The Statewide Landcover and Trees Study (SLATS) monitors woody vegetation extent, and changes to that extent due to clearing and regrowth using Sentinel-2 satellite imagery as its primary monitoring tool.
This SLATS report for the 2019–20 monitoring period is the second change report in the current series of SLATS reporting. This report is nominally for the period August 2019 to August 2020. Regional summary data for bioregions are presented with this report. The data and reporting presented here are directly comparable with the 2018–19 report but are not comparable with previous SLATS reporting up to and including the 2017–18 SLATS report.
With an area of approximately 173 million hectares, Queensland is the second largest state in Australia. It is nearly five times the size of Japan and seven times the size of Great Britain. It is home to diverse flora and fauna due to its unique habitats which include extensive arid and semi-arid rangelands, and temperate, sub-tropical and tropical environments.
Queensland has more than 1400 regional ecosystems with the majority of these described as woody regional ecosystems. These woody regional ecosystems include the sparse and very sparse shrublands and woodlands of the extensive arid and semi-arid rangelands, and the sparse woodlands and mid-dense and dense forests and rainforests along the Great Dividing Range, coastal plains, and in the Cape York Peninsula and Wet Tropics bioregions. These ecosystems play a critical role in supporting biodiversity, maintaining landscape function and water quality, supporting agricultural production, sequestering and storing atmospheric carbon dioxide, and providing recreation and natural amenity. To conserve, protect, and sustainably use these ecosystems in a changing climate, it is essential to have spatial and temporal data and information to characterise their composition and structure and to monitor their dynamics.
In Queensland, the regional ecosystems framework provides the basis for describing the vegetation types and their remnant status. The Statewide Landcover and Trees Study (SLATS) monitors woody vegetation extent, and changes to that extent due to clearing and regrowth using Sentinel-2 satellite imagery as its primary monitoring tool. A Spatial BioCondition framework has also been developed to characterise and map the condition of the state’s regional ecosystems. Combined, these initiatives provide a spatially and temporally comprehensive account of Queensland’s ecosystems based on peer-reviewed science.
The current series of SLATS reporting monitors and reports change in woody vegetation extent against a 2018 woody vegetation extent baseline which is updated annually based on mapping of woody vegetation clearing and regrowth. Additional scientific approaches have also been developed to attribute the degree of modification associated with the clearing activity and to provide estimates of woody vegetation density and when the vegetation was last disturbed or began to regrow. These approaches aim to better describe the woody vegetation that currently exists, and where and how its extent is changing.
This SLATS report for the 2019–20 monitoring period is the second change report in the current series of SLATS reporting. This report is nominally for the period August 2019 to August 2020. Regional summary data for bioregions are presented with this report. The data and reporting presented here are directly comparable with the 2018–19 report but are not comparable with previous SLATS reporting up to and including the 2017–18 SLATS report.
The mapping of new woody vegetation regrowth in Queensland has been undertaken and reported for the first time in this SLATS report. Most of the regrowth in the state was mapped and characterised in the 2018 woody vegetation extent baseline. Any new regrowth mapped and reported relates to a change in woody extent only—it does not include changes in density within areas of existing woody vegetation (e.g. thickening). New regrowth are areas of new woody vegetation that were not previously included in the woody extent baseline. The rate of regrowth occurs at a range of time scales depending on climate, management, soils, and vegetation type, therefore new regrowth mapped and reported can be from different age classes. New regrowth is only mapped and reported if it can be reliably detected using satellite imagery time-series analysis and/or can be identified in the same Sentinel-2 satellite image dates that are used for the clearing mapping. As with the clearing mapping, other high-resolution satellite imagery and field observations may also be used to help confirm mapping of new regrowth.
It is important to note that clearing activity mapped by SLATS in remnant and high-value regrowth areas does not always result in a conversion to non-remnant. The Queensland Herbarium uses SLATS data to inform remnant and high-value regrowth updates as part of regular regional ecosystem updates. These updates consider the clearing activity as well as a range of other criteria associated with the regional ecosystem mapping methodology, including the remnant definition. For data and information on change in remnant vegetation, visit Remnant regional ecosystem vegetation in Queensland.
Note: some rounding is applied to the data for reporting purposes and due to this, and also due to updates to the versions of data layers used for SLATS reporting, figures in this report may slightly differ from the data files associated with the reporting, and may also differ slightly from any previous reporting.
Note: Since the release of the 2018–19 SLATS Report, the methods for estimating the age since disturbance of woody vegetation have been refined. Estimates reported in the 2019–20 SLATS Report are based on revised and updated data relating to time since cleared derived from SLATS clearing histories, and time-series analysis of over 30 years of Landsat satellite imagery aimed at detecting woody vegetation disturbance and regrowth. The age since disturbance estimates use the time-series information where sufficient evidence is available to assign a valid estimate of how long the woody vegetation has been regrowing following a disturbance event. For more information on how the age estimates are derived, refer to the SLATS methodology. As a result of refining the methods for estimating the age since disturbance, the 2018–19 data has also been revised. Note that the 2018–19 SLATS Report has not been revised using these new data. It is also important to note that woody vegetation that is greater than 15 years is not always considered to be remnant or high-value regrowth as additional criteria such as species composition and vegetation height are used to determine remnant or high-value regrowth status. This is determined by the Queensland Herbarium as part of the regional ecosystem mapping framework.
