Plant Ecophysiology
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| Case Study 1 | Riparian Tree Monitoring at Orebody 23 |
|---|---|
| Client | BHP Billiton Iron Ore Ltd |
| Location | Homestead Creek and Fortescue River - East Pilbara |
Description
Several physiological indicators of tree health are being simultaneously employed by Astron to determine the most effective way to assess the impacts of water abstraction on riparian trees. Canopy condition, transpiration and plant water potential are being used to determine the timing and effect of environmental water releases in Homestead Creek. The results of this program are being used to guide the management of riparian vegetation health in response to on-going minesite related dewatering activities.
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| Case Study 2 | Tree Mortality Investigation |
|---|---|
| Client | BHP Billiton Iron Ore Ltd |
| Location | Upper Fortescue River, East Pilbara |
Description
Astron was commissioned by BHP to investigate a series of unexplained tree mortalities in pastoral areas throughout the downstream extent of Opthalmia Dam in the Upper Fortescue River. Field assessments employed during the investigation included a number of plant physiological measures, nutrient and foliar analyses and quantitative canopy condition assessment techniques.
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| Case Study 3 | Assessment of Vegetation Health at the Yule River Borefield |
|---|---|
| Client | Water Corporation |
| Location | Yule River, Central Pilbara |
Description
Astron has been responsible for undertaking and reporting on the quarterly monitoring of riparian vegetation health in the Yule River Borefield since early 2004. Under this program quantitative measures of the condition of tree canopies are related to patterns of water abstraction to aid in the determination of ecological water requirements. Astron is currently developing a more targeted approach to monitoring the Borefield area, using plant physiological indicators to assess vegetation within those areas identified as being most at risk from water abstraction.
For more information, see our plant ecophysiology services page.
