Calling all gardeners in the Margaret River Region to give nature a helping hand

Residents across the Margaret River region are mobilising as part of a new environmental initiative to help nature in their suburban backyards, bush blocks and rural properties.

Nature Conservation Margaret River Region this week launched its For Nature Landowner Stewardship Program. For Nature aims to inspire and educate local residents on practical ways to boost the conservation value of their garden, property and surrounding bushland – from knowing which species to plant to how to control weeds, attract native animals and improve biodiversity.

As part of the exciting new initiative, Nature Conservation will hold a series of hands-on workshops, garden tours and field trips throughout 2021 and beyond to connect people and share knowledge and resources.

Residents who sign up to the program at www.natureconservation.org.au/for-nature will also receive free advice from experts and a free equipment loan service to make conservation action a whole lot easier. And they may be eligible for cost-share incentives to carry out on-ground work including weed control or revegetation if their property falls within a high priority conservation zone.

“In a world facing environmental issues that can feel overwhelming, For Nature is a local, practical and hands-on way for everyone living or working in the Margaret River region to take meaningful action,” For Nature Program Officer Peta Lierich said.

She said about 70 per cent of land in the Margaret River region was privately-owned and For Nature was a way of finding strength in those numbers.

“We live in an altered landscape with a growing population, but there are lots of little things we can do to conserve what we have – that’s what this program is all about,” Ms Lierich said. “Because if there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s that the most impactful change doesn’t come from one person trying to do everything, but when everybody does their little bit to protect this very special part of the world.”

The South West of Australia is one of less than 40 biodiversity hotspots in the world – a classification reserved for threatened places that have at least 1500 endemic plants but have lost 70 per cent of original vegetation.

Ms Lierich said much of this environmental degradation was due to clearing for housing and development, but stressed there were many ways people could lessen their impact – starting at home. She encouraged everyone to get involved and register online.

“Registering with For Nature online will make it even easier to do your bit, and you’ll get regular updates about talks, activities, field visits and events,” she said. “Also check out the For Nature section of the Nature Conservation Margaret River Region website. It’s packed with practical info, knowledge and inspiration, including case studies on nature champions who have had success with tree planting, revegetation, weed control, providing habitat, restoring soil health, and protecting bushland and coastline.

The For Nature Landowner Stewardship Program is proudly supported by funding from the West Australian Government’s State Natural Resources Management Program, the Water Corporation and the Shire of Augusta Margaret River. To get involved, visit www.natureconservation.org.au/for-nature