Draft Native Vegetation Protection and Conservation Policy. Have your say.

The Draft Native Vegetation Protection and Conservation Policy is a key initiative aimed at preserving the region’s native ecosystems, with a focus on ensuring the long-term survival of threatened plant and wildlife species. This policy is a critical component of the Council's broader Biodiversity Strategy and has been designed for several important reasons:

• Protection of Native Vegetation To safeguard the Council’s 1200 hectares of native vegetation and 790 hectares of land and roads designated for conservation.
• Prevent Habitat Loss and Fragmentation The policy aims to minimize further fragmentation of habitats, which can lead to the loss of biodiversity. Fragmentation can isolate species, making it harder for them to thrive.
• Support for Threatened Species The policy is a step toward the conservation of native plants and animals, particularly those that are threatened or in decline. This proactive approach aims to halt further decline and promote recovery where possible

Features of the Policy:

• Clear Guidelines The policy provides a set of clear and actionable guidelines for Council’s decision-making regarding the protection of native vegetation and conservation land. This helps ensure consistency in the management and conservation of these areas.
• Support for Stakeholders The Council recognises that residents and developers will need practical information to apply the policy. To assist them, the policy will be accompanied by detailed guidelines and Frequently Asked Questions. These resources will provide clarity on how the policy affects proposals and application processes.