Snow gums are the iconic vegetation species of the Australian High country.
They are beautiful, vital for biodiversity and tourism, help hold snow pack which is released into river catchments, and hold deep cultural value for many people.
However, we are now seeing the beginning of ecosystem collapse across these forests – drought, dieback and successive fires have altered the structure, composition, and condition of snow gum woodlands dramatically.
During August 2026 we want to invite resort and mountain loving communities to join us for a couple of hours of citizen science to better understand the health of local snow gum forests.
One of these surveys will happen at JB Plain (in the Alpine national park between the township of Dinner Plain and the Mt Hotham ski resort) on sunday August 23.
These surveys will be happening as part of a process to gather data about the health of snow gum forests and will be used to assist in gaining threatened species listing under federal environmental laws. You can read more here.
What to expect
You don't need any survey experience, just a willingness to walk through snow gum forest, assessing the trees for their health. We will provide a briefing once we are on site to explain how to assess and record the data. Expect to have a fun day outdoors in a gorgeous environment adding to our knowledge about the health of these iconic trees.
What to bring
Hopefully there will be plenty of snow. We will be outdoors the whole time and you will need skis or snow shoes if there is snow. You can hire snow shoes or cross country skis from the Hoys stores in Harrietville, Mt Hotham or Dinner Plain.
You will need warm gear, food, water, good gloves, rainproof jacket and overpants to be outdoors in an alpine environment. We may get quite wet during the surveying so make sure you have a warm top to stay warm (synthetic or wool rather than down). Something to sit on (eg foam mat) would be good.
How to get there
JB Plain will show up on most online maps (search for 'JB Plain campground' or check this guide from Parks Victoria).
JB Plain has an obvious car park along the Great Alpine road. While there is no resort entry, you do need to carry chains for your car (which can be hired either in Omeo or Harrietville).
Meet at the JB Plain carpark at 10am.
We will start the surveys here, and you can stay for as long as you like. Depending on the weather we will aim to do around 3 hours of surveys.