Tips for writing your
objectives
Defining objectives can be
done with a group, which helps generate a common
vision for the place. Whether you are working
individually or as part of a group, you will need
to get agreement on your objectives. This will
ensure that all those involved with the place knows
exactly what they are working towards.
Try following these tips when
writing management objectives.
- State how you would like
to see the place in the future (what it will
look like if you are successful).
- Be clear and realistic.
Don't be too ambitious. This is just your
framework. It sets the direction. There is
little point having objectives that you can't
make happen.
- It may help to start your
objective with the word 'to..' followed by the
action you want to happen (ie 'to conserve the
woodland
') or how it will be in the future
(ie 'a healthy and protected ecosystem for an
endangered marsupial').
- Make sure your objective
is about retaining the heritage significance of
the place.
- Your objectives should
also address the key management issues
concerning the place.
- You may need to refer to
both compatible and incompatible uses. For
example, compatible uses of a significant
wetland may be birdwatching, but an incompatible
use may be waterskiing.
- Establish criteria that
will tell you and others if you have achieved
what you want. These are called indicators. They
help you to monitor
progress
towards your objectives. They also help you to
evaluate whether you have achieved your
objectives.
More information on preparing
and writing conservation policies for historic
heritage can be found in The Conservation
Plan by James Semple Kerr, available from the
National Trust. For natural heritage guidance can
be found in the Natural Heritage Places
Handbook: Applying the Australian Natural Heritage
Charter to conserve places of natural
significance. See details of these publications
in the Resources
section.

|