53 community projects funded to protect Swan River

• 25 community groups awarded more than $338,000 

A total of 25 community groups have been awarded more than $338,000 in grants this year to deliver 53 projects that will help conserve the Swan and Canning rivers and surrounding catchments.

Now in its 20th year, the Swan Alcoa Landcare Program (SALP) is an extremely successful partnership program between the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions' Parks and Wildlife Service, Alcoa, Perth NRM, Burswood Park Board, local government and the community.

Since the program began, it has provided about $8.4 million in funds to 1,323 on-ground projects that have engaged thousands of volunteers and contributed nearly 182,000 work hours.

This has included volunteers planting more than 2.5 million plants to revegetate more than 1,943 hectares of land; controlling weeds on more than 4,800 hectares of land; and erecting more than 5,800 kilometres of fencing to protect remnant vegetation and riparian areas.

These outcomes have been made possible through the long-term and ongoing commitment of Alcoa and the Burswood Park Board.

A list of grant recipients is attached.

Comments attributed to Environment Minister Stephen Dawson:

"It is fantastic to assist community groups that share an unwavering focus on protecting the long-term future of our environment.

"The State Government is committed to managing, protecting and enhancing the Swan and Canning rivers and programs such as SALP are integral to achieving these goals.

"SALP has consistently delivered on the program's original intention of reducing harmful nutrients and contaminants from entering our waterways and groundwater while also improving the habitat value and amenity of public spaces.

"This program stands as a model of success and it continues to flourish in a time when partnerships between government, industry and community are key to protecting the State's unique environment."

Minister's office - 6552 5800