At the start of the 2019–20 SLATS monitoring period, SLATS had mapped 96,016,011ha of woody vegetation with more than 10% crown cover. Following a loss adjustment of 43,289ha, and a gain adjustment of 5,680ha to correct for errors in the woody extent mapping identified through the 2019–20 mapping process, the revised woody extent at the start of the 2019–20 SLATS monitoring period was 95,978,402ha.
The errors identified are areas that were either misclassified as woody vegetation in the baseline mapping or were previously missed and have been identified in subsequent updates due to additional evidence being available from later image dates, field verification, or a longer time-series of satellite imagery. Refinements to the woody extent baseline will continue to be made where errors are identified to ensure the baseline is maintained to be as accurate as possible.
In 2019–20, a total of 418,656ha of woody vegetation were affected by all clearing activity in Queensland—this includes full and partial clearing. This is a 38% decrease in clearing activity from 2018–19 (680,688ha). Of the total clearing activity in 2019–20, 339,144ha (81% of all clearing activity) resulted in full removal of the woody vegetation (i.e. ‘full clearing’). This is a 39% decrease in full clearing from 2018–19 (559,844ha). The remaining 79,512ha of clearing activity in 2019–20 was mapped as partial clearing, a 34% decrease in partial clearing activity from 2018–19 (120,844ha).
Area of clearing activity in 2018–19 and 2019–20.
At the start of the 2019–20 monitoring period, approximately 8 million ha of the state’s woody vegetation was not mapped as remnant or high-value regrowth vegetation and is therefore assumed to be existing regrowth woody vegetation.
In the 2019–20 monitoring period, 42,575ha of new regrowth was mapped. These are areas of regrowing woody vegetation that were not previously mapped in the 2018 woody vegetation extent baseline and are now considered to have sufficient woody vegetation cover to be added to the woody extent. This is the first monitoring period where new regrowth has been mapped and reported following recent changes to the SLATS methodology. Given most of the existing regrowth was captured in the 2018 baseline, high levels of new regrowth would not be expected given the longer timeframes it takes for new regrowth to become sufficiently woody to enable reliable identification and mapping.
Area of new regrowth in 2018–19 and 2019–20.
With a revised starting balance of 95,978,402ha, and 339,144ha of full clearing (i.e. loss) and 42,575ha of new regrowth (i.e. gain), there was a balance of 95,681,833ha of woody vegetation in Queensland at the end of the 2019–20 SLATS monitoring period. This represents a net reduction of 296,569ha in the extent of the state’s woody vegetation.
| Category | Gain (ha) | Loss (ha) | Balance (ha) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Opening balance August 2019 | - | - | 96,016,011 |
| Adjustment | 5,680 | -43,289 | 95,978,402 |
| Pasture | 32,606 | -311,421 | 95,699,587 |
| Crop | 1,795 | -7,466 | 95,693,916 |
| Forestry | 7,118 | -10,390 | 95,690,644 |
| Mine | 1,046 | -6,699 | 95,684,991 |
| Settlement | 10 | -948 | 95,684,053 |
| Infrastructure | 1 | -2,221 | 95,681,833 |
| Closing balance August 2020 | - | - | 95,681,833 |
This transaction summary shows the opening balance of woody vegetation at the start of the 2019–20 monitoring period, the losses due to clearing activity that resulted in the full removal of the woody vegetation, and the gains due to new regrowth, for each landcover replacement class. Loss and gain adjustments are also made to correct for areas in the woody extent that were identified as previous errors during the SLATS mapping processes. A closing balance at the end of the 2019–20 monitoring period is given.
While these figures represent a net reduction in woody vegetation extent, it is important to acknowledge that not all change is equal. For example, clearing in remnant areas cannot be directly compared with clearing in non-remnant areas in terms of the impacts on biodiversity, carbon or landscape function. Likewise, new regrowth does not offset remnant loss for the same reasons.
In 2019–20, about 21% (88,327ha) of the statewide clearing activity was in Category B (regulated remnant) areas, with around two-thirds of this in the Brigalow Belt (39% or 34,783ha) and Mulga Lands (29% or 25,858ha) bioregions. This represents a 53% decrease in clearing activity in Category B areas from 2018–19 (189,735ha). This is largely due to an 80% decrease in clearing activity in Category B areas in the Mulga Lands bioregion, which had 130,429ha of clearing in these areas in 2018–19.
Of the Category B clearing activity undertaken in 2019–20, 48% (42,577ha) resulted in full removal of the woody vegetation, with the remainder evenly distributed between areas that were partially cleared with a major level of disturbance (26% or 23,153ha) or partially cleared with a minor level of disturbance (26% or 22,597ha). About 2% (6,512ha) of the statewide clearing activity undertaken in 2019–20 was in Category C (high-value regrowth vegetation), a 38% decrease from 2018–19 (10,522ha). Less than 1% (2,447ha) of the clearing activity undertaken in 2019–20 was in areas that intersect with a Category R (regrowth watercourse area), an 18% decrease from 2018–19 (2,968ha).
