City’s 2030 nature plan

THE City of Greater Geelong (CoGG) is preparing a 2030 plan to restore, protect and manage the region’s natural assets and enhance wild species habitat.

As the city prepares the Plan for Nature it’s hosting a variety of in-person and on-line community forums and has set up a Have Your Say page online that includes a survey and allows people to share their ideas for nature and talk about the wild places they enjoy.

The city said that much progress has been made since its first Biodiversity Strategy in 2003 estimated that only five per cent of the region’s former vegetation remained and that much of it was often severely degraded.

It estimates that three times more land has since been protected and managed for nature, and that extensive pest plant and animal programs are now in place alongside restoration programs beside waterways, but challenges persist.

“The city’s native vegetation, habitat and biodiversity is under increasing pressure from threats associated with climate change, pest plants and animals, population growth and changes to land use,” a city statement said.

Councillor Peter Murrihy encouraged community participation in the process to help realise the 30-year vision “for a clever and creative future in greater Geelong which recognises the uniqueness and significance of our natural environments.”

“We’re really fortunate to live in a region that is so rich and diverse in terms of natural habitats and biodiversity,” he said.

“Now we have an opportunity to play our part by ensuring those habitats are protected, restored and managed for future generations to enjoy.”

To participate in CoGG’s Plan for Nature visit: yoursay.geelongaustralia.com.au/planfornature