Perth Biodiversity Project (PBP) is currently working on some exciting new initiatives. While the main focus of the project remains in the Perth Region, there is a scope to extend the Project’s activities outside the Perth Metropolitan Area. The main outputs to be delivered under the new funding agreement through the Department of Planning include:

• Provision of technical support to local governments to prepare Local Biodiversity Strategies (and assist with integration of local biodiversity conservation targets into land use planning, with priority given to Local Governments experiencing development pressures, including the City of Geraldton-Greenough and the Shire of Chittering.
• Establishing a regional framework, including a spatial plan and a report for local biodiversity conservation in the Perth Metropolitan and Peel Scheme Regions, which will be done in close consultation with local government
• Identify data and resources required to extend the Project north of Perth (Gingin to Northampton).

PBP have introduced new Biodiversity Conservation Awards to celebrate 2010 as the International Year of Biodiversity and recognise the many ways Local Government contributes to biodiversity conservation in the Region There are three new Award categories:

Category 1: Excellence in Local Biodiversity Management
Category 2: Excellence in Land Use Design for Improved Local Biodiversity Conservation Outcomes
Category 3: Excellence in Community Engagement to Support Local Biodiversity Conservation

Award entries close Wednesday 30th June 2010. Winners will be announced at the Awards presentation on 6th August 2010 at the 2010 Local Government Convention in Perth.

For more details including Entry Guidelines and Entry Form, visit: Biodiversity Awards.