The NSW Government Delivers $406.3 million Radical Reform
15 Oct 2003
The historic $406.3 million pledge to end broadscale land clearing and protect 1.2 million hectares of NSW bush is one of the nation's greatest environmental decisions, according to WWF-Australia.
"Putting an end to broadscale land clearing is the most crucial single action a government can take to fix our river systems, protect wildlife and manage salinity," WWF Landscape Conservation manager Glen Klatovsky said.
"More than 240 threatened species, some of Australia's 50,000 kilometres of damaged riverways* and 180,000 hectares of productive but currently salt affected farmland will benefit from the NSW Government's historic decision," Mr Klatovsky said.
"Our problems were 200 years in the making now these world class reforms herald a new era for conservation in NSW.
"The NSW Government has delivered on its promises and WWF-Australia looks forward to many years of working constructively with NSW farmers in maintaining and rebuilding our landscapes.
"Vigilence from the government, the environment movement and farmers is critical to ensure the spirit and intent of today's historic announcement becomes a reality for all Australians.
"$406.3 million means farmers will finally be given resources to protect the environment protection of native vegetation, rehabilition of river banks and rehabilitation through tree planting will deliver productive landscapes for the future.
"The Commonwealth Government is also to be congratulated for joining the NSW Government in paving the way for these radical reforms."
