Fencing
Rivercare Program
Under the Rivercare Program, GeoCatch are able to offer funding to landholders in the Geographe Catchment to install stock exclusion fencing along waterways on their property.
We have assisted farmers with stream restoration for over 20 years, resulting in over 500km of riparian fencing and revegetation in the Geographe Bay Catchment.
Installing fencing to exclude stock from waterways has important benefits to farm management and for the environment. Farmers can better manage their livestock by keeping them out of creeks and bushland areas. This also prevents erosion and potential sediment loads being carried downstream. These actions will also beautify the landscape, prevent erosion and bring back local wildlife.
The majority of our creeks, drains and rivers run through private farming properties. Managing the riparian, or riverbank, environments along these waterways is critical to improving water quality and protecting local biodiversity.
How does it work?
To begin, a GeoCatch Rivercare Officer will visit the property to do a site assessment, discuss project ideas and develop a plan with the landholder.
Every project is going to be different so GeoCatch will work with landholders to develop a fencing project specific to their property and waterway, and provide support throughout the process.
What am I responsible for?
Landholders will be responsible for measuring for and ordering the fencing materials (through an approved supplier), preparing the site and installing the fence.
GeoCatch will provide funding for stock-proof fencing that:
- Is four-wire electric (at minimum) or ringlock;
- Is 10 metres from the top of the bank;
- Maximises the protection of existing foreshore vegetation;
- Is maintained for a minimum of 10 years.
Am I eligible?
Funding is available for farmers wanting to fence the waterway on their Geographe property. To be eligible you must:
- Farm in the Geographe catchment;
- Run livestock;
- Be situated on a waterway or drain.
Contact us to discuss potential stock-proof fencing projects on your property.