Applications open for funding to combat Feral Animals and Weeds

APPLICATIONS for $10 million dollars in pest and weed funding open today, with 183 councils eligible to apply for project funding in the latest round.

The funding will assist drought-affected farmers and land managers to fight feral animals and weeds

Minister for Drought David Littleproud said farmers had already seen a big turn-around where wild dog fences have been built.

“Lambing rates have risen from seven to 80 per cent in some places,” Minister Littleproud said.

“Farmers are already doing it tough, and this will keep their stock safe from hungry predators.

“Exclusion fencing also opens up nature corridors helping endangered native animals such as small marsupials return to drought-hit areas.

“This is on top of $15 million already announced to build dog fences and control weeds.

“Feral animals and weeds cost farmers nearly $5 billion a year. $89 million is because of wild dogs and $4 billion because of weeds.

“Even though pest and weed control is a state responsibility, our government has stepped in because their impact is worse during a drought.

“This brings our investment in pest animal and weed management to more than $50 million.

“We’re continuing to invest in this program because we understand pests and weeds have a big impact on our regional communities, especially during a drought.”

 

Source: Minister for Drought, David Littleproud