Two brigades in the Dandenong Ranges have been successful in securing funding for fuel reduction and weed management.
By Sharon Merritt, Vegetation Management Officer
The Port Phillip and Westernport Catchment Management Authority is coordinating an exciting new program, designed to improve the biodiversity of the Dandenong Ranges while reducing the bushfire risk.
This program brings together environmentally-focused organisations, community groups, Australian Government, Victorian Government, councils and agencies to find solutions and take action.
The Dandenong Ranges Wildlife Recovery, Weed Management and Fuel Reduction Program, is funded by the Australian Government’s National Landcare Programme which is providing $3 million over three years. A program of this scale in the Dandenongs requires collaboration, coordination and community participation.
Belgrave Heights & South brigade was successful in its expression of interest to receive $95,000 for extensive planned burns across multiple privately-managed properties including establishing control lines and weed management after burns and along control lines.
Macclesfield brigade was successful in obtaining $15,000 over two years to continue mosaic burning over 100 hectares, including significant weed reduction and control line work.
Brigades will work together with Landcare, council, private landholders and contractors to achieve fuel reduction with increased biodiversity and reduced weeds. Some of the work will include post-burn monitoring and a case study for future reference.
Author: Allan Budziarski