In 2019–20, clearing activity in Category X areas accounted for 77% (320,952ha) of the total clearing activity in Queensland—a 33% decrease from 2018–19 (477,389ha). However, as a proportion of the state’s total clearing, there was a 7% increase in clearing activity in Category X areas compared to 2018–19. Most of this clearing activity (91% or 290,496ha) resulted in full removal of the woody vegetation. Category X areas are those that are not generally regulated by the Vegetation Management Act 1999, as identified in the Regulated vegetation management map.
Regulated vegetation management maps show the different vegetation categories that are present on a parcel of land. This information helps land managers determine the type of approval needed for vegetation clearing. The categories are as follows:
For further information refer to General guide to the vegetation clearing codes (PDF).
In 2019–20, about 18% (74,305ha) of the clearing activity was in areas that contained least concern regional ecosystems—a decrease of 58% from 2018–19 (175,258ha). About 5% (21,748ha) of the clearing was in areas identified as having of concern regional ecosystems—an increase of about 17% from 2018–19 (18,583ha). About 1% (4,866ha) of the clearing was in areas which have endangered regional ecosystems present, a 4% decrease from 2018–19 (5,077ha). The remaining 76% (317,736ha) was in areas with no vegetation management class.
It is important to note that for this reporting the precautionary principle is applied, with the highest vegetation management class used, regardless of the proportion present in regional ecosystem mapping. For example, where a mapped regional ecosystem contains least concern regional ecosystems as the dominant ecosystems, and an endangered regional ecosystem as subdominant, this will be reported as clearing in areas containing endangered regional ecosystems.
The vegetation management class refers to the current regulated extent of a regional ecosystem. The categories are Endangered, Of concern and Least concern. No VM class refers to areas with no vegetation management class due to no regulated vegetation being present.
For further information refer to Biodiversity status and vegetation management class.
Of the state’s 13 bioregions, the Brigalow Belt (48% or 199,218ha) and Mulga Lands (26% or 110,161ha) combined, accounted for nearly three-quarters (74%) of the state’s total woody vegetation clearing activity in 2019–20. However, both bioregions showed significant decreases in clearing activity compared with 2018–19, with decreases of 31% and 61%, respectively. Most of the clearing activity in these two bioregions was in Category X areas, accounting for 80% (160,190ha) of the clearing in the Brigalow Belt and 75% (82,788ha) in the Mulga Lands. This contrasts with 2018–19 in the Mulga Lands, where 53% of the clearing was in Category X and almost all the other clearing activity was in Category B areas. The bioregions with the next highest levels of clearing activity in 2019–20 were Desert Uplands (8% of statewide total or 33,329ha), South East Queensland (7% or 30,046ha) and Mitchell Grass Downs (6% or 26,958ha). These levels of clearing activity were similar to those reported in 2018–19 for these bioregions.
Clearing activity in bioregions in 2019–20.
Combined, the Desert Uplands (38% or 16,015ha) and Brigalow Belt (25% or 10,852ha) bioregions accounted for almost two-thirds of the new regrowth mapped for the state. Southeast Queensland (19% or 7,911ha) and Mulga Lands (11% or 4,868ha) accounted for most of the remaining regrowth mapped.
New regrowth in bioregions in 2019–20.
For further detailed breakdowns for each of the bioregions see further breakdowns by bioregion.
Clearing activity in the Great Barrier Reef catchment areas accounted for 44% (182,904ha) of the state’s total clearing—this was a 16% decrease in clearing activity in reef catchments from 2018–19 (217,419ha). More than three-quarters (79% or 143,645ha) of the clearing in reef catchments in 2019–20 resulted in the full removal of the woody vegetation. About 80% (146,292ha) of the clearing in reef catchments was in Category X areas and 17% (30,856ha) was in Category B areas, with about 60% (18,379ha) of this being partial clearing. There was 2,447ha of clearing in areas that intersect with Category R (regrowth watercourse areas). Category R is specific to Great Barrier Reef catchment areas.
Area of clearing activity in Great Barrier Reef catchments in 2018–19 and 2019–20.
In 2019–20, about 65% (27,500ha) of the regrowth mapped in the state was in Great Barrier Reef catchments, which include large parts of the Desert Uplands and Brigalow Belt bioregions.
Area of new regrowth in Great Barrier Reef catchments in 2019–20.
In 2019–20, 85% (357,604ha) of the clearing activity was attributed to the pasture landcover replacement class, a 44% decrease in clearing activity for pasture from 2018–19 (633,335ha). Of this, 87% was full clearing. About 3% (12,671ha) of the clearing activity in 2019–20 was attributed to forestry, with crop (7,466ha) and mine (6,699ha) each accounting for about 2% of the total.
The landcover replacement class is interpreted by Queensland Government Department of Environment and Science scientists as part of the SLATS mapping process. It provides an indication of the purpose for which the vegetation was cleared. Read more about SLATS methodology.
