The Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority (CMA) is offering a unique opportunity for farmers that own a wetland (swamp, bog, billabong or marsh) in the plains of the Goulburn Broken Catchment.The Goulburn Broken CMA is calling for Expressions of Interest for the Plains Wetland Tender from private landholders that think they may have a wetland within the designated project area.
The Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority (CMA) is offering a unique opportunity for farmers that own a wetland (swamp, bog, billabong or marsh) in the plains of the Goulburn Broken Catchment.The Goulburn Broken CMA is calling for Expressions of Interest for the Plains Wetland Tender from private landholders that think they may have a wetland within the designated project area.
Under Plains Wetland Tender, the Goulburn Broken CMA offers the opportunity for financial payments to land managers to look after their wetlands through a competitive tender process. Landholders are able to nominate their preferred conservation management actions and price, and then successful contracts are awarded to those offering the best conservation value for money.
"The Goulburn Broken CMA recognises more than one third of Victoria's wetlands have disappeared since European settlement and some 80 per cent of wetlands remaining are in private ownership," explains Goulburn Broken CMA CEO Mr Chris Norman.
Described as the kidneys of our countryside, wetlands are one of the most biologically diverse and productive ecosystems on earth, but under increasing threat of pugging and grazing by stock, drainage, fertilizers, cropping, weeds and pest animals.
"Goulburn Broken CMA realises that protection and conservation of these vulnerable wetland areas takes both time and money," continues Mr Norman
"Conservation markets, such as the Plains Wetland Tender offer, are an opportunity to generate an alternative income from privately owned environmental assets as part of the farming business." says Mr Norman
Farmers who make a formal Expression of Interest will receive an obligation-free site assessment to determine the significance of the wetland, improvement opportunities and management advice.
Expressions of Interest will close when participation levels are considered sufficient, so register soon to avoid missing out.
For further information or to register your Expression of Interest contact
Kate Hill on 03 5820 1136 or email kateh@gbcma.vic.gov.au or go to www.gbcma.vic.gov.au . Plains Wetland Tender is funded by the Victorian State Government.
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