APPLICATIONS are now open to improve our local fishing environments.

It’s all about improving the surrounding areas where fishers enjoy their sport.

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Minister for Agriculture Adam Marshall has opened applications for the Habitat Action Grants program, and is encouraging passionate fishers to submit ideas to see local native fish habitats flourish.

One previous Habitat Action Grant in Port Stephens addressed reducing infestations of invasive environmental weeds, privet and lantana from the Upper Karuah River riparian zone (14 km) through primary controls and landholder support to enhance water quality and fish habitat.

“Fishers are obviously great at casting a line, and now I want them to cast out their ideas for the ever-popular Habitat Action Grants program,” Mr Marshall said.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for anglers – who know their local waterways better than anyone – to apply for funding to improve local fish habitats.

“Every year we receive truly unique and positive applications from community organisations who conduct practical on-ground rehabilitation works, and I expect 2021 to be no exception.

“Projects funded under the program include everything from managing stock access to waterways and revegetating these areas with native plants, to reintroducing lost woody habitat into rivers and estuaries for fish.

“The best thing about these grants is they are ideas conceived and led by local communities, both on the coast and inland.

“Even better is that fishos will be able to see their fishing licence fees being put to good use – this is their money being reinvested into projects in their local area.”

Habitat Action Grants is funded from the Recreational Fishing Trusts, where all funds raised by the NSW Recreational Fishing Fee is placed.

Mr Marshall encouraged recreational fishing groups, Landcare organisations, schools and local councils across the state to get their applications in before Friday, 10 December 2021 by visiting www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/hag.

“There are seven weeks for local anglers and their clubs to get involved in improving habitats and fishing opportunities by getting their applications in,” Mr Marshall said.

Since 2008, the Recreational Fishing Trusts have invested more than $7.5 million into the Habitat Action Grants program throughout NSW.

To find out more visit https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing/habitat/rehabilitating/ahr-grants-program.

By Marian SAMPSON