LOCAL government, Landcare, LHPAs, CMAs and other public authorities are being encouraged to apply for new weed innovation funding to help tackle problem weeds across NSW for the 2013-’14 financial year.
Last year, the Mid-North Coast Weeds Advisory Committee received $470,569 under the Weeds Action Program to tackle invasive weeds.
The local organisation was one of 21 projects to be funded across the state, according to Deputy Premier and Oxley MP Andrew Stoner.
“The new Weed Innovation Management fund is an additional $1.1 million for innovative ways of managing weeds through both individual projects and regional partnerships,” Mr Stoner said.
“On top of this is a further $9.7 million for this year’s Weeds Action Program, making the weeds package valued at $10.8 million.
“Substantial rains over recent years have seen weeds taking hold in many areas. Many seeds have travelled with floodwaters to new locations and we need to get on top of these problem weeds as quickly as possible.
“The new Weed Innovation Management fund is targeted at working together and delivering projects that help farmers and local communities tackle problem weeds.
“We are looking for innovative projects that will prevent and manage new weed incursions, contain existing weeds and build effective partnerships.
“Eligible projects may include innovative training, education, research and community awareness activities that address high priority weeds.
“Rural people are some of our greatest innovators and I am confident this additional new funding grant will uncover new novel ways to tackle some of NSW’s most challenging weed issues.”
Submissions for the new weed innovation funding close on May 3. All projects must be completed no later than 30 June, 2015. For further information and submission forms visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au
