31 BURDEKIN DRY TROPICS NATURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT PLAN 2016-2026
DELIVERY
There is a strong spirit of collaboration within our region, illustrated by the many decision-making forums, and formal and informal partnerships between groups. The plan aims to help strengthen these NRM community connections by facilitating networks that deliver relevant, up-to-date information as well as provide support to undertake sustainable management practices. Collaboration will help us understand and share the challenges and barriers to change. Empowering the community to make informed NRM decisions is key to the long-term resilience and sustainability of our natural resources.
Objectives
A connected and informed regional community is empowered to participate in NRM.
Strategies
a) Build on existing networks and create opportunities to make new collaborative connections for training and knowledge exchange among and between:
• research scientists;
• landholders;
• Traditional Owners;
• natural resource reliant industry;
• local, state and federal governments;
• NRM community groups; and
• regional NRM bodies.
b) Coordinate NRM research, education, investment and extension to reduce duplication and improve efficiency and effectiveness of delivery.
c) Develop and maintain strategic NRM partnerships within our region. For example: in addition to parties with common interests in NRM, include parties that have complementary contact with natural resources( such as recreational users – fishers, birdwatchers, bushwalkers) and parties that have greater potential for impacts( such as mining and processing companies).
d) Support improved communication and collaboration between NRM community groups on project development and delivery. For example: through training and knowledge exchange opportunities to improve group capacity.
e) Build collaborative networks and partnerships between local councils to share knowledge and establish a consistent approach to leading NRM in urban areas. For example: hold an annual regional NRM conference to network, share information, identify challenges and partner with regional programmes.
f) Improve NRM knowledge, skills and experience through education and extension programmes so the community can build capacity to:
• understand the local environment;
• understand regional NRM priorities;
• participate independently in ongoing sustainable management;
• apply for available funding grants to assist in undertaking sustainable NRM; and
• make informed NRM decisions.
g) Acknowledge landholders who undertake successful sustainable NRM activities on their properties that contribute to regional outcomes. For example: rewards and financial incentives for proven stewardship.
PEOPLE CONNECTIONS h) Create opportunities for urban and rural communities to network and share information. This will foster a mutual understanding of their respective NRM priorities and challenges, and promote a united approach to tackling them.
i) Create opportunities for the community to be engaged with scientific research regarding ecological condition and improvement, by participating in monitoring and mapping activities.