Landholders interested in being supported to improve the active management of their farm forests for long-term sustainability have until 15 November to lodge an expression of interest to take part in the NSW Forest Stewardship Pilot. Source: Timberbiz
The pilot is an Australian-first that will pair landholders with expert advice and incentives, including funding of up to $60,000, to help overcome barriers to active forest management and improve on-ground outcomes.
The pilot will be run by Local Land Services and overseen by an independent panel of forestry and natural resource management experts.
Local Land Services Manager Private Native Forestry, Jeff Boyd, said the pilot is an important move towards a modernised and integrated stewardship model in NSW.
“Primary producers in regional NSW are some of our greatest environmental stewards, and by supporting farmers to improve the management of their forests we can help ensure the benefits farm forestry provides will continue for generations to come,” Mr Boyd said.
Mr Boyd said this is the first initiative of its kind in Australia to actively recognise and support farmers to manage the environmental services and values that come from farm forestry.
“We know landholders often face barriers to engaging in farm forestry, whether that be knowledge gaps, legacy forest management issues or associated cost burdens of management,” Mr Boyd said.
“This pilot is the first of its kind in Australia to recognise the multiple benefits of farm forestry and address these known barriers by matching landholders with expert advice and incentives.
“By incentivising active management, this program can help drive best practice and positive outcomes, such as fewer weeds, shelter for stock, habitat for wildlife, better pollination and much more.
“Importantly, this program will drive and facilitate improved management activities and outcomes in farm forests that in turn benefit the environment and regional communities.”
If you have questions about the pilot or any ideas how this pilot could benefit your operation, you can discuss this with a Local Land Services Private Native Forestry Officer by calling 1300 795 299 or email [email protected]
EOIs close on Tuesday, 15 November at 5pm.
Submit your EOI and find out more about the Pilot by visiting www.lls.nsw.gov.au/forest-stewardship
