The Port Phillip and Westernport CMA has received a $273,000 share of the Victorian Government’s $3.38 million Second Generation Landcare Grants for this financial year.
The funding is provided for landcare groups in the Port Phillip and Western Port region to run projects that will benefit the health of the region's land and waterways. Funding ranging from $300 to $20,000 is available for incorporated community groups to undertake projects that typically involve weed removal, the planting of indigenous plant species and the fencing of native vegetation to protect it from stock.
Last year, over $335,000 was awarded to groups undertaking environmental works in the region. One of these was a Community Education Project run by the Macclesfield Landcare Group (in the Upper Yarra) who utilised its $9,000 grant to educate property owners on approaches to weed control, farm safety and issues of biodiversity, while also running workshops, meetings and developing a report on the impact of weeds in their local area.
Port Phillip and Westernport CMA’s Environmental Funding Coordinator, Stephen Thuan says projects like these are typical of the impact the grants can have on the environment “Landcare is a way of addressing environmental problems, building the long-term viability of agriculture and making the most of the enterprise and energy of the volunteers.”
“The volunteers know where the problems are, they are willing to get stuck into the job, and funding from the State Government can put the tools and supplies in their hands.”
“Landcare is not just a farming phenomenon, the future of the environment is in everyone’s hands, including people who live in towns, local companies and school groups, anyone can volunteer their time and energy for a better environment,” said Mr Thuan.
Applications for the 2009/10 grants close 6 November 2009.
* Group support grants – up to $300 for general administrative assistance to community groups involved in natural resource management;
* Group promotion and development grants – up to $500 to increase participation, raise public awareness, undertake training and/or educate the community about local natural resource management programs; and
* Project grants – up to $20,000 for on-the-ground projects that address natural resource management issues.
For information on Landcare groups in your region, visit the Victorian Landcare Gateway website at www.landcarevic.net.au or contact the Port Phillip and Westernport CMA
Applications can be lodged online or downloaded from http://grants.melbournewater.com.au/
Application details: Melbourne Water Grants website or 131 722 (Melbourne Water) or (03) 8781 7900 (PPWCMA).
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