Australian Fossil Mammal Sites (Riversleigh / Naracoorte)

IUCN has alerted the Centre to several reports it has received with regards to problems of management of the Riversleigh section of this serial site.  They pertain to the lack of infrastructure, such as on-site security and surveillance mechanisms, to deter vandalism or control tourism.  Vandalism and theft are reported to have impacted one of the most important deposits -  ‘Burnt Offering Site’. The reports also express concern with the lack of interpretation, absence of a ranger station and visitor centre, and inadequate research funding to support increased interpretation and better conservation and management of the site.  IUCN has noted that the management of Naracoorte and Riversleigh differ significantly, having different physical attributes and being the responsibility of different states, however there is a Scientific & Management Advisory Committee that brings the two management authorities together. 

The Bureau may wish to note that IUCN recognizes that currently efforts are underway to address the imbalances of managing this serial site. IUCN is in contact with the State Party to obtain detailed information on problems reported at this site so as to provide a full and comprehensive report to the twenty-sixth session of the Bureau in April 2002.