From Friday 30 April, the community will have the opportunity to give feedback on Council’s
draft Koala Management Strategy, with the document set to go on public
exhibition for 28 days.
The
draft strategy aims to identify key koala habitats on public and private land,
and what can be done to protect the species and their habitats moving forward.
The plan outlines threats, and how critical parcels of land can be preserved to
allow for population growth and recovery. The plan also recommends management
strategies for planning frameworks.
Council’s
General Manager James Roncon said having a Koala Management Strategy in place
is vital to protecting and expanding the population of this iconic native
species.
“The
Armidale Regional LGA is prime koala habitat, so it’s very important we do
everything we can to protect the population,” said Mr Roncon.
“This
strategy gives us a streamlined approach to koala conservation that will ensure
the longevity of the species, which is especially important following the
bushfires that wiped out a large number of koala populations across the
country.”
The
strategy was funded by a $23,000 grant from the Department of Planning,
Industry and Environment (DPIE), and was developed by Ecosure Pty Ltd in
consultation with the DPIE, Armidale Regional Council, Southern New England
Landcare and the Northern Tablelands Conservation Project Officer.
“This
project came about due to the fact that the Northern Tablelands has been
identified as an important area for the future of koalas,” said Mr Roncon.
“There
are several koala populations that are not subject to the same human
population, development and climate pressures as those in coastal areas so it’s
crucial that we acknowledge the importance of our region when it comes to
protecting the species.”
The
community is being encouraged to have input on the draft strategy, and can do
so by visiting Council’s Your Say
website to view the document and complete a submission.
After
the 28 day consultation period, a report collating the feedback will be
presented to Council.
Published on 29 Apr 2021