GeoCatch is inviting local residents who live near the Broadwater Wetlands to play an active role in protecting its wildlife from predation by feral animals, with the launch of a new three-year biodiversity project.
To kick off the project, GeoCatch is hosting a free community information evening on 9 June at Tonic By The Bay, where locals can learn more about the Broadwater Wetlands and discover how they can get involved as citizen scientists.
The initiative will focus on monitoring and managing the impacts of rabbits, foxes and feral cats across the Broadwater area. Reducing feral animal populations will deliver important benefits for native wildlife in the wetlands, such as the Quenda and Black Swan, and threatened species including the Western Ringtail Possum and the Snake-necked Turtle.
Community participation will be vital in helping build a clearer picture of where the feral species are occurring and how they are affecting the wetlands’ fragile ecosystem. A limited number of participants will contribute to on-ground monitoring and data collection, helping to guide future coordinated feral animal control efforts.
GeoCatch Project Officer, Kim Loveridge said community involvement is key to the project’s success. “The Broadwater Wetlands are an incredibly important habitat for native species, but they are under threat from feral animal pressures,” Ms Loveridge said.
“By working together with the community, we can better understand where these animals are and take more effective action to protect vulnerable species like the Western Ringtail Possum. This project gives local residents a meaningful way to contribute to conservation in their own backyard.”
The information evening will feature a presentation from aquatic ecologist Dr Robyn Paice, Senior Lecturer in Environmental Management and Monitoring at Edith Cowan University. Dr Paice will share insights into the ecological importance of the Broadwater Wetlands and their value to both biodiversity and the local community.
Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about the project in detail, ask questions, and connect with others passionate about protecting the environment—all while enjoying a light supper and refreshments provided on arrival.
Registration is essential to attend the information evening. For details and to register visit Protecting Broadwater Wetlands from Feral Animals: A Community Information Evening
Local residents can also complete a community input survey, where they can share observations on feral animal activity and indicate their interest in being involved with the program.
This project is supported by funding from the Western Australian Government’s State NRM Program.
Image credit: Leschenault Biosecurity Group Inc
