Edward River Council Launches Annual Tree Planting Scheme

Published on 31 July 2024

Edward River Council is pleased to announce the opening of its annual Rural Tree Planting Scheme, offering 60 varieties of seedlings to eligible residents at a discounted cost.

This initiative coincides with Landcare Australia’s annual celebration, which recognises the efforts of individuals and groups committed to restoring, enhancing, and safeguarding the natural environment within their communities.

The rural tree scheme aims to increase native vegetation in the region by subsidising the cost of native seedlings for local ratepayers with properties of one hectare and over.

Subsidised seedlings are available for order from 5 August until 13 September at a cost of $1.30 each, representing an approximate 50% saving. Available varieties include redgum, wattle, bottlebrush, melaleuca, eucalyptus, and more.

Owners of properties from one to ten hectares can order 50 tube seedlings. Properties from ten to five hundred hectares are eligible for 150 tube seedlings, and properties over five hundred hectares 300 tube seedlings.

Edward River Council Mayor Cr Peta Betts said the scheme, as well as being very popular, is key in the wellbeing of our rural landscape:

“Native plants are vital to our landscapes - they provide habitat for wildlife, shelter for stock, hold soil in place, and clean our air. By planting natives, we are helping build a more resilient environment over time.

“Launching the program during Landcare Week is a timely nod to our local farmers, landholders and Landcare groups who work year-round to care for the environment, by restoring, enhancing and protecting the natural surrounds of Edward River,” said Cr Betts.

Seedlings ordered through the scheme will be ready for collection next year in May or June.

For further enquiries regarding the Rural Tree Planting Scheme, please contact Edward River Council’s customer service team at (03) 5898 3000 or via email at council@edwardriver.nsw.gov.au.

Application forms and additional details are available at www.edwardriver.nsw.gov.au.

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Media Enquiries:

Phone: Yvette Height 0439 314 408
Email: communications@edwardriver.nsw.gov.au