ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION 2017

On this exciting program participants will be involved in important work to maintain and preserve Australia's cultural and natural heritage, by working with local communities to assist on a variety of land conservation and rehabilitation programs across New South Wales. Volunteers will work in some of the region's most beautiful national parks, surrounded by Eucalyptus forest and an abundance of wildlife. These precious natural ecosystems act as refuges for a number of Australia's most threatened and endangered species, whilst the land is also of significant cultural importance to the local Aboriginal people. These ecosystems are under threat from introduced pest species such as feral animals and weeds, habitat destruction and fragmentation, unsustainable development, bush fire damage, drought and pollution from incorrect waste disposal. This all has a devastating effect on the fragile ecosystems that support Australia's unique flora and fauna. As a volunteer you will be working to reverse these negative impacts, and help restore ecosystems back to their former glory. You will do this by planting new trees, weed removal activities, cleaning bush areas and waterways, building protective fencing and other infrastructure and maintaining wildlife corridors to ensure the safe passage of species between healthy ecosystems, away from the dangers of our highways. Some of your tasks may include: - Monitoring affected areas and reporting - Cleaning parklands of rubbish - Planting new native trees - Repairing board walks and other infrastructure - Creating habitat through the construction of possum and bird boxes - Erecting possum and bird boxes - Erecting protective fencing where required - Cleaning rivers and other waterways and removing debris - Working with local rangers, staff and volunteers to create sustainable areas - Seed collection and propagation - Nursery work - Identification and removal of weeds