Gippsland Water and the West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority have teamed up to help protect threatened species through the delivery of a specialised project in Victoria’s east.
Co-funded by Gippsland Water, WGCMA and the state government, the Enhancing Biodiversity at Dutson Downs project launched in 2019 and includes the control of predators and pests across the 5000 hectare location.
The project aims to assist the prevalence of threatened species, including the New Holland Mouse, the Green and Gold Bell Frog, as well as a collection of native plants.
Aside from protecting native animals and plants, Gippsland Water Managing Director Sarah Cumming said the project also aims to benefit the broader biodiversity of the Gippsland region.
"This project is all about protecting rare native animals and plants through pest management, as part of our commitment to maintaining the biodiversity of the region," she said.
"We expect the significant reduction in pest animal activity achieved by this program will have major benefits across our property and beyond.
"This includes the neighbouring coastal park, Gippsland Lakes and the many farms nearby. The data we gather from this project will also be used by our environmental scientists to plan future conservation projects around the property."
Cumming said the partnership aims to achieve a catchment environment in which native flora and fauna can thrive, now and in future.
"Foxes and rabbits are introduced species which prey on or compete for food with native animals such as the endangered New Holland Mouse," she said.
"If allowed to reach high numbers, these pest animals can wreak havoc on our local ecosystem, decimating native plant and animal populations.
"That's why this project is so important not only now, but to preserve the unique ecology of our region for future generations."
by Cecilia Harris
