Time is running out to apply for more than half a million dollars worth of grants for projects to enhance recreational fishing throughout NSW. Dozens of unique habitat models at fishiding.com

Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Conservation Manager, David Cordina, said applications for the NSW Government’s Habitat Action Grant program close at 5pm on Friday 28 September 2012.

“Habitat Action Grant program grants of up to $40,000 are available for individuals or groups interested in rehabilitating fish habitat,” he said.

“These grants are open to fishing clubs, Landcare, Rivercare and other community groups, individuals, local councils and Catchment Management Authorities wanting to improve habitat for recreational fish in their local area.

“This program supports local communities in protecting good habitat, and rehabilitating degraded habitat for more productive recreational fisheries.”

Mr Cordina said projects that will be considered include bank stabilisation works, removal of barriers to fish passage, rehabilitation of riparian lands, re-snagging waterways, weed control works and reinstatement of natural flow regimes.

“Applications must relate to the improvement of fish habitat that provides direct benefit to recreational fishing,” Mr Cordina said.

“Projects that involve recreational fishers will be given preference.

“Previous community projects have provided fantastic outcomes for our native fish and are great examples of how recreational fishing fees are helping to support recreational fishing and boosting fish numbers, naturally.”

“So hurry, you have only weeks left to apply.”

The Habitat Action Grant program is funded from the NSW Recreational Fishing Trusts and is administered by DPI.

For more information about the program, examples of past Habitat Action Grant projects and application forms visit the DPI Habitat Action Grants web page, or call (02) 6881 1277 or (02) 4916 3817.

Media contact: Tom Braz 02 6391 3686 or 0428 256 596