Environment boost from levy
MORE than $1million has been made available to local community groups and Council projects in the 2012-2013 Environmental Levy programme to help enhance the area's natural attractions and habitats.
"This year there has been a particularly diverse range of projects that Council is very happy to be able to fund," Coffs Harbour Mayor, Councillor Keith Rhoades said.
"The range underlines how important this particular scheme has become as a means for community groups to work with Council in helping protect and improve our unique environment."
It is forecast that the Levy will generate $1,230,140 income in 2012-2013.
Including a contribution from the Water Fund of $50,000, it brings the total to $1,280,140.
In all, 44 submissions were made for grants to the Environmental Levy Working Group - a committee of community representatives, Councillors and Council staff - and 31 projects were able to be supported from the available funds.
THESE INCLUDED:
Yarrawarra Giriin Team - Bush Regeneration ($17,862).
EnviTE Environment is currently working with the Yarrawarra Aboriginal cooperation on a NSW Environmental Trust project at Red Rock training four workers in bush regeneration. This project will allow EnviTE Environment to support the Giriin Team outside Red Rock regenerating lands considered of having important cultural significance to the Yarrawarra mob within the Gumbaynggirr Nation.
Coffs Jetty Foreshore Reserve Follow-Up Chemical Weeding ($19,992).
The Jetty Dunecare Group has been allocated funds to appoint a qualified bush regeneration contractor to continue chemical weed eradication control along the 18 hectare area of the Jetty Foreshores.
Coffs Harbour Comprehensive Koala Plan of Management Review of Koala Populations in the Southern and Western Precincts ($75,000).
The project will assess koala populations, resource use and identify habitat in the Southern and Western Precincts of the Local Government Area.
Buluunggal (Coffs Creek) Interpretive Bush Tucker Trail ($9,900).
This project will provide an entrance sign at the Botanic Garden end of the Bush Tucker Trail, which runs along Coffs Creek from the Showground to the Botanic Gardens. Three additional interpretative signs, highlighting the value and benefits of protecting the estuary, will also be designed and installed.
Blueberries do not have to Make the Catchment Blue - Hearnes Lake Fish Friendly Farms ($11,000).
This project will fund education to help improve farm management practices in the Hearnes Lake catchment.
