Strategy acknowledge the significance of ongoing research to fully realise the World Heritage values of the property. Both acknowledge the need to ensure that research is sustainable and detail appropriate controls and permitting procedures.
Research at Riversleigh is regulated by the Queensland Department of Environment and Science via the state’s Nature Conservation Act 1992. Permit applications are evaluated in consultation with the Queensland Museum – the State’s statutory custodian of the excavated fossils.
Permit holders are required to submit a referral to the Commonwealth Department of Environment and Energy under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. This referral also considers the proposed activities impact on the World Heritage OUV.
Threats to the integrity of fossil sites through excavation and removal of fossil material for analysis are very low.
More information:
Indicator: Impacts of research activities
Impacts of research activities pressure on the Riversleigh section of Australian Fossil Mammal Sites World Heritage Area.
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