Strong reponse to catchment review
Invasive plants and animals and a decline in biodiversity were major concerns highlighted by community members in a survey about regional catchment issues.
More than 200 people have provided input into how land, water and biodiversity in the Gippsland region should be managed over the next five years.
The first stage of a review into the West Gippsland regional catchment strategy has concluded following a community survey and series of discussions with focus groups and community members.
More than 165 individual survey responses were received, with focus group discussions and interviews providing additional detailed information on community views and perspectives.
The strategy will provide a road map for government agencies involved in managing the natural environment up to 2027.
West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority chief executive Martin Fuller said they were pleased so many people took the time to provide feedback.
“The survey period and focus groups coincided with not only end of year celebrations but the broader issue of COVID-19, so this is a pleasing initial response at what has been a difficult time for the community,” he said.
The focus of the initial survey was to highlight the issues in the six local areas of Gippsland.
Results indicate that invasive plants and animals and the decline in biodiversity are viewed as the greatest challenges for land, water and biodiversity in the region.
Climate change, resulting in the increased risk of fire, warmer and drier climate and more frequent or intense storms and floods were also identified as a key concern across Gippsland.
An important aspect of the strategy will be inclusion of strategic directions to inform government and community organisations over the next five years.
Survey results indicate that the top strategic actions for land, water and biodiversity for consideration are:
Controlling invasive plants and animals; Retaining and restoring native vegetation; Fencing waterways and native vegetation; and, Supporting agricultural practices that improve soil health, productivity and water use efficiency.
“What’s clear from the very early scanning of the survey results is that people are deeply connected to their local environment and want to see that environment be both protected and enhanced and managed sustainably,” Mr Fuller said.
“Whether that is the continued work to protect the Gippsland Lakes, sustainable use of our water resources or protection of some of those extra special places such as Wilson’s Prom or the Great Divide and foothills, there is both passion and determination to ensure those areas are preserved for future generations to enjoy.”
The next stage will be detailed conversations with traditional owners, government agencies and community partners before a draft regional catchment strategy is released later this year.