Thousands of young Victorians are going out into the great outdoors to learn how to care for our land, waterways and native wildlife thanks to the Allan Labor Government.
Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos today awarded $450,000 in grants to support 111 projects across schools, Scouts, Guides and youth groups through the Victorian Junior Landcare and Biodiversity Grants program.
Grants of up to $5,000 were awarded for nature based educational activities that engage children in conservation and for on-ground projects that create, enhance or restore habitat for native plants and animals.
All projects funded provide an important opportunity to connect young people with nature by getting them out and experiencing firsthand how to care for our unique native wildlife.
Projects funded include creation of a native plant garden to attract butterflies, moths, and nectar-loving birds at St George Preca Primary School at Caroline Springs
Eltham East Primary School will improve habitat for the endangered Eltham Copper Butterfly as well as designing and installing signs to raise community awareness of ongoing habitat conservation.
The Woodend 1st Scouts will work with a local naturalist to learn about local wildlife before completing a nocturnal ranger-guided tour of Hanging Rock.
In the central west of the state the 1st Creswick Scout Group will participate in a long-term citizen science program to monitor the health of local wetlands and waterways via a waterbug survey.
Since 2018 the Victorian Junior Landcare grants have provided $3.2 million to 778 successful projects that combined have led to more than 57,000 young people being involved in environmental projects including 1500 excursions, 847 nest boxes installed and the planting of 124,000 indigenous plants.
For more information on Junior Landcare, visit juniorlandcare.org.au.
As stated by Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos
"These youth led programs are helping schools, guides and scout groups to learn about and restore local habitats across the state for our native plants and animals to thrive."
"From water bug surveys to nocturnal nature tours we're supporting the next generation to work together to protect and learn more about our wildlife and environment."
