Please note: this is an archived news article release

This article was published on Wednesday, 14 April, 2021. The information contained within may be out of date or inaccurate. News articles and media releases older than 60 days are archived for future reference.

Hopes to improve native vegetation left in the municipality

This vegetation is generally in a poor ecological state and under constant threat from further degradation. The native fauna dependant on this vegetation for habitat is also under significant threat.

The municipality’s remnant native vegetation has significant environmental and cultural value from the larger expanses of vegetation along our waterways, to smaller patches on private land, and particularly the scattered, isolated paddock trees, this vegetation is contributing to the environmental health of our municipality and requires improved protection.

Our native vegetation is very sensitive and needs to be cared for and nurtured. Council require landholders to be vigilant when using chemicals on properties ensuring that it does not spread onto roadsides which will have an environmental impact. In accordance with Agriculture Victoria landholders are required to obtain a permit before removing native vegetation, the use of chemicals and prior to making any land changes or developments, landholders will risk being prosecuted if neglecting to obtain the relevant permit.

In the hope to improve native vegetation within the municipality, Greater Shepparton City Council are inviting schools and community groups to take part in the ‘One Tree Per Child’ project, a global project that aims to plant one native indigenous plant for every child under 18 years old between 2017 and 2021.

Council will provide free indigenous plants, guards, stakes and weedmats along with planting equipment if required to help reach the target of 24,400. The program commenced in 2016, and has seen a total of 90,000 trees planted in Greater Shepparton with a majority being indigenous shrubs and groundcovers that have been cleared from the region, the restoration project will provide habitat for woodland birds and other native fauna.

Let’s plant a tree for every child and enjoy watching them grow as our children grow.