The Port Phillip and Westernport Catchment Management Authority (PPWCMA) has announced grants totaling $410,000 for 59 community groups in and around Melbourne. The grants are part of the Victorian Government’s statewide program of $3.383 million Victorian Landcare Grants and $600,000 25th Anniversary of Landcare commemorative grants.
The PPWCMA Community Grants funding is provided by the Victorian Government and enables local landcare groups to undertake projects that will benefit the health of the region’s land, water and biodiversity.
In total, 30 project grants, 16 25th Anniversary of Landcare grants and 33 group support grants were awarded, with some groups securing multiple grants. The Community Grants assists Landcare groups and networks to build their own capacity as well as improve the environmental condition of region. The 25th Anniversary of Landcare grants will allow some of these groups to incorporate commemorative activities with their on ground works.
The PPWCMA’s Strategy & Investment Leader, Stephen Thuan said “Providing funding to support the valuable work the Landcare and Community Groups is vital. These grants enable groups to undertake projects important in their local area while contributing to more significant outcomes across the region”.
Typically, the type of activities these groups undertake include weed removal, planting of indigenous species and the fencing of native vegetation to protect it from stock.
“Landcare is not just a farming phenomenon – today the future of the environment is in everyone’s hands, including people who live in urban areas, local companies and school groups; anyone can volunteer their time and energy for a better environment,” Mr Thuan explained.
For information on Landcare groups in your region, visit the Victorian Landcare Gateway website at www.landcarevic.net.au or contact the PPWCMA on 8781 7900.
Click here for a list of projects funded in 2011/12 through Victorian Landcare Grants & 25th Anniversary of Landcare Grants. |