15 May 2015

A survey of Landcare and farming groups in the Wheatbelt has revealed at least three quarters of members thought they were making a difference to the environment.
 
The one-off National Landcare Survey was developed and funded by the Federal Government’s National Landcare program and organised through the regional Landcare facilitators in each region.
 
In the Wheatbelt, 29 land care groups and 10 grower groups took part.
 
Wheatbelt NRM’s Regional Landcare Facilitator Leigh Whisson said 65 per cent of respondents thought the Landcare movement was mostly successful.
 
“The biggest concerns these groups had centred on repairing land degradation, revegetation, sustainable food production and weed and pest control.” Leigh Whisson said.
 
“But the top challenge facing the groups was a lack of funds for on ground works followed by lack of community interest."
 
The survey also highlighted the importance of regional groups like Wheatbelt NRM in supporting Landcare groups through funding and strategy.
 
“Regional NRM groups were ranked the most important funding sources and over three quarters of all Landcare and farming groups surveyed had read their regions NRM plan.”
 
“By groups aligning their activities with the Regional NRM they are contributing to the regions overall NRM strategic objectives and priorities.” Leigh Whisson said.
 
Using the information from the surveys, the Federal Government will complete a report on the nation’s key Landcare outcomes.
 
To view Wheatbelt NRM's Regional NRM Strategy for the Avon River Basin please click here.