Gully Density

AUS-AKW-CON-GUL General High confidence

Benchmark Value

0 m/ha
Direction: Lower is desirable ↓
Form: Point

Scoring Curve

Scoring curve unavailable

The scoring engine could not generate a curve for this benchmark context. The primary form is OptimalRange, but the benchmark data may be missing required fields (e.g., optimal range bounds for an OptimalRange benchmark). This is typically a data quality issue in the benchmark pipeline.

Evidence & Context

The benchmark of 0 m/ha represents the 'best available condition' for Arid Karstic Woodlands under conservation.

Metric Definition:

Gully Density is the measure of the length of active gully networks per unit area of landscape.

Benchmark Definition:

This benchmark represents the natural, stable state of Arid Karstic Woodlands under conservation, characterized by no active gullies due to the region's geomorphology and hydrology.

Justification:

The benchmark is justified by geomorphic principles, empirical radionuclide measurements showing negligible soil loss, and the absence of gully erosion as a threat in conservation management plans.

Sources (2)

Preview of biodiversity - Australia state of the environment 2021, accessed July 23, 2025,
biodiversity - Australia state of the environment 2021, accessed July 23, 2025, Journal

Our natural environments - NSW National Parks, accessed July 23, 2025

View Source
Preview of Etched linear dunefields of the Nullarbor Plain: A record of Pliocene-Pleistocene wind patterns across southern Australia
Etched linear dunefields of the Nullarbor Plain: A record of Pliocene-Pleistocene wind patterns across southern Australia Journal

Etched linear dunefields of the Nullarbor Plain: A record of Pliocene-Pleistocene wind patterns across southern Australia

View Source

Supporting Sources (2)

Additional references from the underlying research that informed this benchmark.

Preview of Gully erosion prediction across a large region: Murray–Darling Basin, Australia
Gully erosion prediction across a large region: Murray–Darling Basin, Australia
Contextual Support Journal

Draft Consultation Document The Case for World Heritage Nomination of the Nullarbor and Great Australian Bight (South Australia) - Wilderness Society

View Source
Preview of Yellabinna and Warna Manda Parks - Department for Environment and Water
Yellabinna and Warna Manda Parks - Department for Environment and Water
Contextual Support Journal

Yellabinna and Warna Manda Parks - Department for Environment and Water

View Source

Context

  • Region Australia
  • Biome Arid Karstic Woodlands & Shrublands
  • Land Use Conservation / Protected Natural Areas
  • Assessment Pristine Reference
  • Evidence Type ReferenceCondition

Lifecycle

  • Status Active
  • Version 1
  • Effective From 9 Jun 2026

Notes

The optimal range is 0 m/ha, representing a stable, intact landscape with natural subterranean hydrology. Any measurable presence of gullies (>0 m/ha) indicates degradation due to anthropogenic disturbance.