THE conservation efforts of Western Australia’s farmers are set to be strengthened through a new partnership between WWF-Australia and Wheatbelt NRM.
WWF and Wheatbelt NRM will jointly fund a Wheatbelt-based officer to provide on-the-ground support for landholders to protect important native vegetation and habitat for threatened species in Southwest Australia.
The partnership was launched yesterday in Northam.
“This area of Western Australia is home to a unique and rich variety of native plants and animals,” said WWF-Australia CEO Dermot O’Gorman.
“This includes threatened species such as the black-flanked rock wallaby, the chuditch and the western spiny-tailed skink.
“Unfortunately, there are a number of factors that are putting their survival at risk. Environmental challenges like rising saline water tables, exotic weeds and feral animals can cause woodlands to degrade, as can outdated farming practices.
“Farmers have such a strong connection to the land and they are key to protecting what’s left of the Wheatbelt’s native plants and animals.
“This new partnership is an important step on the road to Southwest Australia’s biodiversity. We are excited to continue working alongside a strong, community-based organisation like Wheatbelt NRM.”
Wheatbelt NRM spokesperson Rebecca Palumbo said: “Wheatbelt NRM has been working closely with WWF-Australia for over 10 years assisting the community to conserve their important natural environment.
“Wheatbelt NRM is very excited to formalise our relationship through a jointly funded position that will continue to support the Wheatbelt community in their conservation efforts.”
Former WWF-Australia employee Mike Griffiths will take up the new position.
Ms Palumbo said Mike has extensive knowledge of Southwest Australian biodiversity and has strong relationships with the farmers of the WA Wheatbelt.
“Mike is an amazing resource for the Wheatbelt community and Wheatbelt NRM is very lucky to have him join our team and share his expertise with our community,” she said.
Source: WWF-Australia
