Little critters, bugs, insects – they are the environment’s largest workforce. Outnumbering humans by well over a billion to one, they may be small but they have a significant collective impact on the environment around us.
Some important ecological benefits from little critters include:
Step into a world from a smaller perspective, and learn about all the wonderful, varied and interesting little critters that live in and around your Yarra.
Over the past 25 years, the number of invasive weeds in Victoria has nearly doubled! But what makes a species a weed, and how can we manage this threat to biodiversity?
A weed is a plant that has been introduced to an area where it did not previously exist. Its presence competes with native species of that area, and as the weeds thrive, the native species may not. Not all weeds are equal, each species is classified depending on its capacity to cause harm to other species and the surrounding ecosystem.
Taking part in activities around weeding is a practical way of taking care of your local environment and helping native species thrive. Not all weeds are exotic, some may be native to Australia (but not your local area). It’s important to be confident in your identification of what is a weed and what is not before stepping out into the field.
So you've started your journey in identifying common weeds in...
VIEWOne third of Victoria’s animal species live in your Yarra! There are an array of birds, mammals, reptiles, fish and more that you can spot right on your doorstep.
Protecting and improving the health of wildlife is an integral part of enhancing biodiversity. Globally, we are experiencing the 6th mass extinction event in Earth’s history. Many of our beloved animals are at risk of dying out – not only will this impact the health of our ecosystems but it will drastically change how future generations interact with the natural world around them.
By learning about the wildlife that live in your local environment, you are able to better appreciate the role that each species play in caring for your Yarra.
As a volunteer, you can play an active role in our projects and help create a healthier, protected and much-loved Yarra. Explore activities vital to the success of regeneration projects and with a little know-how, you can get involved.
Knowing how to monitor and evaluate a site is a great skill you can use on any project – not just regeneration. Once you’ve learned this skill, you can better prepare sites for planting and make sure they aren't overrun with weeds. This is the planning that makes good work possible.
Weeding events are much more fun than they sound – we promise! They’re a great way to understand how plants grow, adapt and thrive. Learn which plants belong in the local environment and which have come from far away. Get your hands dirty and help our native plants survive.
Planting native shrubs, trees and grasses is one of the most important activities you can do to help local wildlife. Learn which plants are indigenous to our sites and how they interact with wildlife as they grow. Working as part of a team, you can make friends, plant for a greener future and help nature regenerate the soil.
The circular process of nature means when flowers fade, seeds are often produced or left behind. Harvesting seeds and propagating plants enables them to spread and create much-needed habitat. With expert advice, you can help create a healthy ecosystem that supports many insects, birds and mammals along the Yarra.
Join us in working towards a Yarra that is healthy, protected and loved for present and future generations
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Learn about some common weed species on the Yarra!
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Learn about some common weed species on the Yarra!
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