Marne Valley Conservation Park facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Marne Valley Conservation Park Cambrai, South Australia
IUCN Category III (Natural Monument)
Marne Valley Conservation Park Location in South Australia
Nearest town or city	Cambrai
Established	11 March 1976 (1976-03-11)
Area	94 hectares (230 acres)
Visitation	"few visitors" (in 1994)
Managing authorities	Department for Environment and Water
Website	Marne Valley Conservation Park
See also	Protected areas of South Australia

Marne Valley Conservation Park is a special place in South Australia. It's a protected area that helps keep nature safe. You can find it near the town of Cambrai. This is about 77 kilometres north-west of Adelaide, the state capital. It's also about 30 kilometres west of Mannum.

The park was officially created on March 11, 1976. This happened under a law called the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972. As of 2019, the park covers an area of 94 hectares. That's about the size of 94 football fields! The Marne River flows right through the park.

What Makes the Park Special?

In 1980, experts looked closely at the park. They described it as a beautiful place with important trees.

Trees and Plants

The park is home to a wonderful collection of trees.

• River Red Gums: You'll find many Eucalyptus camaldulensis trees here. These are also known as River Red Gums. They grow in areas that become seasonal swamps. These swamps are part of the Marne River Valley. The River Red Gums form an "open forest." This means the trees are spread out, with grass growing underneath.
• Black Box Trees: On higher ground, there are smaller trees called E. largiflorens, or Black Box trees. These trees form a "low woodland."
• Undergrowth: The plants growing under the trees have changed over time. Some plants that are not native to the area have started to grow there.

The Marne River

The Marne River is a key part of the park. It flows through the area, creating important habitats. The river bed and swamp areas are especially good for the River Red Gums. Some parts of the park have many young River Red Gums growing close together.

Protecting the Park

Marne Valley Conservation Park is important for nature. It is listed as an IUCN Category III protected area. This means it's recognized internationally for protecting a special natural feature. In this case, it protects the unique trees and river environment.

In 1980, the park was also listed on the Register of the National Estate. This was a list of places in Australia that were important for their natural or cultural value.