(Ulex europeaus), Spanish heath (Erica lusitanica), English broom (Cytisus scoparius), canary broom (Genista monspessulana), boneseed (Chrysanthemoides monilifera), blackberry (Rubus fruticosus), blue-butterfly-bush (Psoralea pinnata) and introduced wattles (Acacia spp.). Invasive species such as these can threaten ecosystems as they can displace native species, contribute to land degradation and lessen overall productivity. In addition to these invasive plant species, a block within the Peter Murrell Conservation Area is infected with root rot (Phytophthora cinnamomi), a soilborne plant pathogen listed as a "Key Threatening Process" under the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act 1999, since 2000. This disease can cause extinction of flora populations, reductions in primary productivity within affected ecosystems, and loss and degradation of flora and fauna habitats. Biodiversity of buttongrass and orchid communities in the Peter Murrell Conservation Area is particularly threatened by root rot. Management Legislation The Peter Murrell Conservation Area is managed under the National Parks and Reserves Management Act and was reserved under the Nature Conservation Act. Additionally, management of the area must be in accordance with the Threatened Species Protection Act 1995. The Tasmanian Reserves Code of Practice 2003 is also important in providing guiding principles for management of the reserves. With Aboriginal heritage sites in the area, the Aboriginal Relics Act 1975 is also important legislation, protecting these sites and setting out statutory obligations for the TPWS to protect and preserve Aboriginal sites. The Land Use Planning and Approvals Act 1994 is also relevant, as it contains provisions determining preparation of planning schemes. Also applicable is the national EPBC Act 1999, as a 'Key Threatening Process', Phytophthora cinnamomi, has been identified in the Peter Murrell Conservation Area. Additionally, with the Peter Murrell Conservation Area providing habitat for the eastern barred bandicoot, a species nationally listed as vulnerable, the EPBC Act 1999 is applicable to matters concerning this species. General The Peter Murrell Reserves, comprising the Conservation Area, State Reserve and Public Reserve, are managed as one land management unit of 277 ha. Management of the Peter Murrell Conservation Area is the responsibility of the Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife Service (TPWS). A 25 ha portion of the area, however, is leased by the Huntingfield Pony and Riding Club, which is responsible for fire control, while the TPWS maintains responsibility for vegetation management. As part of the municipality of Kingborough, the Conservation Area is zoned as 'Environmental Management' under the Kingborough Planning Scheme 2000., and the