De Motts Gravel Pit Restoration, Steiglitz
Steiglitz, Victoria

De Motts Gravel Pit occupies approximately 0.9 hectares of a 1.9 hectare Crown Land allotment in Steiglitz near the Brisbane Ranges National Park.

Golden Plains Shire are restoring the pit to become part of the surrounding dry forest, but rehabilitation of the site has been difficult with very little original top soil remaining. Surprisingly, the site is weed free and therefore the importation of foreign soil and fill was not desirable. Jute matting was found to be the solution! It forms a suitable substrate to retain moisture and soil and provide microclimate conditions that allow for germination. 

In June 2010 the pit face was hand broadcast seeded and then covered with jute mesh to stabilise the slope. Common Raspwort (Gonocarpus tetragynus); a naturally recruiting species was first to colonise the site and was then rapidly followed by germination of species seeded on the site.

We will be taking a team out to lay additional jute matting to extend on the existing area and continue with rehabilitation of the site.

We will provide transport from South Geelong each day, departing at 8.15am and returning around 4pm. Or if you live local you can meet on-site by prior arrangement.

What to wear:

• Long pants and long sleeved shirt
• Sturdy, enclosed shoes

What to bring:

• Lunch and bottle of water
• Broad brimmed hat and wet weather gear (if needed)

What is provided:

• Tools and safety equipment such as gloves, safety glasses, sunscreen etc
• Tea, Coffee and Biscuits are provided each day
• Pick up and drop off as detailed above

Bookings are required: click "Book Now" or for more information contact our Geelong office on (03) 5221 0300 or geelong@cva.org.au