The Environmental Levy supports the implementation of environmental and sustainability projects to achieve the strategic directions, outcomes and aspirations for the future of our local community.

The projects will deliver actions identified in a number of strategic documents/plans including the North Coast Weeds Action Program, NSW Invasive Species Plan, Dangar Falls Plan of Management, Bellinger and Kalang River Health Plans, Bellingen Emission Reduction Plan, Bellingen Coastal Zone Management Plan, Gleniffer Reserves Master Plan, the Bellingen Island Plan of Management and the Bellingen Flying-fox Camp Management Plan (when finalised).

Projects with funding in 2017/18 include:

 Environmental Levy Community Fund – community grants of up to $5000

 Ongoing bush regeneration (Jaliigirr Biodiversity sites at Dangar Falls, Rock Fillets, Mylestom Drive and Bellingen Island)

 River and Biodiversity community support, assistance and grant applications 

 Weed Action Program

 Bellinger Riverwatch ‘Our River, Our Future’- Citizen science program

 Sustainability and Climate Change Projects

 Flying-fox Camp Management Plan implementation and improvement works at Bellingen Island

 Win Win – habitat and recreational enhancements to Yellow Rock, Back Creek and Lower Bellinger Estuary (pending grant application)

 Dangar Falls Pathway Upgrade – Stage 3 (pending grant application)

For further information contact Council’s Sustainable Environment & Waste division on 6655 7300 or read the report in full on Council’s website at www.bellingen.nsw.gov.au Agenda & Minutes/ Ordinary Meeting 28 June 2017.