Introduction

The booklet highlights a number of new and innovative management activities which can be introduced on rural properties to create longterm positive changes, not only for the landowner and the land, but importantly to support koalas and other wildlife.

Ballina Shire is home to a nationally important population of koalas. Rural landholders in Ballina Shire play an important role in terms of koala conservation and many important areas of native vegetation and koala habitat are on private property.

It is important that we work together to support our koalas and care for all ecosystems in our landscape, ensuring Ballina Shire remains habitable for generations to come.

For rural landholders and farmers, you could potentially reduce your property management costs and boost productivity by introducing certain management activities on your land.

Q A

As a landholder, does conservation benefi t me? Yes!

Planting a koala feed tree corridor can have multiple benefits including:

Offering crop or stock protection during extreme weather.

Increasing soil fertility and moisture retention.

Improving biodiversity—which can encourage natural pest control and pollination by native insects, birds and mammals.

If you are eligible, some conservation programs offer ongoing financial payments to landholders who are carrying out agreed conservation management actions on their land. For more information, refer to page 12 or contact Ballina Shire Council.

A few key items to consider whilst reading this document:

What are your intentions for your property?

How do you see your property now and where do you want to be in the future?

Are there any particular projects you wish to undertake in the future which may place conservation plans at risk?

Consider the specific knowledge you have of your property. For example, the less productive areas of your property could be a great start for conservation.