MidCoast Council is inviting members of the community to share their views on the draft Biodiversity Framework, a road map for conserving natural heritage across the region.
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It's no secret the Mid Coast is rich in natural treasures, from the world heritage listed rainforests of Barrington Tops National Park, to shorebirds that visit annually from Alaska, the endangered Manning River turtle, stunning waterways, coastlines, forests and mountains.
All of this biodiversity plays a vital role in supporting the community's wellbeing.
It provides clean air and water, healthy soils, wild places, recreational opportunities, supports our economy and provides us with the lifestyles we love.
"A plan for biodiversity is needed more than ever, with increasing pressures on our natural environment, including drought, fire and floods," he said.
It has been developed with input from a range of stakeholders, special interest groups and the community during a consultation phase last year.
The draft framework acknowledges the importance of Aboriginal custodianship and culture knowledge through practices such as cultural burning, and addresses community priorities such as supporting private land conservation, wildlife corridor strategies, education and awareness, building resilience and nature-based recreation.
It will complement a suite of other plans including the Climate Change Policy, Rural and Greening Strategies, and Catchment and Estuary plans.
Input on the draft framework can be provided by taking a short on-line poll, completing a longer survey or making a submission, before the feedback period closes on Tuesday, June 8.
To find out more about biodiversity in our region, view the draft Biodiversity Framework, and to have your say, visit the MidCoast Council have your say page.
Drop-in sessions also will be held during the exhibition period:
- Taree Central Shopping Centre (next to Big W), 2-5pm on Wednesday, May 5
- Stocklands Forster (opposite Sanity), 2-5 pm on Thursday, May 13
- Gloucester library (Denison Street), 11am -2pm on Thursday, May 20
- Tea Gardens library (Marine Drive) or riverfront (weather dependent), 11am-2pm on Monday, May 24