Bare Ground
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 16 benchmarks together — the OptimalRange form drives the primary score, while 15 guard(s) constrain the result.
Contributing Benchmarks
Evidence & Context
Based on a review of available literature detailing outcomes of best-practice grazing management in Australian rangelands, the following reference value is proposed: Reference Value: 5.9%
Bare Ground (%), defined as soil surface not covered by vegetation or litter
This benchmark represents the typical bare ground percentage under best-practice sustainable livestock grazing in Australian Tropical Monsoonal Savannas, indicating minimal soil exposure.
The 5.9% bare ground value reported by Thornton and Elledge (2018) is considered representative of the 'best available condition' under sustainable livestock grazing, supported by direct link to best practice, demonstrated improvement, and ecological significance. This value originates from a subtropical semi-arid environment but is considered broadly applicable to Australian Tropical Monsoonal Savannas under sustainable grazing management.
Sources (1)
Thornton, C.M. and Elledge, N.C. (2018). Paddock scale water quality monitoring in the Brigalow Catchment Study (P2R2) – Final Report for project R M001 (P2R201A). Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Brisbane.
View SourceSupporting Sources (5)
Additional references from the underlying research that informed this benchmark.
Ludwig, J.A., Bastin, G.N., Chewings, V.H., Eager, R.W., and Liedloff, A.C. (2005). Clearing savannas for use as rangelands in Queensland: Altered landscapes and water-erosion processes. Rangeland Journal, 27(2), 135-149.
View SourceLivestock grazing management and biodiversity conservation in Australian temperate grassy landscapes
View SourceKarfs, R.A., Abbot, B.N., O'Reagain, P.J., et al. (2009). Land condition monitoring information for Reef catchments: A new era. The Rangeland Journal, 31(1), 91-104.
View SourceManaging grazing to increase ground cover in rangelands: using remote sensing to detect change - CSIRO Publishing
View SourceO'Reagain, P.J., and Ash, A.J. (2002). Principles of sustainable grazing management for the northern savannas. In: Proceedings of the 12th Australian Rangeland Conference, Kalgoorlie, Western Australia. Australian Rangeland Society.
View Source