Yarra Ranges National Park

Infobox_protected_area_of_Australia | name = Yarra Ranges National Park
iucn_category = II

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caption =
locator_x = 221
locator_y = 203
nearest_town_or_city = Melbourne
coordinates = coord|37|40|50|S|145|59|27|E|type:landmark_region:AU
area = 760 km²
established = 1995
visitation_num =
visitation_year =
managing_authorities = Parks Victoria
official_site = [http://www.parkweb.vic.gov.au/1park_display.cfm?park=223 Yarra Ranges National Park]

Yarra Ranges is a national park in Victoria, Australia, 92 km east of Melbourne. It contains the upper reaches of the Yarra River and provides the catchment for Melbourne's domestic water supply.

Whilst the park was established only in 1995, the area has been protected for a century to protect Melbourne's water. Almost all of the park is closed-off to visitors for this reason, however the park is one of the most popular day trip destinations for Melbourne residents. However, logging occurs in much of the forest, including some of the water catchment areas.

Flora and Fauna

The park contains approximately 40 different mammal species, including the endangered Leadbeater's Possum and 120 species of birds. The bird species include the Sooty Owl, Powerful Owl, Barking Owl, Pink Robin, Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoo, Australian King-Parrot Grey Goshawk and Crimson Rosella.

Heritage

As the forest is very dense the area was not particularly favoured by the aboriginal people. The European settlers also found it difficult to access the area. It was eventually settled in 1860 and was seen as a valuable area for timber. Soon after the area was recognised as a good place for water catchments so the Maroondah and Upper Yarra catchments were built.

Link

http://www.parkweb.vic.gov.au/1park_display.cfm

See also

* Protected areas of Victoria (Australia)