South Coast NSW landowners can now support koala populations by planting Blue-Leaf Stringybark seedlings propagated by Forestry Corporation NSW.
Among those supporting the operation is Eden Country Women’s Association (CWA), who is distributing 500 of the 1000 locally-donated seedlings to those wishing to replant their gardens, yards and farms after the bushfires.
The initiative is part of a wide scale effort, with Forestry Corporation delivering more than 50,000 donated seedlings to community organisations, farmers and land managers in NSW’s coastal areas.
A COMMUNITY EFFORT
Eden CWA Vice President Jo Korner said the seedlings donation are a positive step in the rebuilding process.
“One of our members came up with the idea of sourcing seedlings to help people who had lost trees in the bushfires,” Ms Korner said.
“The Eden CWA and Forestry Corporation have a great relationship forged through the bushfire response, so we were well-placed to work together and make this happen.
“Thanks also to Bega Valley Shire Council who have donated pots, mulch and potting mix to help us repot and replant the seedlings.
“Our volunteers will repot the seedlings for replanting when people are ready to revegetate their land.
“This is a great story of everyone working together to support the rebuilding process.”
PART OF A WIDER RESPONSE
Protection Officer Julian Armstrong proudly delivered the seedings on behalf of the Forestry Corporation.
“We’re happy to support post-fire rebuilding through the donation,” Mr Armstrong said.
“These seedlings will support replanting efforts and provide a food source for wildlife including any surviving koalas for years to come.”
The Bega Valley seedlings come from Forestry Corporation’s Grafton nursery, and are part of a larger program to help rebuild koala habitat on private land.