About 77% (32,606ha) of regrowth mapped in the state was in areas that were attributed as regrowth in pasture. Most of the remainder of the regrowth mapped in 2019–20 was attributed to forestry (17% or 7,118ha) and crop (4% or 1,795ha), with most of the crop additions being new fruit tree orchards.
The landcover replacement class is interpreted by Queensland Government Department of Environment and Science scientists as part of the SLATS mapping process. For new regrowth mapping, it provides an indication of the purpose for which the land is used where the regrowth occurs. Read more about SLATS methodology.
In 2019–20, about 84% (352,169ha) of the total clearing activity occurred in sparse and very sparse woody vegetation i.e. vegetation with less than 50% crown cover. A further 15% (62,665ha) of the clearing activity occurred in mid-dense woody vegetation (i.e. 50–80% crown cover). The remaining ~1% (3,793ha) of clearing occurred in dense woody vegetation.
Area of clearing activity for density classes of woody vegetation.
Density classes are as follows:
Based on estimates of woody vegetation age since disturbance (refer to note), about 52% (216,335ha) of the total clearing activity in 2019–20 occurred in vegetation greater than 15 years old and about 77% (166,207ha) of this occurred in sparse or very sparse woody vegetation. About 34% (141,044ha) of the total clearing activity occurred in vegetation with an age since disturbance of less than 15 years, and most of this (93% or 130,553ha) occurred in sparse or very sparse woody vegetation. About 15% of the clearing activity (61,279ha) occurred in woody vegetation where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined. These are areas where there is no known clearing history and/or time-series methods were unable to reliably detect a disturbance and regrowth trend that was sufficient to assign an age estimate.
Area of clearing activity for age since disturbance classes (refer to note).
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Area of clearing activity by density and age since disturbance classes.
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Density classes are as follows:
In 2019–20, about 83% (35,341ha) of the regrowth mapped was categorised as sparse or very sparse woody vegetation. A further 17% (7,179ha) of the regrowth mapped was categorised as mid-dense woody vegetation and <1% (54ha) as dense woody vegetation. Of the 42,575ha of new regrowth mapped in 2019–20, 74% (31,636ha) was estimated to be less than 15 years old. A further 20% (8,503ha) of the new regrowth mapped was estimated to be greater than 15 years old, while the remaining 6% (2,436ha) was in areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined. Most of the new regrowth that is estimated to be greater than 15 years old was categorised as sparse or very sparse woody vegetation. These areas are likely to have been previously excluded from the 2018 woody extent baseline as they may not have been readily detectable in the satellite imagery used at the time and are now able to be reliably detected and mapped due to additional data in the time series or availability of other new imagery.
Area of new regrowth for density classes of woody vegetation.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of new regrowth for age since disturbance classes (refer to note).
Area of new regrowth by density and age since disturbance classes.
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Density classes are as follows:
Note: Since the release of the 2018–19 SLATS Report, the methods for estimating the age since disturbance of woody vegetation have been refined. Estimates reported in the 2019–20 SLATS Report are based on revised and updated data relating to time since cleared derived from SLATS clearing histories, and time-series analysis of over 30 years of Landsat satellite imagery aimed at detecting woody vegetation disturbance and regrowth. The age since disturbance estimates use the time-series information where sufficient evidence is available to assign a valid estimate of how long the woody vegetation has been regrowing following a disturbance event. For more information on how the age estimates are derived, refer to the SLATS methodology. As a result of refining the methods for estimating the age since disturbance, the 2018–19 data has also been revised. Note that the 2018–19 SLATS Report has not been revised using these new data. It is also important to note that woody vegetation that is greater than 15 years is not always considered to be remnant or high-value regrowth as additional criteria such as species composition and vegetation height are used to determine remnant or high-value regrowth status. This is determined by the Queensland Herbarium as part of the regional ecosystem mapping framework.
Clearing activity in bioregions in 2019–20.
New regrowth in bioregions in 2019–20.
Area of clearing activity in Brigalow Belt in 2018–19 and 2019–20.
Area of new regrowth in Brigalow Belt in 2018–19 and 2019–20.
Regulated vegetation management maps show the different vegetation categories that are present on a parcel of land. This information helps land managers determine the type of approval needed for vegetation clearing. The categories are as follows:
For further information refer to General guide to the vegetation clearing codes (PDF).
The vegetation management class refers to the current regulated extent of a regional ecosystem. The categories are Endangered, Of concern and Least concern. No VM class refers to areas with no vegetation management class due to no regulated vegetation being present.
For further information refer to Biodiversity status and vegetation management class.
The landcover replacement class is interpreted by Queensland Government Department of Environment and Science scientists as part of the SLATS mapping process. It provides an indication of the purpose for which the vegetation was cleared. Read more about SLATS methodology.
The landcover replacement class is interpreted by Queensland Government Department of Environment and Science scientists as part of the SLATS mapping process. For new regrowth mapping it provides an indication of the purpose for which the land is used where the regrowth occurs. Read more about SLATS methodology.
