Bare Ground — Benchmark Detail

Benchmark Value

No specific value — see range

Range: 5 to 10 %

Optimal Range: 5 to 10

Direction: Lower is desirable ↓

Form: OptimalRange

Scoring Curve

This curve shows how a field measurement for this indicator would score across all available benchmark forms in this context.

Evidence & Context

Considering these factors, an optimal range for Bare Ground (%) in well-managed Production Forestry coupes (encompassing operational areas, retained patches, and post-harvest recovery zones) would likely be <5% - 10%.

Metric Definition:

Percentage of bare ground across the overall coupe or managed landscape average in Production Forestry.

Benchmark Definition:

This benchmark defines the expected range of bare ground across well-managed production forestry landscapes in tropical monsoonal savannas, reflecting a healthy, resilient ecosystem with minimal exposed soil.

Justification:

Reflects natural state of healthy savanna woodlands with high litter/grass cover; minimizes erosion risk; supports biodiversity and sustainable production.

Sources (1)

Preview of Queensland Department of Resources (2023) "Accepted development vegetation clearing code: Managing a native forest practice"

Queensland Department of Resources (2023) "Accepted development vegetation clearing code: Managing a native forest practice" Journal

Abstract Template - DAFF, accessed May 15, 2025

View Source

Context

Region Australia
Biome Tropical Monsoonal Savannas
Land Use Production Forestry
Assessment Conservation Target
Evidence Type HealthyOperationalRange

Lifecycle

Status Active
Version 1
Effective From 10 Jun 2026

Notes

This range reflects natural savanna conditions and the need for sustained low bare ground to maintain ecological health.

Related Benchmarks

Other benchmarks in the AUS-TMS-FOR-BAR family.