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.<\/p>\n
The Corangamite Catchment Management Authority is asking private landholders to participate in the Grassy Eucalypt Woodlands Stewardship project.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
This project will protect and enhance these critically endangered communities and is supported by CCMA, through funding from the Australian Government\u2019s National Landcare Program.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
In addition, quality sites outside of the target area on the Victorian Volcanic Plains will be considered.<\/p>\n
\u201cExpressions of interest are now open, and we encourage private landholders to participate in the Grassy Eucalypt Woodlands Stewardship Program,\u201d CCMA project officer Jess Lill said.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe need their help to protect and enhance these critically endangered communities.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe 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.\u201d<\/p>\n
CCMA chief executive officer John Riddiford said the Grassy Eucalypt Woodlands Stewardship program would improve the condition of the critically endangered woodlands.<\/p>\n
\u201cAll private landholders with grassy eucalypt woodlands or natural temperate grasslands are encouraged to submit an expression of interest,\u201d Mr Riddiford said.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n