From the Minister Responsible for Fisheries

Friday August 22, 2008

ADOPT-A-STREAM GRANTS PROGRAM UP AND RUNNING

Recreational anglers keen on improving fishery habitats can now apply for funding through the Brumby Government’s Adopt-a-Stream grants program.

Minister Responsible for Fisheries Joe Helper said today grants would be made available to angling clubs and community groups on a dollar-for-dollar basis.

“Healthy fisheries depend on healthy habitats, regardless of whether they are lowland rivers containing native species such as Murray cod or upland streams with self-sustaining trout populations,” Mr Helper said.

“Healthy habitats along riverbanks are just as important as those underwater so the new program offers funding for work in both environments provided it benefits a recreational fishery.

“The grants program delivers on the Brumby Government’s election commitment to not only improve fishing opportunities but to also encourage greater stewardship among anglers and understanding of the link between healthy environments and fishing catches.”

Applicants can apply for a grant to:

The Brumby Government’s Adopt-a-Stream grants program is just one part of a four-year $13.5-million Enhanced Recreational Fishing Program, which includes other freshwater initiatives such as increasing fish stocking by 30 per cent, building a native fish-production facility in northern Victoria, classifying rivers and streams throughout the state and improving angler access to fishing areas.

For more information about the Adopt-a-Stream grants program or other  projects funded under the Enhanced Recreational Fishing Program visit the website at www.dpi.vic.gov.au/enhancedfishing or phone the DPI Customer Service Centre on 136 186.