Funding boost for biodiversity projects in the Limestone Coast

The Limestone Coast Landscape Board has just awarded funding to kick start projects that support our landscapes biodiversity such as establishing shelterbelts, and protecting remnant vegetation and wetlands.

The Habitat Conservation Incentive Grants of more than $50,000 have been awarded to successful landholders across the region to undertake onground projects that contribute to conserving and enhancing our region’s biodiversity. Acting manager land and biodiversity Mark de Jong said it was pleasing to see so many landholders apply for the Habitat Conservation Incentive Grants.

“The grant program has been a fantastic initiative to help landholders improve habitat for native plants and animals and increase productivity on their farms,” he said.

The Limestone Coast Landscape Board has supported funding for nine projects across the Limestone Coast region with over thirty hectares of on-ground works to be completed.

Grants were awarded following a competitive process, with successful applicant’s demonstrating the best outcomes for biodiversity and co-benefits to productivity. Wetland restoration ecologist Dr Emma Maxwell (pictured) said working with applicants through the three stage approval process had enhanced relationships while developing some really valuable projects for our region.

Projects include the planting of shelterbelts, fencing to protect remnant vegetation to wetlands, strategic weed control to protect high value habitat and revegetation to connect patches of native vegetation.

The positive impact these projects will have on our landscape will be of huge benefit to the region and the LC Landscape Board look forward to seeing the outcomes in the coming years.

If you would like more information about Habitat Conservation Incentive Grants or to be notified of the next round of funding please email [email protected] or visit www.landscape. sa.gov.au/lc for more information.