Area of clearing activity in Brigalow Belt for density classes of woody vegetation.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of clearing activity in Brigalow Belt for age since disturbance classes (refer to note).
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Area of clearing activity in Brigalow Belt by density and age since disturbance classes.
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of new regrowth in Brigalow Belt for density classes of woody vegetation.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of new regrowth in Brigalow Belt for age since disturbance classes (refer to note).
Area of new regrowth in Brigalow Belt by density and age since disturbance classes.
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of clearing activity in Channel Country in 2018–19 and 2019–20.
Area of new regrowth in Channel Country in 2018–19 and 2019–20.
Regulated vegetation management maps show the different vegetation categories that are present on a parcel of land. This information helps land managers determine the type of approval needed for vegetation clearing. The categories are as follows:
For further information refer to General guide to the vegetation clearing codes (PDF).
The vegetation management class refers to the current regulated extent of a regional ecosystem. The categories are Endangered, Of concern and Least concern. No VM class refers to areas with no vegetation management class due to no regulated vegetation being present.
For further information refer to Biodiversity status and vegetation management class.
The landcover replacement class is interpreted by Queensland Government Department of Environment and Science scientists as part of the SLATS mapping process. It provides an indication of the purpose for which the vegetation was cleared. Read more about SLATS methodology.
The landcover replacement class is interpreted by Queensland Government Department of Environment and Science scientists as part of the SLATS mapping process. For new regrowth mapping it provides an indication of the purpose for which the land is used where the regrowth occurs. Read more about SLATS methodology.
Area of clearing activity in Channel Country for density classes of woody vegetation.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of clearing activity in Channel Country for age since disturbance classes (refer to note).
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Area of clearing activity in Channel Country by density and age since disturbance classes.
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of new regrowth in Channel Country for density classes of woody vegetation.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of new regrowth in Channel Country for age since disturbance classes (refer to note).
Area of new regrowth in Channel Country by density and age since disturbance classes.
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of clearing activity in Central Queensland Coast in 2018–19 and 2019–20.
Area of new regrowth in Central Queensland Coast in 2018–19 and 2019–20.
Regulated vegetation management maps show the different vegetation categories that are present on a parcel of land. This information helps land managers determine the type of approval needed for vegetation clearing. The categories are as follows:
For further information refer to General guide to the vegetation clearing codes (PDF).
The vegetation management class refers to the current regulated extent of a regional ecosystem. The categories are Endangered, Of concern and Least concern. No VM class refers to areas with no vegetation management class due to no regulated vegetation being present.
For further information refer to Biodiversity status and vegetation management class.
The landcover replacement class is interpreted by Queensland Government Department of Environment and Science scientists as part of the SLATS mapping process. It provides an indication of the purpose for which the vegetation was cleared. Read more about SLATS methodology.
The landcover replacement class is interpreted by Queensland Government Department of Environment and Science scientists as part of the SLATS mapping process. For new regrowth mapping it provides an indication of the purpose for which the land is used where the regrowth occurs. Read more about SLATS methodology.
Area of clearing activity in Central Queensland Coast for density classes of woody vegetation.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of clearing activity in Central Queensland Coast for age since disturbance classes (refer to note).
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Area of clearing activity in Central Queensland Coast by density and age since disturbance classes.
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of new regrowth in Central Queensland Coast for density classes of woody vegetation.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of new regrowth in Central Queensland Coast for age since disturbance classes (refer to note).
Area of new regrowth in Central Queensland Coast by density and age since disturbance classes.
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of clearing activity in Cape York Peninsula in 2018–19 and 2019–20.
Area of new regrowth in Cape York Peninsula in 2018–19 and 2019–20.
Regulated vegetation management maps show the different vegetation categories that are present on a parcel of land. This information helps land managers determine the type of approval needed for vegetation clearing. The categories are as follows:
For further information refer to General guide to the vegetation clearing codes (PDF).
The vegetation management class refers to the current regulated extent of a regional ecosystem. The categories are Endangered, Of concern and Least concern. No VM class refers to areas with no vegetation management class due to no regulated vegetation being present.
For further information refer to Biodiversity status and vegetation management class.
The landcover replacement class is interpreted by Queensland Government Department of Environment and Science scientists as part of the SLATS mapping process. It provides an indication of the purpose for which the vegetation was cleared. Read more about SLATS methodology.
The landcover replacement class is interpreted by Queensland Government Department of Environment and Science scientists as part of the SLATS mapping process. For new regrowth mapping it provides an indication of the purpose for which the land is used where the regrowth occurs. Read more about SLATS methodology.
Area of clearing activity in Cape York Peninsula for density classes of woody vegetation.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of clearing activity in Cape York Peninsula for age since disturbance classes (refer to note).
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Area of clearing activity in Cape York Peninsula by density and age since disturbance classes.
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of new regrowth in Cape York Peninsula for density classes of woody vegetation.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of new regrowth in Cape York Peninsula for age since disturbance classes (refer to note).
Area of new regrowth in Cape York Peninsula by density and age since disturbance classes.
