More than 100 new bushfire recovery projects have been selected to aid in the recovery of native wildlife and habitat in seven regions severely impacted by the Black Summer bushfires – part of a $14 million commitment by the NSW Nationals in the federal government.
Landcare Australia and the National Landcare Network are co-ordinating the projects which include the NSW north and south coasts and the Blue Mountains.
Federal Nationals Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan has welcomed the announcement, saying Landcare Australia is perfectly placed to see the roll-out of this funding in the electorate.
“These new projects in Cowper will not only directly support native species recovery, but also provide benefit for bushfire-affected communities and landholders,” Mr Conaghan said.
In total, Cowper received $613,800 in grants encompassing projects aimed at habitat recreation, rainforest rehabilitation, erosion control and Indigenous partnerships building pathways towards eco-cultural bushfire recovery.
Jim Kinkead, North Coast Regional Landcare Chairperson, said in addition to helping burnt bushland recover by controlling weeds and providing replacement habitat such as nest boxes, Landcare also plays a big role in protecting and maintaining the unburnt habitats that provides the critical refuge for wildlife.
“Landcare on the North Coast has a strong track record of identifying issues and priorities, developing responsive programs and implementing solutions on-ground. Any funding received such as this from the Australian Government is crucial as part of our recovery and rehabilitation of the region’s biodiversity,” he said.
To date, the NSW Nationals in the federal government have committed $200 million for wildlife and habitat recovery through the $2 billion National Bushfire Recovery Fund.
A list of the 111 Landcare grant projects can be found at http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/bushfire-recovery/activities-and-outcomes
