Trust gets the job done: Celebrating 40 years of conservation
During the past 40 years, Trust for Nature has protected nearly 50,000 hectares of Victoria in partnership with private landowners, with the support of government and private donors.
Minister for Environment and Climate Change Ryan Smith today joined in celebrations to mark the Trust's 40 years of protecting Victoria's environment.
"The Hamer Government established the Trust in 1972 and this year, 40 years on, Trust for Nature is commemorating all the landowners, farmers, donors, volunteers and supporters who share this passion for conservation," Mr Smith said.
"I congratulate the dedication and commitment to the environment that those involved in the Trust have shown over the years, their efforts show what can be achieved when we all work together."
Last year the 1000th conservation covenant was registered and this year there are more than 1,150 in place on private properties across Victoria.
"Trust for Nature was purpose built for private land conservation," Victoria Marles, the Trust for Nature CEO said.
"We are now reaping the rewards of those who had the vision to create such a unique organisation, which targets priority conservation areas for protection," Ms Marles said.
Landowners work with Trust for Nature to manage their land in perpetuity. The Trust provides ongoing support to landowners with conservation covenants. Two-thirds of Victoria is privately owned, which highlights the important role Trust for Nature plays in conservation.
In addition to working with private landowners, Trust for Nature owns 47 properties throughout Victoria, including the state's largest private property, Neds Corner Station, at 30,000 hectares. These properties are working examples of land management for conservation outcomes.
A conservation covenant is a voluntary legal agreement between landowners and Trust for Nature to look after and manage the native plants and wildlife found on their properties and it lasts forever.
For more information about Trust for Nature, visit www.trustfornature.org.au
