A three-year revegetation project will begin across the Coorong and Tatiara district this year, following the announcement of $100,000 in funding for the Coorong Tatiara Local Action Plan group (CTLAP).
More than 61,000 native plants will be planted across six sites totaling around 117 hectares, helping to restore critical native habitat and areas of refuge for native wildlife.
This project will deliver benefits to threatened species such as the Orange-Bellied Parrot, Mallee Fowl, Bush Stone Curlew, and the Red Tailed Black Cockatoo.
The project was awarded funding from the Australian Government’s 20 Million Trees Program, which as the title states, aims to see 20 million new trees planted across Australia by the year 2020.
CTLAP sustainability officer Samantha Blight said the project would utilise existing remnant vegetation to create “pathways” that provide a habitat for native wildlife, including those threatened species.
“The project will restore a large area of habitat across the district and private landholders will assist us by planting 61,180 native plants and trees on their properties,” Ms Blight says.
“It will also restore 34 hectares of Grey Box Grassy Woodland by planting understory trees, which will enhance and connect existing vegetation.”
An additional bonus is the thousands of native plants and trees required for the project will be specially grown by a Meningie nursery – offering a significant boost to a local business.
Between 2012 and 2016 the CTLAP was also awarded $3.6 million from the Australian Government for projects including establishing and reconnecting native ecosystems within the joint regions.
Federal Member for Barker Tony Pasin said the project would be of great benefit to the electorate.
“Many people in Barker are passionate about the environment and keen to help restore habitat that is threatened or supports threatened species,” Mr Pasin said.
Planning is now underway and site preparation will begin in coming months.