Protecting the Stirling Range from Dieback
The Stirling Range contains exceptionally diverse and vulnerable plant communities. One of the major threats to that vegetation is Phytophthora dieback, which can be moved from place to place in infected soil. For anyone undertaking the Stirling Ridge Walk, dieback hygiene should be part of normal trip preparation. There are no boot cleaning stations at either end of the Stirling Ridge Walk or along the route, so walkers need to take responsibility for their own footwear hygiene. Arrive with your boots clean and free of soil. This is especially important if you have recently been walking in another natural area. It is also worth carrying what you need to clean your footwear during or after the walk rather than assuming facilities will be available. Wet conditions deserve particular attention because damp soil adheres much more readily to boots. If your footwear becomes muddy, clean it before moving into another part of the range or before visiting another natural area. The aim is to avoid carrying soil from one location to the next.
Stay on the Existing Walking Line
The Stirling Ridge Walk is not a constructed trail throughout its entire length, and in some areas the track can be faint. Even so, where a recognised walking line exists, stay on it. Leaving that line and pushing through vegetation unnecessarily increases disturbance. It can also move contaminated soil into areas that may previously have been unaffected. Over time, repeated deviations can create additional tracks which encourage other walkers to follow the same route. This is one reason good navigation matters environmentally as well as for safety. If you lose the track, stop and work out where the recognised line is rather than continuing through the bush in the hope of meeting it again further ahead.
Follow Dieback Signs and Closures
Dieback management may involve restrictions on access or temporary closures designed to protect vulnerable areas. These arrangements can change, so check current advice from the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions before beginning your walk and follow any instructions you encounter. For further information on dieback management in Stirling Range National Park, see the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions Stirling Range National Park Visitor Guide.
Stirling Range National Park Visitor Guide
https://exploreparks.dbca.wa.gov.au/sites/default/files/2022-05/stirling-range-national-park-visitor-guide.pdf
The Stirling Ridge Walk passes through environmentally sensitive terrain. Good dieback hygiene and staying on the recognised route are practical ways walkers can help reduce further spread of the disease.