Management of Two Peoples Bay Nature Reserve from 1967 to 1999

Context Two Peoples Bay Nature Reserve (TPBNR) is well known for two iconic species; the noisy scrub-bird (Atrichornis clamosus) and Gilbert’s potoroo (Potorous gilbertii), both having been rediscovered there. Aims This paper covers the management of the Reserve since its declaration in 1967 until 1999 in the context of the two iconic species, other species of interest, and visitors. Methods This paper is based on the authors’ experiences and information contained in archival files from several government departments. Key results At the time of the Reserve’s declaration, the department responsible for its management had few resources, with only four fauna wardens to cover the whole state of Western Australia. The first ‘reserves officer’ was appointed to TPBNR in 1970. Since then, a series of staff was responsible for the Reserve’s management, based primarily on fire and visitors. Since its inception, TPBNR has supported research into various aspects of its biota. Translocations of noisy scrub-birds from TPBNR commenced in 1983 and have resulted in several new populations with an increase in overall numbers. In 1985 the Department of Conservation and Land Management became responsible for the Reserve’s management and additional resources became available. Conclusions Management resources of TPBNR have grown from very limited, to today’s more comprehensive regional input supporting comprehensive species’ management as well as visitor and fire management. Implications The rediscovery of an iconic species gradually led to extensive scientific research and increasing resources for managing this celebrated nature reserve; a model for other areas where highly threatened species are rediscovered or known to exist.