Approved Biodiversity Implementation Plan provides momentum for biodiversity vision in the Scenic Rim

Council has approved the Biodiversity Strategy Implementation Plan 2020-2025 which will provide support and direction to achieve the community’s shared vision for biodiversity for the Scenic Rim region.

Scenic Rim Mayor Greg Christensen said the implementation plan, approved at the Ordinary Meeting on Tuesday, provides a clear, detailed summary of the actions currently being delivered and those to be undertaken in future within the biodiversity sphere.

“These actions will further implement the Biodiversity Strategy 2015-2025 which is a 10-year strategy for the conservation of biodiversity in the Scenic Rim,” he said

The implementation plan was a key action from the Scenic Rim Regional Council’s Operational Plan 2021-2022, which includes an Area of Focus on biodiversity. It outlines the recognition, preservation and enhancement of the region's unique environment and natural resources.

A recent mid-point review of the 10-Year Biodiversity Strategy inspired the Council to develop an implementation plan for the remaining five years, with the aim of providing a renewed direction and outlining the next steps towards achieving the region’s biodiversity vision.

It identifies a detailed work plan for Council's Biodiversity and Climate Change team and provides a clear line of sight to the team's work on preserving and enhancing the region's biodiversity.

In addition, the document identifies actions delivered in partnership with other Council teams, providing insight into internal and external partnerships required as part of the implementation plan.

Division 2 Councillor and Deputy Mayor Jeff McConnell said ensuring council remains in line with the vision set out in the Biodiversity Strategy is essential.

The implementation plan holds us accountable for protecting the Scenic Rim region, which is one of the most biodiverse areas in Australia.

“As a council, we recognise the importance of the ecological balance which is vital for the Scenic Rim's key industries of agriculture and tourism," he said.

Council recently adopted the Scenic Rim Biodiversity Strategy 2015-2025 - Report Card 2015-2020, which provides an update on implementation of the Strategy in its first five years, from 2015 to 2020, as well as further information about the state of biodiversity within the Scenic Rim region.

This report card is available on Council’s website www.scenicrim.qld.gov.au/our-environment/biodiversity