The Fitzgerald Biosphere is the largest of the six sub-regions within the South Coast NRM Region and is centred on the Fitzgerald River National Park, an internationally recognised biodiversity hotspot. The region encompasses the towns of Bremer Bay, Jerramungup, Ravensthorpe and Hopetoun and takes in part of the Pallinup River catchment and all of the Bremer, Gairdner, Fitzgerald, Hamersley, West, Phillips, Steere and Jerdacuttup River catchments. The Fitzgerald Biosphere sub-region also holds significance to Indigenous peoples. A diverse range of soil types, including granite, loams and quartzite soils, and varying annual rainfalls across the sub-region has resulted in a wide variety of vegetation types. The average rainfall ranges from 500mm per annum in the south and declines to 325mm per annum in the north east. The coastal areas are dominated by heathland changing to Mallee and in the northern areas Yate woodlands. The region contains a diverse range of unique flora and fauna, with many endemic species. Flora species in the Fitzgerald Biosphere include the endemic Royal Hakea (Hakea victoria) and Quaalup Bell (Pimelia physodes) as well as a large number of Banksias, Verticordias and pea flowering species. The Fitzgerald River National Park is one of only two locations in which the highly endangered Western Ground Parrot can still be found as well as other threatened species including the Dibbler, Heath Rat, Woylie, Hooded Plover and Tammar Wallaby. It is also an important breeding and calving ground for Southern Right Whales during migration. One threat to the biodiversity of the sub-region is Phytophthora dieback. Relatively dieback free the Fitzgerald River National Park has provided a safe haven for many susceptible flora species occurring in the sub-region, such as the Banksia and Verticordia species that are under direct threat in other parts of the South Coast NRM Region. Phytophthora Dieback is, however, a real threat to the flora of the Fitzgerald River National Park with several infestations located within the parks boundaries. Other threats to biodiversity within the Fitzgerald Biosphere include predation of native wildlife by feral animals (particularly foxes and cats), human disturbance, and fire. The Fitzgerald Biosphere sub-regions industry is largely agricultural but the mining industry is increasingly attracted to the Ravensthorpe area. The agriculture of the area consists predominantly of winter cereal production and grazing. Wheat and barley are the main cereal crops grown in rotation with lupins, canola and subterranean or medic pasture. Perennial pastures are grown at lower levels. Salinity, erosion and water repellence have been identified as threats to the industry of the sub-region. South Coast NRM has funded several projects within this sub-region to mitigate some of the threats. These include funding for soil health projects, perennial pastures, weed and invasive species control and Phytophthora dieback management.