Why is the Cumberland Plain Woodland important?
The Cumberland Plain Woodland is the original vegetation that once covered most of western Sydney. Whilst much of the Cumberland Plain Woodland has been overlooked in the past, this bushland is now recognised as a unique type of woodland not found anywhere else in Australia, and serves many important roles in the western Sydney landscape. Brainstorm some other reasons why this bushland may be important and add your ideas to the mind map below.
Unfortunately, this bushland is threatened with extinction, with the Federal and State governments listing the Cumberland Plain Woodland as an Endangered Ecological Community. This is the first time a whole plant community has been recognised as being in danger of extinction.
What are the unique features of the Cumberland Plain Woodland?
The Cumberland Plain Woodland grows in areas with deep clay soils and low rainfall. Because of this, it has many unique features. Look at the photo of the woodland below. What do you notice about the types of trees? What about the layers of vegetation? How might this woodland be different to bushland near your house or school?
Vegetation profile of the Cumberland Plain Woodland