Nature Connect
Native vegetation provides essential habitat for our local wildlife. Camden Council manages a number of bushland reserves for conservation and recreation, but we know that there are also valuable patches of native vegetation located on private property across the Local Government Area (LGA). Camden Council’s Nature Connect program has been established to provide support and resources to residents to help them protect and enhance their patch.
Nature Connect provides residents access to a range of established programs that have been set up to support conservation on private land. Camden Council’s Biodiversity Officers can provide assistance, to identify the option that best meets each resident’s needs.
There is no block (or apartment) size limit to participate. Everyone can contribute to greater biodiversity outcomes for our LGA through preserving, enhancing and connecting patches of native vegetation.
By participating in the Nature Connect program you will be provided with ongoing information and support to assist your conservation efforts including access to local native plants and a newsletter to keep you informed of relevant workshops, events, activities and giveaways. Workshops and activities will provide members wonderful opportunities to learn about our local environment, connect with each other and share stories of gains and lessons learnt.
Under the Nature for Connect program, there are a number of established and recognised programs that are covered. These programs are outlined below.
For further information, please contact sustainability@camden.nsw.gov.au
Habitat for Wildlife
The Habitat for Wildlife (HFW) program is managed by the Community Environment Network (CEN), a not-for-profit community group that supports conservation. The HFW program supports participants to establish wildlife friendly gardens on any sized property, including balconies, to enhance habitat in urban areas and contribute to increased connectivity between larger bushland areas. The program aims to provide shelter, foraging resources and breeding opportunities for our feathered friends, wildlife and pollinators!
The Habitat for Wildlife program is not legally binding, and there are no costs to participate, and Camden Council is the regional provider for this program.
One of our first members shared “When I was out watering the garden, it was such a joy to see at the first flowering of my native garden, a stunning, blue-banded bee was buzzing around in the flowers!”
Land for Wildlife
The Land for Wildlife (LFW) program is also managed by CEN. The LFW program supports landholders with a minimum of 0.5 hectares of native bushland, and who have a willingness to manage all or part of the property for biodiversity conservation. The program aims to secure the conservation of key bushland remnants and improve connectivity across the wider landscape.
The Land for Wildlife program is not legally binding, and there are no costs to participate. Participants are eligible to apply for annual grant funding of up to $2,000 from CEN to support their conservation efforts (conditions apply).
Camden Council is the regional provider for this program. After registering an expression of interest, Council’s Biodiversity Officer will coordinate a site visit to confirm suitability for the program, which is then reviewed by CEN. The site visit will also provide you with information on the plant communities and wildlife on your property. Suitable landholders are also provided with assistance to prepare a plan for improving the condition and integrity of their habitat.
Formalised Private Lands Conservation Agreements
In addition to the Habitat for Wildlife and Land for Wildlife programs, Council is also able to provide information and introductions for residents interested in more formal conservation agreements delivered by the NSW Government.
Partnerships
Council also works closely with a range of stakeholders including the NSW Government’s Saving our Species program, Greater Sydney Landcare, NSW Local Land Services, CEN and the Biodiversity Conservation Trust (BCT) to support Camden residents to protect local biodiversity. There may be additional opportunities for support through these programs.