Time running out to apply for funding for fish friendly screens
19 Oct 2023
Western Local Land Services is reminding landholders interested in funding for fish-friendly diversion screens they have less than two months to get an application in.
Landholders can receive $5,000 towards the supply and installation of a fish-friendly diversion screen aimed at saving native fish populations while simultaneously improving the quality of water delivered to properties.
With many areas experiencing lower than average rainfall in 2023 and the forecast for a drier than average summer, now is a great time for landholders to be taking steps to ensure they are being as efficient as possible with their water.
Senior Land Services Officer with Western Local Land Services, Kaye Gottschutzke has assisted landholders in recent years to install the innovative technology, and the feedback she has received has been overwhelmingly positive.
“We’ve been able to assist 12 landholders since 2020 install fish-friendly diversion screens onto the intake of their pump and every single one has spoken glowingly of them,” Kaye said.
“Fish-friendly screens save farm businesses water, time and money, while also contributing to the health of the river system.
“Importantly for landholders, the screens do not slow water delivery rates and along with native fish, larvae and eggs, the screens also stop any floating weeds or debris entering into the pump, reducing maintenance and repairs of pumps.
“I’d encourage landholders in the Western Local Land Services region to check if they are eligible and if so, get an application in today.”
Funding is limited and only available until December 2023.
With the cost of purchasing and installing a screen ranging from around $5,000 to over $25,000, landholders interested in applying are encouraged to seek advice from an installer prior to applying.
To find out more and apply, visit the screening our streams section of our website.
Alternatively, contact Kaye via kaye.gottschutzke@lls.nsw.gov.au or 0429 981 331.
Media: Charlie Whiteley | charlie.whiteley@lls.nsw.gov.au | 0428 679 974