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of clearing activity in Desert Uplands in 2018–19 and 2019–20.
Area of new regrowth in Desert Uplands in 2018–19 and 2019–20.
Regulated vegetation management maps show the different vegetation categories that are present on a parcel of land. This information helps land managers determine the type of approval needed for vegetation clearing. The categories are as follows:
For further information refer to General guide to the vegetation clearing codes (PDF).
The vegetation management class refers to the current regulated extent of a regional ecosystem. The categories are Endangered, Of concern and Least concern. No VM class refers to areas with no vegetation management class due to no regulated vegetation being present.
For further information refer to Biodiversity status and vegetation management class.
The landcover replacement class is interpreted by Queensland Government Department of Environment and Science scientists as part of the SLATS mapping process. It provides an indication of the purpose for which the vegetation was cleared. Read more about SLATS methodology.
The landcover replacement class is interpreted by Queensland Government Department of Environment and Science scientists as part of the SLATS mapping process. For new regrowth mapping it provides an indication of the purpose for which the land is used where the regrowth occurs. Read more about SLATS methodology.
Area of clearing activity in Desert Uplands for density classes of woody vegetation.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of clearing activity in Desert Uplands for age since disturbance classes (refer to note).
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Area of clearing activity in Desert Uplands by density and age since disturbance classes.
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of new regrowth in Desert Uplands for density classes of woody vegetation.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of new regrowth in Desert Uplands for age since disturbance classes (refer to note).
Area of new regrowth in Desert Uplands by density and age since disturbance classes.
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of clearing activity in Einasleigh Uplands in 2018–19 and 2019–20.
Area of new regrowth in Einasleigh Uplands in 2018–19 and 2019–20.
Regulated vegetation management maps show the different vegetation categories that are present on a parcel of land. This information helps land managers determine the type of approval needed for vegetation clearing. The categories are as follows:
For further information refer to General guide to the vegetation clearing codes (PDF).
The vegetation management class refers to the current regulated extent of a regional ecosystem. The categories are Endangered, Of concern and Least concern. No VM class refers to areas with no vegetation management class due to no regulated vegetation being present.
For further information refer to Biodiversity status and vegetation management class.
The landcover replacement class is interpreted by Queensland Government Department of Environment and Science scientists as part of the SLATS mapping process. It provides an indication of the purpose for which the vegetation was cleared. Read more about SLATS methodology.
The landcover replacement class is interpreted by Queensland Government Department of Environment and Science scientists as part of the SLATS mapping process. For new regrowth mapping it provides an indication of the purpose for which the land is used where the regrowth occurs. Read more about SLATS methodology.
Area of clearing activity in Einasleigh Uplands for density classes of woody vegetation.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of clearing activity in Einasleigh Uplands for age since disturbance classes (refer to note).
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Area of clearing activity in Einasleigh Uplands by density and age since disturbance classes.
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of new regrowth in Einasleigh Uplands for density classes of woody vegetation.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of new regrowth in Einasleigh Uplands for age since disturbance classes (refer to note).
Area of new regrowth in Einasleigh Uplands by density and age since disturbance classes.
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of clearing activity in Gulf Plains in 2018–19 and 2019–20.
Area of new regrowth in Gulf Plains in 2018–19 and 2019–20.
Regulated vegetation management maps show the different vegetation categories that are present on a parcel of land. This information helps land managers determine the type of approval needed for vegetation clearing. The categories are as follows:
For further information refer to General guide to the vegetation clearing codes (PDF).
The vegetation management class refers to the current regulated extent of a regional ecosystem. The categories are Endangered, Of concern and Least concern. No VM class refers to areas with no vegetation management class due to no regulated vegetation being present.
For further information refer to Biodiversity status and vegetation management class.
The landcover replacement class is interpreted by Queensland Government Department of Environment and Science scientists as part of the SLATS mapping process. It provides an indication of the purpose for which the vegetation was cleared. Read more about SLATS methodology.
The landcover replacement class is interpreted by Queensland Government Department of Environment and Science scientists as part of the SLATS mapping process. For new regrowth mapping it provides an indication of the purpose for which the land is used where the regrowth occurs. Read more about SLATS methodology.
Area of clearing activity in Gulf Plains for density classes of woody vegetation.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of clearing activity in Gulf Plains for age since disturbance classes (refer to note).
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Area of clearing activity in Gulf Plains by density and age since disturbance classes.
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of new regrowth in Gulf Plains for density classes of woody vegetation.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of new regrowth in Gulf Plains for age since disturbance classes (refer to note).
Area of new regrowth in Gulf Plains by density and age since disturbance classes.
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of clearing activity in Mitchell Grass Downs in 2018–19 and 2019–20.
Area of new regrowth in Mitchell Grass Downs in 2018–19 and 2019–20.
Regulated vegetation management maps show the different vegetation categories that are present on a parcel of land. This information helps land managers determine the type of approval needed for vegetation clearing. The categories are as follows:
For further information refer to General guide to the vegetation clearing codes (PDF).
