Landholders can now access expert advice on how to protect and restore the environment on their properties, thanks to biodiversity assessments offered by Nature Conservation Margaret River Region’s expanded team.
The assessments are a response to strong demand from landholders wanting to better understand their biodiversity values and the steps they can take to support nature.
A biodiversity assessment looks at vegetation and waterway condition, habitat values, and how well a property connects to other areas of remnant vegetation. It also identifies current and future threats such as invasive weeds or feral animals, and provides a tailored plan to help landholders protect what remains or rebuild what has been lost.
Expanded team ready to tackle biodiversity assessments across the region
Nature Conservation’s program manager Cass Jury said the group’s expanded team is well placed to meet growing interest. It also includes former Nature Conservation general manager Drew McKenzie, returning to lend his extensive expertise, alongside biodiversity officer Ben Howell.
Nature Conservation programs manager Cass Jury
“Biodiversity in our region is under real pressure, but the first step is understanding what you have and how you can look after it,” Ms Jury said.
“Every patch of bush, every creekline, every stand of trees matters. When landholders act, they’re helping create healthier habitats not just on their property but across the whole landscape.
“An assessment gives landholders a clear picture of their property’s natural values, benchmarks its condition, and provides a practical plan to help nature thrive. It’s inspiring to see how even small changes can have a big impact over time.”
Helping to measure progress and provide a baseline for nature
Assessments are valuable for vineyards, larger rural properties and small rural residential blocks alike. They also help landholders measure progress, by providing a baseline against which to track improvements in biodiversity over the years.
Nature Conservation’s team has already carried out biodiversity assessments for clients including Heytesbury Wine Group, Cape Mentelle, the National Trust and many private landowners.
“With summer on the way, it’s the ideal time to learn more about your property, what threats it faces, and how to support nature,” Ms Jury said. “It’s exciting to see landholders taking ownership of biodiversity protection. Together, we can make a real difference for future generations and ensure this region’s unique wildlife and ecosystems continue to thrive.”
Drew McKenzie is returning to the Nature Conservation team to assist with biodiversity assessments
Bush Regeneration Team is also here to help
For landholders needing help with weed control or revegetation, Nature Conservation also has a Bush Regeneration Team that can be contracted to carry out hands-on conservation work.
“Hiring us for a biodiversity assessment, weed control or revegetation is a win-win, because all profits go directly back into Nature Conservation Margaret River Region’s programs to protect and restore our local environment,” Ms Jury said.
Biodiversity assessments start at a few hundred dollars for smaller properties and are priced according to land size, type of habitat and level of detail in the report. For more information or to get a quote or book an assessment, click here to learn more or phone or phone (08) 9757 2202.
