A Biodiversity Restoration project has commenced at Merici College which will have short-term and long-term stages. Given the decline in Australian wildlife and biodiversity and Australia having the highest rate of species extinction in the world, largely due to land clearing and use of synthetic chemicals, it is important for Merici to make our contribution to the solution. Merici can provide an important travel link and food source for wildlife between Black Mountain and Mount Ainslie.
Advice has been provided from ANU Professor of Biodiversity Conservation to provide understory habitat and nesting boxes. A consultation has been held with the local Landcare group, ACT Sustainable Schools horticulturalist and the Sustainable Schools team. The intention is to create stages for implementation this year and in coming years. The co-curricular Sustainability at Merici (SAM) group will be working on the project.
Planting commenced in Week 4 along the fence line on Henty Street and will continue this year and next to establish food and habitat sources for wildlife. Nesting boxes will be incorporated into the area once food supplies are established.
Felicity Maher
Sustainability Officer
