Private landholders who live in the central Loddon catchment have until 11 September to apply for funding from the North Central Catchment Management Authority (CMA) to protect Box–Gum and Grey Box Grassy Woodlands on their properties under the Box-Gum Grassy Woodlands project. 

North Central CMA project officer Robyn McKay explains that these woodlands in the central Loddon area contain White Box, Yellow Box or Grey Box trees, or can be a mixture of the species.  Derived grasslands, where the trees have been removed but the grassy understorey remains, may also be part of the nationally threatened Box-Gum or Grey Box Grassy Woodland ecological community.  

“Grassy Woodlands characterise our Australian landscape, but we have very few of them left. Many of the remnant patches are isolated, and have no regeneration to replace the old trees. Managing the grazing pressure or adding revegetation corridors to link up patches can help to look after woodlands for the next generation. This project is about supporting landholders to do that.” 

“Grassy Woodlands are habitat for many fauna species too – from insects, bats and small birds that predate farm pests to rare species such as Bush-stone Curlews and Swift Parrots – so it is important to protect them,” said Mrs McKay. 

“Funding is available through the project for on-ground works, such as fencing and revegetation works on suitable sites,” she explained.  “Landcare groups and Networks may also apply on behalf of landholders, who often struggle to find the time.”  

The project is supported by the North Central CMA, through funding from the Australian Government’s Caring for our Country.  

Interested landholders or Landcare groups can obtain further information, including a fact sheet to assist in identifying the vegetation communities, by contacting the North Central CMA on (03) 5448 7124, or by visiting http://www.nccma.vic.gov.au/Biodiversity/Conservation_and_Habitat/index.aspx   

Applications must be submitted to the North Central CMA by 11 September 2012.

For further information please contact: 

Communications Officer, North Central CMA
PO Box 18, Huntly VIC 3551
t: 03 5448 7124
e: info@nccma.vic.gov.au