There are a number of different species-prioritisation methods
emerging around the world. The 'Back on Track' species
prioritisation framework is based on Marsh et al.(2006)
Optimizing allocation of management resources for
wildlife. This method provides an opportunity for both
scientists, the community and decision-makers (managers) to provide
input, and can be applied across a range of taxonomic groups. There
are four stages to the 'Back on Track' species prioritisation
process:
Species assessments – where species native to Queensland
are assessed by experts against multiple criteria. Species received
a “number” using a metric applied by a panel of
experts, which first takes into account the probability of
extinction (max score 4), the consequences of extinction (which
includes social values)(max score 12), and the potential for
successful recovery (max score 12). This gives an unweighted score
(max 28).
Criteria weighting – where criteria are weighted by
senior decision-makers, to generate a score out of a maximum
possible 400. The weighting for the species that we have received
in our Regional list used the weighting agreed to from the EPA
facilitated meeting held at the BDTNRM in September 2006.
Generating the species priority list - the scores generated in
the first stage are then used to identify species as critical, very
high, high, medium, or low priority (and to identify gaps for
further research).and
State and NRM
Regional workshops where NRM regional bodies undertake planning
workshops using the results of 'Back on Track' as a starting point.
Common threats to priority species are identified and management
actions developed that will return the greatest conservation
benefit from the resources invested.
Project update:
The BDTNRM is liaising with the EPA to develop the framework to
ensure the incorporation of community values (including indigenous
values) into the metric used to assess species. A draft list of
potentially high priority species for the region has been produced
from the species assessment activities undertaken by EPA.
Key References
Marsh et al.(2006)
Optimizing allocation of management resources for wildlife
(Conservation Biology published online November 2006)
Description of the scores for all 'Back on Track' criteria, used to
prioritise species in Queensland