Biodiversity - now and into the future

Human impact on the natural environment is having detrimental effects worldwide, with the decline of plants, animals and even insects at unprecedented levels. The Clarence Valley local government area remains a stronghold for a diverse range of plants and animals and with targeted programs, Council is working towards halting this trend of biodiversity decline.

The 2020 Biodiversity Strategy will help guide Council's actions to protect and enhance biodiversity - now and into the future.

What is it?

Biodiversity is the variety of all life forms — the different plants, animals and micro-organisms, the genes they contain, and the ecosystems they form. Biodiversity is usually considered at three levels: genetic diversity, species diversity and ecosystem diversity.

Why is it important?

The Clarence Valley community places a high value on the natural environment and biodiversity. This is not surprising given that the natural environment underpins many of the region’s key industries and the well-being of its residents.

What will success look like?

• A collaborative approach between Council, the community, landholders and other government agencies to manage biodiversity now and into the future
• Increase in the amount of effective connectivity in habitats
• Increase in landowner involvement in biodiversity conservation programs
• Improved recognition of the importance of the role of biodiversity across the LGA
• Maintained and improved populations of threatened species
• Improved water quality and overall river health

What are we planning on doing to make a difference?

Council is updating the 2010 Biodiversity Strategy, and the following three overarching aims will frame the actions:

1. Maintain and rehabilitate natural areas across the Clarence local government area;

2. Protect threatened species and communities, and;

3. Implement actions to address threats to biodiversity.

Have your say

Setting actions for these three aims is where you come in. Help Council prioritise the actions to help conserve biodiversity across our local government area here. There are 10 quick questions to answer.