Biodiversity
The Southern Highlands is renowned for its rich biodiversity, a vital aspect that shapes the region's ecological identity. Our commitment to safeguarding this natural wealth focuses on preserving diverse landscapes, ecosystems, and native species, ensuring their sustainability for generations to come. In this endeavour, we prioritise addressing the decline in biodiversity and canopy cover, adopting strategies that balance conservation and development needs.
Our approach includes supporting and engaging in community-driven initiatives, collaborating with environmental experts, and implementing effective restoration projects. By raising awareness of the importance of biodiversity conservation, we encourage sustainable practices that reduce negative impacts on the environment.
In line with this, the State Environmental Planning Policy (Biodiversity and Conservation) 2021 and amendments to the Local Land Services Act 2013 play a crucial role in shaping the region's conservation efforts and are designed to foster sustainable development while promoting effective biodiversity conservation.
BIODIVERSITY VALUES MAP AND THRESHOLD TOOL
The Biodiversity Values Map is a key threshold in the Biodiversity Offsets Scheme. It highlights areas of high biodiversity value, including native vegetation, threatened species habitats, and creek lines that are highly sensitive to development impacts.
You can use the Biodiversity Values Map and Threshold Tool to:
• check for Biodiversity Values mapping at the proposed site
• determine whether the clearing of native vegetation area threshold is exceeded
WATERWAYS
The Southern Highlands is one of Australia's most ecologically diverse regions, boasting over 7,200 km of waterways and more than 103,000 hectares of National Parks and nature reserves. These precious landscapes, waterways, and ecosystems are at the heart of our commitment to conservation and sustainability.
Our unique environment is treasured, protected, and enriched through ongoing initiatives to safeguard biodiversity and improve ecosystem health. Key waterways like the Wingecarribee, Wollondilly, Paddys, Nattai, and Upper Nepean Rivers provide an estimated 5,000–6,000 megalitres of raw water annually, serving both human needs and the environment.
Council is dedicated to restoring waterways and incorporating Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) principles. These measures enhance urban areas' ability to capture, treat, and reuse stormwater, contributing to healthier waterways and improved water security.
Our efforts aim to ensure clean air, vibrant biodiversity, and thriving flora and fauna, fostering a sustainable and resilient future for our region
For more information on Wingecarribee's Local Environment Plan on:
Biodiversity
Water