Land for Wildlife is a voluntary program which aims to encourage and assist private landholders to provide habitat for wildlife on their property. Properties in the program can be devoted to habitat protection or may be managed for other purposes, such as farming and agriculture, whilst incorporating nature conservation.
The retention of habitat for native wildlife can play a major role in sustainable land management. It can provide a natural means of pest control, help with erosion and salinity management and provide shade and shelter for livestock. Whilst National Parks and other reserves protect natural areas, they only cover four percent of Queensland.
The protection of habitat on private land can therefore play a critical role in helping maintain the survival of our native plants and animals. It can also contribute to providing habitat links between isolated pockets of vegetation or nature reserves.
BENEFITS OF JOINING THE PROGRAM
A visit will be made to properties nominated for inclusion in the Land for Wildlife program (subject to meeting certain criteria) and advice will be given on:
- How wildlife habitat can be integrated with other uses on private land, to benefit both the landowner and wildlife
- Management and protection of habitat areas
- Weed control
- Incentives and assistance available to landowners
Property assessments are a key component of Land for Wildlife. Individual property assessments provide landholders with personalised advice, feedback, support and encouragement.
Land for Wildlife also provides contact with like-minded landowners and offers a chance to share ideas and experiences through field days, workshops and other activities. Regular newsletters are also provided. The newsletters cover a wide variety of topics, including flora and fauna, weed control, pest animals, habitat management and revegetation. A Land for Wildlife sign is provided free of charge to registered landholders to acknowledge their contribution to wildlife conservation.
Sarina Landcare Catchment Management Association Inc. (SLCMA) delivers the Land for Wildlife Program (within the Sarina Catchment area), on behalf of Mackay Regional Council. Similarly, Pioneer Catchment and Landcare Group (PCL) delivers the program within the Pioneer Catchment area of Mackay Regional Council. The Land for Wildlife Program is funded by Mackay Regional Council through the Natural Environment Levy.
See below brochure for more information, including application form. To express your interest in the Land for Wildlife Program please send your completed application form to admin@sarinalandcare.org.au
