A landscape plan to protect Canberra’s newest nature reserve and engage the community in the importance of the Territory’s grasslands is now open for consultation.
Announced by the Minister for the Environment and Heritage, Mick Gentleman and MLA for Yerrabi, Suzanne Orr, the consultation affords people in Franklin and the surrounding area the opportunity to have their say on how Canberra’s newest reserve should be managed.
“The plan outlines how we will manage on-site activity, visitor access and infrastructure in the reserve while protecting its unique grassland values,” Mr Gentleman said.
“Franklin Grasslands is home to many critically endangered fauna, such as the Golden Sun Moth and the Striped Legless Lizard, as well as the Yellow Box and Red Gum Grassy Woodland and Natural Temperate Grassland,” he said.
Mr Gentleman said the location of the grasslands, in the heart of Gungahlin, presented challenges for environmental protection as well as opportunities for community engagement and education.
Ms Orr said the Grasslands were an important part of the Franklin landscape and encouraged the Yerrabi community to get involved.
“We are asking the community how they would like to celebrate this important landscape, and how we can help Canberrans connect with the site’s unique natural values,” Ms Orr said.
“The draft plan identifies the high value conservation areas and suggested infrastructure for visitors to learn about the grasslands,” she said.
“An open day at the Franklin Grasslands on 6 September will have the draft plan on display and rangers will run guided walks to help the community explore and understand the site.”
Ms Orr said consultation on the landscape plan was open until 25 September.
The 33-page plan, as well as information on how to comment on it can be accessed at this PS News link.
