Leadbeater's Possum confirmed colonies within Central Highlands RFA

The Leadbeater's Possum Advisory Group (LBPAG) established in 2013, was tasked with developing recommendations (actions) to support the recovery of Leadbeater's Possum (LBP) while maintaining a sustainable timber industry (LBPAG Recommendations Report, January 2014).Bushfires in February 2009 and ongoing habitat decline have led to a reduced population of Leadbeater's Possum. The remaining wild populations is therefore critical to the species' recovery. Prior to the LBPAG there was no specific protection for known colonies. LBPAG recommended that colonies are protected to aid the capacity for the species to recover. This will be achieved by removing threats that can be directly controlled (e.g. timber harvesting) or implement programs that minimise the risk of unplanned impacts (e.g. bushfire).