Litter Cover
Benchmark Value
Scoring Curve
This curve shows how a field measurement for this indicator would score across all available benchmark forms in this context. The scoring engine uses 2 benchmarks together — the OptimalRange form drives the primary score, while 1 guard(s) constrain the result.
Contributing Benchmarks
Evidence & Context
Proposed Lower Critical Threshold: <90%
Percentage of ground covered by plant litter and living vegetation
This benchmark defines the lower critical threshold for litter cover in the Alpine and Subalpine Complex biome under Urban & Developed Use, below which erosion and soil degradation processes are likely to initiate.
The loss of cover continuity below 90% signifies the onset of accelerated erosion and soil degradation via frost heave and erosion processes.
Sources (1)
Soil Conservation in Alpine Catchments - The Kosciuszko Huts Association, accessed August 17, 2025,
View SourceSupporting Sources (2)
Additional references from the underlying research that informed this benchmark.
Draft Discussion Paper Feasibility assessment ... - NSW Government
View Source
Invasive Species Research - Research Centre for Applied Alpine Ecology
View Source