The Department of Agriculture and Water Resources has launched a new program to put farmers in touch with volunteers who will plant trees and assist with other environmental work around farms in an effort to make the properties more environmentally sustainable.
Minister for Agriculture, David a Littleproud said $1.56 million had been allocated across three projects around Landcare and natural resource management.
“Greening Australia will receive $550,000 for two projects and the Government has allocated $350,000 for a webpage putting farmers in contact with volunteers,” Mr Littleproud said.
“Connecting environmentally-minded farmers with volunteers willing to help is just common sense.”
He said $200,000 would also be allocated so that farmers who requested it could trial drones to scout for good spots to plant trees on farms, and to monitor the health of young trees.
The Minister said a separate measure would involve an additional $550,000 boost for Conservation Volunteers Australia.
“This will give Landcare Communities management and administrative support so Landcare staff can get out of the office and get their hands dirty,” Mr Littleproud said.
“A third grant of $460,000 will go to NRM Regions Australia so it can get more farmers certified for their sustainable farming practices.”
He said this would help put farmers in a position to demand a higher price for their produce in Australia and overseas.
