Grassland conservation project needs landowners’ help

LESS than five per cent of grassy eucalypt woodlands and native grasslands of the Victorian Volcanic Plains remain in Victoria, and landowners are being invited to help reverse this trend.

The Corangamite Catchment Management Authority (CCMA) is asking private landholders to participate in the Grassy Eucalypt Woodlands Stewardship project.

Those with grassy eucalypt woodlands or natural temperate grasslands of the Victorian Volcanic Plains on their property are invited to submit an expression of interest to participate in the project.

This project will protect and enhance these critically endangered communities and is supported by CCMA, through funding from the Australian Government’s National Landcare Program.

The program targets the region east from Shelford to the western flank of the You Yangs, to Inverleigh in the south and Meredith in the north.

In addition, quality sites outside of the target area on the Victorian Volcanic Plains will be considered to take part in the project.

“Expressions of interest are now open, and we encourage private landholders to participate in the Grassy Eucalypt Woodlands Stewardship Program,” CCMA project officer Jess Lill said.

“We need their help to protect and enhance these critically endangered communities.

“The protection of these woodlands and grasslands is so critical for the survival of many plants and animals unique to the Victorian Volcanic Plains, like the common dunnart, golden sun moth and striped legless lizard.”

CCMA chief executive officer John Riddiford said the Grassy Eucalypt Woodlands Stewardship program would improve the condition of the critically endangered woodlands.

“All private landholders with grassy eucalypt woodlands or natural temperate grasslands are encouraged to submit an expression of interest,” Mr Riddiford said.

Sites will be assessed based on conservation values and value for money, and successful landholders will be given the opportunity to enter an agreement with CCMA to receive financial incentives to support the delivery of priority actions.

To register, head to the CCMA’s website.