The vegetation management class refers to the current regulated extent of a regional ecosystem. The categories are Endangered, Of concern and Least concern. No VM class refers to areas with no vegetation management class due to no regulated vegetation being present.
For further information refer to Biodiversity status and vegetation management class.
The landcover replacement class is interpreted by Queensland Government Department of Environment and Science scientists as part of the SLATS mapping process. It provides an indication of the purpose for which the vegetation was cleared. Read more about SLATS methodology.
The landcover replacement class is interpreted by Queensland Government Department of Environment and Science scientists as part of the SLATS mapping process. For new regrowth mapping it provides an indication of the purpose for which the land is used where the regrowth occurs. Read more about SLATS methodology.
Area of clearing activity in Mitchell Grass Downs for density classes of woody vegetation.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of clearing activity in Mitchell Grass Downs for age since disturbance classes (refer to note).
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Area of clearing activity in Mitchell Grass Downs by density and age since disturbance classes.
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of new regrowth in Mitchell Grass Downs for density classes of woody vegetation.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of new regrowth in Mitchell Grass Downs for age since disturbance classes (refer to note).
Area of new regrowth in Mitchell Grass Downs by density and age since disturbance classes.
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of clearing activity in Mulga Lands in 2018–19 and 2019–20.
Area of new regrowth in Mulga Lands in 2018–19 and 2019–20.
Regulated vegetation management maps show the different vegetation categories that are present on a parcel of land. This information helps land managers determine the type of approval needed for vegetation clearing. The categories are as follows:
For further information refer to General guide to the vegetation clearing codes (PDF).
The vegetation management class refers to the current regulated extent of a regional ecosystem. The categories are Endangered, Of concern and Least concern. No VM class refers to areas with no vegetation management class due to no regulated vegetation being present.
For further information refer to Biodiversity status and vegetation management class.
The landcover replacement class is interpreted by Queensland Government Department of Environment and Science scientists as part of the SLATS mapping process. It provides an indication of the purpose for which the vegetation was cleared. Read more about SLATS methodology.
The landcover replacement class is interpreted by Queensland Government Department of Environment and Science scientists as part of the SLATS mapping process. For new regrowth mapping it provides an indication of the purpose for which the land is used where the regrowth occurs. Read more about SLATS methodology.
Area of clearing activity in Mulga Lands for density classes of woody vegetation.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of clearing activity in Mulga Lands for age since disturbance classes (refer to note).
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Area of clearing activity in Mulga Lands by density and age since disturbance classes.
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of new regrowth in Mulga Lands for density classes of woody vegetation.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of new regrowth in Mulga Lands for age since disturbance classes (refer to note).
Area of new regrowth in Mulga Lands by density and age since disturbance classes.
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of clearing activity in New England Tableland in 2018–19 and 2019–20.
Area of new regrowth in New England Tableland in 2018–19 and 2019–20.
Regulated vegetation management maps show the different vegetation categories that are present on a parcel of land. This information helps land managers determine the type of approval needed for vegetation clearing. The categories are as follows:
For further information refer to General guide to the vegetation clearing codes (PDF).
The vegetation management class refers to the current regulated extent of a regional ecosystem. The categories are Endangered, Of concern and Least concern. No VM class refers to areas with no vegetation management class due to no regulated vegetation being present.
For further information refer to Biodiversity status and vegetation management class.
The landcover replacement class is interpreted by Queensland Government Department of Environment and Science scientists as part of the SLATS mapping process. It provides an indication of the purpose for which the vegetation was cleared. Read more about SLATS methodology.
The landcover replacement class is interpreted by Queensland Government Department of Environment and Science scientists as part of the SLATS mapping process. For new regrowth mapping it provides an indication of the purpose for which the land is used where the regrowth occurs. Read more about SLATS methodology.
Area of clearing activity in New England Tableland for density classes of woody vegetation.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of clearing activity in New England Tableland for age since disturbance classes (refer to note).
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Area of clearing activity in New England Tableland by density and age since disturbance classes.
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of new regrowth in New England Tableland for density classes of woody vegetation.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of new regrowth in New England Tableland for age since disturbance classes (refer to note).
Area of new regrowth in New England Tableland by density and age since disturbance classes.
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of clearing activity in Northwest Highlands in 2018–19 and 2019–20.
Area of new regrowth in Northwest Highlands in 2018–19 and 2019–20.
Regulated vegetation management maps show the different vegetation categories that are present on a parcel of land. This information helps land managers determine the type of approval needed for vegetation clearing. The categories are as follows:
For further information refer to General guide to the vegetation clearing codes (PDF).
The vegetation management class refers to the current regulated extent of a regional ecosystem. The categories are Endangered, Of concern and Least concern. No VM class refers to areas with no vegetation management class due to no regulated vegetation being present.
For further information refer to Biodiversity status and vegetation management class.
The landcover replacement class is interpreted by Queensland Government Department of Environment and Science scientists as part of the SLATS mapping process. It provides an indication of the purpose for which the vegetation was cleared. Read more about SLATS methodology.
