Informal camping on the margin of wild country: Early indicators of degradation and potential for some positive nature conservation outcomes

Informal camping on the margins of Tasmania's Central Plateau, within the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, shows early signs of environmental degradation but also potential positive conservation outcomes. Research found that campsites lead to soil compaction, increased acidity, and reduced water content compared to adjacent control areas, with fire pits showing higher pH and electrical conductivity. However, campsite vegetation supported a higher coverage of native herbs and grasses, attracting native animals including the threatened Tasmanian devil (Sarcophilus harrisii). The study highlights that while current visitor levels may offset soil damage by benefiting endangered species, increased camping could degrade World Heritage values. This is the first integrated analysis of biotic and abiotic impacts of informal camping in Tasmania's high mountains, focusing specifically on flyfishing campsites.

Adedokun, B. C., McHenry, M. T., & Kirkpatrick, J. B. (2023). Informal camping on the margin of wild country: Early indicators of degradation and potential for some positive nature conservation outcomes. Land Degradation & Development, 34(13), 3867–3880. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1002/ldr.4722