Good news for Long Swamp!
A few days ago, recipients of Victorian Communities for Nature Grants were announced on the DEPI website. Nature Glenelg Trust is extremely pleased to report that we have been awarded a $20,000 grant towards the next phase of work for improving the conservation of wetland values in Long Swamp, working closely with Parks Victoria and the Nelson community.
Combined with other NGT grants, the seed funding provided for this project will enable a community-led restoration trial (similar to the one NGT has been co-ordinating for Gooseneck Swamp) to occur at the Nobles Rocks ocean outlet from Long Swamp. The full list of successful small grants can be viewed here: 2013 – Round 3 successful Small grants.
In other Long Swamp news, the Premier of Victoria Dr Dennis Napthine, was in Nelson on the 24th of January as part of a celebration for the Glenelg Hopkins CMA being awarded the Australian Riverprize in 2013 for their sustained efforts to improve the Glenelg River. During his address, the Premier annnounced that the CMA will be using their prizemoney to work towards having the Glenelg Estuary and Long Swamp considered by the Victorian and Australian Governments for listing as a wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention. While there are no gaurantees, this is an extremely positive first step, and if the efforts are successful, would make an ideal complement to the neighbouring Ramsar site (and most recent Australian listing) at the Piccaninnie Ponds Karst Wetlands, along the adjacent coast of South Australia.
Given NGT’s ongoing interest in the Long Swamp system, it is great to be able to share the news that further work will be underway soon. As always, we’ll keep you up to date through the NGT website!
The Premier announces that Long Swamp and the Glenelg River Estuary will be considered for Ramsar nomination.
