Protecting Our Native Vegetation: Roadside Marker System
The Roadside Marker Scheme (RMS) is an important and valuable means of identifying, managing, and protecting significant roadside vegetation in Alexandrina.
The RMS ensures that roadworks, maintenance, and pest control programs are aware of these sensitive sites, safeguarding them from additional disturbance. Since the introduction of the Native Vegetation Act 1991, councils have been responsible for managing roadside vegetation. The RMS was established in 2009 and adopted by Alexandrina Council in 2013.
Following a review of Alexandrina's RMS network, rolled out in 2013, approximately 500 sites have been identified, some containing nationally listed threatened species. By preserving these corridors of native vegetation, we are protecting our remnant vegetation, providing reliable habitat for wildlife species and ensure that prioritised areas are protected against harm and for ongoing conservation.
The RMS enables Council to prioritise conservation efforts by preserving our local biodiversity, create habitat for wildlife and support plants for regenerative capacity. Our landscapes - from the Southern Mount Lofty Ranges to the Southern Ocean coastline and River Murray - are all represented along our roadsides, making it essential to protect these ecosystems and threatened species, which reflect our region’s natural history.
Roadside vegetation also plays a crucial role in helping combat the effects of climate change, lowering atmosphere and road surface temperatures, the trees provide much-needed shade and the vegetation acts as a windbreak and plants absorb carbon dioxide, contributing to climate regulation.
Each site features two markers, the front facing oncoming traffic and a blue end marker with a white diagonal line to indicate when finished.
Alexandrina Council currently manages about 50 of these RMS sites, covering 400km of roadside vegetation, using integrated weed control practices to restore remnant vegetation.
Please remember:
- Council permission is required for any residential landscaping, planting, or vegetation removal on roadside verges.
- Collecting firewood is illegal, and fines apply for unauthorised activities.
If you're interested in protecting your verge, you can fill out a
Residential Landscaping Application Form or contact our Environmental Projects Team Leader at 8555 7000.
Together, let’s protect and appreciate our roadside vegetation.