THE CAPE to Cape Catchment Group has received over $10,000 in funding thanks to Community Groundworks Grants.
The funds are part of the $164,000 total that is going towards local Landcare and environmental groups.
The South West Catchments Council is delivering this grants program through funding from the Australian Government’s National Landcare Programme.
Some 15 projects are being supported including threatened species habitat protection, weed management and improving soil health on agricultural land.
Cape to Cape Catchment will be using the funds for works along the Margaret River.
Group Coordinator, Caroline Hughes believes the funds could make a huge difference to local waterways.
“With the help of local volunteers we are reducing the population of the introduced Smooth Marron in the upper pools of the Margaret River to protect remaining populations of the critically endangered Hairy Marron,” Ms Hughes said.
“The volunteers involved in the project are learning new skills getting involved in real conservation action to protect the unique aquatic species of the Margaret River.”
Community Groundworks offers grants of between $5,000 and $15,000 for local communities to protect biodiversity, support the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices and increase the knowledge and skills of the community in Landcare and NRM.
Applications for Round Two of the program have recently closed but further rounds will be announced soon.
For more information about Community Groundworks Grants, visit swccnrm.org.au or call Rebecca Walker on 9881 0202.