Create a Nature Conservation Reserve on Lot 46

Rainforest Rescue has recently developed an International Research Internship in partnership with the University of Sydney Study Abroad Program which allows international students to work with environmental organisations and undertake bespoke research projects in order to support Rainforest Rescue and its conservation activities. Our current intern is Joose Helle. Joose is undertaking a GIS (Geographical Information Systems) mapping project with Rainforest Rescue as part of his MSc in Geoinformatics at the University of Helsinki.

Joose's research utilises IT, remote sensing and other spatial data to monitor and map conservation activity across the Daintree rainforest, including Rainforest Rescue’s largest restoration success story at Lot 46 at Cape Tribulation.

The mapping exercises are utilising drone flybys to create a digital terrain model which will show the rate of growth of restoration on the site.

Digital mapping and imaging sets a baseline of data and therefore allows for longitudinal studies. It also creates a geospatial framework for embedding geological surveys which can be compared over time.

Past air photography from 1976 shows when Lot 46 and the areas around it were denigrated by cattle grazing. Encouragingly current images show significant changes made by Rainforest Rescue since undertaking restoration efforts in the Daintree. We look forward to being able to give our supporters access to these maps and images through our website.

Other important news is that the University of Adelaide and James Cook University will be collaborating to launch an exciting research project on Lot 46 which will look at impacts of climate change on rainforest tree growth. Watch this space.

As a Guardian of Lot 46, your support is vital for protecting this Living Laboratory!