Habitat Restoration
Falkland Islands / Malvinas
Our natural resources and habitat are becoming more and more important. With ever expansion of our human habitat, space for wildlife is being depleted. Guille Giagante, a professional photographer and friend from Argentina, shows why our efforts on the Falkland Islands / Malvinas are so important.
Falkland Island Native Plants
Tussac Restoration
Research has shown that tussac grass (Poa Flabellata), which has the ability to withstand desiccating winds and remain green throughout the winter, is the most nutritious and productive grass in the Falkland Islands. The decimation of tussac grass cover in the last century has meant that farmers are not able to utilise this valuable resource.
The extent of tussac cover has dramatically declined by some 81% from an estimated original area of of 22,000 ha to only 4,000 to 5,000 ha today. No more than 65 ha remain on the two main islands. Not only has this seriously depleted the available wildlife habitat, but in many places has caused a drying out of the soil resulting in serious soil erosion.
For farmers, it is important as a grazing resource and winter shelter. It starts growth earlier than any of the other native or introduced grasses and remains palatable all year round. Tussac is probably one of the most nutritious grasses in the world. For these reasons, both farmers and conservationists share a common interest in its establishment, management, and long-term protection.
