New grants are now available to help Gympie region nature refuge landholders to undertake projects to protect and enhance the conservation value of their properties.
Environment Minister Meaghan Scanlon said nature refuge landholders could apply for a share of $500,000 under round five of the Queensland Government’s Nature Refuge Landholder Grants Program.
“Eligible landholders can apply for grants of between $2500 and $20,000 to undertake on-ground protects that will protect or improve the important natural and cultural values of their nature refuge,” Ms Scanlon said.
“Projects may include weeding and revegetation activities, pest animal and plant management, or the installation of fencing to protect ecologically significant areas.
“There are 542 nature refuges right across the state covering over 4.4 million hectares – almost a third of Queensland’s total protected area.
“Queensland has the largest private protected area network in Australia protecting a diversity of ecosystems and vulnerable species.”
Ms Scanlon said since the Nature Refuge Landholder Grants Program started in 2017, more than $1.46 million had been provided to 253 landholders to allow them to carry out important environmental and conservation work on their properties.
“Nature refuge landholders are dedicated to preserving their land for future generations and play an important role in supporting the Queensland Government’s commitment to grow and better manage the protected areas in Queensland,” Minister Scanlon said.
“These landholders are doing a fantastic job and are helping to ensure the ongoing success of Queensland’s Private Protected Area Program.”
The grants are open to eligible landholders with an existing nature refuge on their properties.
Applications for this round of funding close on Monday 6 December 2021.
Further information on how to apply for a Nature Refuge Landholder Grant is available at www.qld.gov.au.
