With the region ‘s fish stocks hit hard in recent years by extreme weather, Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Adam Crouch, is encouraging eligible groups to apply for the Fish Habitat Grants program, offering up to $400,000 per year for projects improve habitats to enhance and sustain coastal fish populations.
Crouch said the program seeks to target larger scale projects, which require higher levels of funding assistance, and will benefit recreational fishers by enhancing fish habitats.
“These grants offer a rare opportunity for regional fishing clubs, local and state government agencies and non-government organisations to improve fish habitats, water quality and fish passage at a large scale or in challenging environments within our local creek, river or estuary,” he said.
“Our coastal catchments and waterways have been hit hard by extreme natural events in recent years.
“This has highlighted the need for assistance to give fish stocks the best chance to survive and thrive.
“Funded by the Recreational Fishing Trust, this program is another excellent example of how recreational fishing fees are helping to support and improve fisheries in NSW.”
Minister for Agriculture, Dugald Saunders, said the grants program builds on the existing Habitat Action Grants program.
“I am excited to support funding that provides local organisations the tools to safeguard and enhance their local fish habitats and recreational fisheries,” he said.
“Thanks to this grant program, over $2M has already been provided by the NSW Government to successful applicants to initiate and progress fish habitat rehabilitation projects.”
Applications close Friday, November 4.
For more information about the program and to apply, visit: https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing/habitat/rehabilitating/ahr-grants-program/flagship-fish-eoi
Source:
Media release, Oct 24
Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast, Adam Crouch