The landcover replacement class is interpreted by Queensland Government Department of Environment and Science scientists as part of the SLATS mapping process. For new regrowth mapping it provides an indication of the purpose for which the land is used where the regrowth occurs. Read more about SLATS methodology.
Area of clearing activity in Northwest Highlands for density classes of woody vegetation.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of clearing activity in Northwest Highlands for age since disturbance classes (refer to note).
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Area of clearing activity in Northwest Highlands by density and age since disturbance classes.
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of new regrowth in Northwest Highlands for density classes of woody vegetation.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of new regrowth in Northwest Highlands for age since disturbance classes (refer to note).
Area of new regrowth in Northwest Highlands by density and age since disturbance classes.
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of clearing activity in Southeast Queensland in 2018–19 and 2019–20.
Area of new regrowth in Southeast Queensland in 2018–19 and 2019–20.
Regulated vegetation management maps show the different vegetation categories that are present on a parcel of land. This information helps land managers determine the type of approval needed for vegetation clearing. The categories are as follows:
For further information refer to General guide to the vegetation clearing codes (PDF).
The vegetation management class refers to the current regulated extent of a regional ecosystem. The categories are Endangered, Of concern and Least concern. No VM class refers to areas with no vegetation management class due to no regulated vegetation being present.
For further information refer to Biodiversity status and vegetation management class.
The landcover replacement class is interpreted by Queensland Government Department of Environment and Science scientists as part of the SLATS mapping process. It provides an indication of the purpose for which the vegetation was cleared. Read more about SLATS methodology.
The landcover replacement class is interpreted by Queensland Government Department of Environment and Science scientists as part of the SLATS mapping process. For new regrowth mapping it provides an indication of the purpose for which the land is used where the regrowth occurs. Read more about SLATS methodology.
Area of clearing activity in Southeast Queensland for density classes of woody vegetation.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of clearing activity in Southeast Queensland for age since disturbance classes (refer to note).
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Area of clearing activity in Southeast Queensland by density and age since disturbance classes.
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of new regrowth in Southeast Queensland for density classes of woody vegetation.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of new regrowth in Southeast Queensland for age since disturbance classes (refer to note).
Area of new regrowth in Southeast Queensland by density and age since disturbance classes.
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of clearing activity in Wet Tropics in 2018–19 and 2019–20.
Area of new regrowth in Wet Tropics in 2018–19 and 2019–20.
Regulated vegetation management maps show the different vegetation categories that are present on a parcel of land. This information helps land managers determine the type of approval needed for vegetation clearing. The categories are as follows:
For further information refer to General guide to the vegetation clearing codes (PDF).
The vegetation management class refers to the current regulated extent of a regional ecosystem. The categories are Endangered, Of concern and Least concern. No VM class refers to areas with no vegetation management class due to no regulated vegetation being present.
For further information refer to Biodiversity status and vegetation management class.
The landcover replacement class is interpreted by Queensland Government Department of Environment and Science scientists as part of the SLATS mapping process. It provides an indication of the purpose for which the vegetation was cleared. Read more about SLATS methodology.
The landcover replacement class is interpreted by Queensland Government Department of Environment and Science scientists as part of the SLATS mapping process. For new regrowth mapping it provides an indication of the purpose for which the land is used where the regrowth occurs. Read more about SLATS methodology.
Area of clearing activity in Wet Tropics for density classes of woody vegetation.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of clearing activity in Wet Tropics for age since disturbance classes (refer to note).
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Area of clearing activity in Wet Tropics by density and age since disturbance classes.
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of new regrowth in Wet Tropics for density classes of woody vegetation.
Density classes are as follows:
Area of new regrowth in Wet Tropics for age since disturbance classes (refer to note).
Area of new regrowth in Wet Tropics by density and age since disturbance classes.
An age since disturbance of N/A refers to those areas where a valid age since disturbance estimate could not be determined from SLATS clearing histories and/or time-series analysis of historical satellite imagery.
Density classes are as follows:
Note: Since the release of the 2018–19 SLATS Report, the methods for estimating the age since disturbance of woody vegetation have been refined. Estimates reported in the 2019–20 SLATS Report are based on revised and updated data relating to time since cleared derived from SLATS clearing histories, and time-series analysis of over 30 years of Landsat satellite imagery aimed at detecting woody vegetation disturbance and regrowth. The age since disturbance estimates use the time-series information where sufficient evidence is available to assign a valid estimate of how long the woody vegetation has been regrowing following a disturbance event. For more information on how the age estimates are derived, refer to the SLATS methodology. As a result of refining the methods for estimating the age since disturbance, the 2018–19 data has also been revised. Note that the 2018–19 SLATS Report has not been revised using these new data. It is also important to note that woody vegetation that is greater than 15 years is not always considered to be remnant or high-value regrowth as additional criteria such as species composition and vegetation height are used to determine remnant or high-value regrowth status. This is determined by the Queensland Herbarium as part of the regional ecosystem mapping framework.
2019–20 SLATS Report, 17 Jul 2024, [https://oss-uat.clients.squiz.net/environment/land/management/mapping/statewide-monitoring/slats/slats-reports/2019-20-slats-report]
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