COMMUNITY volunteer groups will be able to apply for funding towards restoration projects along the Swan and Canning rivers under a new State Government grants scheme.
The $900,000 Community Rivercare Program aims to improve water quality and conservation of wildlife and enhance recreation areas, including Bardon Park in Maylands, over a three-year period.
The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions is seeking expressions of interest to deliver projects including foreshore restoration and riverbank erosion, reduction of nutrient inflows, native waterbird conservation, native fish habitat protection and restocking of native recreational fish.
Get in front of tomorrow's news for FREE
Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion.
READ NOWEnvironment Minister Stephen Dawson said state and local governments, community groups and the public played a part in maintaining the health of the rivers.
“I am very keen as the Minister of Environment to ensure that we are protecting our unique environment for future generations which will be one of my focuses,” he said.
“One of those priorities will be the Swan Canning river system and we are very lucky to have a fantastic river like this but it is not without its challenges.
“The Swan Canning River Park is an iconic part of Perth’s environmental and social landscape – it truly is the heart of the city.”
City of Bayswater natural area officer Alex Devine said weeding was a major priority at Bardon Park, which was an important reserve in providing habitat and removing nutrients as they come off the coast and into the Swan River.
The first round of grants opened yesterday with $300,000 to be allocated annually from 2018-19 to 2020-21.
MORE: One lucky WA punter $2 million richer after Lotto win
MORE: Police seeking help after Southern River teenager approached by unknown man