Weeding out threats to native habitat

The Minister for Environment announced $1.7 million for the Peri-urban Weed Management Partnership Program (PWMP program), funding land managers to partner with Traditional Owners and local communities to manage high-risk weeds at targeted sites on Melbourne’s fringe.

Invasive weeds can have a devastating impact on the ability of native plants to thrive and provide critical habitat. Weeds can also have a negative impact on land productivity, water quality, tourism, fire risk and visual amenity.

A total of 9 grants have been awarded to 7 local councils, Parks Victoria (French Island) and the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation. The grants will help preserve and restore habitat for native species across more than 5000 hectares, with co-contributions from project partners providing an additional $4 million to deliver the projects.

Five projects will be delivered in partnership with the Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation and one with the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation, which will also lead a project to restore habitat at Barak Creek – adjoining Healesville Sanctuary – for the critically endangered Broad-Toothed Rat.

In Cardinia Shire Council, removal of weeds along Cardinia Creek and adjacent reserves will help to protect local plant and animal species, including the recently re-introduced – and critically endangered – Helmeted Honeyeater.

At Nillumbik Shire, the Watsons Creek Conservation Partnership will help protect more than 1000 hectares of intact native vegetation, including habitat critical for species such as the Little Pink Spider-orchid, Matted Flax-lily and Round-leaf Pomaderris.

Others to receive funding include:

• Hobsons Bay City Council
• City of Casey
• Kingston City Council
• Mornington Peninsula Shire
• Yarra Ranges Council.

The PWMP program is part of the Victorian Government’s ongoing investment to support the implementation of Protecting Victoria’s Environment – Biodiversity 2037. It is one of a suite of programs funding actions to support biodiversity and threatened species.

For more information, visit: Peri-urban Weed Management Partnerships.