Murray River Council will donate $10,000 to the Western Murray Land Improvement Group (WMLIG) to support the development of position statement and advocacy platform for the sustainable management of the Koondrook-Perricoota Forest.
Council resolved to donate the funds at its ordinary meeting this week in readiness for the NSW Upper House Legislative Inquiry into the long-term sustainability of the timber and forest products industry.
As part of that Inquiry, the Committee is expected to visit the forest in February next year.
The WMLIG is leading the preparation of a plan to be presented to the Inquiry that covers the sustainable management of the forest and meets economic, social, environmental and cultural objectives.
These include access to the forest for recreational and tourism opportunities, preservation and enhancement of indigenous sites of significance, improvement in environmental outcomes and a sustainable timber industry.
"The plan will identify an innovative, locally managed model for the ongoing maintenance of a healthy, productive forest," said Mayor, Chris Bilkey.
"The Western Murray Land Improvement Group play an important role in the community and are well placed to develop a comprehensive plan that addresses both environmental and economic objectives. We commend the group for its leadership on this important endeavour."
