Restoring native vegetation and planting corridors.
With Hastings Landcare’s support, seven landholders in the Hastings have undertaken environmental restoration works on their properties as part of the Landscape Links Project. Each project created or protected a wildlife corridor that connected existing core habitat. The aim of the project was to enable wildlife to move more freely about the landscape to find food, shelter and a mate. Some animals shy away from crossing open areas. Planting corridors, or removing heavy weed infestations from corridors, allows for safe passage of wildlife. The project was a collaboration between Landcare Staff and Volunteers, Landholders, The Nature School, Birpai Local Aboriginal Lands Council, Contractors and Local Land Services.
The Jones’s became involved in the project because the farming property they recently brought was bare of trees. They were not sure where to start so sought support via Landcare. Bernie Jones from The Hatch Farm says, “Landcare supported us through all stages of the grant. They came out initially to get a feel for the property and what tree species were needed. They helped us with the LLS grant application, with seed collection, propagating seedlings, and even putting together two Community Tree Planting Days. At one stage, we had close to 50 school students and 15 Landcare Volunteers helping us plant out 1000 trees in one day! We are so grateful for their assistance and we look forward to watching the trees grow and seeing more fauna come to the regenerated areas”.
Landholders like the Jones’s who are passionate about biodiversity and wildlife can make a huge impact on their land and the local environment. Landcare Representative Robyn Camozzato says, “ at Landcare we want to support as many people as possible and continue to make a positive impact on our environment. We are happy to come and visit all landholders that would need advice or help on environmental issues, like connecting habitats.” Landcare has the connections and partnerships to create impactful collaborations and bigger local environmental impact.
Project achievements:
Hastings Landcare Inc exists tosupports people caring for the environment, farmland and natural resources of our local region. We support Landcare Groups, rural landholders and the wider Hastings community. Landcare is for everyone and open to everyone. Contact us if you’d like to be involved!
The Landscape Links project was funded by NCLLS and NSW Government.
