This ongoing project led by the Regional Agriculture and Landcare Facilitator is supporting farmers in the Port Phillip and Western Port region to document the biodiversity assets on their farm and increase their eco-credentials.

A template has been developed to step then through how to do a stocktake of what natural assets already exist on their farm. They will come out with a custom farm biodiversity plan which can be used in grants applications and can be incorporated into industry environmental assurance programs such as Enviroveg and Entwine.

This project was originally led by the Port Phillip & Westernport CMA. The Port Phillip & Westernport CMA is integrating into Melbourne Water on 1 January 2022 and from this date Melbourne Water will be the delivery agency. 

Why this project is important 

Farm biodiversity is a fundamental practice for farmers implementing any method of sustainable or regenerative agriculture. Biodiversity creates a resilient ecosystem and there is strong evidence that species diversity supports a productive and resilient farm enterprise

With eco-credentials and land stewardship becoming more accountable for recognition of good farm practices, farmers are often required to document the biodiversity assets on their farm and create a farm biodiversity plan

Farm biodiversity plan template

The below template and supporting documents will step you through how to do a stocktake of what natural assets already exist on your farm. This information will then be inputted into the biodiversity plan template, which you can save and use as needed.

It is recommended that you read the guide first and then refer to it when completing the template. The below video also steps you through the template and things you need to consider.

Further information

In you have any questions about farm biodiversity planning or the template contact:

Karen Thomas
Regional Agriculture and Landcare Facilitator
Email: karen.thomas@melbournewater.com.au
Phone: 0427 480 170