APPLICATIONS for grants to manage gorse are now open with the Victorian Gorse Taskforce.<\/p>\n
As part of the VGT\u2019s community small grants program, chair Ron Cosgrave said property managers, their neighbours and Landcare groups are eligible for up $5000 to treat the harmful weed.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe VGT grant funding is about helping those who haven\u2019t received past incentives, have old stands of gorse and need more support,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
\u201cIn a way it\u2019s like seed funding, a way to help landholders get the ball rolling in managing gorse.\u201d<\/p>\n
As well as attracting foxes, cats and rabbits who can harm native animals the stubborn weed can last decades on land and endanger homes, according to Mr Cosgrave.<\/p>\n
\u201cGorse infestations can also reduce land value dramatically and can promote a significant fire risk to your property.\u201d<\/p>\n
Applicants must commit to a three-year voluntary agreement to maintain gorse as part of the grant, and affected people not in a Landcare group can join other landholders to submit a project for consideration.<\/p>\n