The Port Phillip and Westernport CMA is pleased to announce support to 60 community groups within the region who, this year, have received a $272,900 share of the Victorian Government’s $3.8M Second Generation Landcare Grants.
The grants are run in cooperation by the Port Phillip and Westernport CMA and Melbourne Water and are directed to finance projects that will benefit the health of the region’s land and waterways.
This year, the Community Grants were hotly contended with groups and networks from throughout the Port Phillip and Western Port region applying the funding. The Community Grants assists landcare groups and networks to build their own capacity as well as improve the environmental condition of region.
21 groups within the region received project grants with an additional 40 group support and/or promotional and development grants awarded.
Landcare is a way of addressing environmental problems, building the long-term viability of agriculture and making the most of the enterprise and energy of the volunteers.
Port Phillip and Westernport CMA CEO David Buntine says community groups continue to provide a valuable environmental contribution through their involvement in the PPWCMA Community Grants.
“Successful projects have been chosen this year according to the natural resource priorities for the region. Typically, the type of activities these groups undertake include weed removal, planting of indigenous species and the fencing of native vegetation to protect it from stock.
“The volunteers know where the problems are, they are willing to get stuck into the job, and funding from the State Government can put the tools and supplies in their hands.
“Landcare is not just a farming phenomenon – today the future of the environment is in everyone’s hands, including people who live in towns, local companies and school groups, anyone can volunteer their time and energy for a better environment,” Mr Buntine explained.
For information on Landcare groups in your region, visit the Victorian Landcare Gateway website at www.landcarevic.net.au or contact the Port Phillip and Westernport CMA on 8781 7900.
PROJECTS FUNDED IN 2009/10 THROUGH SECOND GENERATION LANDCARE GRANTS
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