A plan to establish two Camden reserves as a biobank site could ensure the protection of rare plant communities forever.
Camden Council has endorsed the application for Gundungurra Reserve North and Gundungurra Reserve South at Spring Farm to be registered as a single biobanking site with the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage.
If approved, the biodiversity of almost 40 hectares would be improved using the income produced through the bio banking system.
“This is an opportunity for Council to safeguard the delicate ecosystems within these natural sanctuaries from any possible development in the future,” says Mayor Lara Symkowiak.
“We recognise that the natural landscape will be altered through the urban growth of the area and want to proactively pursue ways to conserve our native environment.
[social_quote duplicate=”no” align=”default”]“Community funding is currently devoted to the management and protection of these reserves, and this would be alleviated through this voluntary market based scheme, if approved.’’[/social_quote]
Biobanking will make it possible to minimise and offset the impact of biodiversity losses through protection of and investment in areas of high ecological value.
The Gundungurra reserves are home to the threatened ecological community of Cumberland Plain Woodland, which is also listed as critically endangered under Commonwealth legislation.
If approved, management of the Gundungurra Biobank Site would include active weed reduction, plant promotion activities and the control of rabbits and foxes as required.
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• In other news, Camden Council is offering its residents free microchipping for cats and dogs until the end of November.
The three month program is available as part of council’s Permanent Identification Program (PIP) to improve the safety of dogs and cats living in the Camden area.
Contact Camden’s companion animal ranger to make an appointment to have the microchipping done in their own home on 4654 7777.
