Funding for grassroots environmental projects
Are you going above and beyond to care for land, water and nature?
We are extremely fortunate to have among us inspiring and motivated people making a real difference to our local environment - protecting biodiversity for natural and production systems, building strong partnerships for land management and sharing their knowledge with others.
If this sounds like you or someone you know, Grassroots Grants could be the perfect financial boost to take environmental projects to the next level!
The Hills and Fleurieu Landscape Board’s Grassroots Grants program will be open from March 4 to April 15, making available $260,000 to eligible projects across two funding tiers: less than $4,000 and up to $20,000.
We are in a time where ecosystem restoration is vital. Everyone is encouraged to take a role in preventing, stopping and reversing loss of nature. Getting involved in local action that makes a real difference - from replanting native vegetation in your community and activating sustainable land management– this is what Grassroots Grants are all about.
David Greenhough, Chair of the Hills and Fleurieu Landscape Board, encourages individuals and groups with suitable projects to apply.
“As a regional landscape board, one of our key responsibilities is to allocate vital funding to support local environmental efforts. These grants assist volunteers, community groups and land stewards in protecting biodiversity, enhancing soil health, and creating landscapes that are resilient to climate change.”
“Over the past five rounds, we've seen habitat restoration, regenerative agriculture and some fantastic education and capacity building events funded. These grants also support initiatives that deepen the understanding and connection to Country through the knowledge-sharing of First Nations people. We’ve seen some very inspiring and meaningful projects delivered,” he added.
Funding will be allocated based on merit for projects within the Hills and Fleurieu region that address key priorities outlined in the regional landscape plan and provide the most benefit for the grant dollar.
Interested in applying? For more details, including examples of past projects, FAQs, guidelines, and how to apply, visit landscape.sa.gov.au/hf/grassrootsgrants
Additionally, a separate funding opportunity will be available in late-Autumn through the GreenSafe Grants program, offering up to $500 for schools and community groups. This funding helps cover small practical costs like personal protective equipment and minor tools.
Some of the highlights from 2024 projects
Greening the Bremer – Kanmantoo Callington Landcare Group restored, connected and protected a biodiverse corridor along the Bremer River – using over 900m of fencing!
Breathe Easy Revegetation – Made further improvements to a section of the Middleton Creek with a particular focus on canopy and swamp species, providing deep soil stabilisation, improving water quality, reducing evaporation and providing food, habitat and entry points for native fauna.
Dina and Peter Corolis - Protected critical environmental watercourses on a 46-hectare property at Kersbrook. The project involves fencing the two main watercourses (an area of approximately 9 hectares representing 20% of the property) which will contribute to the preservation of the freshwater ecosystem, the restoration of native vegetation and provide shelter for threatened species and wildlife.
Langhorne Creek Grape and Wine – Ran soil pit workshops to fill knowledge gap and increase confidence on soil testing and soil profiles for vineyard management.
