Victoria Gives $1.2 Million Boost For Wetland Ecology Projects
The Brumby Labor Government and the Australian Government have marked World Wetlands Day by investing $1.2 million in wetland ecology projects at one of world’s most significant wetland sites.
Environment and Climate Change Minister Gavin Jennings said the funding will be used to protect and improve habitat as well as build community stewardship of the Port Phillip Bay (Western Shoreline) and Bellarine Peninsula wetlands.
“The Brumby Labor Government is committed to protecting our environment because we understand it is important to all Victorians,” Mr Jennings said.
“This is a significant investment from both the Victorian and Australian Governments, and is an indication of the importance of these wetlands.
“While the site remains an undiscovered treasure for many Victorians, the Port Phillip Bay (Western Shoreline) and Bellarine Peninsula wetlands are formally recognised as wetlands of international importance under the Ramsar Convention.”
The Port Phillip Bay (Western Shoreline) and Bellarine Peninsula Ramsar site is one of 11 Victorian Ramsar sites being celebrated this World Wetlands Day.
“World Wetlands Day marks the signing of the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar Convention) in 1971,” Mr Jennings said.
“Under the Ramsar Convention Australia is united with 158 other nations in its commitment to the conservation and wise use of wetlands.
“Our local wetlands are spectacular natural systems and have been listed because of their outstanding values. They provide vital habitat for many animals and plants, including migratory shorebirds that fly thousands of kilometres to visit.”
Mr Jennings said many of the projects being funded with the $1.2 million are already underway.
“The projects are diverse, and range from pest control to wetland education programs. However, all of these projects are united in their aim to preserve these amazing wetlands for future generations,” he said.
For further information on World Wetlands Day, visit www.dse.vic.gov.au/worldwetlandsday or call 136 186.
Topics: animals, Australia, Bellarine Wetland, climate change, ecology, environment, Governance, government, migratory shorebirds, monitor, news, pest control, plants, Port Phillip, Ramsar Convention, Victoria, western shoreline, wetland education programs, wetland sites, wetlands
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