State Member for Bega Andrew Constance announced this week that the Tilba District Landcare group will receive a $98,854 NSW Government Restoration and Rehabilitation grant to help to protect the vulnerable Warty Ziera, of which there are less than 3000 plants remaining worldwide.
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“The project will take place around Central Tilba and will include three management sites,” Mr Constance said. “Activities to be undertaken will assist in the conservation of the Warty Ziera and will focus on weed control and landholder engagement to build the skills and support those in the project to ensure its security into the future.”
In all, 56 NSW community groups and government organisations will share $5.2 million in Restoration and Rehabilitation grant funding to undertake projects that protect, restore and improve the environment.
“This grants program aims to encourage and enable community and government organisations to protect important ecosystems and habitats of rare and endangered species and prevent or minimise future environmental damage,” Mr Constance said.
Environment Minister Mark Speakman said the 56 projects funded under this year’s round of grants were for a range of habitat and ecosystem restoration projects.
“Communities have invaluable knowledge and passion for their local bushland, wildlife, heritage and ecological sustainability,” Mr Speakman said. “These grants acknowledge and support these on-ground works and together these projects form a network of environmental initiatives, making a difference.”
To see the full list of recipients and project descriptions visit: http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/grants/restoration.htm
The toxic, introduced fireweed however remains a priority for the newly formed Tilba and South Narooma Landcare Group, which is a successor to the previous Landcare group that received the State grant.
The new group’s president Robert Dunn said he remain firmly focussed on the noxious imported weed.
“We hope that the governments, state and federal, will find the wherewithal to try and eradicate or control the invader, as much as they have found nearly $100,000 to save the endangered native wart,” he said.
“The contrast is breathtating however. Just 3000 warts left--- whereas each Madagascar fireweed plant produces 10,000 seeds to the hectare if left uncontrolled.”
Stan Gorton
Walkley-nominated journalist based at The Islander on Kangaroo Island with an interest in the local community and the environment.
Walkley-nominated journalist based at The Islander on Kangaroo Island with an interest in the local community and the environment.
