The importance of our natural environment was highlighted at the 23 August Council Meeting where the Draft Nature Plan; Protecting our Biodiversity Assets 2022-2032, was issued to the community for feedback.
Yarra Ranges Mayor Cr Child said as custodians of this beautiful land we all have a part to play in protecting and enhancing our biodiversity. That's why we want to hear from as many people as possible over the next eight weeks during our consultation phase.
"When developing our most recent Council Plan, community members raised protecting biodiversity and our environment as a priority.
"Across our municipality, there are many passionate and dedicated volunteer groups, working tirelessly to care for, preserve and enhance our natural environment. We're now calling on all members of our community to take part in protecting our environment and to let us know if we have the right plan and actions to take us into the next 10 years," said Cr Child.
The Draft Nature Plan; Protecting our Biodiversity Assets 2022-2032, outlines plans, goals, actions and targets. The key themes highlighted in the plan have been identified through science and evidence. These themes in turn helped us develop our targets, and the actions we'll take to meet them.
A key step in achieving the vision is by working together with our community to develop a Biolinks Plan for our municipality. This will mean that we can start re-connecting habitat through the landscape.
Council also recognises the important role we play in leading by example, with our own management of our natural environment both now and into the future. We're keenly aware that decisions should always balance the needs of the environment with sustainable growth.
Where we work in the environment, we want our decisions to be based on expert analysis, researched information and the view of delivering for our community and our environment.
Much of our work focuses on mitigating threats - including habitat loss, pest animals and weed invasion, development pressure, stormwater impacts, bushfire and extreme weather events, many of which will increase in a changing climate.
Cr Child said, "Expanding our popular Ribbons of Green and Gardens 4 Wildlife programs will provide our community with easy access to education, advice, support and encouragement to get involved.
"Embedding Indigenous cultural practices into our bushland management program will foster a deeper connection to country and community. We look forward to hearing from our community on the draft Nature Plan, and working with our community, our groups and volunteers to make our natural environment the best it can be for decades to come."
