Three neighbouring Landcare member farms in the Meander Valley share a large remnant patch of Eucalyptus amygdalina inland forest and woodland on Cainozoic deposits threatened vegetation community (DAZ). In 2020, Landcare Tasmania provided funding to these landholders to plant native shelterbelts, aiming to enhance biodiversity in the fragmented agricultural landscape and provide wildlife corridors to improve habitat connectivity.

For the past 20 years, these property owners have worked to preserve this remnant patch of vegetation by fencing off sensitive areas from stock and planting shelterbelts. Despite challenges such as strong winds and livestock access, the shelterbelts funded through the Landcare grants are thriving, offering essential support to the local ecosystem.

All three property owners have noticed an increase in native wildlife since they began conservation efforts on their properties. At one of the farms, fenced areas have seen the return of wildflowers such as chocolate lilies and Pimeleas, alongside the natural regeneration of Eucalyptus amygdalina trees. The properties have welcomed back native species like devils, quolls, and eastern barred bandicoots, signalling a healthier, more biodiverse environment.

Native shelterbelt planting in Selbourne, 2020.

Native shelterbelt growth in Selbourne, 2024.