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TNC needs more farmers
10 Apr 2007
The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is a global conservation organisation and has been operating in Australia since 1999. TNC is looking for more farmers to help expand its Australian operations. Director of the Australian program and botanist Michael Looker said, "We want to ensure we have functional landscapes. We want to find common ground with farmers and their aspirations." TNC puts in place voluntary covenants with landholders on an important piece of habitat and agrees on a stewardship or management program, with bush or farmland for production. Dr Looker said there were tax deductions that created incentives for covenants. For example, if land dropped in value or some production was lost, landholders were eligible for a tax deduction. "Land covenants can also appreciate the value of the land. Some buyers want a bush block that has a stewardship program," he said. The foundation will also provide matching funds for gifts raised from private benefactors. The aim is to provide $20 million for priority protection projects, particularly the restoration and reconnection of the Gondwana Link in Western Australia.
The Age, 10/04/2007
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