This project was supported by the Second Generation Landcare Grant 2009 - 2010.
The Panyyabyr Landcare Group was formed in 1994. Our principle aims were to care for our natural environment ad our farms. We have found in the 16 years since, that this group has achieved much more than that. The families, individuals and employees that live and work here, are intrinsic to the continuation and success of the group.
In 1996 over 40 local families were involved in producing the Panyyabyr Landcare Group Sub Catchment Management Plan. Then in 1999, the original concept of the “Trees to the River” project was conceived. In short, our aims were to link all members together through wildlife corridors spread throughout their own properties and then across our Landcare group area. This would result in a “web” of vegetation that in some way connected everyone to the Wannon River. Many members have since participated in various projects (e.g. saline sites, waterways protection, soil protection,  biodiversity improvements, erosion control and remnant vegetation protection, to name but a few), which have also contributed to our “Trees to the River” project.
In 2007 the “Trees to the River” Action Plan was written to support the commitment landholders have towards this project.
Our aim with this Plan explains our reasoning:
“To connect, protect and increase the biodiversity of the dominant natural environmental features of the Panyyabyr Landcare Group landscape, including the Wannon River and associated wetlands of significance, the Grampians National Park, the native grasslands and the scattered remnant Red gum woodlands – as a web of connectivity for the flow of flora and fauna biodiversity. This connectivity will aid sustainable farming practices.”
In addition to promoting these projects, the Panyyabyr Landcare Group organises supporting projects such as our fox control program, weed control, soil health workshops, and natural resource management, again to name but a few. It is our belief that you cannot promote any project without considering the effect this will have on the landscape. Opportunities such as this Second Generation Landcare funding have helped keep our group viable and active, and have also contributed to an increased membership base, all essential for a strong and long term committed group.
This project involved 5 landholders. The landholders have also planted corridors across their land and used this project as a means of adding further to these, connecting them to other corridors both within their boundaries, and to those of their neighbours. All participants have shared their experiences and knowledge with fellow landcarers through field days, excursions and written articles. We have found this to be a most effective way to exchange knowledge, ideas and most importantly, enthusiasm and encouragement.