EnviroMatters-Aut-Win-2021_WEB

In 1996 a new initiative was launched to protect important conservation areas across Ipswich. It was called Ipswich Enviroplan, and in 25 years it has turned a few scattered conservation parks into an impressive significant parcels of land surrounding White Rock, creating the ‘green lungs’ partner with council to increase the environmental and conservation values of their land.

of White Rock – Spring Mountain Conservation Estate. Today, the suburbs surrounding the estate are the fastest growing development areas in Ipswich. Enviroplan conservation estates and reserves now stretch from Pine Mountain in the north, through to Grandchester in the south. The network also includes thousands of hectares of private properties who

network of estates supporting biodiversity for the whole region. While other councils have also used ‘green levies’ to manage bushland areas, Ipswich Enviroplan was important as – unlike other councils – Ipswich had no state forests or national parks within its boundary. It was with foresight that Ipswich Enviroplan was used to purchase

Maintenance such as weed control and visitor tracks, vital research such as flora and fauna studies and education and awareness programs are important elements of Ipswich Enviroplan that ensure we create an environment that we and future generations can be proud of. Ipswich.qld.gov.au/enviroplan

Image 1-2: Council flora and fauna surveys record rare and threatened species, such as the endangered Flinders Plum (Planchonella eerwah). Image 3: Removing weeds such as lantana is an important and ongoing aspect of managing council’s conservation estates. Image 4: The most recent Enviroplan acquisition of 67 ha at Woolshed has improved a crucial section of Mount Grandchester Conservation Estate.

Each Ipswich household pays $45 per year to the Enviroplan on their rates. On average: $13.95 helps buy Ipswich land for conservation $4.50 goes towards supporting community initiatives and education $7.65 aids citywide conservation planning and research $18.90 pays for managing and improving Ipswich’s natural areas. WHERE DOES YOUR MONEY GO?

263ha purchased

248ha purchased

67ha purchased

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2011

2012

2013

2017

2020

588ha purchased

180ha purchased

144ha purchased

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